Used Ford Explorer for Sale nearArcata, CA

How much does the Ford Explorer cost in today's market?

Used Ford Explorer prices span a wide range depending on model year. Here's what the market looks like right now:

The Ford Explorer's current nationwide average price is $25,546, and its nationwide average price reached a low of $24,592 over the past year. Recently, prices have come down for the 2023 and 2025 models, making now a good time to shop recent model years.

Is the Ford Explorer a good car?

Yes — the Ford Explorer is a strong pick if you want a roomy, versatile three-row SUV with broad trim and powertrain variety. The all-generations owner rating is 4.35/5 across every model year in the data.

Owners consistently praise the Explorer for its spacious interior, comfort, and strong performance. Reviewers also repeatedly highlight its practical cargo space, family-friendly versatility, and available high-tech features.

Expert reviews rate the 2025 and 2026 models among the highest across all years.

The main trade-offs that show up in recent expert reviews are interior fit and finish, styling that can feel plain, and pricing that rises quickly with options.

32.3% of listings are priced as good or great deals.

Are Ford Explorer models reliable?

Owners and experts consistently point to the Explorer’s comfort, strong performance, and practical cabin space as recurring strengths. The newest expert review also emphasizes a comfortable ride, confident handling, and a well-rounded driving character.

• Owners rate the Ford Explorer between 3.0 and 5.0 out of 5 stars across all model years in the data.

For used buyers, long-term ownership risk is best managed by focusing on newer, better-reviewed years and checking maintenance history carefully on older examples.

What should I look for when buying a used Ford Explorer?

Across all model years, accident-free inventory is solid at 80.9% — always verify the vehicle history report.

Older model years carry meaningfully higher accident rates, so always verify the vehicle history report on pre-2020 models.

Key things to evaluate:

• Safety package: CoPilot 360+ on Active models, with adaptive cruise control, lane centering, blind-spot monitoring, rear cross traffic alert, lane-keep assist, automatic emergency braking, rear parking sensors, rear cross traffic braking, post-collision braking, and traffic sign recognition.
• Infotainment: A 13.2-inch touchscreen and 12.3-inch digital instrument cluster with wireless Apple CarPlay/Android Auto connectivity, Google Maps, Google Play Store, and SiriusXM with 360L satellite radio.
• Fuel efficiency: The turbo-four engine returns an EPA-rated 24 mpg combined (20 mpg city; 29 mpg highway) with RWD and 23 mpg combined (20 mpg city; 27 mpg highway) with AWD. V6 models are rated at 21 mpg combined (18 mpg city; 25 mpg highway) with RWD and lose 1 mpg combined with AWD. Thanks to its all-terrain tires, the Tremor is rated at a lower 21 mpg combined (19 mpg city; 23 mpg highway) with the inline-four engine and 19 mpg combined (17 mpg city; 22 mpg highway) with the V6.

Which Ford Explorer trim should I buy?

The 2026 Ford Explorer offers these trims:

• Active: The base model, with cloth seats and the standard CoPilot 360+ safety suite; best if you want the entry point and value-focused setup.
• ST-Line: Adds blacked-out exterior trim and bigger wheels on lower-profile tires for a sportier look.
• Platinum: The most luxurious trim, with leather upholstery and a more upscale cabin.
• ST: Adds the twin-turbo 3.0-liter V6, sport-tuned suspension, and beefier brakes for the strongest on-road performance.
• Tremor: The off-road-focused model, with all-terrain tires, a raised ride height, off-road lights, a Torsen limited-slip rear differential, off-road drive mode, and steel skid plates.

What Ford Explorer do most buyers choose?

The Ford Explorer years with the most listings are 2022, 2024, and 2023.

Higher-volume years tend to be the most popular used picks because they give you more inventory to compare, which can make it easier to find the right trim, mileage, and price. They also often sit in the sweet spot between newer features and broader availability.

What is the Ford Explorer's resale value?

Most model years in the table are down year over year, which is good news if you're shopping used. The declines are especially pronounced in several recent and mid-cycle years, while a few years are falling more slowly or even edging up slightly.

The 2024 model year is holding steady, with prices close to flat year-over-year.

The 2024, 2023, and 2014 model years have held their value best, with the smallest year-over-year price changes.

Is the Ford Explorer safe?

• 2026: 10/10
• 2025: 9/10
• 2022: 10/10
• 2021: 9/10
• 2020: 8/10
• 2016: 5/10

The 2026 Explorer includes CoPilot 360+ on Active models, and higher trims add CoPilot 360 2.0 plus BlueCruise with automated lane-change capability.

For the safest used buy, the 2022 and 2026 models both post the highest confirmed score of 10/10.

Should I buy a used Ford Explorer now or wait for the next model?

Buy now if:

• Price trend: The 2025 model is at −11.4% versus a year ago, and the 2023 model is at −5.88%.
• Deal availability: The 2025 model has 33.9% good and great deals, and the 2023 model has 34.5%.
• Sweet-spot year: The 2022 model has the most listings at a current average price of $27,878. The Ford Explorer offers a roomy, flexible cabin that works well for families and everyday use.

Consider waiting if:

• Powertrain/efficiency: The standard 2.3-liter turbocharged four-cylinder engine produces 300 horsepower and 310 pound-feet of torque, while the twin-turbo 3.0-liter V6 produces 400 hp and 415 lb-ft of torque.
• Tech: A 13.2-inch touchscreen and 12.3-inch digital instrument cluster are standard on all models, along with wireless Apple CarPlay/Android Auto connectivity, Google Maps, Google Play Store, and SiriusXM with 360L satellite radio.
• Safety: Ford brought its BlueCruise hands-free highway driving system to the Explorer for the 2025 model year, and for 2026 it’s upgraded from version 1.2 to version 1.5, adding automated lane-change capability.
• Starting price: Pricing starts at $40,160 for the most basic Active 100A spec.

If you're buying used today, the 2022 model year offers the best mix of value and availability. If you want the latest tech and features, it may be worth waiting for the next model year's inventory to build up.

These recommendations are based on CarGurus' proprietary market data from September 22, 2026, CarGurus experts' opinions, and generative AI.

Compare 2027 Ford Explorer Trims

The 2027 Ford Explorer lineup offers a range of trims from budget-friendly options to performance-oriented models, all featuring versatile AWD capabilities.

• Starting at $65,050
• Most Popular: ST AWD

Trim Overview

Prices updated weekly from CarGurus listings.

Quick Compare Table

Listing prices sourced from CarGurus — updated weekly. OEM specs from manufacturer data.

Missing data displayed as "—".

Trim Deep Dives

Active RWD — "Who It's For"

The Active RWD is the pick for shoppers who want a budget-friendly SUV without paying for AWD. It's a solid choice for city driving.

• Avg. market price: $71,921 (updated weekly)
• Inventory: 434 listings
• View Active RWD listings

Active AWD — "Who It's For"

The Active AWD is the pick for shoppers who want all-wheel drive without a hefty price tag. It's ideal for families needing extra traction.

• Avg. market price: $71,921 (updated weekly)
• Inventory: 812 listings
• View Active AWD listings

ST-Line RWD — "Who It's For"

The ST-Line RWD is the pick for shoppers who want a well-equipped SUV without the AWD premium. It offers a balanced mix of features.

• Avg. market price: $71,921 (updated weekly)
• Inventory: 416 listings
• View ST-Line RWD listings

ST-Line AWD — "Who It's For"

The ST-Line AWD is the pick for shoppers who want AWD with a good feature set at a competitive price. It's a versatile family vehicle.

• Avg. market price: $65,050 (updated weekly)
• Inventory: 1,735 listings — widest selection in the lineup
• View ST-Line AWD listings

Police Interceptor Utility AWD — "Who It's For"

The Police Interceptor Utility AWD is the pick for shoppers who need a rugged SUV with utility-grade features. It's designed for demanding use.

• Avg. market price: $71,921 (updated weekly)
• Inventory: 666 listings
• View Police Interceptor Utility AWD listings

Tremor AWD — "Who It's For"

The Tremor AWD is the pick for shoppers who want off-road capability without sacrificing comfort. It's a great choice for adventure seekers.

• Avg. market price: $71,921 (updated weekly)
• Inventory: 144 listings — lower availability; may limit negotiating room
• View Tremor AWD listings

Platinum AWD — "Who It's For"

The Platinum AWD is the pick for shoppers who want luxury features in an SUV. It combines comfort with advanced technology for a premium experience.

• Avg. market price: $71,921 (updated weekly)
• Inventory: 1,589 listings — widest selection in the lineup
• View Platinum AWD listings

ST AWD — "Who It's For"

The ST AWD is the pick for shoppers who want a powerful SUV with performance features. It's the most popular trim for those seeking excitement.

• Avg. market price: $78,792 (updated weekly)
• Inventory: 2,862 listings — widest selection in the lineup
• View ST AWD listings

Trim Recommendations

Most Popular — ST AWD

With 2,862 active listings, the ST AWD is the clear volume leader in the lineup.

Browse ST AWD listings

Best Budget Option — ST-Line AWD

At $65,050 avg market price — below the lineup median of $71,921 — it's the most accessible entry point.

Browse ST-Line AWD listings

These recommendations are based on CarGurus' proprietary market data from September 24, 2026, CarGurus experts' opinions, and generative AI.