The Ford Explorer has faced its fair share of well-documented quality woes since the launch of the 2020 model, which was easily one of the most botched debuts in recent automotive history. Since then, the Explorer has continued to experience its fair share of issues and has been the subject of numerous recalls even as Ford’s initial quality is on the rise, prompting Consumer Reports to add the 2023 model to its list of vehicles consumers should avoid. However, the 2024 Ford Explorer recently secured a very impressive award that makes it seem as if things might finally be improving.
That award is a second-place ranking among all mid-size SUVs in J.D. Power’s 2024 U.S. Initial Quality Study (IQS). The 2024 Ford Explorer ranked only behind the segment-leading Chevy Traverse in this year’s IQS, and ahead of the third-place Kia Telluride. It’s an impressive finish for certain, and means that the 2024 Ford Explorer joins the Ford Bronco Sport, which topped the small SUV segment this year, while Ford – as a brand – ranked above the mass market average, too. As for the Explorer, it’s set to undergo a refresh for the 2025 model year, but as Ford Authority recently reported, the automaker will delay that launch until it conducts routine quality checks to ensure that it doesn’t experience a repeat from 2020.
The 2024 J.D. Power IQS is based on the responses of 99,144 purchasers and lessees of new 2024 model-year vehicles after 90 days of ownership. Its results are based on 227 different questions and relevant repair data across 10 categories – infotainment; features, controls and displays; exterior; driving assistance; interior; powertrain; seats; driving experience; climate; and unspecified. When the data was finalized, it found that automakers have made strides in certain areas, but continue to struggle with the implementation of new technology.
“It is not surprising that the introduction of new technology has challenged manufacturers to maintain vehicle quality,” said Frank Hanley, senior director of auto benchmarking at J.D. Power. “However, the industry can take solace in the fact that some problem areas such as voice recognition and parking cameras are seen as less problematic now than they were a year ago.”
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Comment
Yep great quality, ford had to buy back my explorer ST cause they couldn’t fix a backup camera after 3 years. Crazy cause for the 3 years and 50k I had it that was it’s only issue. Oh well 2025 explorer ST I’m waiting with my buyback money hope your new Google system has bugs worked out.