Considering a New Explorer ST

Hello everyone,

I am considering purchasing an Explorer ST or maybe the ST Line. I have some questions for current owners of the 2022 or 2023 models.

  1. Is it true people start behaving around you by mistakenly thinking you’re a police officer?
  2. What has the reliability been so far?
  3. How does the Ford dealership handle warranty issues, etc.?
  4. We will be using this car for road trips. Is it comfortable for a ride with the baby?

I’m planning on test driving it soon since Ford is offering low interest rates, and I am really interested in it. However, I would love to hear what your experience has been like owning one.

“Is it true people start behaving around you by mistakenly thinking you’re a police officer?”

No, I used to drive an actual police car. Sometimes fully marked with lights on top. People still didn’t behave.

@Dana
I read a few posts on Reddit where people voiced their displeasure about Explorers and how they are similar to police cars.

@Dana
If you’re driving in the fast lane passing people, they definitely think you’re a cop.

Love my 2022 ST, fully loaded (minus massaging seats, which weren’t available at the time). 62k sticker price, 0% for 60 months. No one mistakes me for a policeman.

7k miles, had bad mid-pipes (leaking and rattling), replaced with aftermarket thermal exhaust. 5k miles, bad TPS sensor on tire, would read way off above 4000 ft. Ford replaced it.

The car is amazing for road trips. 2 adults, 2 kids, and a 70lb dog.

@Chao
I see. In your experience, how well does it do with mpg?

Sloane said:
@Chao
I see. In your experience, how well does it do with mpg?

Well, my ST is highly modified at this point and running the Ford Performance 91 tune. As it sits now, when I drive about 16-17 mpg in sport using the shifters. My wife gets about 19 in normal mode. Highway 22-26 mpg depending on the drive mode.

@Chao
What modifications and how much power?

2023 ST - love it.

Why not wait till May and order the redesigned 2025 model?

Remy said:
Why not wait till May and order the redesigned 2025 model?

Definitely considering this option.

Sloane said:

Remy said:
Why not wait till May and order the redesigned 2025 model?

Definitely considering this option.

Saw the '25 at the Chicago Auto Show. As a '20 owner, there are some very nice improvements to the interior, and the updated infotainment (wireless CarPlay/Android Auto) are things I wish I had. If it’s really that close, I’d wait.

@Quinby
Looking at pictures, the 2025 does look much better than previous generations.

Sloane said:
@Quinby
Looking at pictures, the 2025 does look much better than previous generations.

Yeah, the interior has a much better screen too.

2021 ST, no one responds to me like a cop – it’s the dark gray color, which might be why.

The infotainment is trash; get a new one if you can.

Just had our 2020 Platinum in today, and they are fixing the trans cooler under warranty. No issues; cost me $100.

However, the flex pipe exhaust issue they won’t fix under warranty.

2022 and 2023 are best. You may have one or two recalls to deal with, but otherwise, they’re reliable.

Decent rig, but after the last recall for the bolt cracking issue, they just did a software update that shaved the balls off my ST. Doesn’t have the same get-up-and-go it did.

2023, $56k @ 1.9% for 60 months. Mileage 8k, so no issues. We bought it as a new demo with 1600 miles. It drives like the Charger Scat Pack we had. Handles shockingly well (I daily an NB Miata). Power goes to the rear before the AWD kicks in, so it can slide around a bit. It’s very comfortable all around, great seats, no car seat issues. Also, the first Ford 10-speed auto I’ve run that is smooth. The complaints about interior materials are real. It’s fleet-car level. The Sync 3 infotainment setup is lame. We average 18.5 mpg mostly on 87, so 93 might get better mileage? I chose it for how it drives. For anything else, you can do better at that price.

I think the ST’s are really nice. Will probably get one someday. For now, still rocking it with my 2017 Sport. LOVE IT. It’s black, and I’m ALWAYS mistaken for a cop. People always slowing down in front of me. I don’t know… kind of annoying at times. Anyway, if you can afford it, get the car – you won’t be disappointed.