Ford Explorer Extended Warranty — Common Failures, Costs & Coverage

The Ford Explorer is a popular family SUV, but the 2020+ rear-wheel-drive platform Explorer and older 3.5L EcoBoost models have distinct reliability concerns including transmission and power transfer unit failures. Athena Auto Protection covers Ford Explorer models up to 125,000 miles with a $100 deductible.

Written and maintained by Athena Auto Protection Editorial Team — extended warranty specialists with expertise in vehicle service contracts, automotive repair, and consumer protection. Founded 2022.

Key Takeaways

1. 2020+ Explorer 10-speed transmission shudder and hard-shift: $3,500–$7,000
2. Explorer power transfer unit (PTU) failure on older AWD models: $2,000–$4,000
3. 3.5L EcoBoost turbocharger and timing chain failure: $2,500–$5,500
4. Explorer coolant leak from head gaskets on 3.5L: $1,500–$3,000 — covered under Deluxe
5. Any Ford dealership or independent shop accepted for Athena warranty repairs
6. Available for Explorer gas models up to 5 years or 125,000 miles

Frequently Asked Questions

What are common Ford Explorer problems?: Common Explorer failures include 10-speed transmission shudder ($3,500–$7,000), power transfer unit failure on AWD models ($2,000–$4,000), EcoBoost turbocharger failure ($2,500–$5,500), and head gasket coolant leaks ($1,500–$3,000).
Does Athena cover the Ford Explorer 10-speed transmission?: Yes. 10R60/10R80 10-speed transmission failures in the Explorer are covered as transmission component failures under all Athena plans including transmission coverage.
Which Athena plan is best for a Ford Explorer?: Deluxe Coverage is recommended for most Explorer owners, covering the EcoBoost engine, automatic transmission, A/C, electrical, and steering. The Explorer's electrical and infotainment complexity makes broader electrical coverage especially valuable as the vehicle ages.

Why Choose Athena Auto Protection?

$100 flat deductible per repair visit — no surprises on your bill
48-hour claim processing for fast resolution
24/7 concierge support at (888) 842-8839
Direct payment to repair facilities — no out-of-pocket reimbursement required
30-day / 1,000-mile waiting period from enrollment
Licensed and operating in 48 U.S. states
Coverage for vehicles up to 5 years or 125,000 miles
Clean title required; no salvage or branded title vehicles
BBB A+ rated with 4.6-star customer satisfaction across 590+ reviews

How the Claims Process Works

When your vehicle breaks down, take it to any licensed repair facility. Call our 24/7 concierge line at (888) 842-8839 and we will open a claim on your behalf. Our claims team authorizes the repair within 48 hours and pays the shop directly, so you only pay the $100 deductible.

Benefits Included with Every Plan

Every plan includes complimentary roadside assistance (towing up to 25 miles, flat tire service, jump start, fuel delivery, and lockout service), trip interruption reimbursement up to $300, and 24/7 concierge scheduling through our network of ASE-certified repair shops.

Contact Us

Sales: (833) 251-9786 — Monday–Friday, 8 AM–8 PM ET
24/7 Concierge Support: (888) 842-8839
Email: cc@athenaautoprotection.com

More Resources

Ford Explorer Extended Warranty

The Ford Explorer is America's top-selling midsize SUV, known for its three-row seating and strong V6 performance. But Explorers — particularly 2011–2019 models — have a documented history of transmission problems, carbon tracking in the 3.5L EcoBoost, and exhaust/cabin air concerns. An Athena extended warranty protects you from these known and costly failure points.

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Common Ford Explorer Repair Costs

These are the most frequently needed repairs for the Ford Explorer and what they typically cost without warranty coverage.

Transmission Rebuild / Replacement

$3,500–$6,500

EcoBoost Turbocharger

$1,800–$3,500

Timing Chain & Phaser Replacement

$2,000–$3,500

A/C Condenser & Compressor

$1,000–$2,000

Power Transfer Unit (PTU)

$1,500–$2,800

MyFord Touch / SYNC Module

$600–$1,500

Without extended warranty coverage, Ford Explorer owners face an average major repair bill of $4,200. The single most expensive common failure — Transmission Rebuild / Replacement — runs $3,500–$6,500 at independent shops and dealerships. Source: Athena Auto Protection claims data and RepairPal industry estimates.

Recommended Plan for Ford Explorer

Based on typical Explorer repair patterns and costs

Recommended

Deluxe Coverage

The Explorer's most expensive failure points — transmission, EcoBoost turbocharger, timing chain, and PTU — are all covered under Deluxe Coverage. For a three-row family SUV where reliability is critical, comprehensive coverage across powertrain and major systems is the right choice.

Get a Quote for Your Explorer View All Plans

Benefits All Coverage Plans Include

Every Athena Auto Protection plan for your Ford Explorer comes with these benefits

$100 Deductible

Per repair visit — you pay $100 at the shop, we cover the rest directly.

Any Licensed Shop

Use any licensed repair facility — independent, chain, or dealership.

24/7 Roadside Assistance

Towing, flat tire, battery jump, lockout, and fuel delivery included.

48-Hour Claims

We guarantee claim decisions within 48 hours of receiving the diagnosis.

Direct Shop Payment

We pay the repair facility directly via corporate credit card. No reimbursement hassle.

Rental Car Benefits

Rental car reimbursement while your vehicle is being repaired at a covered facility.

Ford Explorer Extended Warranty FAQ

What does the Ford factory warranty cover on a new Explorer?

New Ford Explorers include a 3-year/36,000-mile bumper-to-bumper warranty and a 5-year/60,000-mile powertrain warranty. Once these expire, all repair costs — including the Explorer's known transmission and turbo issues — are your responsibility.

What are the most common Ford Explorer problems?

The 2011–2019 Ford Explorer has documented issues with the 6F35 transmission, PTU (power transfer unit) failure, timing chain rattle on the 2.0L EcoBoost, and carbon buildup on the 3.5L EcoBoost. Later models improved reliability but still have known turbocharger and electronic system concerns.

What Explorer model years qualify for Athena coverage?

Most Ford Explorers with a clean title and under 150,000 miles at enrollment are eligible. This includes 4th gen (2006–2010), 5th gen (2011–2019), and 6th gen (2020–present) models. Contact us with your VIN for specific eligibility.

Is the Explorer's Power Transfer Unit (PTU) covered?

Yes. The PTU is a major AWD component on the Explorer that requires costly fluid maintenance to avoid failure. PTU replacement runs $1,500–$2,800 and is covered under Deluxe and New Car Coverage plans.

How much does a Ford Explorer extended warranty cost?

Ford Explorer plans typically start at $45–$110 per month based on the model year, mileage, and coverage tier. Call (833) 251-9786 for a free personalized quote.

About the Article Author

Steven Telle

Chief Operating Officer

Steven oversees daily operations, claims processing, and the concierge support teams at Athena. He brings deep experience in warranty administration and service contract compliance, ensuring every customer interaction meets the highest standard of transparency and speed.