DrivetrainHigh
Power transfer unit (PTU) overheating/failure on AWD models.
- Typically appears
- 70,000+ miles
- What to inspect
- Ask about PTU fluid service; listen for whine and check for leaks.
2018 Ford Explorer problems
A 2018 Ford Explorer is now 8 years old, so an average example has covered around 108,000 miles. A mid-run car · most launch faults had been addressed by this point, and wear items are the main risk at this age. Check the state safety inspection and service history alongside the documented faults below, which are sorted by whether a 2018 car has usually reached the mileage where they appear.
Compiled & reviewed by the VehicleFaults Research Team
Quick answer
The 2018 Ford Explorer is 8 years old, so an average example has covered roughly 108,000 miles. At that mileage 2 of the documented faults are already due, so check those first.
Faults a 2018 example has usually reached
Documented onset mileage is at or below the ~108k miles an average 2018 car has covered.
CoolingHigh
Internal water pump on the 3.5L NA V6 (behind the timing cover).
- Typically appears
- 90,000+ miles
- What to inspect
- Check coolant loss history — replacement is labor-intensive.
Faults that appear at any mileage
Age, electronics and build-related issues that are not mileage-driven.
ExhaustHigh
Exhaust fumes/carbon monoxide entering the cabin (subject to investigation and TSBs).
- Typically appears
- Any
- What to inspect
- Smell for exhaust odor under acceleration with the AC on recirculate; confirm any sealing TSB.
TransmissionMedium
Harsh or delayed shifts.
- Typically appears
- Any
- What to inspect
- Test-drive for smooth engagement.
Inspecting a 2018 Ford Explorer?
Generate a tickable pre-purchase checklist for this exact year, mileage and variant · add photos and notes as you inspect.
Check this exact carFord Explorer · frequently asked questions
Is the Ford Explorer safe from the exhaust issue?
Many were addressed by TSBs — smell-test on a drive and confirm the fix history before buying.
What is the PTU problem?
The AWD power transfer unit can overheat and fail if its fluid isn't serviced; ask about maintenance.
Which engine to choose?
The 2.3L EcoBoost and 3.5L are common; note the NA 3.5L's internal water pump when high-mileage.