Gas Mileage For 2013 Ford Explorer – Maximize Fuel Efficiency
The 2013 Ford Explorer offers a range of fuel economy figures depending on whether you have the fuel-sipping EcoBoost inline-four or the robust V6 engine. By understanding these ratings and following a dedicated maintenance schedule, you can significantly improve your vehicle’s range and reduce long-term operating costs.
We all know that owning a mid-size SUV often means making a compromise between interior space and frequent stops at the gas station. If you have noticed your fuel needle dropping faster than usual lately, you are certainly not alone in your frustration.
Optimizing the gas mileage for 2013 ford explorer involves more than just a light foot on the pedal; it requires a deep dive into your vehicle’s health. This guide will walk you through the factory specs, common efficiency killers, and the DIY fixes that keep your Explorer running lean.
From cleaning sensitive sensors to choosing the right tires for your weekend adventures, we have compiled the ultimate checklist for every owner. Let’s get under the hood and reclaim those lost miles per gallon together.
Understanding the Base gas mileage for 2013 ford explorer
When Ford released the 2013 Explorer, they aimed to balance the needs of families with the rising cost of fuel. The vehicle came with three distinct engine options, each offering a different profile for fuel consumption and power delivery.
The most common engine found in these models is the 3.5L Ti-VCT V6, which provides a solid balance of towing capacity and daily drivability. For front-wheel-drive (FWD) models, the EPA estimated 17 mpg in the city and 24 mpg on the highway.
If your Explorer is equipped with Intelligent 4WD, those numbers dip slightly to 17 mpg city and 23 mpg highway. The added weight of the transfer case and rear differential naturally creates more drag on the powertrain.
For those prioritizing efficiency, the 2.0L EcoBoost four-cylinder was the “green” choice of the year. This turbocharged engine boasted an impressive 20 mpg city and 28 mpg highway, though it was only available in FWD configurations.
Finally, the Explorer Sport trim featured a 3.5L EcoBoost Twin-Turbo V6. This powerhouse delivers thrilling acceleration but at a cost, typically averaging around 16 mpg city and 22 mpg highway due to its performance-oriented tuning.
Engine Specifics and Their Impact on Efficiency
The engine under your hood dictates your maximum potential efficiency, but how you maintain that specific hardware changes everything. Each engine in the 2013 lineup has its own set of quirks that can affect combustion efficiency over time.
The 3.5L naturally aspirated V6 relies heavily on its Twin Independent Variable Cam Timing (Ti-VCT). If your oil is dirty or the wrong viscosity, these phasers cannot adjust correctly, leading to a sluggish engine and poor fuel economy.
On the other hand, the 2.0L EcoBoost uses direct injection technology. While efficient, direct injection is prone to carbon buildup on the intake valves, which can restrict airflow and force the engine to burn more fuel to maintain power.
If you drive a Sport model, your twin turbochargers require a clean supply of air and high-quality oil. Any boost leaks in the intercooler piping will cause the engine to run “rich,” dumping excess fuel into the cylinders and tanking your mileage.
Understanding these mechanical nuances helps you pinpoint why your gas mileage for 2013 ford explorer might be lagging. A well-informed owner is the first line of defense against rising fuel costs and unnecessary engine wear.
The Role of Transmission Health
Your 6-speed SelectShift automatic transmission plays a massive role in how much fuel you use on the highway. If the transmission fluid is burnt or low, the torque converter may not lock up efficiently at cruising speeds.
When the torque converter fails to lock, the engine spins faster than necessary to maintain speed. This wasted energy translates directly into more money spent at the pump and extra heat generated within the transmission housing.
Common Maintenance Issues That Kill Your Fuel Economy
As your Explorer ages, several components can wear out and silently steal your fuel. One of the most common culprits is a dirty Mass Air Flow (MAF) sensor, which measures the air entering the engine.
If the MAF sensor is coated in dust or oil, it sends incorrect data to the Engine Control Module (ECM). The ECM then compensates by adding more fuel than necessary, leading to a “rich” condition that destroys your efficiency.
Another frequent issue involves the Oxygen (O2) sensors located in the exhaust stream. These sensors monitor how much unburnt oxygen is leaving the engine to fine-tune the air-fuel mixture for maximum economy.
Over time, O2 sensors become “lazy” or fouled by carbon deposits. While they might not always trigger a Check Engine Light immediately, a sluggish sensor can reduce your gas mileage for 2013 ford explorer by as much as 15%.
Do not overlook your spark plugs. Ford recommends replacing them every 100,000 miles, but for those who idle frequently or drive in stop-and-go traffic, 60,000 miles is a much safer interval to maintain peak performance.
- Worn spark plugs: Lead to incomplete combustion and misfires.
- Clogged air filters: Restrict the engine’s ability to “breathe,” increasing pumping losses.
- Sticking brake calipers: Create mechanical drag that forces the engine to work harder to move the vehicle.
Off-Roading and Towing: How They Affect Your Range
The 2013 Explorer is a capable vehicle for light off-roading and weekend camping trips, but these activities are inherently hard on fuel. Adding all-terrain tires is a popular mod, but their aggressive tread increases rolling resistance significantly.
If you have installed a roof rack or a cargo basket for your gear, you have altered the vehicle’s aerodynamics. Even an empty rack can cause a noticeable drop in highway mileage due to the “wind sail” effect it creates.
When towing a trailer, your Explorer’s engine works under a much higher load. In these scenarios, the Tow/Haul mode is your best friend, as it recalibrates shift points to keep the engine in its most efficient power band.
For off-road enthusiasts, lower tire pressures are great for traction but terrible for the road. Always carry a portable air compressor to pump your tires back up to the manufacturer-recommended PSI before hitting the pavement.
Weight is the enemy of efficiency. If you keep recovery gear, tools, and camping equipment in the back year-round, you are carrying several hundred pounds of dead weight that the engine must haul every single mile.
Aerodynamic Considerations for Travelers
If you frequently travel with a cargo box, consider a rear-hitch mounted carrier instead of a roof-mounted one. This keeps the extra weight in the “slipstream” behind the vehicle, minimizing the impact on your fuel economy.
Small changes, like removing the crossbars on your roof rack when they aren’t in use, can yield a 1-2 mpg improvement. It may seem minor, but over a 500-mile road trip, those savings add up quickly.
Step-by-Step DIY Tune-Up for Better Efficiency
You don’t need to be a master mechanic to perform a basic tune-up that restores your gas mileage for 2013 ford explorer. Most of these tasks can be completed in your driveway with a basic set of hand tools.
- Change the Air Filter: Pop the clips on the airbox located on the driver’s side of the engine bay. If the filter is gray or filled with debris, replace it with a high-quality paper or synthetic filter.
- Clean the MAF Sensor: Remove the sensor from the intake tube and spray it with MAF-specific cleaner. Never touch the delicate wires inside, as they are easily broken.
- Check Tire Pressure: Look at the sticker inside the driver’s door jamb for the correct PSI. Use a reliable digital pressure gauge to ensure all four tires are inflated to the exact specification.
- Inspect the PCV Valve: A clogged Positive Crankcase Ventilation (PCV) valve can cause oil consumption and reduced efficiency. It is a cheap part that is usually very easy to swap out.
- Scan for Codes: Use an OBD-II scanner to check for “pending” codes. Sometimes the computer knows something is wrong before it decides to turn on the warning light on your dashboard.
When performing any work, always ensure the engine is cool to the touch. Safety is paramount, so use jack stands if you need to crawl under the vehicle to inspect the exhaust or suspension components.
Using the correct oil is also vital. The 2013 Explorer typically requires 5W-20 synthetic blend oil. Using a heavier weight can increase internal friction, while a lower quality oil can lead to sludge that hampers the variable valve timing system.
Advanced Tips for Long-Distance Road Trips
If you are planning a cross-country trek, your driving habits will have the largest impact on your gas mileage for 2013 ford explorer. Using Cruise Control on flat highways helps maintain a steady throttle position, which is much more efficient than manual input.
However, in hilly terrain, it is often better to disable cruise control. Allowing the vehicle to lose a few mph on the climb and regain it on the descent prevents the transmission from downshifting aggressively to maintain a precise speed.
Keep an eye on your instantaneous fuel economy display on the instrument cluster. This real-time feedback teaches you exactly how much fuel is consumed during hard acceleration versus a gradual roll onto the highway.
Plan your fuel stops using apps that track prices, but also consider the quality of the fuel. While the Explorer is designed to run on 87 octane, using Top Tier gasoline contains detergents that keep your injectors clean and performing at their best.
Finally, remember that speed is the biggest factor in highway efficiency. Drag increases exponentially with speed; driving at 65 mph instead of 75 mph can often save you 2-4 miles per gallon over long distances.
Frequently Asked Questions About gas mileage for 2013 ford explorer
Does using Premium gas improve the mileage in a 2013 Explorer?
For the standard 3.5L V6, premium gas offers little to no benefit in fuel economy. However, for the EcoBoost engines (2.0L and 3.5L Turbo), higher octane can prevent the computer from pulling timing during hot weather or heavy loads, which may slightly improve efficiency.
Why is my gas mileage lower in the winter?
Winter gas blends have lower energy content, and engines take longer to reach operating temperature. Additionally, cold air is denser, increasing aerodynamic drag, and many owners spend more time idling to warm up the cabin.
Can a bad thermostat affect my fuel economy?
Yes, if your thermostat is stuck open, the engine will stay too cool. The computer will stay in “open loop” mode, dumping extra fuel into the cylinders to try and heat the engine up, which drastically lowers your mpg.
How much does a lift kit affect the Explorer’s mileage?
A lift kit increases the frontal area of the vehicle and allows more air to flow underneath, creating turbulence. Combined with larger tires, a 2-inch lift can result in a loss of 2-3 mpg on the highway.
Is the 2.0L EcoBoost better for towing?
No, the 2.0L EcoBoost is designed for efficiency and commuting. If you plan on towing regularly, the 3.5L V6 is much better suited for the task and will likely get better “under-load” mileage than the smaller, strained turbo engine.
Final Thoughts on Improving Your Ford Explorer’s Efficiency
Maximizing the gas mileage for 2013 ford explorer is a rewarding process that combines mechanical diligence with smart driving habits. By staying on top of your filter changes, sensor cleanings, and tire maintenance, you can keep your SUV running as efficiently as the day it left the showroom.
Whether you are navigating city streets or exploring back-country trails, remember that your vehicle is a complex system. One small vacuum leak or a slightly underinflated tire can have a ripple effect on your total fuel consumption.
Take the time this weekend to pop the hood, check your fluids, and give your Explorer the attention it deserves. Your wallet and your engine will thank you for the extra effort.
Stay safe, keep those tires aired up, and enjoy the road ahead with confidence!
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