2011 Ford Explorer
The 2011 Ford Explorer marked a significant redesign for the iconic SUV, transitioning from its traditional body-on-frame construction to a unibody platform. This shift brought about a more car-like driving experience, improved fuel efficiency, and a host of modern features, repositioning the Explorer as a more mainstream family crossover.
Highlights
- Engine Options: The 2011 Explorer offered two distinct engine choices:
- 3.5L Ti-VCT V6: This naturally aspirated engine provided a robust 290 horsepower and 280 lb-ft of torque, delivering capable performance for everyday driving and towing.
- 2.0L EcoBoost I4 (late availability): For those prioritizing fuel economy, an optional turbocharged 2.0-liter EcoBoost four-cylinder engine was introduced later in the model year. This engine produced 240 horsepower and 270 lb-ft of torque, aiming for better MPG without sacrificing significant power.
- Safety Features: Ford equipped the 2011 Explorer with a comprehensive suite of safety technologies designed to protect occupants:
- AdvanceTrac with Roll Stability Control: This system actively monitors vehicle dynamics and applies braking to individual wheels and/or reduces engine power to help maintain control in challenging driving conditions, especially during cornering or evasive maneuvers.
- SOS Post-Crash Alert System: In the event of an airbag deployment or a severe impact, this system automatically unlocks the doors and sounds the horn and flashes the hazard lights, alerting emergency responders to the vehicle's location.
- Belt-Minder: A feature that sounds an audible chime and displays a message if the driver or front passenger is not buckled up, encouraging seatbelt usage.
- MyKey: This programmable key system allows owners to set limits on vehicle speed, stereo volume, and prevent disabling of certain safety features like traction control, promoting safer driving habits for younger or less experienced drivers.
- Available Blind Spot Information System (BLIS): This system uses radar sensors to detect vehicles in the driver's blind spots and alerts them with an indicator light in the side mirrors.
- Trim Levels: The 2011 Ford Explorer was available in three primary trim levels, offering varying levels of features and refinement:
- Explorer Base: The entry-level model provided essential features for a comfortable and safe driving experience.
- Explorer XLT: This mid-tier trim added popular comfort and convenience features, often including upgraded upholstery, a better audio system, and more power accessories.
- Explorer Limited: The top-tier trim offered a more luxurious and feature-rich experience, typically including premium leather seating, advanced infotainment options, and enhanced exterior styling.
- Other Notable Aspects:
- Third-Row Seating: A significant benefit of the redesigned unibody platform was the inclusion of standard third-row seating, expanding its people-carrying capacity to up to seven passengers.
- Intelligent 4WD System: For enhanced traction and capability, an available intelligent 4WD system could automatically adjust power distribution based on road conditions, offering improved confidence in various weather scenarios.
- Terrain Management System: This innovative system allowed drivers to select different driving modes (e.g., Normal, Sand, Mud/Ruts, Grass/Gravel) that optimized engine, transmission, and traction control settings for specific terrains.
What to Expect
Owning a 2011 Ford Explorer generally offers a comfortable and refined driving experience, especially compared to its predecessors. The unibody construction contributes to a smoother ride and more car-like handling. Expect adequate power from the V6 engine for most situations, with the EcoBoost offering a more fuel-conscious alternative. The interior is typically well-appointed, particularly in the XLT and Limited trims, with comfortable seating and user-friendly controls.
Maintenance for the 2011 Explorer is generally on par with other vehicles in its class. Routine maintenance such as oil changes, tire rotations, and fluid checks will be necessary. The 3.5L V6 is a generally reliable engine, but like any vehicle, specific components can wear over time. The EcoBoost engine, being turbocharged, may require attention to turbocharger health and related components as the vehicle ages. Owners should follow the recommended maintenance schedule in the owner's manual to ensure longevity and optimal performance.
Insurance costs for a 2011 Ford Explorer will vary based on the driver's profile, location, and the specific trim level chosen. As a family-oriented SUV with a good safety rating, it generally falls within average insurance premium ranges for its segment. However, opting for higher trim levels with more features or adding comprehensive and collision coverage will naturally increase the cost.
Potential Considerations
While the 2011 Ford Explorer brought many improvements, there are a few potential considerations buyers should be aware of:
- Transmission Issues: Some owners have reported occasional issues with the six-speed automatic transmission, particularly concerning smooth shifting and potential for hesitation. While not a widespread problem, it's something to be mindful of during a test drive.
- Infotainment System Responsiveness: The infotainment system, particularly the SYNC system, could be slow to respond or occasionally glitchy for some users. This was a common trait of early infotainment systems across the industry.
- Fuel Economy of the V6: While improved over older models, the V6 engine's fuel economy might not be as impressive as some of its competitors, especially when compared to more modern turbocharged offerings. The EcoBoost variant addresses this, but availability was limited initially.
- Interior Material Wear: In some higher-mileage examples, the interior materials, particularly on the steering wheel and shift knob, might show signs of wear.
Overall Summary
The 2011 Ford Explorer represented a successful transformation into a modern, family-friendly crossover SUV. Its comfortable ride, spacious interior with standard third-row seating, and robust safety features made it a compelling choice for those seeking versatility. The introduction of the EcoBoost engine offered a more fuel-efficient option. While minor transmission and infotainment quirks exist, the 2011 Explorer generally provides a capable and pleasant ownership experience, solidifying its place as a strong contender in the competitive SUV market.
