2024 Ford Explorer: NHTSA & IIHS Safety Ratings, Price
— NHTSA, IIHS, EPA, AAA, RepairPal
Among 201 mid-range SUVs, the 2024 Ford Explorer scores well for safety, with NHTSA's 5-star rating and IIHS Top Safety Pick+ designation but below average for fuel cost. NHTSA has 8 recall campaigns on file, more than the 1.7 average for SUVs.
- Starting MSRP
- $36,860 - $56,770
- EPA Combined MPG
- 20 MPG
- NHTSA Safety Rating
- 5-Star (Highest)
- IIHS Award
- Top Safety Pick+
- Est. Annual Fuel Cost
- $3,000 per year
- EPA GHG Score
- 4 / 10
- Recalls on File
- 8 recalls on file
- EPA: vs Avg Vehicle
- $1,250 more over 5 yrs
- Owner Complaints
- 15 on file
- Est. Monthly Cost (with fuel)
- $1,382 per month
- Est. Cost per Mile (with fuel)
- $0.84
- Brand Origin
- United States
The 2024 Ford Explorer is a SUV priced from $36,860 to $56,770 with 15 trims. For a vehicle your family depends on, the safety, recall, and long-term cost data below is where the decision starts.
- Fuel cost $892 per year above mid-range SUVs average
- IIHS Top Safety Pick+
- 8 recalls on file (above SUV average of 1.7)
2024 Ford Explorer at a Glance
Compared with similar SUVs in our dataset, the clearest positive signals for the 2024 Ford Explorer are high published crash-test results and lower estimated five-year cost, but the recall history needs a closer look.
- safety
- estimated 5-year cost
Strengths in the data
- Safety: 5-star NHTSA + IIHS TSP+. Safest SUVs 2024 →
- Best estimated five-year cost in the lineup is about $3,060 below the similar-vehicle average.
Cautions in the data
- There are 8 recalls on file, which is above the current SUVs average. Zero-recall cars 2024 →
- Fuel cost is a real drawback here: Above-average fuel cost among gas SUVs. Cheapest SUVs to fuel 2024 →
- Among the 15 NHTSA complaints on file, at least one involves a fire. This does not confirm a defect, but it flags the complaint history as worth reviewing.
Similar vehicles to compare
How Safe Is the 2024 Ford Explorer?
The 2024 Ford Explorer earned NHTSA's highest 5-star safety rating and TSP+ recognition from IIHS, placing it among the most thoroughly tested SUVs for crash protection. 82% of SUVs share this top NHTSA rating. Source: NHTSA.
Overall Safety
82% of SUVs share this top rating
| Category | Rating |
|---|---|
| Frontal Crash | |
| Side Crash | |
| Rollover |
Rollover Risk: 15.1%
| Feature | Availability |
|---|---|
| Forward Collision Warning | Standard & Optional |
| Lane Departure Warning | Standard |
| Crash Imminent Braking | Standard & Optional |
| Dynamic Brake Support | Standard & Optional |
The five-star NHTSA scale gives you the broad picture. The IIHS breakdown below shows how the 2024 Ford Explorer performed in specific test categories, which can highlight strengths or gaps the star rating does not capture.
How Did the 2024 Ford Explorer Perform in IIHS Crash Tests?
IIHS awarded the 2024 Ford Explorer a TSP+ designation, which requires good or acceptable ratings in all crashworthiness categories plus effective front crash prevention. Source: IIHS.
| Test | Rating |
|---|---|
| Small Overlap Front | G Good |
| Moderate Overlap Front | G Good |
| Side | G Good |
| Headlights | G Good |
| Front Crash Prevention (Pedestrian) | G Good |
| Child Seat Anchors (LATCH) | A Acceptable |
IIHS vehicle class: Midsize SUVs
Strong crash test scores are reassuring, but they do not cover every component. The recall section below shows whether NHTSA or Ford has identified any issues worth correcting on vehicles already sold.
Does the 2024 Ford Explorer Have Any Recalls?
NHTSA has 8 recall campaigns on file for the 2024 Ford Explorer, affecting BACK OVER PREVENTION:SOFTWARE, EQUIPMENT:ELECTRICAL:ENGINE BLOCK HEATER, EQUIPMENT:OTHER:LABELS, HYBRID PROPULSION SYSTEM, SEAT BELTS, SEATS:MID/REAR ASSEMBLY, TRAILER HITCHES. This is more than the 1.7 average for SUVs. A higher recall count does not necessarily indicate a less safe vehicle. It may reflect a manufacturer's responsiveness to potential issues. Repairs are free at authorized dealers. Source: NHTSA.
8 recall campaigns on file with NHTSA.
Components: BACK OVER PREVENTION:SOFTWARE, EQUIPMENT:ELECTRICAL:ENGINE BLOCK HEATER, EQUIPMENT:OTHER:LABELS, HYBRID PROPULSION SYSTEM, SEAT BELTS, SEATS:MID/REAR ASSEMBLY, TRAILER HITCHES
Most recent: March 2026
Units affected: 621,951
What Do 2024 Ford Explorer Owners Report to NHTSA?
NHTSA has 15 owner complaints on file for the 2024 Ford Explorer. This is below the average of 57 complaints for 2024 SUVs. Owner complaints are self-reported and unverified, but patterns across many reports can indicate real issues.
2 in the last 90 days · 6 in the last 12 months · most recent filed 2026-04-11
Safety-relevant complaints: At least one complaint includes fire reported. Review individual reports on NHTSA.gov for details.
Most-reported problem areas
- Visibility3
- Interior3
- Suspension3
- ADAS / Safety Tech3
- Steering2
Source: NHTSA Vehicle Complaints Database. Data last refreshed 2026-04-16.
For a vehicle your family depends on daily, fuel cost adds up fast. The EPA data below shows how the 2024 Ford Explorer's efficiency compares to other SUVs in its price range.
What Is the 2024 Ford Explorer Fuel Economy?
The 2024 Ford Explorer achieves up to 20 combined MPG according to EPA testing, with an estimated annual fuel cost of $3,000. That is $892 more per year than the $2,108 average for mid-range SUVs. EPA estimates are based on standardized laboratory tests. Source: EPA (fueleconomy.gov).
| Trim | Combined | City | Highway | Annual Fuel Cost |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Base RWD GAS | 20 MPG | 18 | 25 | $3,000 per year |
| XLT RWD GAS | 20 MPG | 18 | 25 | $3,000 per year |
| Base AWD GAS | 20 MPG | 18 | 24 | $3,000 per year |
| XLT AWD GAS | 20 MPG | 18 | 24 | $3,000 per year |
| ST-Line RWD GAS | 20 MPG | 18 | 25 | $3,000 per year |
| Limited RWD GAS | 20 MPG | 18 | 25 | $3,000 per year |
| ST-Line AWD GAS | 20 MPG | 18 | 24 | $3,000 per year |
| Timberline AWD GAS | 20 MPG | 18 | 24 | $3,000 per year |
| Limited AWD GAS | 20 MPG | 18 | 24 | $3,000 per year |
| ST RWD GAS | 20 MPG | 18 | 25 | $3,000 per year |
| ST AWD GAS | 20 MPG | 18 | 24 | $3,000 per year |
| King Ranch RWD GAS | 20 MPG | 18 | 25 | $3,000 per year |
| Platinum RWD GAS | 20 MPG | 18 | 25 | $3,000 per year |
| King Ranch AWD GAS | 20 MPG | 18 | 24 | $3,000 per year |
| Platinum AWD GAS | 20 MPG | 18 | 24 | $3,000 per year |
Estimated 5-year fuel cost is $15,000 based on EPA data.
Fuel is the cost you plan for. Insurance, maintenance, and depreciation are the costs that surprise you three years in. For a vehicle your family depends on daily, the full ownership picture matters.
What Does the 2024 Ford Explorer Cost to Own?
Estimated 5-year total ownership cost for the 2024 Ford Explorer ranges from $89,680 to $135,690 depending on trim, based on AAA's Your Driving Costs study for the Medium SUV class. This includes insurance, maintenance, depreciation, registration, and financing. These are class averages, not specific to this model. Source: AAA.
| Maintenance | $1,817 per year |
|---|---|
| Insurance | $1,873 per year |
| Depreciation | $5,074 per year |
| Registration & Taxes | $862 per year |
| Financing | $1,815 per year |
| Total (excluding fuel) | $13,584 per year |
| Cost per mile | $0.84 per mile |
For a family vehicle, the trim choice comes down to which safety features, space, and cost level fit your household. The comparison below shows all 15 options side by side.
How Do the 2024 Ford Explorer Trims Compare?
The 2024 Ford Explorer is available in 15 trims, with base prices ranging from $36,860 to $56,770. All trims use a Gasoline powertrain. The table below compares key specifications and costs across all available trims. Prices shown are manufacturer's suggested retail price (MSRP) and do not include destination charges, dealer fees, taxes, or incentives.
| Trim | Base MSRP | Combined MPG | Est. Annual Fuel Cost | Drive Type | Horsepower | Est. 5-Year Cost | |||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Base RWD GAS | $36,860 | 20 MPG | $3,000 per year | RWD | 300 hp | $89,680 | |||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
| XLT RWD GAS | $38,670 | 20 MPG | $3,000 per year | RWD | 300 hp | $91,490 | |||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
| Base AWD GAS | $38,860 | 20 MPG | $3,000 per year | AWD | 300 hp | $116,280 | |||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
| XLT AWD GAS | $40,670 | 20 MPG | $3,000 per year | AWD | 300 hp | $118,090 | |||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
| ST-Line RWD GAS | $46,455 | 20 MPG | $3,000 per year | RWD | 300 hp | $99,275 | |||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
| Limited RWD GAS | $47,520 | 20 MPG | $3,000 per year | RWD | 300 hp | $100,340 | |||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
| ST-Line AWD GAS | $48,455 | 20 MPG | $3,000 per year | AWD | 300 hp | $125,875 | |||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
| Timberline AWD GAS | $49,430 | 20 MPG | $3,000 per year | AWD | 300 hp | $127,850 | |||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
| Limited AWD GAS | $49,520 | 20 MPG | $3,000 per year | AWD | 300 hp | $126,940 | |||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
| ST RWD GAS | $50,105 | 20 MPG | $3,000 per year | RWD | 400 hp | $104,425 | |||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
Show 5 more trim(s)
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View full trim timeline (2024–2026)
| Trim | 2024 | 2025 | 2026 |
|---|---|---|---|
| ST-Line RWD GAS | $46,455 20 MPG | $45,020 21 MPG | $45,155 21 MPG |
| ST-Line AWD GAS | $48,455 20 MPG | $47,020 20 MPG | $47,155 20 MPG |
| ST RWD GAS | $50,105 20 MPG | $54,770 21 MPG | $54,905 21 MPG |
| ST AWD GAS | $52,105 20 MPG | $56,770 20 MPG | $56,905 20 MPG |
| Platinum RWD GAS | $54,770 20 MPG | $52,525 21 MPG | $50,965 21 MPG |
| Platinum AWD GAS | $56,770 20 MPG | $54,525 20 MPG | $52,965 20 MPG |
Compare Trim Costs
Select two trims and adjust your driving and financing to see how monthly costs compare. Only costs we can compute from EPA data and your inputs are shown. No estimates, no guesses.
Your driving & financing
You have seen what each trim costs. Now, how often does it break? RepairPal aggregates repair data from thousands of shops to answer that question.
How Reliable Is the 2024 Ford Explorer?
RepairPal rates the 2024 Ford Explorer at 3.5 out of 5.0 for reliability, which is about average for mid-range SUVs. RepairPal ratings reflect repair frequency and cost data from a network of certified repair shops. Source: RepairPal.
Reliability ratings come from repair shops. Warranty terms come from Ford. Together, they give you both the historical track record and the manufacturer's commitment.
What Warranty Does the 2024 Ford Explorer Come With?
Ford provides the following warranty coverage for the 2024 Explorer. Coverage periods start from the original purchase date and vary by component. Source: manufacturer-published warranty terms.
| Basic Warranty | 3yr/36k |
|---|---|
| Powertrain Warranty | 5yr/60k |
| Corrosion Warranty | 5yr/unlimited |
| Roadside Assistance | 5yr/60k |
What Are the 2024 Ford Explorer Specs?
Core specifications for the 2024 Ford Explorer as reported by the manufacturer. Figures may vary by trim, option packages, and production date. Source: manufacturer data.
EPA vehicle class: Mid-size SUV
| Engine | 2.3L I4, 3L V6 |
|---|---|
| Horsepower | 300 - 400 hp |
| Price per HP | $123 - $165 |
| Torque | 310 - 415 lb-ft |
| Transmission | 10-speed automatic, 10-speed shiftable automatic |
| Drive Type | Rear-Wheel Drive, All-Wheel Drive |
| Fuel Type | regular unleaded |
| Fuel Tank | 17.9 - 20.2 gal |
| Est. Range per Tank | 404 miles per tank (EPA combined) |
| Length | 198.8 in |
|---|---|
| Width | 78.9 in |
| Height | 69.9 - 70.7 in |
| Wheelbase | 119.1 in |
That is the complete data picture for the 2024 Ford Explorer. For a family vehicle, the safety ratings, recall history, and long-term cost data above are the sections that matter most. Data is refreshed periodically.
Source links
Verify this data
2024 Ford Explorer FAQ
Which 2024 Ford Explorer trim has the lowest ownership cost?
Among 15 available trims, the Base RWD GAS has the lowest estimated five-year ownership cost at $89,680, starting at $36,860 MSRP. The most expensive trim to own is about $135,690. See the full trim comparison table above for a side-by-side breakdown.
What vehicles compete with the 2024 Ford Explorer?
In the suv segment, the closest alternatives to the 2024 Ford Explorer are 2024 Volkswagen Atlas Cross Sport (starting at $36,985, 5-star NHTSA, 22-23 MPG); and 2024 Kia Sorento Hybrid (starting at $36,990, 5-star NHTSA, 34-37 MPG); and 2024 Hyundai Palisade (starting at $36,650, 5-star NHTSA, 21-22 MPG). Each page on this site covers the same data sources so you can compare directly. Browse all 2024 SUVs.
How much does a 2024 Ford Explorer cost per month to own?
Excluding your car payment, estimated monthly costs for the 2024 Ford Explorer include about $1,132 for insurance, maintenance, depreciation, and fees, plus roughly $250 for fuel. That puts non-payment running costs around $1,382 per month. These are estimates based on AAA class averages and EPA fuel data. Actual costs depend on your driving, location, and coverage.
Where is Ford based?
Ford is headquartered in United States. Brand origin reflects where the company is based, not where individual vehicles are assembled. Many Ford vehicles sold in the U.S. are built at domestic or international plants.
What other Ford models are available for 2024?
Each 2024 Ford vehicle has its own fact sheet. Data coverage varies by model. See the complete Ford lineup on our Ford models page.
What is the 2024 Ford Explorer safety rating?
The 2024 Ford Explorer earned a 5-star overall safety rating from NHTSA and has 8 recall campaigns on file. See the safety and recall sections above for the full breakdown, including IIHS results and specific recall details.
Compare to Similar Vehicles
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Data on this page is compiled from government agencies and independent research organizations. It is provided for informational purposes only and does not constitute financial, purchasing, or safety advice. Verify all data with the original source before making decisions.