Looking at a Ford Explorer… good choice or should we look elsewhere?

Discussion
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Hey y’all, my fiancé is shopping for a used SUV—preferably one with three rows that doesn’t scream ‘mom car.’

Budget is around $25K (paying cash). We’ve test-driven 4Runners, Ford Explorers, Honda Pilots, and a few others. The best bang for the buck so far seems to be a 2023 Ford Explorer Limited.

I know Ford gets mixed reviews sometimes, so I’m looking for advice from people who’ve owned an Explorer or considered one but ended up with something else. He’s driving a 2003 Honda Pilot right now and loves it, but it’s time for an upgrade.

Would love any thoughts or recommendations!

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I’ve been looking at those years too. From what I’ve found, avoid the 2021 model—2022 and 2023 are better in terms of reliability. That said, Ford doesn’t rank as high as Toyota, Honda, or Mazda in long-term dependability. If reliability is a big concern, you can always pick up a Ford ESP warranty for peace of mind.

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@Jade
Thanks for the feedback! We originally wanted a 4Runner, but it’s just a little out of budget. Is there another SUV you’d recommend around $25K?

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Grayden said:
@Jade
Thanks for the feedback! We originally wanted a 4Runner, but it’s just a little out of budget. Is there another SUV you’d recommend around $25K?

What’s your mileage limit, and how old are you willing to go? CPO or not?

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@Jade
Ideally under 60K miles, and nothing older than 2020. CPO would be great, but it’s not a dealbreaker. Appreciate the help!

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Grayden said:
@Jade
Ideally under 60K miles, and nothing older than 2020. CPO would be great, but it’s not a dealbreaker. Appreciate the help!

In that case, I’d look at a Toyota Highlander (stick to the V6 models before 2023), Honda Pilot, or a Mazda CX-9 (2022 and newer).

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@Jade
Glad to see someone else who knows the Highlander’s V6 is the way to go! The 2.4T was such a downgrade.

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I’d look at slightly older models. The Explorer hasn’t changed much in the last few years, so you could find a low-mileage 2020-2022 and save some money. Overall, it’s a solid SUV for what you’re looking for.

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@Bailey
Good to know! We test-drove a 2023, but we’re totally open to something in the 2020-2023 range. Appreciate the advice!

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The Honda Pilot is super reliable. 4Runner’s third row is an optional add-on, but it’s pricier than a Pilot. Can’t speak to the new Explorers, but I’ve driven an Escape and it held up well.

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Have you considered a Dodge Durango? The V6 version is supposed to be more reliable. I had one as a rental last fall—super comfortable and plenty quick with the V6.

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If you go with an Explorer, make sure it has the 3.5L engine. Wouldn’t touch one with an EcoBoost. Also, avoid the COVID-era builds.

If you’re open to other options, maybe look at a Chevy Traverse, Buick Enclave, or a Mazda CX-9. The CX-9 is a bit smaller in the back, though.

And don’t expect great MPG—when I had an Explorer and Edge as rentals, I was shocked at how bad the gas mileage was. Same with the Grand Cherokee. This was back in 2014-2016, and even my older crossover was getting the same MPG lol.