The 2007 Ford Explorer lasts around 150,000 to 200,000 miles transmission and engine issues. At $5,315 to $6,731 it’s cheap, but not worth it with the high ownership costs.
Is the 2007 Ford Explorer a Good Used SUV?
- No, 2007 is a bad year for the Explorer. Owner reviews complain about a noisy cabin, expensive ownership costs, and difficulty parking in cities.
- Interior materials are very cheap for the cost of the SUV with a lot of low-grade plastics and cloth, but the infotainment system was just updated.
- Reliability ratings are below average. Avoid models from 2004-2007, and go with a 2009–2010 model with fewer issues.
- Performance is poor from the V6, but a bit better with the upgraded V8.
- The Explorer is reasonably safe, getting 4 out of 5 stars in government crash tests.
- Fuel economy is poor, at only 16 MPG combined.
Positive Owner Reviews
Negative Owner Reviews
What Do Critics Say About the Explorer?
- Consumer Reports says the 2007 Explorer is behind the times, with lower owner satisfaction scores.
- Edmunds gives the 2007 Explorer a 4.5/5 liking the passenger room, but disliking the weaker than average engines.
- Kelley Blue Book users rate the Explorer 4.3/5 and enjoy the high towing capacity, but don’t like how quickly it loses value.
What Common Problems Does the 2007 Ford Explorer Have?
The most common problems found on the 2007 Explorer include transmission failures, stalling engines, and leaking radiators.
Transmission failures are the most serious problem mentioned by owners at around 75,000 miles. Some owners rebuild the transmission for around $2,000, and others have replaced the entire unit costing over $3,500.
Stalling engines are another issue that shows up on a lot of Explorers at roughly 100,000 miles. The source of the problem is usually the throttle body, which costs around $1,000 to swap out.
Radiator leaks are another frequent complaint from owners in the first 70,000 miles. Replacing the radiator fixes the problem, but costs roughly $800 depending on local labor rates.
There are 3 recalls, with the most serious one covering the steering gear assembly, which increases the risk of an accident if it breaks.
How Long Will the 2007 Ford Explorer Last?
A well-maintained 2007 Ford Explorer should be able to last around 150,000 to 200,000 miles, which is 100,000 miles less than top competitors like the Chevy Tahoe. Regular annual maintenance costs are very high, according to Repair Pal, at $557 per year.
Most 2007 Explorer models will have over 100,000 miles, so buyers should be prepared to replace the timing chain tensioner for $1,000, the alternator costing $550, and the steering knuckle which costs $500.
It is reliable. One of the only issues I've ran into with the vehicle is the sound system, the speakers are not the best. It is difficult to listen to music or even radio shows due to low quality.
As I stated in my last answer. I have had my air conditioning fixed and need to have my radiator looked at. But for a 12 year old car with over 97,000 miles on it. I feel it is very reliable.
Yes the air conditioner is broken and is apparently 600 dollars to fix. So I will have to drive around this winter cold.
It has many problems, many parts in the engine and on board computer had to be replaced over the time I have owned the vehicle.
It has been very reliable. Starts every time. A few years ago the battery keeps running down. Replaced it and it kept happening. Finally, it was discovered there was a short in the radio, which didn't interfere with using the radio. Once it was replaced, never have had a problem with the battery again.
There is a tendency to have a lurching feeling at times. Am thinking there may be a transmission problem. Brakes have been repaired in its life twice. Feel this is normal wear and tear.
The transmission solenoid is starting to go bad but the previous owner has put a lot of money and work into it and stated to me before I purchased it that it has been a good vehicle to her.
It does have a problem with the engine, but I know what needs to be replaced. I just do not have the funds now but great car for the miles and year it is.
How Much Is the 2007 Ford Explorer Worth?
Blue book values range from $5,315 to $6,731, which makes the Explorer thousands cheaper than a Toyota Sequoia or Chevy Suburban. When new, the price range was $25,370 to $35,365. Depreciation is similar to other SUVs, losing about 10% of its current value per year.
What are the Different Models of the Explorer?
There are three models of the 2007 Explorer available. The stereo system was just updated for 2007, with an optional SYNC infotainment system added in 2008.
XLT is the entry-level model with:
- 16-Inch Alloy Wheels
- Cloth Seating
- Cruise Control
- AM/FM/CD Stereo System With 3.5mm AUX Input
Eddie Bauer falls in the middle of the lineup, adding:
- 17-Inch Alloy Wheels
- Leather Seating
- Running Boards
- Heated Front Seats
- Wood Interior Trim
- In-Dash 6-CD Changer
Limited is the luxury model and adds:
- 18-Inch Alloy Wheels
- Premium Leather Seating
- Dual-Zone Climate Control
- Optional Captain’s Chairs In the Second Row
What Engines Come In the Explorer?
- The base engine is a weak 4.0L V6 which makes 210 horsepower and gets up to 16 MPG combined.
- An available upgrade is the average 4.6L V8, which offers 292 horsepower and also gets up to 16 MPG combined. The towing capacity is great at up to 7,300 pounds with this engine.
What Colors Does the Explorer Come In?
How Big Is the Explorer?
The 2007 Ford Explorer is larger than most midsize SUVs like the Toyota Highlander, but smaller than some of the full size rivals including the Ford Expedition, placing it in a class of its own. Passenger room is great throughout the cabin, but the third row is a bit small for adults.
Cargo space is similar to full size SUVs with 13.6 cubic feet of room behind the third row, 45.1 cubic feet behind the second, and up to 85.8 cubic feet with the seats folded flat. There’s enough room for 6 people and their luggage.
How Does the Explorer Compare to the Competition?
The Chevy Tahoe is a rival costing about $3,000 more. The passenger space is a bit better in the Tahoe, but the Explorer has a higher towing capacity with the V8. We recommend the Tahoe since there are fewer complaints for the 2007 model year, but it’s closer in other years.
The Honda Pilot is another competitor, which is around $1,500 more. Technology is more up-to-date in the Pilot, but the Explorer offers more cargo room. We recommend going with the Pilot since they last much longer and have lower ownership costs.
Do Owners Recommend the Ford Explorer?
Yes, other than the sound system, the features of the vehicle are good. It is also really great for all seasons and is nice to have for the winter as it works well even in the snow.
Yes, I have had no major problems with it. I had to fix the air conditioning and I believe I have a radiator issue. I will be bringing it to the dealership to look at it. I feel these issues are not bad for over 97,000 miles.
Yes I love it, however it is not gas efficient. I also wish I had got the Eddie Bauer edition because it adds a touch of luxury.
It is not a very reliable vehicle, the transmission had to be replaced 4 years after owning it along with other smaller parts such as the starter.
It has been the best, most reliable vehicle. Has almost 200,000 miles on it. The only issue is the speed control stopped working a few months ago. Everything has been changed including the buttons and it still will not work. Other than that, it is perfect.
It has been exceptional so far. No major problems or repairs. Brakes have needed repair, but within the normal realm of expectation.
I just recently purchased it due to totalling my other vehicle but it has been a good vehicle until recently it has started having transmission issues.
Yes, it an older model, but in good condition. I have had the vehicle for two years, with standard maintenance it runs great