Thinking about buying a used Ford Explorer… Should I go for it?

Lately, I’ve had this urge to get a bigger car, and I’m leaning toward a Ford Explorer or maybe even a used police car.

I’ve ruled out police cars because they’re usually pretty beaten up, but what about a regular Ford Explorer?

I’m considering a 2016 model. I don’t mind if it’s nearing the end of its life since I plan to switch to another car in two years once I have more money. I honestly don’t need a big car—it’s mostly for fun and for commuting to work. What do you guys think?

Explorers are known for rear suspension problems, wheel bearing issues, and expensive water pumps driven by the timing chain. They’ve earned the nickname ‘Exploders’ for a reason.

Mica said:
Explorers are known for rear suspension problems, wheel bearing issues, and expensive water pumps driven by the timing chain. They’ve earned the nickname ‘Exploders’ for a reason.

Don’t forget about PTU (Power Transfer Unit) failures.

Mica said:
Explorers are known for rear suspension problems, wheel bearing issues, and expensive water pumps driven by the timing chain. They’ve earned the nickname ‘Exploders’ for a reason.

The ‘Exploder’ nickname predates the water pump issues. I’m still scarred from the tire recall back in 2000.

If you’re buying a 2016 Explorer that’s at the end of its life, you won’t have any money left for another car in two years. They’re going for $14k–$19k in my area. For that price, you could get a 2008–2010 Chevy Tahoe, which is a better car overall.

@Emerson
The AFM/DOD systems and the 8-10 speed transmissions on those Chevy models aren’t exactly reliable either.

Dez said:
@Emerson
The AFM/DOD systems and the 8-10 speed transmissions on those Chevy models aren’t exactly reliable either.

Those transmissions weren’t available on that generation of Tahoe—they came in with the 2015 redesign. I agree about the DOD system being a potential issue, but I’d still take a Tahoe over an Explorer. Personally, I’d go for a 2003–2006 Tahoe/Yukon/Escalade, but not everyone is comfortable driving a 20-year-old car.

@Emerson
If GM could somehow bring back a brand-new 2006 model, I’d be all in. Unfortunately, around here, those older models are rusted to pieces. That said, replacing a water pump on a Ford 3.5 V6 is probably cheaper than fixing the DOD system on a Chevy.

@Dez
You can get a DOD disabler that plugs into the OBD2 port to prevent the system from engaging. Costs about $200–$300.

Emerson said:
@Dez
You can get a DOD disabler that plugs into the OBD2 port to prevent the system from engaging. Costs about $200–$300.

True, but while it stops the DOD from activating, it won’t prevent long-term wear on the camshaft and lifters.

@Emerson
Why even buy a car if you’re planning to get rid of it in two years? It’ll depreciate, and you won’t get your money back.

You’re considering an 8-year-old Ford that was designed to last 4–6 years… and you want to drive it daily? Are you serious?

Landyn said:
You’re considering an 8-year-old Ford that was designed to last 4–6 years… and you want to drive it daily? Are you serious?

Banks have a cutoff age for financing all cars, not just Fords, but yeah—a Toyota Highlander will definitely last longer than an Explorer.

No.

The water pump design on the 3.5-liter engine makes it a bad buy. It’s inside the engine and costs about $3k to replace. If it fails and you don’t catch it in time, it could ruin the entire engine.

Zenith said:
The water pump design on the 3.5-liter engine makes it a bad buy. It’s inside the engine and costs about $3k to replace. If it fails and you don’t catch it in time, it could ruin the entire engine.

And that’s if it doesn’t flood the crankcase with coolant first.

Unless you’re ready to spend money on maintenance, I wouldn’t recommend it. Explorers in the 80k–150k mile range often have major issues. Common problems include cam phasers, timing chains, water pumps, blown turbos, and more. If you want stress-free ownership, consider a Honda CR-V, Toyota RAV4, or Highlander instead.

@Ren
My cousin’s F-150 had the cam phasers fail twice. First time cost $1,000 (dealer covered most of it), second time was $4k. Ford should have made it a recall issue.

Chen said:
@Ren
My cousin’s F-150 had the cam phasers fail twice. First time cost $1,000 (dealer covered most of it), second time was $4k. Ford should have made it a recall issue.

Ford did issue recalls for some of the cam phaser issues, but they expire. Getting recall work approved can also be a nightmare, and Ford service departments aren’t exactly known for being great.

If you don’t really need an SUV, why not get something cheaper, like a Mazda6 or Honda Accord? They’re more reliable and fun to drive. The Explorer has big issues with its water pump and PTU. Both are expensive to repair and can lead to bigger problems if not maintained.