5 Model Years to Look for in a Used Ford Explorer

Shopping for used vehicles can take a lot of work. When you’re looking for something like a used SUV, it’s fun to have so many options and choices available to you, but it can also become a bit overwhelming. Even if you’ve narrowed down your options to a specific model such as the used Ford Explorer, there are still a few decades of potential models to choose from, plus numerous trims and other available features to consider.

While we can’t precisely tell you just what you need – since everyone’s needs are a bit different – we can take a little time to give you some advice and point you in the right direction. Today, we thought it would be helpful to go over certain model years you should keep an eye out for when shopping for a used Ford Explorer, so you have a better sense of what’s available. To keep things simple, we’re going to stick to just the last couple of generations and the model years within them and narrow our sights to those that are really ideal. So without further ado, let’s get into it.

First: A Look at Ford Explorer Generations

Before we get into some specific years of used Ford Explorers for you to check out, we should take a brief moment to discuss the different generations of the Explorer. If you go all the way back, the first generation of the Ford Explorer, it started with the 1991 model year when the Explorer was first introduced. At that time, it was a midsize SUV with a body-on-frame design using a truck platform. This first generation went through 1994, with the second generation from 1995 to 2001, the third generation from 2002 to 2005, and the fourth generation from 2006 to 2010.

The models we’re going to look at start with the fifth generation, however, which kicked off with the model year 2011. Fifth generation models span from 2011 to 2019, so most of the used Ford Explorers you find at dealerships will be from this generation. The sixth generation started in 2020 with a number of new features and changes, but we’ll get to that in due time.

#1 2011 Ford Explorer

It should come as no surprise that the first model year you should keep an eye out for when shopping for a used Ford Explorer is 2011. As we mentioned, 2011 was the first year for the fifth generation of the Ford Explorer, and that is exactly why it is something to watch for. There were quite a few changes for the fifth generation, including a unibody design rather than the body-on-frame architecture from before; that makes 2011 models crossover SUVs.

The fully redesigned 2011 Ford Explorer has three trims available starting with the base model, which features 17-inch wheels, integrated blind spot mirrors, and a six-speaker sound system. If you find a model with the XLT trim, then you get 18-inch wheels, upgraded cloth upholstery, and a leather-wrapped steering wheel and shift knob. Available options on the XLT include a rearview camera, dual-zone automatic climate control, and an eight-speaker sound system, so keep that in mind. Finally, the Limited trim features 20-inch wheels, keyless ignition and entry, remote engine start, and a 12-speaker sound system.

In terms of power, the standard engine on a used Ford Explorer is a 3.5L V6 that delivers up to 290 hp and 255 lb-ft of torque. This comes paired with a 6-speed automatic transmission for some pretty fluid and responsive driving overall. Front-wheel drive is standard, but with four-wheel drive available, that’s something to watch for if you want a model with a bit more off-road potential and greater overall functionality. Since the 2011 model was redesigned as a crossover, it offers more responsive driving compared to previous models and better cornering.

#2 2012 Ford Explorer

Since we just said the 2011 model is a great choice when looking for a used Ford Explorer, it might seem silly to turn around and say 2012 is also a good one to look for. While the start of a new generation is exciting, the reality is that the first year can also be a period of growth and learning. Even after a long development process and expert manufacturing, there can still be bugs to sort out since production over the course of a generation is an iterative process.

So a used Ford Explorer from 2012 can give you all of the great features you can find on 2011 models, but without some of the bugs that might have popped up. Beyond that, a turbocharged 4-cylinder engine became available in 2012, delivering up to 240 hp and 270 lb-ft of torque. So you do get a bit more engine variety when looking at the 2012 Ford Explorer models.

#3 2013 Ford Explorer

Three in a row? Yes, but with good reason. Starting in 2013, a fourth trim became available for the Ford Explorer, making this a great year to choose if you really want a lot of options. The Sport trim has a performance focus with a turbocharged engine and a sport-tuned suspension to offer a more exhilarating overall driving experience.

Beyond this new trim, 2013 modes also had options for a heated, power tilt-and-telescoping steering wheel. Plus, a lane departure warning with lane-keep assist became available for the Limited trim.

#4 2016 Ford Explorer

The Ford Explorer received a facelift and a mid-generation refresh in 2016, making it one of the best years to look for as you consider used models. Although the standard 3.5L V6 engine remained the same for 2016, the available engine changed to a much more impressive turbocharged 2.3L engine that delivers up to 270 hp and 300 lb-ft of torque while offering excellent fuel economy.

A new trim was also introduced for 2016: the high-end Platinum trim that became the latest pinnacle for this model. If you find a used Ford Explorer Platinum from 2016, expect to get automatic high beams and wipers, an auto-dimming driver-side mirror, automatic parallel and perpendicular parking, and much more. A dual-panel sunroof, LED fog lights, and adaptive cruise control are all standard on the Platinum, making it a truly exceptional driving experience.

#5 2018 Ford Explorer

There was another, somewhat less dramatic, facelift for the Ford Explorer in 2018, making used models from this year an excellent choice. This year refreshed the front end and made some changes to the LED headlights and fog lights, along with new options for the interior and exterior design. Overall, the refresh for 2016 was much more extensive, but 2018 models are a fantastic option, and you can find them just coming off a lease.

A Little About the 2020 Ford Explorer

As 2020 is the start of the sixth generation, this is a fully redesigned, all-new model that is one of the most impressive used Ford Explorers you can find. Since this is such a recent year, you might not find a huge number of them available used just yet, but that doesn’t mean you shouldn’t keep an eye out for them in the future. Five trims are available on 2020 models: starting with the base model, then moving up to the XLT, going up to the Limited with leather interior features, the Sport has been replaced by a performance-focused ST trim, and the Platinum remains the pinnacle trim with incredible features inside and out.

Visit DePaula Ford

We hope this has given you some ideas of model years to look for when checking out used Ford Explorers, but if you still have questions, then we’d be happy to help. Call or visit us at DePaula Ford and let us help you find the perfect SUV with everything you need.