You don’t usually expect a vehicle with barely over 60,000 miles to need a transmission rebuild. But when it happens, it tends to shift your whole perspective. While browsing the “Ford Explorer ST Forum” on Facebook, I came across a post from Eric A Beck that started with that situation. His 2020 Explorer was in the shop for a full transmission overhaul, covered thankfully under the powertrain warranty. But what really caught my attention was what came next. Eric was given a 2025 Ford Explorer Active as a loaner, and by the end of his experience, he wasn’t just reflecting on the repair, but he was rethinking what kind of Explorer he might want next.
He wrote: “Well, my 2020 that’s at 62k miles needs the transmission rebuilt. I still had the power train warranty so it's being covered but I've been driving around in this 2025 Active and not going to lie, having the softer suspension is kinda nice. Plus, 300hp out of a 4cyl is not bad. But I really love the bigger infotainment screen. I kind of wish I could get a ‘25 ST because I miss all the features and power mine has.”
When a Warranty Saves the Day but Opens a New Chapter
Transmission failures around the 60,000-mile mark aren’t what most owners expect from a modern SUV, especially a performance-oriented one like the Explorer ST. While Ford’s powertrain warranty clearly came through for Eric, needing a full rebuild at this mileage is a reminder that reliability isn’t always predictable. As we recently covered in another article, even newer Explorers can become a source of ongoing concern if the issues start stacking up.
Still, what could’ve been a purely frustrating experience ended up giving Eric a temporary glimpse into what the current generation has to offer. And in some ways, an insight into what he might’ve been missing.
Despite his fondness for the ST trim, Eric found the 2025 Active’s driving dynamics surprisingly enjoyable. A smoother suspension, responsive turbocharged engine, and refreshed infotainment interface all left a strong impression. It’s easy to forget just how much these seemingly small changes can add up until you’ve lived with them, even if it’s only for a few days.
When it comes to performance, Eric’s note about the 300-horsepower four-cylinder says enough. The 2.3L EcoBoost has become a solid middle ground in Ford’s lineup, delivering respectable acceleration while remaining more efficient than the ST’s twin-turbo V6. And then there's the tech where the difference really makes its mark on some.
The Infotainment System That Makes You Rethink Your Trim
Eric’s biggest takeaway? The larger, more refined infotainment screen in the 2025. It’s no secret that Ford has improved the tech and screen layout in the latest ST models, and owners who've made the switch say it completely transforms the driving experience. For someone coming from a 2020 model, it’s not hard to imagine how that upgrade could make a lasting impression.
What makes this especially frustrating for owners like Eric is that Ford tends to update its vehicles significantly every few years—bringing in features like wireless Apple CarPlay, YouTube integration, and refreshed audio interfaces. These are modern touches that can make an older Explorer feel dated more quickly.
Community Reactions Add More Depth
Other Explorer owners chimed in under Eric’s post, providing extra insight and shared frustrations. Ty Padilla suggested the softer ride could just be tire-related, writing, “The softer ride mostly comes from smaller rims and bigger aspect tires.” But Eric replied, “Not on this one. I have 20in rims on mine and this one has the exact same tire and rim size.” That small exchange suggests Ford may have made refinements to suspension tuning itself.
Then came a comment from Kyron West, who added:
“Yeah the 2025’s are quieter and smoother with better tech. Ford always does this when they redo an Explorer. Fifth time explorer owner so I know, but I feel they're always behind then they restyle and catch up. I’ve been wanting wireless Apple CarPlay for years because other vehicles of mine have had it. Now they play YouTube on the screen. This stuff should be updated. I shouldn't have to buy a whole new car. My rant lol.”
Kyron’s not alone in this sentiment. While some tech upgrades can be added through aftermarket systems or smart retrofits, it’s not always easy, or even possible, to retrofit the OEM experience that newer vehicles provide a lot of times. And with car prices rising, many drivers share that feeling of frustration.
What Matters in Daily Driving
Eric’s brief time with the Active trim also highlights something unexpected that sometimes, a “lesser” trim can open your eyes to things you’ve overlooked. The ST has more raw power, more aggressive tuning, and bold styling. But the Active’s softer suspension, quieter cabin, and user-friendly tech made it more livable for daily use.
In fact, it echoes a growing trend we’ve seen from owners comparing comfort-focused trims to performance ones. Whether it’s someone using an Explorer for road trips or family duty—or even like the youngest traveler to drive a Ford Explorer around the world—more people are realizing comfort can be just as valuable as performance.
I think Eric’s post really captures the emotional shift that happens when you get a taste of something newer, even when you're perfectly content with your current car. It’s not about horsepower envy or even feature comparison. It’s about how one unexpected moment can open your eyes to just how fast tech and comfort are moving forward.
Moral Takeaways for Readers
- Warranty coverage is still incredibly valuable. Eric’s transmission repair could’ve been a financial burden, but the powertrain coverage made all the difference.
- Don’t underestimate the value of trying a loaner, especially if you’re considering upgrading soon. Sometimes the best test drive is the one you didn’t plan.
- Ford continues to refine its tech and comfort, even in non-ST trims. This means you don’t have to max out on performance to enjoy serious improvements.
- If you’re not ready to trade in, explore aftermarket solutions. From infotainment upgrades to suspension kits, there are ways to bridge the gap without going all in on a new car.
- Issues like premature transmission failure are reminders to stay proactive about maintenance and keep your warranty documentation handy. Especially as some owners have faced even more serious issues, like complete breakdowns with no explanation.
What Do You Think?
What would you do if your car had a major issue just after hitting 60,000 miles, repair and keep, or switch out early?
And if you’ve tried one of the newer Explorers, did it leave you wishing you’d waited for a fresher model too?
I'd love to hear what you have to say in the comments below.
Aram Krajekian is a young automotive journalist bringing a fresh perspective to his coverage of the evolving automotive landscape. Follow Aram on X and LinkedIn for daily news coverage about cars.
Image Sources: The “Ford Explorer ST Forum” public Facebook group and Grok AI, respectively.
