2024 Ford Explorer — Transmission & Axle Gear Ratios

Transmission gear ratios

10-speed automatic (10R60/10R80 family)

10-speed modular hybrid (MHT) used with the Explorer Hybrid

Note: The hybrid’s modular transmission integrates an electric motor, but the mechanical step ratios mirror the 10R60/10R80 set. Calibration and blending strategies vary by drive mode and battery state of charge.

Available axle ratios

Retail 2024 Explorer models standardize the final drive. Limited-slip availability depends on trim/package.

Note: Alternative ratios (e.g., 3.31 or 3.73) may appear on the Police Interceptor Utility (Explorer-based fleet model), not on retail 2024 Explorer configurations in North America.

How to identify your axle ratio

• Driver’s door-jamb axle code (Ford): On the Safety Compliance Certification Label, find the “AXLE” field (two-character code). Use a Ford axle code chart, your window sticker, or a VIN build sheet to decode. On 2024 retail Explorers this will decode to 3.58; the code also distinguishes open vs limited-slip/Torsen where applicable.
• Axle tag on the differential: Many units have a metal tag or adhesive label on a cover bolt or housing ear. The stamped string often includes the ratio (e.g., “3 58”) and build info.
• VIN/build sheet: Enter your VIN on Ford’s owner site or request the Monroney/window sticker. The axle ratio and differential type are listed in the drivetrain section.
• Rotation check (last resort): Safely raise the rear axle, mark the driveshaft, rotate a wheel two full turns (with the opposite wheel fixed or vehicle in neutral for open diffs). About 3.6 driveshaft turns to two wheel turns indicates 3.58.

Towing vs MPG impact

• Lower numerical ratio = better fuel economy at cruise. Example: In 10th gear (0.636), a 3.58 axle yields an overall 0.636 × 3.58 ≈ 2.28:1, keeping RPM low on the highway.
• Higher numerical ratio = stronger mechanical leverage for launch, grades, and towing, at the expense of higher cruise RPM and fuel use.
• With the Explorer’s broad 10-speed spread, Ford chose 3.58 as a balanced compromise: it pairs brisk first-gear multiplication (4.696 × 3.58 ≈ 16.8 overall) with relaxed top-gear cruising. Expect the best tow performance from trims equipped with the factory tow package and (where available) the Torsen limited-slip rear differential.

Common issues

While the 2024 Explorer’s driveline is generally robust, a few patterns are worth noting:

• Mild rear axle gear whine: A light hum or whine between 45–65 mph under steady load can result from ring-and-pinion mesh pattern. Proper setup and correct GL-5 gear oil at the specified viscosity usually keep this in check. If noise increases, have a driveline shop verify backlash/contact pattern and inspect bearings.
• 10-speed shift quality: Occasional firm or busy shifts (notably 2–3 or 3–4) can often be improved with the latest transmission control module (TCM) calibration. Dealers can check for updates; adaptive learn resets after service may help.
• AWD service considerations: For vehicles that tow frequently, proactive fluid service on the rear differential (and the AWD transfer/PTU unit where equipped) helps prevent heat-related wear. Always use Ford-specified fluids; Torsen differentials do not require friction modifiers.

Find a driveline shop on Repairius.