2024 Ford Explorer used buying checklist

Test for the problems owners report most

The most reported problems of this model year, with what to look for on the test drive.

• Driver assistance and stability4 owner complaints

  Try the driver-assistance features on the road and watch for false alerts or sudden braking.

• Suspension3 owner complaints

  Drive over bumps and listen for clunks or rattles. Look for uneven tire wear.

• Windows, wipers and visibility3 owner complaints

  Test the wipers, washers, defrosters and every window. Look for chips or cracks in the windshield.

• Airbags2 owner complaints

  Make sure the airbag warning light turns off after start-up, and that every airbag recall was completed.

Make sure these recalls were done

Recall repairs are free at any dealer of the brand. Ask the seller for proof, or have a dealer check the VIN.

• SeatsRecall number 26V451000, Jul 14, 2026
• Power trainRecall number 26V371000, Jun 9, 2026
• Seat beltsRecall number 26V159000, Mar 17, 2026
• Back over preventionRecall number 26V123000, Mar 3, 2026
• EquipmentRecall number 26V012000, Jan 15, 2026
• Trailer hitchesRecall number 25V687000, Oct 10, 2025
• Back over preventionRecall number 25V442000, Jun 27, 2025
• SeatsRecall number 25V393000, Jun 13, 2025
• EquipmentRecall number 24V852000, Nov 8, 2024
• Electrical systemRecall number 24V685000, Sep 13, 2024

Service bulletins worth asking about

Repair instructions the maker sent to dealers for known problems. Ask whether any of these repairs were done.

• Sunshield with localized bunching or binding/inoperativeAug 5, 2026
• This bulletin supersedes 25-2213May 19, 2026
• Rattle/clunk/knock noise from the front suspension at low speeds between 830 mph (1348 km/h) over...May 7, 2026
• Inoperative blind spot monitoring with a "Blind Spot System Fault" message displayed in the instrument...Oct 21, 2025

Before you pay

• Decode the VIN and make sure it matches the title, the registration and the car itself.
• Get a vehicle history report to check for accidents, salvage or flood titles and odometer problems.
• Ask for service records, especially oil changes and any transmission fluid service.
• Start the car from cold, and drive it at city and highway speeds for at least 20 minutes.
• Have an independent mechanic inspect the car before you sign anything.