2013 Ford Explorer Gas Tank Size – Capacity, Range, And Maintenance
The 2013 Ford Explorer features a standard fuel tank capacity of 18.6 gallons across all its primary trim levels. Understanding this specific volume is essential for calculating your maximum driving range, planning long-distance road trips, and managing your fuel budget effectively.
Do you ever find yourself staring at the low fuel light, wondering exactly how many miles you have left before the engine sputters? Most 2013 Explorer owners appreciate the vehicle’s versatility, but knowing your 2013 ford explorer gas tank size is the first step in mastering its long-haul capabilities. Whether you are commuting to work or heading off the beaten path, fuel management is a critical skill for any driver.
In this guide, I will break down the exact specifications of your fuel system, from the total capacity to the “reserve” fuel hidden at the bottom of the tank. We will also explore how different engine options, like the 3.5L V6 or the 2.0L EcoBoost, impact your real-world range. By the end of this article, you will have the expert knowledge needed to maintain your fuel system and avoid common pitfalls like overfilling.
We are going to look at everything from the Easy Fuel capless system to DIY troubleshooting for fuel gauge inaccuracies. My goal is to ensure you never feel “range anxiety” again while behind the wheel of your Explorer. Let’s dive into the technical details and practical tips that every 2013 Explorer owner should know.
Understanding the 2013 ford explorer gas tank size
When Ford designed the fifth-generation Explorer, they aimed for a balance between weight distribution and utility. For the 2013 model year, every trim—including the Base, XLT, Limited, and the performance-oriented Sport—comes equipped with an 18.6-gallon fuel tank. This consistency makes it easier for owners to understand their vehicle’s base specifications without worrying about trim-specific variations.
The tank is typically constructed from high-density polyethylene (HDPE) plastic. This material is preferred in modern automotive manufacturing because it is lightweight, highly durable, and resistant to corrosion. Unlike old steel tanks, these plastic units won’t rust from the inside out if moisture gets into the fuel system, which is a major win for long-term reliability.
While 18.6 gallons is the official 2013 ford explorer gas tank size, it is important to remember that you rarely use all 18.6 gallons. Fuel pumps are submerged in the gasoline to stay cool during operation. If you constantly run the tank to “empty,” you risk overheating the pump and shortening its lifespan, which can be a costly repair down the road.
The “Reserve” Capacity Mystery
Many drivers notice that when the “Low Fuel” warning illuminates, they can only pump about 16 to 17 gallons into the tank. This is because Ford engineers include a reserve capacity. Usually, there are about 1.5 to 2 gallons of fuel remaining in the tank when the needle hits the “E” mark or the digital display says “0 Miles to Empty.”
This reserve acts as a safety buffer to prevent you from being stranded on the highway. However, you should never rely on this reserve as a regular part of your driving range. Sucking fuel from the absolute bottom of the tank can pull in settled sediment or debris, which may clog your fuel injectors or the internal fuel strainer.
Weight and Balance Considerations
A full 18.6-gallon tank adds significant weight to your vehicle. Gasoline weighs approximately 6 pounds per gallon, meaning a full tank adds about 111 pounds to the rear of your Explorer. For off-roaders or those carrying heavy cargo, this weight distribution can slightly affect handling and suspension compression, especially when navigating uneven terrain.
Real-World Range Across Different Engine Options
While the 2013 ford explorer gas tank size remains constant, the distance you can travel on a single fill-up varies wildly depending on which engine is under the hood. The 2013 model year offered three distinct powerplants, each with its own thirst for fuel. Understanding these differences helps you set realistic expectations for your next road trip.
The standard 3.5L Ti-VCT V6 engine is the most common choice. With Front-Wheel Drive (FWD), this setup typically yields about 17 MPG in the city and 24 MPG on the highway. With an 18.6-gallon tank, your theoretical highway range is roughly 446 miles. However, opting for Intelligent 4WD drops those numbers slightly, reducing your safe cruising range closer to 400 miles.
For those prioritizing efficiency, the 2.0L EcoBoost I-4 was an available option. This engine delivers an impressive 20 MPG city and 28 MPG highway. If you are gentle with the throttle, this engine allows the 2013 Explorer to travel over 500 miles on a single tank. It is the gold standard for highway commuters who want to minimize their stops at the gas station.
The Performance Trade-off: Explorer Sport
The 2013 Explorer Sport features the 3.5L Twin-Turbo EcoBoost V6. While this engine provides exhilarating acceleration, it is the thirstiest of the bunch. Rated at 16 MPG city and 22 MPG highway, the Sport trim requires more frequent visits to the pump. Expect a realistic highway range of about 380 to 400 miles before the low fuel light demands attention.
Factors That Kill Your Mileage
It is important to note that these figures are based on ideal conditions. Several real-world factors can drastically reduce your range, even if you know the exact 2013 ford explorer gas tank size. These include:
- Roof Racks and Cargo Boxes: These increase aerodynamic drag, often dropping highway MPG by 2-5 units.
- Tire Pressure: Under-inflated tires increase rolling resistance. Always check your door jamb sticker for the recommended PSI.
- Idling: The Explorer’s large cabin takes time to heat or cool, but excessive idling burns fuel while covering zero miles.
- Terrain: Climbing mountain passes or driving through soft sand off-road will consume fuel at nearly double the normal rate.
The Ford “Easy Fuel” Capless System
One of the standout features of the 2013 Explorer is the Easy Fuel capless fuel filler system. This design eliminates the traditional twist-off gas cap, replacing it with a spring-loaded flapper door. While convenient, it requires a bit of specific knowledge to maintain properly and avoid “Check Engine” lights related to the EVAP system.
The primary benefit of the capless system is that it prevents you from losing your gas cap or leaving it dangling against your paint. It also reduces evaporative emissions because the seal is designed to be airtight. However, if dirt or debris gets trapped in the outer seal, it can prevent the flapper from closing fully, leading to a “Check Fuel Fill Inlet” warning on your dashboard.
If you ever need to add fuel from a portable gas can (like a Jerry can), you must use the special plastic funnel provided with the vehicle. This funnel is usually located in the rear cargo area near the spare tire. Without this funnel, the secondary latch inside the filler neck will not open, and you will likely spill gasoline all over the side of your SUV.
Cleaning the Filler Neck
If you frequently drive on dusty trails or gravel roads, dust can accumulate around the filler opening. I recommend periodically cleaning the area with a damp cloth. Do not use compressed air directly into the hole, as this can force debris past the seals and into your fuel tank. A simple wipe-down during every other car wash is usually sufficient to keep the system functioning perfectly.
Maintaining Your Fuel System for Longevity
Knowing the 2013 ford explorer gas tank size is only half the battle; you also need to keep the fuel moving efficiently from the tank to the combustion chamber. Modern fuel systems are highly sensitive to contamination and pressure drops. Following a few simple maintenance “pro tips” can save you thousands in fuel pump and injector repairs.
First, avoid the habit of “topping off” your tank. When the gas pump clicks off automatically, stop there. Forcing more fuel into the tank can flood the charcoal canister, which is part of the Evaporative Emission (EVAP) system. This canister is designed to catch fuel vapors, not liquid gasoline. If it becomes saturated, it can cause your engine to stumble or fail an emissions test.
Second, consider the quality of the fuel you buy. The 2013 Explorer is designed to run on 87-octane regular unleaded gasoline. While using premium (91+ octane) won’t hurt the engine, it generally doesn’t provide a significant benefit unless you are driving the EcoBoost Sport trim under heavy load or in extreme heat. Stick to “Top Tier” gas stations, which use additives that help keep your fuel injectors clean.
When to Inspect the Fuel Lines
If you live in the “rust belt” or frequently go off-roading, you should inspect your fuel lines during every oil change. Look for signs of dampness, cracks, or heavy corrosion on the metal sections of the lines. Even a pinhole leak can lead to a fire hazard or a significant drop in fuel pressure, causing the engine to lose power under acceleration.
The Role of the Fuel Pump
In the 2013 Explorer, the fuel pump is an integrated module located inside the gas tank. It includes the pump, the sending unit (which tells you how much gas is left), and a non-serviceable strainer. Because this part is difficult to access—requiring the fuel tank to be lowered—preventative care is vital. Keeping at least a quarter-tank of gas at all times is the best way to ensure the pump stays cool and lubricated.
Off-Roading and Towing Fuel Strategy
For the weekend warriors and off-road enthusiasts, the 18.6-gallon 2013 ford explorer gas tank size can feel a bit small when you’re deep in the woods or towing a camper. When you are under heavy load, your fuel consumption can easily double. This requires a different approach to fuel management than your daily commute.
If you are towing a trailer near the Explorer’s 5,000-pound limit, your fuel economy might drop to 10-12 MPG. In this scenario, your safe driving range drops to about 180-200 miles. When planning a trip through rural areas, I always recommend the “Rule of Thirds”: use one-third of your fuel to get there, one-third to get back, and keep one-third in reserve for emergencies.
For off-roaders, the angle of the vehicle can affect how much fuel the pump can pick up. If you are traversing a steep incline with a very low tank, the fuel may slosh to the back, leaving the pump “dry” for a moment. This can cause the engine to stall at a critical moment. Always enter a trail with at least a half-tank of fuel to ensure consistent delivery regardless of the vehicle’s pitch or roll.
Carrying Extra Fuel Safely
If your adventures take you beyond the 400-mile range of the 2013 ford explorer gas tank size, you might consider carrying extra fuel. Never store gasoline inside the cabin of the vehicle. Fumes are toxic and highly flammable. Use high-quality, leak-proof containers mounted to an external rear rack or roof rack. Ensure they are secured tightly and positioned away from the exhaust pipe.
Common Problems: Why is My Gauge Wrong?
As the 2013 Ford Explorer ages, some owners report issues with the fuel gauge accuracy. If your gauge shows “Full” after you’ve driven 100 miles, or if it suddenly drops from half to empty, you likely have a hardware or software glitch. Understanding these common failure points can help you decide when to visit a mechanic.
The most common culprit is a failing fuel level sending unit. This is a small float attached to a variable resistor inside the tank. Over time, the contact points can wear out or become coated in sulfur deposits from low-quality fuel. This causes the signal sent to the dashboard to be intermittent or incorrect. Sometimes, using a high-quality fuel system cleaner can “scrub” these contacts, but often the unit requires replacement.
Another potential issue is the Instrument Cluster (IC) software. Occasionally, the computer that calculates the “Distance to Empty” (DTE) can become confused by inconsistent driving patterns or battery disconnects. A simple “battery reset” (disconnecting the negative terminal for 15 minutes) can sometimes recalibrate the system, though you will lose your radio presets in the process.
The Slow-Fill Problem
Are you struggling to pump gas because the pump handle keeps clicking off every few seconds? This is a common frustration with the 2013 Explorer. It usually indicates a blockage in the EVAP vent line or a clogged charcoal canister. If the air in the tank cannot escape as the liquid fuel enters, the pressure builds up and trips the gas pump’s safety shut-off. This is almost always caused by a history of “topping off” the tank.
Frequently Asked Questions About 2013 ford explorer gas tank size
What is the exact 2013 ford explorer gas tank size?
The 2013 Ford Explorer has a fuel tank capacity of 18.6 gallons (approximately 70.4 liters). This size is standard across all trim levels, including the Sport, Limited, XLT, and Base models.
How many miles can a 2013 Ford Explorer go on a full tank?
The range depends on the engine. The 2.0L EcoBoost can reach up to 520 miles on the highway. The standard 3.5L V6 typically gets between 400 and 440 miles, while the 3.5L EcoBoost Sport trim averages about 380 to 400 miles per tank.
Does the 2013 Ford Explorer require premium gas?
No, the 2013 Explorer is designed to run on 87-octane regular unleaded gasoline. However, Ford mentions that using premium fuel can provide improved performance for the EcoBoost engines when towing or driving in very hot weather.
Why does my gas tank only take 16 gallons when it says empty?
This is due to the built-in reserve capacity. Ford leaves about 2 gallons of fuel in the tank when the gauge hits empty to protect the fuel pump from overheating and to prevent you from being stranded.
Where is the fuel filter located on a 2013 Ford Explorer?
The fuel filter on the 2013 Explorer is “lifetime” and is integrated into the fuel pump assembly inside the gas tank. It is not a standard maintenance item that needs to be replaced unless the fuel pump itself fails.
Final Thoughts for the Careful DIYer
Mastering your 2013 ford explorer gas tank size and fuel system is about more than just knowing a number; it is about understanding how your vehicle “breathes” and consumes energy. By respecting the 18.6-gallon limit and avoiding the temptation to overfill, you protect the sensitive EVAP system and ensure your SUV remains reliable for years to come.
Remember to keep an eye on your mileage trends. A sudden drop in fuel economy is often the first sign of a mechanical issue, such as a stuck brake caliper, a failing oxygen sensor, or even low tire pressure. Treat your fuel system with care, use quality gasoline, and always keep that emergency funnel handy in the trunk.
Whether you are hauling the family to a national park or just navigating the daily grind, being “fuel smart” makes you a better, safer driver. Stay proactive with your maintenance, and your Explorer will reward you with many more miles of adventure. Stay safe and stay comfortable!
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