Advice on Ford Explorer years?

General
1

We have a 2014 Ford Explorer Limited that we bought used, and it’s got over 100,000 miles on it. Here are some of the problems we’ve had:

We had to replace the AC compressor. There’s a strange ticking noise coming from the dashboard, even when the vehicle is off. The automatic liftgate isn’t working and slams shut. All the sensor lights keep coming on the dashboard. The thermostat failed and almost damaged the radiator. There’s a grinding noise when going in reverse, and now it happens even when driving forward at low speeds.

With all these issues, we’re thinking about cutting our losses and getting a different vehicle. I’m wondering which year of the Ford Explorer from 2017 to 2023 is the most reliable. They’re relatively inexpensive, and I’d like to stick with the Explorer if possible, but I don’t want to end up with another problematic one. Any advice or insights would be greatly appreciated.

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2

I really like my 2021 Limited. The 2.3 Ecoboost engine is faster than I expected.

It has lots of cool features like radar cruise control, speed sign recognition, lane centering, and a 360-degree camera for parking.

I also use Fordpass to start the car from my phone.

I feel like I’m living in the future!

The only downsides are that I didn’t get the sunroof, trailer towing package, or sports package. Paddle shifters would have been fun too.

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It’s not a good idea to ask about specific products in a subreddit that’s all about those products because you’ll mostly get overly positive reviews. It’s better to ask in a general car subreddit.

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If you know a lot about car repairs, consider getting a 2006-2010 4th generation Explorer with the V8 2 Valve engine. Mine has 233,000 miles, and I can fix almost everything myself. I just replaced the water pump, which cost $45 for the part. Most parts are still available too.

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I recommend looking for one that comes with a warranty. I have a 2021 Limited and got a Ford Gold warranty when I bought it. Just get the Ford Gold warranty, not any extended ones. It covers the drivetrain up to 100,000 miles and the whole car for the first year.

Also, avoid buying the first model year. I wouldn’t get the 6-cylinder engine because it might need a water pump replacement that requires removing the engine.

If I didn’t want all the high-tech features and self-driving options (which work well with Comma AI), I’d be driving a 4Runner. :slight_smile:

6

For the Fifth Gen model with 2WD and the 2.3L engine, or the 2021-2025 models with any drivetrain, I recommend these because:

  • The Fifth Gen with the 2.3L engine and 2WD avoids two major potential problems: it doesn’t have a Power Transfer Unit (PTU) and the 2.3L engine doesn’t have an internal water pump.
  • The Sixth Gen models are generally reliable with their engine and 4WD system. They have some minor transmission quirks due to the 10R60 transmission used in all of these models. I’d skip the 2020 model due to initial issues, but the 2021-2025 models are mostly the same mechanically. Just be cautious with the new infotainment system in the 2025 model, as it’s the first time Ford has used it widely.

If you disagree, I’d like to hear why.