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2022 FORD EXPLORER

3.3L V6 Hybrid•RWD•AUTOMATIC•hybrid
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5-Year Cost of Ownership
$13,199 maintenance + known platform issues
~$2,640/yr · 220¢/mile equivalent · $5,793 maintenance + $6,706 expected platform issues
Compare this engine
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2.3L I4 EcoBoost
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3.0L V6 EcoBoost
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3.0L V6 EcoBoost
Common Problems & Known Issues

The 2022 Explorer is too new for widespread high-mileage failures, but early patterns show transmission cooler leaks, driveshaft issues on AWD models, and catastrophic 2.3L EcoBoost engine failures that are concerning for long-term ownership.

2.3L EcoBoost Catastrophic Engine Failure

Occasional · high severity
Typical onset: 30,000-70,000 mi
Symptoms: Sudden loss of power with metal shavings in oil, Knocking or rattling from engine block, Check engine light with misfire codes, White smoke from exhaust indicating coolant intrusion
Fix: Complete engine replacement or rebuild required. Rod bearings fail prematurely causing piston/cylinder wall damage. Ford has extended warranty coverage on some VINs but not all. 18-25 labor hours for short block or complete engine swap.
Estimated cost: $8,000-15,000

Transmission Oil Cooler Line Failure

Common · medium severity
Typical onset: 20,000-60,000 mi
Symptoms: Transmission fluid leaking under vehicle near radiator, Pink fluid spots in driveway, Harsh shifting or slipping when fluid gets low, Transmission overheating warning on dash
Fix: Cooler lines crack at crimp points or cooler itself develops pinhole leaks. Replace lines and cooler as assembly, flush system, refill with Mercon ULV. 3-4 labor hours.
Estimated cost: $600-1,200

Driveshaft U-Joint and CV Joint Failure (AWD)

Occasional · high severity
Typical onset: 40,000-80,000 mi
Symptoms: Clunking noise during acceleration or deceleration, Vibration at highway speeds, Clicking sounds when turning (CV joint), Complete loss of drive if joint separates
Fix: Two active recalls address this but don't cover all failures. Front and rear driveshafts both problematic. Replace entire shaft assembly as Ford doesn't sell serviceable joints separately. 2-4 hours depending on which shaft.
Estimated cost: $800-1,800

Transmission Control Module Software Glitches

Common · medium severity
Symptoms: Harsh or delayed shifts, especially 2-3 and 4-5, Transmission won't shift out of first gear (limp mode), Shuddering during light acceleration 25-45 mph, Intermittent no-start due to TCM not recognizing park position
Fix: 10-speed transmission adaptive learning issues combined with software bugs. Start with TSB reflash (covered under powertrain warranty through 60k). If mechanical, valve body or torque converter replacement runs 8-12 hours. Most resolve with software updates.
Estimated cost: $0-3,500

Backup Camera Failure and Reverse Sensing System

Occasional · low severity
Symptoms: Black screen or lines through backup camera display, Intermittent camera function in cold weather, False parking sensor alerts, Complete loss of rear sensing system
Fix: Water intrusion in tailgate wiring harness or camera housing corrosion. Multiple recalls issued but don't address root cause. Replace camera and reseal harness entry points. 1.5-2 hours.
Estimated cost: $400-800

Transmission Mount Failure

Common · low severity
Typical onset: 30,000-70,000 mi
Symptoms: Clunk when shifting into drive or reverse, Excessive engine movement visible from engine bay during throttle blips, Vibration through floor during acceleration, Grinding sensation at low speeds
Fix: Rear transmission mount tears at rubber isolator. Longitudinal engine layout puts extra stress on this mount. Replace with updated heavy-duty mount if available. 1.5-2 hours.
Estimated cost: $300-600
Owner tips
  • If buying a 2.3L EcoBoost model, verify Ford's extended engine warranty coverage applies to that specific VIN before purchase
  • Change transmission fluid at 60k miles regardless of 'lifetime fill' claim—use only Mercon ULV spec fluid
  • Inspect driveshaft U-joints every oil change on AWD models—catching wear early prevents catastrophic failure
  • Check for open recalls via NHTSA before purchase and ensure all recall work completed with documentation
  • 3.0L EcoBoost ST and 3.3L Hybrid have fewer documented catastrophic failures than 2.3L—consider these if budget allows
Pass on 2.3L EcoBoost models until warranty coverage is crystal clear; AWD models acceptable with thorough pre-purchase inspection and recall verification—or wait another 2-3 years for better failure pattern data.
AI-assisted summary drawn from NHTSA recall data, our labor-times database, and platform knowledge. Not a substitute for a pre-purchase inspection on a specific vehicle.
487 jobs across 17 categories

body (30)

brakes (41)

cooling (21)

drivetrain (24)

electrical (75)

engine (69)

exhaust (22)

hvac (23)

interior (24)

maintenance (31)

suspension (47)

transmission (30)

🔧 Database maintained under the daily editorial review of Chris Hackleman · Master Technician · 20+ years.
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