Honda Passport vs Ford Explorer

Verdict: Honda Passport vs Ford Explorer

The Honda Passport outperforms the Ford Explorer in reliability, boasting an average reliability score of 83/100 compared to the Explorer's 68/100. Despite having a higher owner complaint rate of 11.6 per 10,000 sold, the Passport's significantly lower recall history of 29 over eight years and a lower estimated annual repair cost of $521 make it a more dependable choice. The Ford Explorer, with its higher recall count of 117 and repair costs averaging $732 annually, faces recurring issues in power train and electrical systems. Overall, the Honda Passport offers a more reliable ownership experience in the midsize SUV segment.

Reliability problem analysis

The Ford Explorer exhibits a higher overall volume of complaints, with significant issues in the power train and unknown or other categories, both of which have a notable number of crash-linked incidents. In contrast, the Honda Passport has fewer total complaints, with the electrical system being the most reported issue, though it poses a relatively lower crash risk. While both vehicles face challenges with their power trains, the Explorer's higher complaint volume and crash-linked incidents suggest a more severe issue in this area compared to the Passport. Additionally, the Explorer's service brakes and steering problems are more frequently associated with crashes, highlighting a potential area of concern for safety.

Which one to buy

If you prioritize reliability and lower long-term costs, the Honda Passport is the better choice. With a reliability score of 83/100 and only 29 total recalls, it demonstrates a solid track record. The estimated annual repair cost is more budget-friendly at $521, and while the repair frequency is slightly higher at 0.3 times per year, the major repair risk is not specified, suggesting fewer severe issues. The Passport's top concerns include the electrical system and forward collision avoidance, but these are generally less critical than engine or power train issues.

On the other hand, if you don't mind a higher repair cost and are comfortable with a slightly lower reliability score, the Ford Explorer might appeal to you. It has a reliability score of 68/100 and a higher number of recalls at 117, indicating potential for more frequent issues. However, it has fewer owner complaints (6.8 per 10,000 sold) and a lower repair frequency of 0.2 times per year. Key issues like power train and engine should be considered, especially with a major repair risk of 14%.

Cost of ownership

According to industry estimates, the Ford Explorer incurs an annual repair cost of $732, while the Honda Passport is more economical at $521 per year. Over five years, this translates to a $1,055 savings with the Passport. However, the Explorer's repair frequency is lower, with only 0.2 visits per year compared to the Passport's 0.3 visits. Despite this, the Explorer carries a 14% risk of major repairs, a factor not provided for the Passport but potentially advantageous for Honda.

For cost-conscious buyers, the Honda Passport presents better value due to its lower annual repair costs and absence of specified major repair risks, despite a slightly higher frequency of minor repairs.