2018 Ford Explorer ownership comes with a certain sense of reassurance, blending capability, comfort, and modern technology. Yet like any complex machine, this generation of the Explorer is not immune to specific issues that owners should be aware of. Understanding the most common 2018 Ford Explorer problems helps buyers make informed decisions and allows current owners to address concerns before they escalate into major repairs.
Common Mechanical and Electrical Issues
The 2018 model year saw the Explorer equipped with more sophisticated electronics and new engine options, which introduced some new points of failure. While generally reliable, certain systems have been reported with higher frequency of issues by owners and mechanics. These range from minor annoyances to more serious concerns that require professional attention.
Transmission and Shifting Concerns
Vehicles equipped with the 2.3-liter EcoBoost engine paired with the 10-speed automatic transmission have reported specific shifting anomalies. Some drivers describe a sensation of hesitation or a slight jerk during acceleration, particularly when moving from a stop or between higher gears. In more isolated cases, this has progressed to the transmission entering a failsafe mode, indicated by the illumination of the check engine light and a significant loss of power. These symptoms often point to software calibration issues or premature wear within the transmission's clutch packs, necessitating a visit to the dealership for a software update or diagnostic check.
Electrical System and Sensor Failures
The integration of numerous driver-assistance and infotainment systems places a heavy load on the vehicle's electrical architecture. A frequently cited issue involves random malfunctions of the dashboard instrumentation cluster, where gauges and warning lights flicker or go blank entirely. This is often linked to a faulty connection or a failing control module. Similarly, the Tire Pressure Monitoring System (TPMS) is prone to false alerts, warning drivers of low pressure in tires that are correctly inflated. While sometimes as simple as a sensor battery dying, persistent TPMS warnings require a professional scan to identify the specific faulty sensor.
Specific Component Weaknesses
Beyond the broad electrical and transmission issues, there are specific components that have proven to be potential weak points on the 2018 Explorer. Addressing these early can save owners from more extensive damage and higher repair bills down the line.
Rear Door Latch Malfunctions
One of the more inconvenient issues reported involves the rear door latches. In some instances, the electronic actuator mechanism can fail, causing the door to appear closed when it is actually unlocked, or refusing to open from the inside. This creates a safety hazard and can leave the rear cargo area inaccessible. This problem is often isolated to a specific batch of actuators and may be covered under an extended warranty or technical service bulletin from Ford.
Engine Oil Dilution and Sludge
Owners who frequently take short trips or engage in stop-and-go driving may encounter a severe problem related to engine oil integrity. The 2.3L EcoBoost engine, in particular, can suffer from oil dilution, where unburned fuel mixes with the engine oil. This creates a thin, sludge-like mixture that fails to lubricate engine components properly. Over time, this can lead to significant internal engine wear and costly repairs. Ford issued an extended warranty for this issue on later model years, and 2018 owners should be vigilant about checking their oil level and condition regularly, changing oil more frequently if necessary.
Proactive Maintenance and Solutions
Awareness is the first line of defense against the frustrations of owning a 2018 Ford Explorer. Staying on top of the recommended maintenance schedule is crucial, but going beyond the basics can mitigate many of the common problems. Regular diagnostic scans can catch electrical gremlins before they cause a complete system failure, while attentive oil changes can prevent the sludge buildup that plagues some engines.
