Is a used Ford Explorer worth it? Pros and cons?

Hi everyone,

We’re considering buying a used Ford Explorer and have narrowed it down to two options:

  • A 2013 Ford Explorer XLT with 130k miles
  • A 2015 Ford Explorer XLT with 76k miles

We have a 2-year-old and another baby on the way, so we’ll have two car seats. We probably won’t use the third row much, but the extra trunk space will be great for a double stroller and for when our toddler starts sports next year. Carpooling might also happen down the line.

What are the pros and cons? Should I be worried about high mileage on these models? For reference, we currently have a Ford Focus hatchback that’s been reliable with just a few recalls and regular maintenance. However, I drive a 2013 Mazda CX-9 that’s been a headache since we bought it last summer. Hoping the Explorer is a better choice!

The water pump on the 3.5 V6 is a ticking time bomb, especially as you approach 150k miles. Repairs can cost around $2,000. Other than that, it’s a solid vehicle.

Pierce said:
The water pump on the 3.5 V6 is a ticking time bomb, especially as you approach 150k miles. Repairs can cost around $2,000. Other than that, it’s a solid vehicle.

That’s exactly what happened to us. Our water pump failed in heavy traffic, and we couldn’t pull over for miles. The engine seized, and now the car is toast.

@Keaton
Fun fact: if you have full coverage insurance, some companies might cover engine damage caused by not being able to pull over in unsafe conditions, especially for female drivers.

Pierce said:
The water pump on the 3.5 V6 is a ticking time bomb, especially as you approach 150k miles. Repairs can cost around $2,000. Other than that, it’s a solid vehicle.

Thanks for the heads-up!

Pierce said:
The water pump on the 3.5 V6 is a ticking time bomb, especially as you approach 150k miles. Repairs can cost around $2,000. Other than that, it’s a solid vehicle.

We had a similar issue with our 2013 CX-9, which is basically a fancy Explorer. We’ve also had spark plug and coil problems. That said, our 2013 Focus has been mostly trouble-free. Go figure.

I wasn’t a fan of the Explorer’s middle row—it felt cramped because of the third row. If you’re buying a 3.5L engine with over 100k miles, I highly recommend replacing the water pump and timing chain. When ours failed at 175k miles, it drained coolant into the oil pan and ruined the engine.

@Keaton
Wow, that’s tough. Thanks for the advice!

@Keaton
Doesn’t the Edge have the same 3.5L engine? You might face the same water pump issue there too.

Paxton said:
@Keaton
Doesn’t the Edge have the same 3.5L engine? You might face the same water pump issue there too.

Yes, the 3.5L is used in many Ford vehicles.

Paxton said:
@Keaton
Doesn’t the Edge have the same 3.5L engine? You might face the same water pump issue there too.

True, but on newer models, the water pump isn’t driven by the timing chain, so it’s less of an issue. Our Edge has the 2.7L twin-turbo V6, and it’s fantastic.

We’ve had a 2016 XLT 2.3L Ecoboost since new. It’s at 140k miles now and has only needed one AC repair (leak in a hose) and regular maintenance like oil changes, filters, and tires. At 120k miles, we flushed the coolant, changed the spark plugs, and did a transmission drain and fill. It’s been great overall. If you find one with good maintenance records and it passes inspection, I’d go for it.

@Aven
That’s great to hear. Thanks!

I’d recommend going with the newer model with fewer miles—it might also have more features. We’ve had Explorers in our family since 2012, and they’ve been fantastic.

Pros:

  • Comfortable seats, great for long trips.
  • Tons of space for kid gear and carpooling.
  • High visibility and smooth ride.
  • Can tow small trailers.

Cons:

  • Average gas mileage for an SUV.
  • Water pump issues with the V6.

If you find one in good condition, you won’t regret it.

One downside is the CV axles. If you try leveling the suspension, you risk ruining them.

We’ve driven our 2015 XLT hard for 125k miles and haven’t had any major issues.

I had a 2003 Explorer and loved it. I’m looking at a 2013 with 150k miles now. My old Explorer’s previous owner didn’t take care of it, so I ended up replacing almost everything. It finally died at 268k miles when the transmission went out.