Ford Explorer vs Hyundai Palisade

Verdict: Ford Explorer vs Hyundai Palisade

The Hyundai Palisade edges out the Ford Explorer in reliability, boasting a slightly higher average reliability score of 70/100 compared to the Explorer's 68/100. Despite the Palisade having a higher owner complaint rate of 31.7 per 10,000 sold, it has significantly fewer recalls—33 over seven years versus the Explorer's 117 over nine years. Additionally, the Palisade benefits from lower estimated annual repair costs at $573 compared to the Explorer's $732. Key differentiators include the Palisade's stronger recall history and lower repair costs, making it a slightly more dependable choice.

Reliability problem analysis

The Ford Explorer shows a significant number of complaints related to the power train and structure, with the power train issues being linked to 12 crashes, indicating potential reliability concerns in these areas. In contrast, the Hyundai Palisade has its highest number of complaints in the service brakes category, which is linked to 16 crashes, suggesting a critical safety issue. Both vehicles experience issues with the electrical system and engine, but the Explorer has more complaints and crash-linked incidents in these areas compared to the Palisade. Overall, while the Explorer faces more diverse problem categories, the Palisade's service brakes stand out as a particularly severe issue.

Which one to buy

If you prioritize lower running costs and fewer recalls, the Hyundai Palisade might be the better choice for you. With an estimated annual repair cost of $573 and only 33 total recalls, the Palisade presents itself as a cost-effective and potentially more reliable option. Despite having more owner complaints per 10,000 sold at 31.7, the issues tend to focus on service brakes and seat belts, which could be less costly to address.

On the other hand, if you are concerned about major repairs and prefer a vehicle with a lower major repair risk, the Ford Explorer could be more suitable. With a reliability score of 68/100 and a major repair risk of 14%, it offers peace of mind for those cautious about significant issues. While the Explorer's estimated repair cost is higher at $732 annually, its lower repair frequency of 0.2 per year might appeal to those looking for fewer visits to the mechanic.

Cost of ownership

Independent repair cost data suggests that the Hyundai Palisade offers a more affordable ownership experience with an annual repair cost of $573, compared to the Ford Explorer's $732. Over five years, this translates to a savings of $795 with the Palisade. However, the Palisade requires more frequent visits, at 0.4 times per year versus the Explorer's 0.2, which could mean more time spent on maintenance.

The Explorer has a 14% risk of major repairs, while the Palisade's risk is unspecified, potentially suggesting a lower or similar risk level. For cost-conscious buyers focused on minimizing expenses, the Hyundai Palisade emerges as the better value, given its lower annual repair costs and potentially comparable major repair risk.