Thoughts on this deal? 2019 Explorer XLT - 76K miles for $23K... is it worth it?

Hey all, here’s the quick version: I’ve got a 2011 Fusion with 115k miles that’s been solid. I’m not in a rush to buy, but I’ve been looking at a 2019 Explorer. The one I found is at CarMax, has one owner, clean title, and 76K miles. They’re asking $23K for it, and I’ve seen decent monthly rates on Explorers. My concern is any potential issues with these cars at this mileage? Anything else I should watch for? I also noticed it has two open recalls. Let me know what you think!

Water pump could be an issue. Honestly, if you can, go for a 2020 or newer model. I’d stay away from the 2011-2019 generation personally, but it’s up to you.

Whitney said:
Water pump could be an issue. Honestly, if you can, go for a 2020 or newer model. I’d stay away from the 2011-2019 generation personally, but it’s up to you.

I agree with the issues, but I think the 5th gen offers more storage space, and I personally like the look of them better.

Whitney said:
Water pump could be an issue. Honestly, if you can, go for a 2020 or newer model. I’d stay away from the 2011-2019 generation personally, but it’s up to you.

100% agree with you here…

If you go with that Explorer, plan to spend another 8-9k on repairs once it hits 150k miles. Here’s a list of stuff I had to fix on mine:

  • Sway bar end links at 75k miles - $250
  • Horn replacement at 80k miles - $650
  • Blend door actuator at 85k miles - $800
  • Struts at 110k miles - $700
  • Water pump, oil pump, spark plugs, and timing at 125k miles - $2700
  • Stabilizer bar bushing, sway bar end links at 135k miles - $750
  • Ignition coils, spark plugs, and engine control module at 148k miles - $2800
  • Catalytic converter (bank 1) and O2 sensor at 149k miles - $3000

It still needs struts and the driver’s side heated seat doesn’t work. I’ve had new rotors, pads, several sets of tires, alignments, and 2 new batteries. All oil changes done on schedule. But there’s still this annoying clunking sound in the front, likely from the worn CV axle. I wouldn’t buy another Ford at this point. We’ve started calling it the FORD EXPLODER at my house because it EXPLODES my budget all the time.

  • Edit: Honestly, expect about $10k in repairs next year.

@Ripley
Oof, that’s rough. What would you suggest I go for instead?

Frances said:
@Ripley
Oof, that’s rough. What would you suggest I go for instead?

Well, I also drive a 2011 Prius with 295k miles on it. The only big repair was replacing the exhaust gas recirculation valve, and I also did the intake manifold because it was clogged. It’s had a few sets of spark plugs, 2 new 12v batteries, new rotors, and a bunch of tires. The catalytic converter got stolen, but that’s a different story. If you want something reliable, I’d recommend a Toyota Corolla hybrid or a Prius. If you need something bigger, go with a Rav4 hybrid.

I have a 2020 Limited with 73k trouble-free miles, and it was listed for $25k at the dealer. So, I think $23k for a 2019 XLT seems a bit high.

Alden said:
I have a 2020 Limited with 73k trouble-free miles, and it was listed for $25k at the dealer. So, I think $23k for a 2019 XLT seems a bit high.

Got it, thanks for the input!