Dodge Nitro vs Ford Explorer
For 2006–2012 models, the Ford Explorer has 35.4 owner complaints per 10,000 sold, against 53.7 for the Dodge Nitro. Below: what each one’s owners report most, when it shows up, and what it costs to fix.
Both rates cover the same model years (2006–2012), counting each complaint once and dividing by US sales, so the more popular vehicle isn’t penalized for being popular. Years too new to judge are left out. How this is calculated.
Dodge Nitro
53.7 complaints per 10,000 sold
1.5× the Ford Explorer’s rate
- Complaints
- 1,058
- Sold
- 196,878
- Recall campaigns
- 6
- Open NHTSA investigations
- 0
Most complaints: 2007–2008 and 2011. Fewest: 2006, 2009 and 2012. Every year →
Most-reported problems
-
Body control and other modules
Typically around 93,600 mi
-
Tank, lines and filler
Typically around 50,000 mi
-
Airbags, seatbelts and restraints
Typically around 107,635 mi
-
Doors, windows, latches, seats and trim
Typically around 79,000 mi
-
Wiring harness, grounds and connectors
Typically around 76,325 mi
Ford Explorer
35.4 complaints per 10,000 sold
34% fewer than the Dodge Nitro
- Complaints
- 2,897
- Sold
- 818,713
- Recall campaigns
- 7
- Open NHTSA investigations
- 3
Most complaints: 2011. Fewest: 2007 and 2009. Every year →
Most-reported problems
-
Doors, windows, latches, seats and trim
Typically around 82,000 mi
-
Electric power steering motor and module
Typically around 78,000 mi · repair $750–$2,230
-
Power steering pump, rack and lines
Typically around 77,000 mi · repair $750–$2,230
-
Harsh, delayed or erratic shifting
Typically around 88,300 mi
-
Water leaks and seals
Typically around 60,000 mi
Common questions
Which has fewer problems, the Dodge Nitro or the Ford Explorer?
For 2006–2012 models, the Ford Explorer has 35.4 owner complaints per 10,000 sold and the Dodge Nitro has 53.7, counting the same model years for both.
What is the most common problem on the Dodge Nitro?
The most-reported problem on the Dodge Nitro is body control and other modules, typically around 93,600 miles.
What is the most common problem on the Ford Explorer?
The most-reported problem on the Ford Explorer is doors, windows, latches, seats and trim, typically around 82,000 miles.
Which Dodge Nitro and Ford Explorer years have the most complaints?
Relative to each vehicle's typical year: Dodge Nitro: 2007–2008 and 2011; Ford Explorer: 2011.
Source: NHTSA owner complaints, recalls and investigations; US sales from public industry figures; repair costs from book labor hours and parts pricing at national rates. Complaints are self-reported and not independently verified. Problem lists cover each vehicle’s full history. This is not a recommendation to buy or avoid either vehicle.