When considering a midsize SUV that balances family needs, adventure capabilities, and safety, the Ford Explorer stands out as a compelling option for drivers in Yukon, Moore, and Piedmont.
But one of the most common questions we hear at Joe Cooper Ford of Yukon is: Is the Ford Explorer a safe vehicle?
This article dives deep into the Ford Explorer’s safety credentials, strengths, and areas for improvement, helping you make an informed decision.
Whether you’re from Warr Acres, Edmond, or Mustang, you’ll find detailed insights tailored to your needs.
For personalized assistance or to explore our inventory in person, visit us at 1780 Garth Brooks Blvd, Yukon, OK 73099 or call us directly at call (405) 354-1111.
Table of Contents
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Ford Explorer Safety Ratings and Features
Learn about the top-tier safety ratings the Explorer holds and the advanced technologies that protect you and your family.
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Potential Weaknesses and Considerations
Understand the known challenges, including mechanical and comfort issues, to assess if the Explorer fits your lifestyle.
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Comparing Ford SUVs: Which Model is Safest?
Explore how the Explorer stacks up against other Ford SUVs like the Expedition in safety and practicality for different family needs.
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Ford Explorer’s Suitability for Long Road Trips
Discover why the Explorer can be a reliable and comfortable companion for extended journeys across Oklahoma and beyond.
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Safest Ford Explorer Model Years to Consider
Get insights into the most dependable and safest model years based on engineering advances and customer feedback.
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Insurance Costs and Ownership Considerations
Understand how safety features and other factors influence insurance premiums for the Explorer in Oklahoma.
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Ford vs. Chevy Safety: Ford’s Edge
Examines how far your Ford can go with proper care and maintenance.
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Holding Value: Will the Ford Explorer Retain Its Worth?
Explore the Explorer’s strong resale value, an important factor for Yukon and Edmond drivers planning their investment.
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Ford Explorer Safety Ratings and Features
Learn about the top-tier safety ratings the Explorer holds and the advanced technologies that protect you and your family.
-
Potential Weaknesses and Considerations
Understand the known challenges, including mechanical and comfort issues, to assess if the Explorer fits your lifestyle.
-
Comparing Ford SUVs: Which Model is Safest?
Explore how the Explorer stacks up against other Ford SUVs like the Expedition in safety and practicality for different family needs.
-
Ford Explorer’s Suitability for Long Road Trips
Discover why the Explorer can be a reliable and comfortable companion for extended journeys across Oklahoma and beyond.
-
Safest Ford Explorer Model Years to Consider
Get insights into the most dependable and safest model years based on engineering advances and customer feedback.
-
Insurance Costs and Ownership Considerations
Understand how safety features and other factors influence insurance premiums for the Explorer in Oklahoma.
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Ford vs. Chevy Safety: Ford’s Edge
A detailed comparison showing why Ford’s vehicles, particularly the Explorer and F-150, often outshine their Chevy counterparts in safety.
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Holding Value: Will the Ford Explorer Retain Its Worth?
Explore the Explorer’s strong resale value, an important factor for Yukon and Edmond drivers planning their investment.
Ford Explorer Safety Ratings and Features
Industry-Leading Safety Scores
The 2024 Ford Explorer carries some of the highest safety ratings in its class, which contribute significantly to its reputation as a safe and family-friendly SUV.
The National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) awarded the Explorer a coveted
five-star overall safety rating, including five stars for front and side impact protection and four stars for rollover resistance.
Meanwhile, the Insurance Institute for Highway Safety (IIHS) recognized the Explorer with a Top Safety Pick+ award. It excelled in critical crashworthiness tests, scoring "Good" — the highest rating — in small overlap and moderate overlap front crash tests.

Robust Safety Technologies Standard on Every Explorer
The Explorer’s comprehensive safety suite, Ford Co-Pilot360™, is standard across all trims. This advanced package enhances driver awareness and collision avoidance through features such as:
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Pre-Collision Assist with Automatic Emergency Braking that detects potential hazards and applies brakes if the driver doesn’t respond.
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Blind Spot Information System (BLIS) with Cross-Traffic Alert to monitor hard-to-see areas and alert drivers of vehicles approaching from the side or rear.
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Lane-Keeping System which warns and gently corrects if the vehicle drifts out of its lane.
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Rear View Camera with Backup Assist and optional 360-degree camera with split-view display for better maneuverability.
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Post-Collision Braking , which automatically applies brakes after a collision to reduce the risk of secondary impacts.
Structural Integrity and Occupant Protection
The Explorer’s design incorporates strategically placed crumple zones that absorb and dissipate crash energy, protecting occupants by reducing the force transmitted during a collision.
The Safety Canopy® System deploys side-curtain airbags covering all three rows of outboard seats, providing head protection in side impacts and rollovers.
Additionally, the SUV includes AdvanceTrac® with Roll Stability Control™ to maintain vehicle stability and control, particularly on slippery roads or during emergency maneuvers.
These features make the Explorer a trusted vehicle among families in Yukon, Bethany, and Union City who prioritize occupant safety.
Potential Weaknesses and Considerations

Mechanical and Ride Quality Challenges
Despite its many strengths, the Ford Explorer is not without areas for improvement. Several generations of
the Explorer have been reported to experience transmission issues, particularly in older
models, which could result in costly repairs.
Recent model years (2021-2025) have seen reports
of engine stalling, overheating, and in rare cases, engine fires. These concerns highlight
the importance of routine maintenance and prompt service, easily handled by our expert team using authentic
parts at Joe Cooper Ford of Yukon’s Parts Department and Service Scheduler.
Interior Comfort and Space Limitations
The Explorer’s second and third rows can feel cramped for adults, which may be a consideration for families in Edmond or Mustang who regularly carry multiple passengers.
Ride quality in some trims has been described as stiff, especially on rough Oklahoma roads, with steering that can feel disconnected. Interior materials in some models have also been noted to occasionally lack the premium finish expected at this price point.


Technology and Electrical Issues
Some owners have reported glitches with infotainment systems, including unresponsive touchscreens and connectivity problems. Backup cameras and dashboard displays may malfunction in rare cases, so it’s beneficial to verify these systems thoroughly during a test drive or inspection at Joe Cooper Ford of Yukon.
Comparing Ford SUVs: Which Model is Safest?
Ford Explorer vs. Ford Expedition
For larger families or those needing extra cargo space, the Ford Expedition offers enhanced safety with a similarly strong suite of driver-assistance technologies. The Expedition features a robust frame with advanced airbags and stands out for its towing stability and size, particularly for residents in Moore or Warr Acres requiring more room without sacrificing safety.
Both models include the Ford Co-Pilot360 suite, but the Expedition’s size and specialized trailer sway control make it preferable for heavy-duty needs. Meanwhile, the Explorer’s nimbleness and advanced crash test ratings make it ideal for daily urban and suburban driving.

Other Ford SUVs
The Ford Bronco Sport and Ford Edge also feature notable safety tech but serve different market segments. While the Explorer is a family-focused midsize SUV with three rows, the Bronco Sport is more off-road oriented, and the Edge targets the two-row crossover segment.
Ford Explorer’s Suitability for Long Road Trips
Comfort and Storage for Extended Drives
The Explorer is well-suited for long journeys across Oklahoma City, Union City, or Bethany, offering features that enhance comfort and convenience. Its tri-zone climate control and heated, ventilated seats reduce driver and passenger fatigue. Fold-flat second and third rows open up a spacious cargo area ideal for camping gear, sports equipment, or luggage.
Advanced Driving Aids for Road Confidence
Long highway stretches and diverse terrain are easily managed thanks to the Terrain Management System with selectable drive modes such as Snow/Sand and Trail, paired with Intelligent 4WD. These systems, combined with adaptive cruise control and a responsive suspension, provide smooth, confident handling on both urban streets and rural roads.
Safest Ford Explorer Model Years to Consider



Insurance Costs and Ownership Considerations
What Affects Ford Explorer Insurance?
Insurance premiums for the Explorer generally fall in the middle to higher range compared to other Ford models. Factors influencing costs include driver age, location (such as Yukon vs. Edmond), trim level, and notably, a higher incidence of catalytic converter theft in Explorers, which can increase rates.
Tips to Manage Insurance Costs
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Shop around and compare quotes from multiple insurers.
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Bundle insurance policies, such as combining auto and homeowners insurance.
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Ask insurers about discounts related to the Explorer’s safety features.
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Opt for higher deductibles if financially feasible.
Ford vs. Chevy Safety: Ford’s Edge
When comparing Ford vehicles like the Explorer and F-150 against Chevy’s offerings, Ford consistently earns higher safety ratings.
For example, the 2024 Ford F-150 attained a five-star frontal crash rating compared to Chevy Silverado’s four stars.
Ford’s advanced driver assistance systems, including Post-Collision Braking and Blind Spot Information System with Trailer Tow Coverage , are standard on many models, while Chevy often offers these features as optional.
This commitment to safety technology and structural integrity makes Ford the preferred choice for safety-conscious drivers across Oklahoma City and surrounding areas.
Holding Value: Will the Ford Explorer Retain Its Worth?
The Ford Explorer holds its value well, with depreciation rates
comparable to other midsize SUVs. Its reputation for durability and
high demand in markets including Yukon, Bethany, and Piedmont ensures
strong resale value.
Proper maintenance significantly
enhances long-term value, making it a smart investment when purchased
from a reputable dealership like Joe Cooper Ford of Yukon.
For current vehicle owners, determine your car’s market value instantly with our Trade Valuation tool. If you’re ready to explore financing, our experts can assist you with a seamless online pre-approval process to find terms that fit your budget.
Experience Joe Cooper Ford of Yukon: Your Safety and Service Partner
At Joe Cooper Ford of Yukon, we believe every driver deserves a vehicle that combines safety, comfort, and performance. Our extensive inventory of new and used Ford Explorers is ready for your test drive, backed by our promise to beat any competitor’s price on a new vehicle by $500. Browse our All New Vehicles or All Used Vehicles today.
Our expert service team is here to keep your Explorer safe and reliable for years to come. Schedule your next appointment with our Service Scheduler and trust us to use only genuine OEM parts available through our Parts Department.
No matter your budget or credit history, our finance experts are ready to help you drive home happy with flexible options and competitive rates. Visit us or call call (405) 354-1111 to start your journey today.
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