2019 Ford Explorer: Is It Reliable?
Problems, Recalls & Buyer Verdict
Shopping for a used 2019 Ford Explorer? This page highlights owner-reported complaint patterns and recall history so you can inspect the right systems before buying. Current data includes 275 complaints, with Structural Problems as the top reported area.
2019 Ford Explorer Fuel Economy
β EPA Official DataEPA-rated fuel economy across 7 2019 Ford Explorer trim configurations. The median figure is shown; range reflects all available trims.
Source: EPA FuelEconomy.gov. Figures reflect EPA lab testing; real-world results vary by driving style, load, and conditions. 7 trims analysed.
2019 Ford Explorer Safety Ratings
NHTSA 5-Star Program2 variants tested β showing 2019 Ford Explorer 4 DR SUV FWDOfficial crash test results from the NHTSA 5-Star Safety Ratings program. Stars reflect government-conducted tests; higher is safer.
Overall
16.4% rollover risk
Frontal Crash
Side Crash
Rollover
16.4% probability
Source: NHTSA 5-Star Safety Ratings. Ratings are based on government crash tests and may not reflect all trim levels.
Based on NHTSA complaint data, the 2019 Ford Explorer has 275 owner complaints, 2 crash-related complaints, and 5 recall campaigns on record. The most frequently reported component is Structural Problems. NHTSA reliability signal: Minor Issues.
- Make
- Ford
- Model
- Explorer
- Model year
- 2019
- NHTSA owner complaints
- 275
- Crash-related complaints
- 2
- Safety recall campaigns
- 5
- Top reported component
- Structural Problems
- Reliability signal
- Minor Issues
- EPA MPG combined
- 20
- EPA MPG city / highway
- 17 / 24
- Fuel type
- Regular Gasoline
- NHTSA overall safety rating
- 5/5 stars
- NHTSA frontal crash rating
- 5/5 stars
- NHTSA side crash rating
- 5/5 stars
- NHTSA rollover rating
- 4/5 stars
- Electronic stability control
- Standard
Most Common 2019 Ford Explorer Problems
Top owner-reported complaint areas and where they often appear.
Structural Problems
Uncategorized Issues
Transmission / Drivetrain
Complaint patterns center on Structural Problems, Uncategorized Issues, Transmission / Drivetrain. Use these as a pre-purchase inspection guide, then verify recall and damage history on the specific VIN.
Should You Buy a Used 2019 Ford Explorer?
The 2019 Ford Explorer looks comparatively lower-risk based on complaint volume, but model-year averages do not confirm the condition of any specific used car.
Use the model-year trend to shortlist candidates, then confirm the exact vehicle condition with service records, recall status, and a VIN history report.
What to Check Before Buying a Used 2019 Ford Explorer
Inspection Focus
- Inspect the vehicle for any structural issues, such as body panel gaps or unusual noises.
- Verify all open recalls at nhtsa.gov/recalls.
- Request service records for transmission and engine repairs.
- Have a mechanic inspect the vehicle before purchase.
Before You Close the Deal
- Inspect the vehicle for any structural issues, such as body panel gaps or unusual noises.
- Verify all open recalls at nhtsa.gov/recalls.
- Request service records for transmission and engine repairs.
- Have a mechanic inspect the vehicle before purchase.
Shortlist with model-year data. Decide with the exact VIN.
Before buying a used 2019 Ford Explorer, run a VIN history report to verify accidents, title brands, odometer records, theft checks, and open recalls for the exact vehicle.
What the Complaint Data Suggests
Editorial interpretation of NHTSA public complaint data. Source: nhtsa.gov. Complaints are owner-submitted and do not confirm a defect. Methodology
Complaints for the 2019 Ford Explorer are heavily concentrated in structural problems, which account for the majority of reports. Other notable areas include uncategorized issues and transmission/drivetrain concerns. The data suggests potential quality issues, but the low confidence level and limited sample size warrant caution.
- Structural problems dominate complaints for the 2019 model year.
- Transmission/drivetrain and engine problems are also frequently reported.
- Only 2 crash-related complaints were recorded out of 275 total.
- Structural Problems
- Transmission / Drivetrain
- Engine Problems
All 2019 Ford Explorer Complaints by Category
Every owner-reported complaint category filed with NHTSA for the 2019 Ford Explorer. Use this as a pre-purchase inspection checklist.
| Component | Complaints | Crashes | Fires | Avg Mileage | Volume |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Structural Problems | 138 | β | β | β | |
| Uncategorized Issues | 44 | β | β | β | |
| Transmission / Drivetrain | 33 | β | β | β | |
| Engine Problems | 24 | β | β | β | |
| Electrical Faults | 18 | β | β | β | |
| Fuel/Propulsion System | 13 | β | β | β | |
| Suspension Failures | 9 | β | β | β | |
| Steering Defects | 7 | 1 | β | β | |
| Wheel Issues | 4 | β | β | β | |
| Brake System | 4 | β | β | β | |
| Visibility | 4 | β | β | β | |
| Seat-Related Issues | 3 | β | β | β | |
| Fuel System | 3 | β | β | β | |
| Gasoline | 3 | β | β | β | |
| Visibility/Wiper | 3 | β | β | β | |
| Hydraulic | 2 | β | β | β | |
| Forward Collision Avoidance: AEB | 2 | β | β | β | |
| Airbag Malfunctions | 2 | β | β | β | |
| Tire Issues | 2 | β | β | β | |
| Back Over Prevention | 1 | β | β | β | |
| Seat Belt Issues | 1 | 1 | β | β |
Source: NHTSA Complaints Database. Complaint counts may exceed total complaints because one report can span multiple categories.
Real Owner Complaints
Read what owners actually reported to NHTSA for the 2019 Ford Explorer. Type a keyword (e.g. βtransmissionβ, βstallingβ, βbrakesβ) to filter.
See attached document for complaint.
Brakes, rotors, tires and now steering column and starting gear is needing replaced after recall of rear toe link in 2019 ford explorer
The massage seat on the driver and passenger front seats malfunctioned. The drivers seat massage pillows stayed inflated on the seat and backrest. Driving to work this morning the massage pillow on the drivers seat popped. This was a very loud almost gunshot type of sound which cβ¦
I brought my vehicle to Ford Motor Place in Webster Massachusetts to do two recalls, my car was driving normally before the recall service. Immediately after recall work, it does not run properly. The dealer claims transmission failure without prior symptoms. The vehicle onlyβ¦
The contact owns a 2019 Ford Explorer. The vehicle was taken to the local dealer to be repaired under NHTSA Campaign Number: 26V101000 (Suspension). While retrieving the vehicle, the vehicle failed to start. The contact heard the mechanic revving the engine of the vehicle. The deβ¦
The contact owns a 2019 Ford Explorer. The contact received notification of NHTSA Campaign Number: 24V031000 (Structure); however, the part to do the recall repair was not yet available. The contact stated that the driver's side windshield exterior A-Pillar trim had started to deβ¦
Ford had a recall on a Explorer's roof rack covers...In 2021 the dealer glued down the covers. Over time the glue has gone bad and both roof racks are loose causing concern. I recently found out that there was a fix for this. It was installing Christmas tree push clips into cβ¦
Vehicle was stolen, sold, and relisted for sale. Open Recalls on vehicle.
The B post on the driver side flew off while driving. This is has been an ongoing issue. Ford has fixed them before and they keep causing issues on both the driver and passenger side. The exterior panel does not stay connected to the truck. It flew off at highway speeds, causing β¦
The a-pillar applique trim, which borders the left and right side of the front windshield of my 2019 Ford Explorer has been under recall since January 2024. I've taken it to Bill Utter Ford in Denton, Texas, on four separate occasions to ask for it to be repaired. Generally stateβ¦
My ford dealer will not check 4 wheel alignment at no charge to me. I have two articles that it is mandatory to do a 4 wheel alignment after replacing the rear toe arms on my 2019 ford explorer.
The contact called on behalf of the owner of a 2019 Ford Explorer. The contact received notifications of NHTSA Campaign Numbers: 24V031000 (STRUCTURE) and 26V101000 (SUSPENSION). The contact stated that after the vehicle was stopped at a traffic light, the vehicle stalled. The baβ¦
Similar to NHTSA Recall Number 24V031, driver's "B-pillar" trim (top edge) has detached and loose, and is only secured in-place by remaining anchors/attachments. In inspecting underlying substrate, it appears that a mechanical anchor is missing AND adhesive exhibits cohesive failβ¦
Torque converter failed and had to be replaced within 60000 miles. Know issue to ford but they continue to charge $4,000 to have it repaired. Rear main seal leaks oil within 80,000 miles. Know issue to ford and they continue to charge $3,800 to have it repaired.
I am writing to formally report an issue regarding Safety Recall 24S02 on my 2019 Ford Explorer, which is incorrectly shown as completed by Cornerstone Ford in Elk River, Minnesota. This recall involves the exterior Aβpillar trim on 2011β2019 Ford Explorer vehicles and is a documβ¦
The contact owns a 2019 Ford Explorer. The contact received notification of NHTSA Campaign Number: 24V031000 (Structure). The local dealer was contacted and confirmed that the part for the recall repair was not yet available. The vehicle was not diagnosed or repaired. The manufacβ¦
B-pillar panels (both driver side and passenger, driver side has keyless entry). Panel could be come completely detached if not properly secured and cause a driving hazard in the roadway. No, the dealership stated I would have to pay out pocket to repair (estimate of $1900). Yes,β¦
Vehicle fails to start intermittently. After having this happen on several occasions and waiting for 1-2 hours it would start. However, the last time, while traveling it would not start after taking brief stop. Had to leave the vehicle overnight and return the next day to haulβ¦
The contact owns a 2019 Ford Explorer. The contact received notification of NHTSA Campaign Number: 24V031000 (Structure); however, the part to do the recall repair was not yet available. The local dealer was contacted. The contact stated that the manufacturer had exceeded a reasoβ¦
Remedy not available in timely manner. This came out in 2024. Issue should be fixed and parts available. I am experiencing the wind noice due to this. Manufacturer Recall Number 24S02 NHTSA Recall Number 24V031 Recall Status Recall Incomplete, remedy r yet available
Source: NHTSA Complaints Database. Real owner reports for the 2019 Ford Explorer.
2019 Ford Explorer Recalls
5 campaignsNHTSA recall campaigns for the 2019 Ford Explorer. 5 recall campaigns are on record for this model year. Recalls are free to fix at authorized dealers, but completion status must be verified on the exact VIN.
2019 Ford Explorer Buying FAQ
Buyer-focused answers based on real NHTSA complaint and recall data for this model year.
Is the 2019 Ford Explorer reliable?βΎ
Minor Issues. NHTSA currently shows 275 owner complaints, 2 crash-related complaints, and 5 recall campaigns for this model year. The 2019 Ford Explorer looks comparatively lower-risk based on complaint volume, but model-year averages do not confirm the condition of any specific used car. Treat this as a model-year signal, then verify the exact vehicle's condition and history before purchase.
What are the most common problems with the 2019 Ford Explorer?βΎ
#1: Structural Problems (138 complaints). #2: Uncategorized Issues (44 complaints). #3: Transmission / Drivetrain (33 complaints)
At what mileage do problems start on the 2019 Ford Explorer?βΎ
Mileage data is not available or insufficient for this model year.
How safe is the 2019 Ford Explorer?βΎ
Complaint data is not the same as crash-test scoring, but it does highlight possible risk patterns. For the 2019 Ford Explorer, NHTSA complaints include 2 crash-related reports and 0 fire reports out of 275 total complaints. 6 injury reports are also on file. For controlled crash-test ratings, check nhtsa.gov/ratings.
Does the 2019 Ford Explorer have any recalls?βΎ
Yes. 5 NHTSA recall campaigns affect the 2019 Ford Explorer. A major recall area is STRUCTURE:BODY. 5 recall campaigns are on record for this model year. Always verify open recalls by VIN because completion status varies by vehicle.
Should I buy a 2019 Ford Explorer?βΎ
The 2019 Ford Explorer looks comparatively lower-risk based on complaint volume, but model-year averages do not confirm the condition of any specific used car. Use the model-year trend to shortlist candidates, then confirm the exact vehicle condition with service records, recall status, and a VIN history report. Pay extra attention to Structural Problems during inspection. Before committing, run a VIN history report to verify accidents, title brands, odometer records, and recall completion for the exact car.
Source: NHTSA (National Highway Traffic Safety Administration) complaint and recall databases, aggregated by VinSpector AI.
Wider context: See the full Ford Explorer reliability report with year-by-year comparison.
Owner Reliability Rating
Rate the 2019 Ford Explorer based on your ownership experience.
Add your rating:
Ratings are based on owner experience and are separate from NHTSA data shown above.
Check the Exact Vehicle History Before You Buy
Model-year complaints and recalls reveal patterns. A VIN report confirms whether the exact car has accident history, title brands, mileage issues, or open recalls.