Looking to buy my first car and thinking of getting a Ford Explorer. Can I realistically find a good one from 2005-2009 within a $5,000 budget?
For 5k, just be ready to deal with something that might need work. Not trying to be rude, just being honest.
Lex said:
For 5k, just be ready to deal with something that might need work. Not trying to be rude, just being honest.
Still, the 4.0 and 5.0 engines are pretty reliable overall.
Here’s how I’d rank them:
- 95-00 V8: Super reliable. These engines can survive almost anything unless you totally neglect them.
- 09-10 V8: Built with a solid F150 powertrain, very tough.
- 06-08 V8: Not bad, but weaker transmissions compared to 09-10.
- 95-96 V6: OHV engine and 4-speed trans are dependable.
- 97-00 V6: The OHV engine is still good, but the 5-speed trans is hit or miss.
Avoid SOHC engines from 02-05. V8s in those years are okay, but the transmissions are bad. The V6s from 02-05? Terrible.
For that budget, it’s likely to be a beater. Try looking for a Gen 1 or Gen 2 Explorer with the 4.0 OHV or the 5.0 V8. Those are more reliable.
But honestly, you should start browsing online listings and see what’s available.
Don’t go for an older Explorer unless it has the V8. The V8 engines last much longer than the V6s because the 4.0 has timing chain problems.
The 96-00 V8 (302) is one of Ford’s most reliable engines ever. It comes with a strong transmission and rear end. Just watch out for suspension wear on older models. They’re not great on gas, but they’ll keep running if you maintain them.
The later 4.6 V8s are also solid and can last twice as long as the V6s. If the transmission fluid wasn’t maintained, you might need to replace it, but otherwise, they’re solid vehicles.
You could also look for a 99-03 Expedition with the 5.4 (2-valve version). Those are reliable too, but I’d still pick a rust-free 302 Explorer over it. Avoid the 3-valve 5.4 engines unless you’re ready to deal with cam phaser issues.
@Kade
The 95-00 OHV V6 engines are reliable too (but not the SOHC ones).
@Kade
Here’s a listing you might find interesting: Redirecting...
Kade said:
@Kade
Here’s a listing you might find interesting: Redirecting...
Here’s another one for comparison: Redirecting...
I bought a 2014 model for $2400 at an auction (ex-police vehicle). Some might call it junk, but after putting 5,000 miles on it, it’s been a good daily driver. If the water pump dies tomorrow, I won’t even be mad.
At the same auction, over 20 of these went for 2-4k.
@Morgan
Oh no… don’t remind me. I paid way more for my 2014 two years ago, and I’m still paying it off. 