I’m going to look at a 2021 Explorer LXT tomorrow. I drive a 2019 Subaru Forester now, but I need something with a third row because I have two kids under 4. I’ve heard there were engine problems with the 2020 models, so I’m a bit concerned.
Any ideas i would really appreciate…
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I have a 2021 Explorer LXT with 60k miles. Besides fixing a road noise issue myself, the car has been great. There haven’t been any transmission problems (which were a known issue in 2020). We’ve had 6 people and sports equipment in the car with no problems. It handles long trips to the Tennessee mountains, short trips around town, and snow storms without any issues.
If you hear weird wind noise or a flapping sound on the highway, it’s likely from plastic washers rubbing against metal screw threads on the underbody. To fix it, remove the plastic washer from the underbody shield, use a large metal washer, and a number 6 nut to secure the shield. I did this at 50k miles and haven’t heard the noise since.
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I’m experiencing the same issue with the wind noise. Also, the bolts that hold the trim to the rear hatch came off.
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I haven’t heard of any engine issues with the Ecoboost engines; they’ve been used in the Explorer for a while. The transmission is a newer 10-speed design, and I believe any initial problems have been addressed. Just make sure to check if the transmission reprogramming recall is completed.
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In my case, 2020 was a big redesign. I think the main problem in the first 2-3 years was with the transmission, since it was a completely new design.
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Got a 2021 Limited. Had an XLT loaner for a day while the dealer fixed some stuff.
The XLT had paddle shifters.
Kinda wish I’d bought an XLT or ST, ‘cause of the paddle shifters, lol.
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The recall this week is for 2.7 and 3.0 engines. If it’s an XLT, it’s likely a 2.3 and should be safe from that recall.
The transmission is a 10r60, which isn’t the best. I still drive mine, 66k miles, and no big issues so far.
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Thank you 
had to check it out, and actually, it’s a 2.3. It’s got 52k on it. But it’s got such a great price.
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I’ve got a 2021 XLT and I haven’t had issues, love the car fr.