2018 Ford Explorer power train problems
49 owner complaints filed with NHTSA name the power train on the 2018 Ford Explorer — 7% of all complaints for this model year.
What owners report
“At 30 to 40 mph, there is a shuttering or stutter in the transmission during acceleration. This is a problem when trying to enter traffic on the expressway (Interstate or other lanes of traffic). I have taken this to the dealer and they indicate that the transmission needs to be replaced. They…”
filed Sep 4, 2026
“my transmission, like several others' I have spoken to, is about to lose reverse. The incident happened when i encountered a problem on the road and was UNABLE to put my car in reverse. I have taken it to several dealerships and nothing is ever done, it's been going on for years. Well now it's…”
filed Sep 3, 2026
Verbatim excerpts from complaints filed with NHTSA. Reports are not independently verified.
Power Train problems in other Explorer years
| Year | Reports | Share |
|---|---|---|
| 2026 Explorer | 3 | 9% |
| 2025 Explorer | 15 | 15% |
| 2024 Explorer | 1 | 5% |
| 2023 Explorer | 12 | 11% |
| 2022 Explorer | 60 | 23% |
| 2021 Explorer | 120 | 28% |
| 2020 Explorer | 484 | 40% |
| 2019 Explorer | 35 | 12% |
| 2017 Explorer | 123 | 7% |
| 2016 Explorer | 214 | 9% |
| 2015 Explorer | 84 | 5% |
| 2014 Explorer | 79 | 5% |
Other reported problem areas on the 2018 Ford Explorer
Counts are unique NHTSA complaints naming this component group. Complaints are unverified owner reports; mileage is computed only from complaints that included a usable odometer reading.