2015 Ford Explorer Factory Maintenance Schedule

Quick reference

Maintaining your 2015 Ford Explorer according to the factory-recommended schedule is crucial for its longevity, performance, and resale value. This guide outlines the essential services and inspections to ensure your Explorer continues to run smoothly mile after mile.

Normal vs. Severe-Duty Schedule

Ford recommends a standard maintenance schedule under normal driving conditions. However, many driving habits and environmental factors fall under "severe duty." If your 2015 Ford Explorer regularly experiences any of the following, you should adhere to a more rigorous maintenance plan, particularly for oil changes and fluid services:

• Towing or hauling heavy loads: Places extra strain on the engine, transmission, and cooling system.
• Extensive idling or stop-and-go driving: Common in urban areas, leading to increased engine wear and higher operating temperatures.
• Driving in dusty, sandy, or muddy conditions: Can clog air filters faster and contaminate fluids.
• Repeated short trips (less than 10 miles) in cold weather: Engine may not reach optimal operating temperature, leading to moisture and sludge buildup in the oil.
• Driving in extreme hot or cold climates: Puts additional stress on various components and fluids.
• Operating as a police or taxi vehicle, or for off-road use.

For severe-duty operation, Ford generally recommends more frequent oil changes (every 5,000 miles or 6 months, whichever comes first), along with more frequent inspections of critical components like the suspension, steering, and brakes. Transmission fluid, differential fluid, and power transfer unit (PTU) fluid changes should also be considered at earlier intervals.

Known Issues by Mileage for This Generation (2011-2019 Ford Explorer)

While adherence to the maintenance schedule helps prevent many issues, some common problems for the fifth-generation Ford Explorer tend to emerge at certain mileage points:

• Around 60,000 miles: Issues with the Power Transfer Unit (PTU), particularly in AWD models, can start to appear. Symptoms include leaking fluid, grinding noises, or a burning smell. Regular fluid changes can help mitigate this. Also, some owners report premature wear of front wheel bearings around this mileage.
• Around 75,000-100,000 miles: Water pump failures have been reported, often leading to coolant leaks and potential engine overheating. Since it's internally mounted on some engines, replacement can be labor-intensive and costly. Keep an eye on your coolant levels and engine temperature gauge. Electrical issues related to the infotainment system (MyFord Touch) or other modules might also surface.
• Above 100,000 miles: Transmission issues, such as harsh shifts or slipping, can become more prevalent if fluid changes have been neglected. Additionally, rear differential issues (leaks or noise) are not uncommon, especially if the vehicle has been subjected to towing or severe use without proper differential fluid service.

Estimated Cost per Service (ranges highly dependent on location, shop, and parts)

These are general estimates and can vary significantly.

• Oil & Filter Change (Synthetic Blend, plus tire rotation): $75 - $150
• Cabin Air Filter Replacement: $50 - $100 (parts + labor)
• Engine Air Filter Replacement: $50 - $100 (parts + labor)
• Brake Fluid Flush: $120 - $200
• Coolant Flush: $150 - $300
• Spark Plug Replacement (V6): $300 - $600 (includes parts, labor can be extensive on some V6 engines)
• Transmission Fluid Service (drain and fill, not a full flush): $250 - $450
• Differential Fluid Service (per differential): $100 - $200
• Power Transfer Unit (PTU) Fluid Change: $150 - $300 (can be labor-intensive)
• Accessory Drive Belt Replacement: $150 - $250

What you can DIY vs. Shop

Many maintenance tasks on your 2015 Ford Explorer can be performed by a competent DIYer, saving you money on labor costs. However, some services are best left to professional technicians due to specialized tools, complexity, or safety concerns.

Easily DIYable:

• Oil and Filter Change: Requires basic tools, jack, jack stands, and proper disposal of used oil.
• Tire Rotation: If you have a jack and lug wrench, this is straightforward.
• Cabin Air Filter Replacement: Usually located behind the glove box and relatively easy to access.
• Engine Air Filter Replacement: Typically a simple unscrewing of clips or screws on the airbox.
• Wiper Blade Replacement: Very easy to do yourself.

Moderate DIY (Requires some experience and specific tools):

• Brake Pad and Rotor Replacement: Requires jack, stands, torque wrench, and knowledge of brake system components. Critical for safety, so ensure you're confident.
• Differential Fluid Change: Accessing drain/fill plugs can be tricky, and proper fluid type is crucial. Requires a fluid pump.

Best Left to a Professional Shop:

• Brake Fluid Flush: Improper bleeding can lead to unsafe braking. Specialized equipment often makes the job faster and more thorough.
• Coolant Flush: Proper disposal of coolant is important, and air pockets in the system can cause overheating.
• Spark Plug Replacement: On some V6 engines, accessing all plugs can be difficult, requiring removal of intake manifolds. Incorrect torque can damage cylinder heads.
• Transmission Fluid Service: While a drain and fill can sometimes be done, a full flush often requires specialized equipment. Incorrect fluid type can cause severe damage.
• Power Transfer Unit (PTU) Fluid Change: Often difficult to access and requires specific fill procedures.
• Timing Chain Inspection/Replacement: This is a complex engine repair, definitely not a DIY job. Fortunately, it's typically a "lifetime" component for the 2015 Explorer's engines, meaning it's not on a routine replacement schedule.
• Any major diagnostic work or repairs involving engine internals, electrical systems, or complex components.

Always consult your owner's manual for the most accurate and detailed information regarding your specific 2015 Ford Explorer model. Regular maintenance is your best defense against unexpected breakdowns and costly repairs.

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