The 2019 Ford Explorer lasts around 250,000 miles with only some minor paint and fuel pump issues reported. At $21,775 to $34,550, it’s a decent value for an SUV with enough room for a large family.
Is the 2019 Ford Explorer a Good Used SUV?
- Overall Rating 8/10 – 2019 is a good year for the Ford Explorer since it has good reliability ratings paired with an upscale cabin, giving it a high overall score. Owner reviews praise the technology, smooth suspension, as well as the passenger room.
- Interior, Comfort & Cargo 8/10 – Interior materials are good for a large SUV in its price range, seating is supportive on long drives, cargo space is also very good.
- Reliability 8/10 – There are no major mechanical problems found on the 2019 Explorer. Avoid models from 2013–2017 since they have a lot of complaints. Models 2018–2022 are much more reliable.
- Performance 7/10 – Performance is okay from the base V6 or 4-cylinder, while the EcoBoost V6 is very quick for a larger SUV.
- Safety 8/10 – The 2019 Explorer is a safe SUV earning a perfect 5-star rating in government crash tests. There’s a standard rearview camera. Optional upgrades include adaptive cruise control, forward collision warning, along with lane departure warning.
- Gas Mileage 7/10 – Fuel economy is okay at up to 22 MPG, giving 409 miles of range from the 18.6 gallon tank. Gas costs are $20 lower than average, at $260 per month.
- Value 8/10 – The 2019 Ford Explorer is cheaper than many other SUVs, while still being affordable to own, making it a decent value for shoppers on a budget.
Positive Owner Reviews
Negative Owner Reviews
What Do Critics Say About the Ford Explorer?
- Consumer Reports says the 2019 Ford Explorer offers a roomy cabin but still is in need of an update, with average owner satisfaction scores as it’s aged.
- Edmunds rates the Explorer at 3.9/5, praising the quiet cabin, but doesn’t like the cramped legroom in the third row.
- Kelley Blue Book users give the Explorer a 4.3/5, enjoying the advanced Sync 3 stereo system, but owners don’t like the poor off-road performance.
What Common Problems Does the 2019 Ford Explorer Have?
Common problems found on the 2019 Ford Explorer include paint chipping, fuel pump failures, as well as a shattered rear window in colder climates. Overall, these problems are similar to other large SUVs, leading to average repair costs as the 2019 Explorer ages.
Paint chipping is the most common complaint from owners on the 2019 Ford Explorer. There’s some thin paint on the front bumper and hood, which allows it to chip easily when hit by rocks. The only way to fix the problem is to repaint the affected areas, which costs around $1,000 per panel.
Fuel pump failures have also shown up on some Explorer models at around 20,000 miles. The pump simply overheats and wears out when the fuel level is low. Replacing the fuel pump is a fairly involved process, costing around $1,200 depending on local labor rates.
Shattered rear windows in colder climates also happen to some 2019 Explorer models in the first 15,000 miles. The rear window heater can heat up the glass too rapidly, which can cause it to shatter. Replacing the rear window costs around $650.
There are 2 recalls on the 2019 Ford Explorer, which is fewer than other large SUVs from the same year. The first recall covers the rear seat backs, which Ford will replace for free. The second recall covers the roof rails which can detach. Ford will install push-pins on the roof rails to hold them in place better.
How Long Will the 2019 Ford Explorer Last?
A well-maintained 2019 Ford Explorer can last around 250,000 miles, which is around 50,000 miles less than the ultra-long-lasting Toyota Sequoia. Regular annual maintenance costs are similar to other large SUVs, according to data provided by Repair Pal, at $530 per year.
As a used 2019 Ford Explorer reaches 100,000 miles, and depending on the vehicle history, owners should be prepared to replace the transmission brake shift interlock solenoid for $225, coolant temperature sensor costing $300, as well as the EVAP canister which costs around $500.
It is very reliable. I have not had any issues with it as of yet, except for the recall, which my car did not have an issue with.
It is very reliable so farm still fairly new but I have not experienced any issues with it. I do not foresee it giving me any problems in the near future, as with every vehicle maintenance is important to upkeep.
It's been great so far. Its battery drained fast while we lived out in the desert, but that is common in that harsh environment. The ford dealership replaced it and everything has been good ever since.
Yes! So reliable and everything has been easy to maintain. The car lets you know when it needs service.
No real problems so far but I have only had it for 3 months. The only issue so far is that one of the USB ports does not work all the time.
I haven't had a single problem yet. Starts great in cold weather. It heats up quick and drives great in snow.
Perfect for the first 1,500 miles. No issues of any kind. Usually expect some rattles or maybe is alignment but nothing like that. Nothing.
Very reliable vehicle. Have not encountered any problems yet. My Ford dealer as well as customer support are easily available if I have any issues.
How Is the Technology?
Standard entertainment technology is okay with a 4.2-inch central screen with Bluetooth connectivity. Optional upgrades are very good and include an 8-inch touchscreen with Sync 3, which has Apple CarPlay and Android Auto.
Safety technology is average compared to other SUVs with a standard rearview camera along with Ford MyKey, which sets speed and audio limits. Optional upgrades include driver assistance features such as front and rear parking sensors, a front-view parking camera, blind spot monitoring, rear cross traffic alert, lane departure warning, lane keep assist, adaptive cruise control, forward collision warning, as well as automatic parking assist.
Is the 2019 Ford Explorer a Good Value?
Yes, the 2019 Ford Explorer is a good value since it’s cheaper than most other full size SUVs while still being very reliable. The blue book fair purchase price ranges from $27,775 to $34,550, making it less than a Chevy Tahoe or Ford Expedition. When new, the price range was $32,365 to $54,165. Depreciation is similar to other SUVs, losing about 10% of its current value per year.
What are the Different Models of the Ford Explorer?
There are five models of the 2019 Ford Explorer available, from the entry-level Base all the way up to the luxurious Platinum. The Explorer is also offered with either front-wheel drive or all-wheel drive depending on the model.
Base is the entry-level model with:
- 18-Inch Wheels
- Cloth Seats
- Power-Adjustable Driver’s Seat
- Rearview Camera
- Bluetooth Connectivity
- Terrain Management System
- 2-Inch Central Display
- Six-Speaker Stereo
XLT is a step up, adding:
- Leather-Wrapped Steering Wheel
- Remote Keyless Entry
- Power-Adjustable Front Passenger Seat
- Satellite Radio
- 8-Inch Central Touchscreen
- Sync 3 Software
- Blind Spot Monitoring
- Adaptive Cruise Control
Limited is next in the lineup with:
- Leather Seating
- Heated and Ventilated Front Seats
- Power Tilt and Telescoping Steering Wheel
- Premium Audio System
- Heated Steering Wheel
- Hands Free Power Liftgate
- Power-Folding Third Row Seats
Sport adds features such as:
- Turbocharged V6 Engine
- Firmer Suspension
- Improved Steering
- Standard Towing Package
Platinum is the luxury model which has:
- Premium Leather Upholstery
- Power-Adjustable Pedals
- Automated Parking System
- Heated Second Row Seats
- Panoramic Sunroof
- Upgraded 12- Speaker Sony Premium Sound System
What Engines Come In the Ford Explorer?
- The base engine is an average 3.5L V6 which makes 290 horsepower while getting up to 20 MPG. All of the engines come standard with a six-speed automatic transmission.
- An available upgrade is the more efficient 2.3L EcoBoost four-cylinder, which makes 280 horsepower at up to 22 MPG.
- The flagship engine is the very powerful 3.5L EcoBoost V6 which produces 365 horsepower while getting 18 MPG. Performance is great, taking 6.4 seconds to go from 0-60 MPH.
What Colors Does the Ford Explorer Come In?
How Comfortable Is the Ford Explorer?
The 2019 Ford Explorer is a very comfortable full size SUV with seating for up to seven passengers depending on the configuration. Seating is very nice throughout the Explorer, offering high-quality materials with plenty of cushioning.
There’s plenty of passenger room in the Explorer, although there’s less legroom in the third row seat compared to some other large SUVs.
How Much Storage Space Does the Ford Explorer Have?
Cargo space is a bit lower than other full size SUVs with enough room for 4 suitcases behind the third row, 8-10 behind the second row, and over 15 with all of the seats folded flat.
What Are the Differences Between Years?
The fifth generation of the Ford Explorer was launched in 2011, and replaced by the sixth generation in 2020.
2015: The XLT model offers a new exterior styling package.
2016: Updated safety technology, 4-cylinder engine available, and minor styling changes.
2017: SYNC 3 infotainment system available replacing the older MyFord Touch system.
2018: Small exterior styling changes, 4G LTE hotspot added to all models.
2019: Minor package changes for the final model year of the fifth generation.
2020: Fully redesigned for the sixth generation with new styling, engines, and technology.
2021: Lower-priced ST model launched, new sport package offered on XLT model.
How Does the Ford Explorer Compare to the Competition?
The Ford Explorer is a nice SUV offering similar passenger room to a full size SUV in a slightly smaller wheelbase paired with good reliability ratings.
The Toyota Highlander is a slightly smaller SUV which costs around $5,000 more. Standard technology is much better in the Toyota Highlander, while the third row has more room in the Ford Explorer. We recommend the Toyota Highlander since they have higher long-term reliability ratings, although both are descent three-row SUVs.
The Dodge Durango is another large SUV, which is about $3,000 more. There’s more luxurious interior materials in the Dodge Durango, while the Ford Explorer has better reliability ratings. We recommend the Ford Explorer since there are fewer problems reported as it ages.
Do Owners Recommend the Ford Explorer?
Yes, there is a lot of legroom and it has perfect headspace and quality design. I would recommend it to anyone.
Yes, it is a great vehicle. I have had no problems with the Drivability of it and have heard very good things about the explorer holding it is value throughout the year.
Yes! We bought it when we found out we were having our third child. We needed a car that could comfortably hold three car seats, that was also not a minivan. After a lot of research we decided on this particular car.
Yes! Love the way it drives. It is quick and looks so sporty! Love the way it handles and the space that it gives our family.
Yes! I enjoy having the room for cargo, and it looks stylish. With the limited trim all the bells and whistles are included. The leather interior is a big plus.
It is great. I have never had a problem with it. It is definitely the best vehicle I have ever owned. Very reliable.
Amazingly great. Tight ride and quiet. The creature comforts are extensive and operate logically and second nature.
Yes. Built well and dependable. Handles rough roads well. Gives peace of mind during bad weather with all terrain tires and driving options.