2022 Ford Explorer Transmission & Axle Gear Ratios

When it comes to understanding the powertrain capabilities of the 2022 Ford Explorer, knowing your transmission and axle gear ratios is essential. Whether you are looking to maximize your towing capacity for weekend getaways or optimize your fuel economy for daily commuting, the gear ratios in your SUV play a massive role in overall performance. Below is a comprehensive guide to the transmission and differential ratios available in the 2022 Ford Explorer, how to identify what your vehicle is equipped with, and what it means for your driving experience.

Transmission gear ratios

For the 2022 model year, Ford equipped the Explorer with its highly capable 10-speed automatic transmission. Depending on the engine (2.3L EcoBoost, 3.0L EcoBoost, or 3.3L Hybrid), the specific variant is typically the 10R60. This transmission offers a wide gear spread, providing a deep first gear for strong off-the-line acceleration and multiple overdrive gears for highway cruising efficiency.

10-Speed Automatic Transmission (10R60)

Note: The 10-speed transmission features a direct 1:1 drive ratio in 7th gear, while gears 8, 9, and 10 act as overdrive gears to drastically reduce engine RPM at highway speeds.

Available axle ratios

The final drive or axle ratio works in tandem with the transmission to dictate how engine power is delivered to the wheels. The 2022 Ford Explorer features a few different axle ratios tailored to specific trims, drivetrains (RWD vs. AWD), and engine configurations.

Note: Ford occasionally uses Torsen limited-slip differentials (standard on the Timberline trim) to enhance traction, which is designated by a specific letter or number in the axle code on the door tag.

How to identify your axle ratio

If you are unsure which differential your 2022 Ford Explorer has, there are three primary ways to figure it out:

1. The Door-Jamb Safety Compliance Sticker: Open your driver's side door and locate the Safety Compliance Certification Label on the B-pillar or door edge. Look at the bottom of the sticker for the section labeled "AXLE." You will see a two-digit alphanumeric code. You can cross-reference this code with standard Ford axle charts (for example, "3A" or "3B") to determine your exact ratio and whether it is an open or limited-slip differential.
2. The Axle Tag: If the sticker is unreadable, crawl underneath the rear of the vehicle (safely, while the vehicle is parked and secure). Look for a metal tag bolted to the rear differential cover. This tag will have a string of numbers. The first few numbers on the bottom line typically indicate the ratio (e.g., "3 58" or "3L73" where the "L" stands for Limited Slip).
3. VIN Decoder or Dealership: You can also run your 17-digit Vehicle Identification Number (VIN) through a trusted Ford VIN decoder online, or call your local Ford dealership's parts department. They can look up your exact build sheet and tell you what axle ratio the SUV left the factory with.

Towing vs MPG impact

The relationship between your axle ratio, towing capabilities, and fuel economy is a delicate balancing act.

• Numerically Lower Ratios (e.g., 3.31): Known as "tall" gears, lower numbers mean the driveshaft turns fewer times for every rotation of the wheel. This keeps engine RPMs lower at highway speeds, which significantly improves fuel economy (MPG) and reduces cabin noise. However, it sacrifices some low-end torque, making it less ideal for towing heavy loads.
• Numerically Higher Ratios (e.g., 3.73): Known as "short" or "deep" gears, higher numbers mean the engine revs faster to turn the wheels. This provides a substantial increase in low-end torque and mechanical leverage, making it much easier to pull heavy trailers, climb steep grades, or navigate off-road obstacles (which is why the Timberline uses a 3.73). The trade-off is higher cruising RPMs, which negatively impacts fuel economy.
• The Middle Ground (e.g., 3.58): A 3.58 ratio provides a great middle-ground for the 2.3L and 3.0L EcoBoost engines. It offers adequate torque for the Explorer's maximum 5,600-pound tow rating while still utilizing the 10-speed transmission's overdrives for respectable MPG.

Common issues

While the 2022 Ford Explorer's driveline is generally robust, there are a few things owners should keep an eye (or ear) out for as the vehicle racks up mileage:

• Ring and Pinion Whine: A high-pitched whining noise coming from the rear of the vehicle during acceleration or deceleration usually indicates incorrect backlash between the ring and pinion gears, or uneven wear.
• Carrier Bearing Noise: A low-pitched rumble or humming noise that gets louder as vehicle speed increases could point to worn carrier bearings or pinion bearings inside the differential housing.
• Limited-Slip Clutch Wear: For models equipped with limited-slip differentials (like the Timberline), you may experience shuddering or chattering when turning tight corners. This is often caused by degraded differential fluid or worn internal clutch packs. A fluid change with the proper friction modifier is usually the first step to fix this.

Find a driveline shop on Repairius

Dealing with transmission problems or rear differential noises can be stressful and requires specialized tools to fix properly. If you suspect an issue with your gear ratios, differential bearings, or transmission, it's best to have it inspected by a professional. Find a driveline shop on Repairius today to connect with trusted, certified mechanics in your area who can get your 2022 Ford Explorer back on the road safely.