Which year models of Ford Escape are safe to buy used?
(and which to avoid)
A great way to save money on a car is to buy used. However, it’s imperative that you do your homework before purchasing a used car. There are many things to look out for when buying a used car including the car’s reliability, repair costs, and frequent problems.
The Ford Explorer is one of the most reliable midsize SUVs out there available. If you’re considering purchasing a used Ford Explorer, below you’ll find some useful information on what to look out for to reduce the risk of purchasing an unreliable car.
Which year models of Ford Explorers are safe to buy used?
Based on the number and severity of user-submitted complaints about each year’s model of Ford Explorer, paired with the average mileage at which problems occur and the cost to fix them, we’ve put together a list of which used year models of Ford Explorers are safe to buy used.
The following years of Ford Explorers have fewer number of complaints, and the complaints against them tend to be less severe and cheaper to fix than the models mentioned below.
Year models that are safe to buy used:
- 2001
- 2007
- 2008
- 2009
- 2010
- 2011
- 2012
- 2013
- 2014
- 2015
- 2016
- 2017
- 2018
- 2019
- 2020
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Which year models of Ford Explorers to avoid buying used
We recommend you avoid purchasing the following year models of used Ford Explorer altogether as they have a high number of complaints.
Additionally, these model years have a high number of reported transmission issues, which are the biggest & most expensive problem common to the Explorer.
Avoid buying year models:
- 2002
- 2003
- 2004
- 2005
- 2006
Although the 2002 year model had an incredibly high number of complaints, the 2006 model is considered the worst from the bunch because of its higher repair costs that appear at a lower mileage. Owners complained of hard shifting and lunging. This problem had a severity rating of 7.9⁄10. On average, this issue appeared as low as 40k miles. Owners also complained of radiator leaks at around 60K miles. Many people complained about having to replace the radiator for leaks multiple times. Simply put, the 2002 and especially the 2006 models should be avoided completely.
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The most common problems with Ford Explorers: Transmission Failure
Cost to fix: $2,800
The transmission continues to be the Explorer’s biggest problem. Early detection of any issue can save you money and prevent further, more serious and/or life threatening repairs. The following are the most common signs of transmission failure:
- Transmission fluid leaking
- Burning smell
- Engine revving/transmission slipping
- Buzzing/shaking
- Delayed shifts or missing gears
How to avoid:
The moment you notice something unusual about your vehicle, it’s time to start coming up with a list of problems and solutions. This is even more true when it comes to the transmission as it can be a hassle and costly to fix. Catching transmission problems early can prevent any further damage. Following simple practices to help maintain your vehicle’s transmission is key. Some of these include:
- Checking fluid level
- Using the correct fluid
- Avoiding excess heat
- Install an auxiliary cooler
Other Common Used Ford Explorer Issues: Wheel bearing failure and panel cracking
Cost to fix:
Wheel Bearing Failure: $500-$1000
Panel Cracking: $450
Some owners of the 2002 model complained about their vehicle’s wheel bearing. Wheel bearings help reduce friction when the wheels spin. Some signs of faulty wheel bearings are humming with acceleration and clunking noises when your vehicle is in motion. When this happens, you have no choice but to replace the faulty bearings and any other components associated with it.
Another widely reported complaint for the 2002 model is cracking of the panel beneath the rear window. This is a noticeable problem as it usually goes through the Ford logo. Luckily, rear panels are widely viable today, so finding and replacing one shouldn’t be a hassle.
The easiest way to search for used Ford Explorer in your area
As long as you know what to avoid, the Ford Explorer is a popular and reliable compact SUV that will last you for years. For the easiest way to search for Ford Explorer in your area, check out the CoPilot car shopping app.
Tell us what you want in an Explorer and we’ll search all of the dealerships and in your area to put together a personalized list of best-buys - no more scrolling through hundreds of listings looking for a great deal.
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