When you’re shopping for a used Ford Explorer in the Conshohocken area, knowing which model years deliver lasting reliability makes all the difference between a confident purchase and costly repairs down the road. At John Kennedy Ford of Conshohocken, we’ve serviced hundreds of Explorers throughout their lifespans, which gives us real insight into which generations hold up best against Philadelphia winters, I-76 commutes, and everything suburban family life throws at them.
Finding the best year for used Ford Explorer purchases really comes down to understanding three distinct generations and how they’ve aged. We’ll walk you through the specific years that deliver the best value, which models fit different budgets, and how to choose options that offer dependable ownership and peace of mind.
Which Ford Explorer Model Years Are the Best to Buy?
The reliability sweet spots for used Explorers cluster around three distinct periods. The 2009 and 2010 models from the fourth generation stand out for their proven track record. These models feature well-tested overhead-cam V6 engines and straightforward mechanical systems that our service team can maintain without drama.
The 2017-2019 models represent the sweet spot of the fifth generation. By this time, Ford had resolved the early electrical issues and powertrain headaches that plagued 2011-2013 models. The 2019 Explorer particularly shines with refined technology, spacious interiors, and far fewer complaints than its early fifth-generation siblings.
For buyers wanting the latest safety and convenience features, the 2021-2023 models deliver current-generation benefits. These newer Explorers earned a five-star NHTSA safety rating and often remain under factory warranty, providing peace of mind for growing families navigating busy Philadelphia-area roads.
| Generation | Years | Key Reliability Notes |
| 4th Gen | 2006-2010 | Solid build, proven engines, timing chain maintenance critical |
| 5th Gen | 2011-2019 | Early years problematic, 2017-2019 most reliable |
| 6th Gen | 2020-present | Modern features, often under warranty, avoid 2020 first-year issues |
Top Recommended Used Ford Explorer Years by Buyer Need
Different priorities call for different model years. Whether you’re juggling budget constraints, hunting for modern technology, or looking for that reliability-to-value sweet spot, certain years align better with what you actually need.
Best Overall Value: 2018-2019 Models
The 2018 and 2019 Explorers hit that perfect balance between proven reliability and modern amenities. These final years of the fifth generation received Ford’s accumulated improvements over nearly a decade of production, resulting in the fewest reported complaints of any fifth-generation years. You get standard features like rearview cameras, smartphone integration through Ford’s SYNC 3 system, and available adaptive cruise control without paying new-car premiums.
We’ve watched these models maintain strong resale values while delivering dependable service to families throughout Conshohocken and surrounding communities. Their powerful V6 engines handle highway merging confidently, while available all-wheel drive provides reassurance during winter weather on local roads.
Best Budget-Friendly Choice: 2013-2015 Models
Working with a tighter budget? The 2013-2015 Explorers offer reliable transportation at accessible price points. These mid-generation models benefit from Ford’s fixes to early fifth-generation problems while staying affordable enough to fit most family budgets. The 2013 model marked a real turning point where Ford addressed many electrical and powertrain concerns that burned 2011-2012 buyers.
These years offer comfortable seating for seven passengers, decent cargo space, and adequate power for daily driving. Sure, they lack some modern driver-assistance features, but they nail the basics: dependable engines, comfortable rides, and reasonable maintenance costs. For budget-conscious shoppers, they’re smart entry points into Explorer ownership.
Best for Modern Features and Safety: 2021-2023 Models
Buyers prioritizing advanced technology and comprehensive safety systems should focus on 2021-2023 models. These sixth-generation Explorers feature standard Co-Pilot360 technology, including automatic emergency braking, blind-spot monitoring, and lane-keeping assist. The redesigned interior offers improved materials, a larger touchscreen, and enhanced connectivity options that younger families particularly appreciate.
These newer models also deliver stronger towing capabilities, with properly equipped models capable of towing up to 5,600 pounds. Many remain under factory warranty, and those slightly older qualify for certified pre-owned programs with extended coverage. That’s valuable protection for any used vehicle purchase.
Ford Explorer Model Years That Require Extra Due Diligence
Early 2000s Models: Know What You’re Getting Into
Some Ford Explorer model years are better suited for buyers seeking long-term dependability and lower ownership costs. For example, earlier models, such as the 2002 Explorer, accumulated a high volume of NHTSA complaints, largely related to transmission performance. As a result, shoppers focused on reliability may want to prioritize newer or more refined alternatives.
Models from 2003 through 2005 continued to reflect challenges common to that generation, including transmission, suspension, and drivetrain concerns. These Explorers represent a period when aging engineering and evolving design standards impacted overall ownership satisfaction, making later generations a more appealing option for many buyers.
Early Fifth Generation: 2011-2013
Moving ahead, the 2011 to 2013 Explorers mark the early years of the fifth generation. While these models introduced meaningful updates, some owners reported electrical and powertrain issues, and satisfaction scores lagged behind those of later versions. Similarly, the 2016 Explorer received mixed reliability ratings, suggesting that shoppers may benefit from considering surrounding model years with stronger track records.
Sixth Generation: 2020 First-Year Considerations
The 2020 Explorer highlights a common trend seen with first-year redesigns. While it brought major updates, early production challenges and recalls affected owner satisfaction. Choosing a slightly newer model year, such as 2021, allows buyers to enjoy the same modern features and technology with improvements informed by early feedback.
Common Issues to Watch For in Used Ford Explorers
Understanding generation-specific problems helps you inspect smartly and negotiate fairly when you find a promising Explorer.
Transmission and Drivetrain Concerns
Transmission problems rank among the most expensive issues with the Explorer. Early models, particularly the notorious 2002-2005 years, suffered from failures in the five-speed automatic transmission. Symptoms include rough shifting, slipping between gears, delayed engagement, or complete failure to move. Transmission repairs typically run $2,600-$2,750, making this a critical inspection point.
Even some fifth-generation models experienced transmission concerns, though later years proved more reliable. During test drives, pay close attention to smooth shifting through all gears, both during acceleration and deceleration. Any hesitation, shuddering, or unexpected noises warrant professional evaluation before purchase.
Engine and Timing Chain Problems
The fourth-generation Explorers (2006-2010) equipped with overhead-cam V6 engines face a specific concern: weak timing chain tensioners. While these engines are otherwise reliable, failing tensioners can cause timing chain issues, leading to catastrophic engine damage if left unchecked. Service records showing proactive timing chain maintenance significantly increase these models’ value and reliability.
Listen for rattling noises during cold starts, which may signal timing chain wear. Verify that previous owners maintained proper oil change intervals, as neglected maintenance accelerates timing chain component wear. Our service team can inspect these systems thoroughly before you commit to any fourth-generation Explorer.
What to Inspect Before Buying a Used Ford Explorer
Verify Vehicle History and Recalls
Smart pre-purchase inspection protects your investment and prevents surprises. Start by verifying the vehicle’s history through services like Carfax or AutoCheck, and confirm there are no major accidents, flood damage, or salvage titles. Check that all NHTSA recalls have been completed (this step is essential for any used vehicle).
Test Generation-Specific Systems
For fourth-generation models (2006-2010), request service documentation proving timing chain maintenance. For early fifth-generation Explorers (2011-2016), thoroughly test all electrical systems: climate controls, power windows, infotainment systems, and dashboard displays. Electrical gremlins plague these years, and comprehensive testing reveals potential problems.
Conduct Thorough Test Drives
Take extended test drives covering various conditions: highway speeds, stop-and-go traffic, rough pavement, and tight turning. This reveals transmission behavior, suspension condition, and overall mechanical health better than brief neighborhood loops. Test the four-wheel-drive or all-wheel-drive system, if equipped (particularly important given Conshohocken’s winter weather).
Have any promising Explorers been inspected by qualified technicians, either independent mechanics or our service team at John Kennedy Ford of Conshohocken? Professional inspection uncovers issues invisible to casual buyers, from suspension wear to fluid leaks to computer diagnostic codes. The modest inspection cost prevents expensive mistakes.
Finding a Reliable Used Ford Explorer in Conshohocken
Shopping for a used Explorer in the greater Philadelphia area offers plenty of options, but choosing the right dealership matters as much as selecting the right year. We maintain an extensive selection of used Ford Explorers spanning multiple generations, each thoroughly inspected by our factory-trained service team before reaching our lot.
Our nearly 70 years of automotive experience under the Kennedy name means we understand which Explorers deliver lasting value. We prioritize transparency about each vehicle’s history, condition, and any service needs, helping you make informed decisions rather than pressured purchases. Every Explorer we sell undergoes a comprehensive mechanical inspection, so you can drive away confidently.
Your relationship with us continues well beyond the initial purchase through our full-service maintenance department. Our technicians know Explorers inside and out, maintaining expertise across all generations from timing chain service on fourth-generation models to electrical diagnostics on fifth-generation systems.
Ready to find your ideal used Ford Explorer? Browse our current inventory online, then schedule a test drive to experience your top choices firsthand. Our sales team will walk you through each model’s features, history, and how it matches your specific needs (whether you’re prioritizing budget, modern technology, or proven reliability). Visit us at 1403 Ridge Pike in Conshohocken, call our sales team at 267-215-4257 to start your Explorer search today.
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