Let’s start with the years that are generally considered the best and most reliable—2010, 2011, and 2012. These rear-wheel or four-wheel drive midsize SUVs hold their value well and are less likely to experience transmission failure.

If you really want a Platinum trim Explorer, ask your dealership if they have a 2016 or later model.

2010 Ford Explorer

Used price: $5,000-$8,000

Kelley Blue Book (KBB) rating: 4.3/5

This was the year for the traditional body styling and powerful engine option (V8 engine). It was also the last year to offer rear-wheel drive as the default. If you’re looking for a more “classic” Ford Explorer driving experience, this is the one to pick.

Pros:

Roomy, quiet interior

Good tow rating

Last year for the classic AWD/FWD switch vs terrain choice dial

Cons:

Interior is dated and has some poor quality materials

Standard V6 engine is a little lackluster

2011 Ford Explorer

Used price: $7,000-$11,000

KBB rating: 4.3/5

This year is just as reliable as 2010 and offers updated technology and body style. It boasts better fuel efficiency than the previous year as well.

Pros:

Higher quality interior

More high tech features

Good safety ratings from the IIHS

20 mpg

Cons:

Less cargo room than competitors

Increased tech can mean more problems, especially when buying used

2012 Ford Explorer

Used price: $8,000-$11,000

KBB rating: 4.3/5

Honorable mention goes to the crossover 2012 Explorer. As far as features go, it is very similar to the 2011 model and is a solid choice as well.

Pros:

Nice quality, roomy interior

Decent fuel economy, though not as good as 2011

290 horsepower with the V6 option

Cons:

Reported as slightly less reliable overall than 2011 model

In-car tech can be slow to respond and difficult to use

2019 Ford Explorer

Used price: $24,395-$26,385

KBB rating: 4.3/5

If you’re looking for a newer-model Explorer, you’ll save a little off the original MSRP of $33,460 with a used 2019. We especially like the Explorer XLT or Limited trims—or opt for the Sport to get all-wheel drive.

The sporty styling and high-end available upgrades mean the 2019 Explorer is holding up well.

Pros:

Stylish exterior

Seats up to 7 (more than the

Ford Bronco

)

AWD and terrain management system

Trim upgrades include touch screen, driver-assistance features, and power tailgate

5-star overall safety rating from the NHTSA

Blind spot monitoring

Cons:

Not ideal for off-roading conditions

1993 Ford Explorer

Used Price: $457-$866

KBB rating: 4/5

Looking to relive a bit of 90s nostalgia? The 1993 Ford Explorer might be perfect for you! There’s always a risk when you’re buying a vehicle that’s nearly 30 years old, but this model year tends to hold up pretty well.

Pros:

Old-school styling

Reliable

Cons:

Likely to have high mileage

Difficult to source replacement parts

Ford Explorer models to avoid

Now that you know some of the best years to buy, let’s take a look at the ones that most sources recommend you avoid. Remember that some trim levels are more problematic than others.

Broadly speaking, 2001-2008 seems to have been rough years for the Explorer, with some sources calling vehicles from this era “unbuyable.”

2002 Ford Explorer

Used price: $900-$2,400

KBB rating: 4/5

The Ford Explorer was completely redesigned in 2002, and this model definitely offered more luxury features than its predecessors. However, transmission problems and high maintenance costs make this year one to skip.

Pros:

More luxury features and trim options

New exterior design

Cons:

High cost of ownership due to frequent and expensive maintenance needs

Frequent transmission and wheel bearing problems

2003 Ford Explorer

Used Price: $1,500-$4,000

KBB rating: 4/5

Depending on who you ask, the 2003 competes with the 2002 Explorer for Worst Year Ever. A wide range of mechanical issues, from very minor to quite severe, mean this is a year that is not worth the money or the risk.

Pros:

Comfortable seating for seven with third-row seats

Cons:

Frequent transmission problems

Prone to cracked body panels

Timing chain issues have also been reported for this year

MORE:

8 top Ford Explorer competitors

2004 Ford Explorer

Used price: $2,000-$5,000

KBB rating: 4/5

The 2004 Explorer is also a frequent competitor for the distinction of worst year ever due to major engine and transmission problems.

Pros:

Good crash test rating

Roomy interior

Cons:

Major functionality issues reported with the engine and transmission

2020 Ford Explorer

Used price: $33,000 and up

KBB rating: 3.8/5

Newer isn’t always better! The 2020 Ford Explorer has been the subject of numerous serious recalls, and many sources against purchasing one. Not to mention that 33k is a lot of money to spend on an unreliable car.

Pros:

Efficient Ecoboost engine

Quiet interior

New and improved 10-speed automatic transmission

Rear-wheel drive (vs. the

Toyota Highlander’s

FWD)

Cons:

Issues reported with brakes, electrical system, failing powertrain, and more

Several sources consider this model unsafe to drive

Base trims come with a four-cylinder engine

Common problems with used Ford Explorers

Any time you are buying a used car, there’s the potential for mechanical problems. Here are some of the most common issues with used Ford Explorers:

Transmission problems

Ford Explorers are notorious for having major transmission issues, all the way up to outright failure. To avoid expensive problems later, it’s a good idea to have a trusted mechanic do a thorough evaluation before you purchase a used Ford Explorer.

Exterior body issues

Cracked exterior panels and paint issues are a commonly reported issue. While some body issues are merely cosmetic, some can affect the safety features of the car or lead to things like leaking during a rainstorm.

Climate control stuck on hottest setting

Many owners report this as a frequent problem with used Ford Explorers, and it might not be something you would think to check. However, it can be a costly automotive repair and—depending on where you live—quite unpleasant.

Rough idle and stalling

These issues are not only annoying, they can cause severe damage to the vehicle and be more expensive to repair than it’s worth.

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