Ford Explorer 2011-2019: what to know before you buy?

Now in its sixth generation, the Ford Explorer is a mainstay of the three-row midsize SUV segment and continues to be a best-seller. Its price has risen since 2020, so it's easy to understand why families decide to buy used.

Alternatively, if you're on a smaller budget, there's the older generation, marketed from 2011 to 2019. Here's what you need to know about it...

First of all, it has to be said that the Explorer's design changed radically back then. It's not all that different from the current model, with the possible exception of the grille and headlights. The SUV had also gained in refinement and versatility. There are seven standard seats inside, and cargo space ranges from 595 to 2,285 liters, depending on the position of the rear seatbacks.

Under the hood, you'll usually find a turbocharged 2.0-liter four-cylinder EcoBoost engine or a naturally-aspirated 3.5-liter V6. These deliver 240 and 290 hp respectively. The former was only available with front-wheel drive, while the latter, with optional all-wheel drive, could tow up to 5,000 lb (2,268 kg).

Ford added a rather muscular four-wheel-drive Sport version in 2013, equipping it with a 365-hp, 3.5-liter EcoBoost V6. Then, in 2016, aesthetic changes (especially to the front) were accompanied by a new 2.3-liter turbocharged four-cylinder producing 280 hp. This is the same engine currently on the menu but with a different power output.

In all cases, the gearbox is a six-speed automatic. With four-cylinder engines, expect an average fuel consumption of between 10 and 11 L/100 km. For the others, it varies roughly from 11.5 to 13 L/100 km.

If you're wondering which models have the least and which the most equipment, you should know that the Ford Explorer range was mainly made up of a basic version, then XLT, then Limited and Sport. An even more luxurious Platinum version was added at the end of the generation. Don't miss the two-panel panoramic roof and top-of-the-range leather seats.

Infotainment is provided by Ford's SYNC 3 system, generally considered more sophisticated and user-friendly than competitors' systems at the time. Safety features are also relatively plentiful overall.

Now it's time for quality and reliability. No fewer than 25 safety recalls have been issued for the 2011-2019 Explorer. Many of these concerned the steering and suspension, among other things. Others concerned parts or trim that could detach from the vehicle. Make sure that the corrective measures recommended by Ford have been taken.

Many Explorer owners have experienced problems with rust and peeling paint, premature wear of suspension parts, trouble with the touchscreen and, strangely enough, stories of rodents devouring the sheathing of certain wires made from a soy-based material. The 3.5-liter V6 also had a reputation for consuming a lot of oil and even breaking down in some cases.

Even so, Ford's SUV remains an attractive choice. You just have to make sure that the one you're interested in has been properly inspected and that you maintain it religiously.