ON DECEMBER 15 2014, I WAS DRIVING TO PONCE ON HIGHWAY 52 IN PUERTO RICO. WHEN SUDDENTLY THE ENGINE STALL WHILE DRIVING. AFTER THAT THE PROBLEM HAVE CONTINUE DOING IT, SOMETIMES THREE TIMES A DAY. THE LAST TIME WAS MONDAY 29 2014 WHILE I WAS DRIVING TO THE DEALER. I'M VERY AFRAID OF DRIVING THIS VEHICLE KNOWING THAT CAN STALL ANY MOMENT WHITHOUT NOTICE AND IMPLICATE ME IN AN ACCIDENT. *JS
2013 ford Explorer engine problems
severe 191 complaints filed with NHTSA · avg repair $3,100
Complaints
191
Recalls
0
Crashes
0
Avg fix
$3,100
What owners are reporting 3 most recent
I HAVE AN EXPLORER 2013(32762 MILES) WITH BIG ODOR OF GASES INSIDE THE CABIN WHEN I ACCELERATE MY SUV. THE ODOR OF GASES IS AMAZING INSIDE THE CABIN AND I AFRAID WITH THAT ODOR CAN CAUSE HEALTH PROBLEM NOW OR IN THE FUTURE TO MY FAMILY. I ALREADY WENT TO THE FORD SERVICE AND THEY MAKE A SEAL BUT THE PROBLEM STILL THERE. (TSB 14-04-NA). THE GOVERNMENT NEED TO DO SOMETHING.
TL* THE CONTACT OWNS A 2013 FORD EXPLORER. THE CONTACT STATED THAT WHILE DRIVING APPROXIMATELY 35 MPH, THE ACCELERATOR PEDAL WAS DEPRESSED AS A STRONG FUEL ODOR EMITTED INSIDE OF THE VEHICLE. THE FAILURE OCCURRED AT VARIOUS SPEEDS. THE VEHICLE WAS TAKEN TO THE DEALER FOR DIAGNOSIS. THE FAILURE WAS UNABLE TO BE DIAGNOSED. THE FRONT DRIVER'S AND PASSENGER'S SIDE WEATHER DOOR STRIPPING WAS REPLACED H…
Common questions
How serious is the engine problem on the 2013 ford Explorer?
It's a meaningful issue. 191 complaints have been filed and the failure mode causes operational problems for owners. Repairs average $3,100.
At what mileage does the engine typically fail?
Mileage data is limited for this issue. Owners report failures across a wide range, suggesting cause is more about driving conditions and maintenance than mileage alone.
What does it cost to fix?
Independent shops typically charge around $3,100 for engine repairs on this vehicle. Dealer pricing tends to run 20-40% higher. The exact figure depends on the specific failure mode, parts availability, and your local labor rates. If you're outside factory warranty, an extended service contract often covers this category.
Are there any recalls related to engine?
No active recalls currently cover engine issues on this vehicle. The complaints filed represent owner-reported failures that haven't risen to the level of a manufacturer-issued recall — but they're still worth knowing about before you buy or budget for repairs.
Other problem areas on this vehicle
Complaint and recall data sourced from the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA)
public records database. Severity ratings are derived from reported crashes, fires, injuries, and fatalities.
Repair cost estimates are independent-shop national averages and may differ in your area.
Some links on this page are affiliate links.