2023 Ford Explorer Transmission & Axle Gear Ratios

Transmission gear ratios

The 2023 Ford Explorer offers a single, highly capable transmission across its lineup: the 10-speed automatic transmission.

10-Speed Automatic Transmission (10R60)

Available axle ratios

The 2023 Ford Explorer provides a few axle ratio options, depending on the engine and trim level, to balance performance and fuel economy.

How to identify your axle ratio

For Ford vehicles, identifying your specific axle ratio is typically straightforward, though it might require a quick look in a couple of places.

Door-Jamb RPO Sticker

The most common method for 2023 Ford Explorer owners is to check the white or silver sticker located on the driver's side door jamb (B-pillar). Look for a section labeled "AXLE." Next to this, you'll find a two-digit code (e.g., "19", "3Q", "G6"). This code corresponds to your vehicle's axle ratio.

VIN Decoder

If the door-jamb sticker is unreadable or missing, you can use a VIN decoder online or consult a Ford dealership. Your vehicle's VIN (Vehicle Identification Number) contains encoded information about its original build, including the axle ratio.

Axle Tag

While less common on newer vehicles like the Explorer, older Ford trucks and SUVs sometimes have a metal tag attached to one of the bolts on the differential cover. This tag would explicitly state the axle ratio (e.g., "3.58"). However, on the 2023 Explorer, the door-jamb sticker is the primary and most reliable source.

Towing vs MPG impact

Axle ratio plays a crucial role in balancing a vehicle's towing capacity and fuel economy. It essentially dictates how many times the driveshaft rotates for every single rotation of the wheels.

• Numerically lower ratio (e.g., 3.31): This means the engine has to work less to turn the wheels at a given speed. The result is typically better fuel economy at highway speeds, as the engine can operate at lower RPMs. However, it provides less mechanical advantage for accelerating or pulling heavy loads, thus reducing towing capacity.

• Numerically higher ratio (e.g., 3.58, 3.73): With a higher ratio, the engine rotates more times for each wheel rotation. This provides greater torque multiplication, resulting in improved acceleration and significantly increased towing capability. The trade-off, however, is generally lower fuel economy, especially on the highway, as the engine will run at higher RPMs to maintain speed.

Choosing the right axle ratio depends heavily on your intended use of the Explorer. If you prioritize fuel efficiency and rarely tow, a lower ratio is preferable. If you frequently tow trailers or need strong acceleration, a higher ratio will be more suitable.

Common issues

While the 2023 Ford Explorer's driveline components are generally robust, some common issues can occasionally arise in axle assemblies over time or with specific use cases:

• Ring & Pinion Whine: A persistent howling or whining noise, especially noticeable at certain speeds, can indicate wear or improper meshing of the ring and pinion gears within the differential. This often points to a need for differential fluid service or, in more severe cases, replacement of the gears.

• Carrier Bearing Wear: The carrier bearings support the differential carrier (which holds the ring gear). If these bearings wear out, they can produce a rumbling or growling noise that changes with vehicle speed and can become more pronounced during turns. Failure to address this can lead to further damage.

• Limited-Slip Clutch Wear (if equipped): Explorers equipped with a limited-slip differential rely on clutches to distribute power between the wheels. Over time, these clutches can wear out, leading to a loss of limited-slip functionality or, in some cases, chattering or clunking noises during turns. Proper differential fluid (with friction modifier if required) helps prolong their life.

Regular differential fluid changes, especially for vehicles that frequently tow or are used in demanding conditions, can significantly extend the life of these components.

Find a driveline shop on Repairius.