2023 Ford Explorer engine problems
10 owner complaints filed with NHTSA name the engine on the 2023 Ford Explorer — 10% of all complaints for this model year.
What owners report
“Vehicle: 2023 Ford Explorer ST VIN: [XXX] I am reporting ongoing safety-related powertrain and drivability defects that continue despite numerous repair attempts, including complete engine and transmission replacement. Since approximately June 2025, my vehicle has experienced delayed acceleration…”
filed Jun 24, 2026
“Ecoboost. Coolant intrusion into cylinder head causing white smoke to come out of the exhaust. This is the second ford vehicle I have owned with the same issue.”
filed Apr 27, 2026
Verbatim excerpts from complaints filed with NHTSA. Reports are not independently verified.
Related recalls
- Turbocharger oil supply line may be damaged, which can result in an oil leak inside the…Campaign 23V597000 · Aug 25, 2023
Engine problems in other Explorer years
| Year | Reports | Share |
|---|---|---|
| 2026 Explorer | 5 | 23% |
| 2025 Explorer | 7 | 8% |
| 2024 Explorer | 1 | 5% |
| 2022 Explorer | 26 | 10% |
| 2021 Explorer | 44 | 11% |
| 2020 Explorer | 112 | 9% |
| 2019 Explorer | 18 | 6% |
| 2018 Explorer | 94 | 13% |
| 2017 Explorer | 235 | 14% |
| 2016 Explorer | 380 | 16% |
| 2015 Explorer | 226 | 13% |
| 2014 Explorer | 196 | 12% |
Other reported problem areas on the 2023 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.