Exhaust/Carbon Monoxide Intrusion into Cabin
medium- Typically appears
- 0–50k mi
- Estimated repair
- $0 – $500
2020 Ford
ExplorerSUV
2.3L I4 EcoBoost Turbo · SUV
The 2020 Ford Explorer marks the sixth generation of America's best-selling three-row SUV, and it represents a major platform change — Ford moved it from a front-wheel-drive-based unibody to a rear-wheel-drive-based architecture shared with the Lincoln Aviator. The result is a more driver-focused feel, better towing capacity (up to 5,600 lbs), and an available hybrid powertrain. Base models use a 2.3L turbocharged four-cylinder; upper trims get a 3.0L twin-turbo V6 (ST and Platinum). Seven-passenger seating is standard across most trims. The 2020 redesign was not without growing pains. Early production units had reported exhaust fume intrusion into the cabin — Ford issued a Technical Service Bulletin and a recall — and the 10-speed automatic transmission drew criticism for rough or hesitant shifts. Software updates and hardware fixes addressed many complaints, but buyers should verify recall completion before purchase. For a Lake Geneva-area family needing genuine winter capability, AWD availability is a strong point. The Explorer's RWD-based platform means rear-biased torque distribution in normal conditions, with AWD transferring power forward as needed — a different and generally more capable feel than the old FWD-based generation.
Reliability
2/5
Verified data
Specs shown for Explorer RWD — the most common configuration.
Other trims may vary in engine, drivetrain, or fuel economy. Sign in to see your vehicle's exact specs.
Engine
[object Object]
Drivetrain
RWD
Fuel
Gasoline
MPG
21 city / 28 hwy / 24 combined
Seats
7
Doors
4
Body
SUV
MSRP
$36,675
Overview
AI-curatedThe 2020 Ford Explorer marks the sixth generation of America's best-selling three-row SUV, and it represents a major platform change — Ford moved it from a front-wheel-drive-based unibody to a rear-wheel-drive-based architecture shared with the Lincoln Aviator. The result is a more driver-focused feel, better towing capacity (up to 5,600 lbs), and an available hybrid powertrain. Base models use a 2.3L turbocharged four-cylinder; upper trims get a 3.0L twin-turbo V6 (ST and Platinum). Seven-passenger seating is standard across most trims. The 2020 redesign was not without growing pains. Early production units had reported exhaust fume intrusion into the cabin — Ford issued a Technical Service Bulletin and a recall — and the 10-speed automatic transmission drew criticism for rough or hesitant shifts. Software updates and hardware fixes addressed many complaints, but buyers should verify recall completion before purchase. For a Lake Geneva-area family needing genuine winter capability, AWD availability is a strong point. The Explorer's RWD-based platform means rear-biased torque distribution in normal conditions, with AWD transferring power forward as needed — a different and generally more capable feel than the old FWD-based generation.
Known for
- Three-row seating with genuine second-row legroom
- RWD-based platform with strong towing for the class
- Available 3.0L twin-turbo V6 (400 hp in ST trim)
- Ford + Lincoln shared architecture (Aviator platform)
- Available hybrid powertrain (Explorer Hybrid) for improved fuel economy
Best for
- Families needing three rows and AWD for Midwest winters
- Drivers who tow boats, trailers, or campers occasionally
- Buyers who want a mainstream brand with wide dealer/parts support
- Those who value a more rear-wheel-biased driving character in an SUV
Watch for
- Exhaust/carbon monoxide intrusion recall — verify completion on any used example
- 10-speed automatic transmission shudder and hesitation complaints on early 2020s
- Panoramic roof rattle and seal issues reported by owners
- Turbocharger-related codes on the 2.3L EcoBoost if oil changes were neglected
- Higher-than-average repair costs compared to Japanese three-row competitors
Common issues by mileage
6 known10-Speed Automatic Transmission Shudder / Harsh Shifts
high- Typically appears
- 10–60k mi
- Estimated repair
- $150 – $1,800
Variable Cam Timing / VCT Solenoid Faults (VVT System)
medium- Typically appears
- 60–120k mi
- Estimated repair
- $200 – $900
Turbocharger Bypass / Boost Control Issues (EcoBoost 2.3L)
low- Typically appears
- 80–150k mi
- Estimated repair
- $300 – $1,400
Oxygen / A/F Sensor Heater Circuit Faults
medium- Typically appears
- 70–130k mi
- Estimated repair
- $150 – $600
Panoramic Roof Rattle and Water Intrusion
medium- Typically appears
- 20–80k mi
- Estimated repair
- $100 – $800
Maintenance schedule
- 1 Every 7,500 miles or 12 months (do not stretch to the 10k Ford Intelligent Oil-Life Monitor maximum on the EcoBoost) Engine oil and filter change — full synthetic 5W-30
The 2.3L EcoBoost's VCT solenoids are oil-pressure-operated. Dirty or degraded oil is the leading cause of P0012/P0022 cam timing codes and sludge in the timing chain oiling passages.
- 2 Every 60,000 miles — sooner if shudder or harsh shifts develop Transmission fluid change (10-speed 10R60)
Ford originally labeled this fluid 'lifetime,' but real-world shudder and shift complaints drop significantly after a fluid refresh. Upper Midwest stop-and-go and cold-start cycling accelerates fluid breakdown.
- 3 Every 60,000 miles Spark plug replacement
Worn plugs on a turbocharged engine cause misfires and can trigger rough-idle complaints that mimic more expensive problems.
- 4 Every 15,000–20,000 miles or once per year Cabin air filter replacement
Especially important given the exhaust intrusion history — a clean, properly seated cabin filter and a functioning recirculation mode help limit any cabin air quality concerns.
- 5 Every fall (October) and at 4 years / 50k miles Battery load test
The Explorer's complex electronics (adaptive cruise, SYNC, 10-speed TCM) are sensitive to weak battery voltage. Wisconsin sub-zero starts stress even a healthy battery; catch a weak one before January.
- 6 Every 100,000 miles or 10 years (OAT coolant) Coolant system inspection and coolant flush
Degraded coolant accelerates corrosion in the aluminum engine block and EcoBoost intercooler passages.
- 7 Every 2 years regardless of mileage Brake fluid flush
Glycol-based brake fluid absorbs moisture over time. In Wisconsin winters with repeated freeze/thaw cycles, moisture-laden fluid lowers boiling point and can cause corrosion in the ABS modulator.
- 8 Monthly during winter (November–March), full inspection each spring Undercarriage wash and inspection for road salt corrosion
Lake Geneva roads are heavily salted. The Explorer's rear-subframe and exhaust system — already flagged for exhaust leak issues — should be checked annually for corrosion that could compromise the exhaust seal repair.
Always defer to the manufacturer's service manual for warranty-mandated intervals.
Cost of ownership
Annual maintenance
$700 – $1,400
Fuel
At 24 MPG combined and ~15,000 miles/year, expect roughly $1,900–$2,300/year at current Midwest mid-grade prices. The EcoBoost technically runs on regular 87 octane but Ford recommends 91+ for full performance.
Insurance
Typically $1,400–$1,900/year in the Lake Geneva area for a 2020 Explorer with full coverage, depending on driver profile and trim. ST and Platinum trims run higher.
The Explorer sits in the middle of its class for ownership cost. Routine maintenance is straightforward and parts are plentiful. Where it stings is when something goes wrong — the 10-speed transmission is expensive to overhaul ($2,500–$5,000+), and any EcoBoost turbo or VCT work adds up quickly. Budget toward the higher end of annual maintenance if the vehicle is still working through early-production quirks.
Seasonal care
Lake Geneva, WI Winter
- Verify battery condition each October — the Explorer's electronics draw significant standby current and a marginal battery will fail in a Wisconsin cold snap.
- Switch to a dedicated winter wiper blade set and fill the washer reservoir with -20°F or colder rated fluid; the large windshield area accumulates road salt spray quickly.
- If equipped with AWD, confirm the system is functioning before first snowfall — drive slowly in a clear parking lot and feel for AWD engagement; don't assume it works.
- Inspect the undercarriage exhaust routing each fall given the model's history of exhaust seal issues — road salt will accelerate any existing leak.
- Use a fuel-injector-safe fuel system cleaner once per winter season; cold starts on the EcoBoost are harder on injector deposits.
- Check tire pressure monthly — every 10°F drop in temperature costs roughly 1 PSI; the Explorer's larger tires lose noticeable grip when underinflated on ice.
Summer
- Inspect A/C performance before July — the 2020 Explorer's dual-zone climate system works the compressor hard; a weak refrigerant charge will be obvious on hot Wisconsin days.
- Check tire pressure after the first hot week of the season — summer heat adds 4–6 PSI over winter baseline, and overinflation reduces wet-road traction.
- Inspect the panoramic roof seals if equipped — summer UV and heat cycles dry out the rubber, and water intrusion shows up as musty smells or interior staining.
- Watch coolant temperature on extended highway runs or trailer-towing days; the EcoBoost generates significant heat under sustained load.
- Clean and inspect brake rotors and pads after the winter salt season before summer road trips — salt accelerates rotor surface corrosion.
Comparable vehicles
2020 Chevrolet
Traverse
Three-row family SUV at a similar price point with a naturally aspirated 3.6L V6 — simpler powertrain, better early reliability scores, slightly more interior volume but less towing capacity.
2020 Jeep
Grand Cherokee
RWD-based platform with proven AWD/4WD capability, strong in Wisconsin winters, and better long-term reliability reputation — though only two rows versus the Explorer's three.
2020 Kia
Telluride
Three-row SUV that outscored the 2020 Explorer in nearly every consumer reliability survey; competitive price, strong AWD system, and excellent resale value.
2020 Toyota
Highlander
Three-row SUV with a proven reliability track record, available AWD, and a hybrid variant — lower operating costs over time and a higher reliability ceiling than the 2020 Explorer.
If you're shopping for one
Red flags
- Any open recalls not yet completed — especially the exhaust intrusion recall (check NHTSA.gov by VIN before purchase).
- Transmission shudder or hesitation during a test drive — budget $150–$1,800 for fluid service or valve body work if present.
- Musty or exhaust smell inside the cabin with windows up — potential exhaust intrusion, which is a safety issue, not just an inconvenience.
- Evidence of overheating (white residue on the coolant reservoir cap, milky oil) — the EcoBoost does not tolerate heat abuse.
- Deferred oil changes — ask for records; VCT solenoid damage from dirty oil may not throw a code until it worsens.
What to inspect
- Run the transmission through all drive ranges (D, manual mode, reverse) during the test drive and listen for hesitation, clunk, or delayed engagement.
- With the engine warm and at idle, check for any exhaust smell inside the cabin with the fan on recirculate.
- Inspect the panoramic roof glass and headliner edges for water staining or mold.
- Pull the engine oil dipstick — it should be amber/clear, not dark brown or gritty; dark oil suggests extended intervals.
- Check the undercarriage for rust on the exhaust mid-pipe and rear subframe, especially on vehicles from northern states.
- Verify the SYNC infotainment screen, all three climate zones, and the power liftgate function — these are known electrical stress points on early 2020 builds.