Used Ford Explorer for Sale near San Marcos, CA

Summary

• With 9,620 currently listed for sale on CarGurus and an average price of $25,153.00, 34.5% of 2021 Ford Explorers for sale on CarGurus are rated as good or great deals.
• Favorably reviewed: Owners rated the 2021 Ford Explorer 4.8 / 5 stars and CarGurus experts gave it an 7.5 / 10.
• 81.8% of 2021 Explorer models on CarGurus are accident free.
• The 2021 Ford Explorer featured a robust 300-horsepower 2.3L EcoBoost engine, balancing performance and efficiency for versatile driving experiences.

Why it stands out

The 2021 Ford Explorer stands out in the competitive midsize SUV market with its robust performance options, including a surprisingly powerful 2.3-liter EcoBoost four-cylinder and an exhilarating 400-horsepower ST variant. Its sixth-generation design offers a spacious three-row seating layout and advanced safety features, such as the Ford Co-Pilot360 suite, ensuring both comfort and security for families. Additionally, the Explorer's exclusive rear-wheel drive platform enhances handling dynamics while providing a smooth ride, making it a compelling choice for those seeking versatility and refinement in their SUV.

Other model years to consider

The Ford Explorer model years 2017, 2018, and 2020 offer solid value for buyers seeking affordability and quality. With average prices below $23,000 for the 2017 and 2018 models, these vehicles maintain high user ratings of 4.6/5 and 4.5/5 respectively, making them attractive options for budget-conscious consumers. Additionally, the availability of good deals—around 33-37%—across these model years enhances their appeal by providing greater inventory advantages while ensuring a dependable driving experience.

Model years to approach with caution

Buyers considering the Ford Explorer should carefully evaluate model years based on user feedback and market positioning. For instance, while the 2004 model stands out with a high user rating of 4.3/5, it also has an extremely low percentage of good/great deals at 99%, suggesting potential value concerns. Additionally, both the 2007 and 2008 models received consistent ratings of 4.2/5 but also reflect a similar trend in deal quality, indicating that buyers may want to weigh user satisfaction against market availability and pricing to ensure they are making informed decisions.

These recommendations are based on CarGurus' proprietary market data from January 6, 2026, CarGurus experts' opinions, and generative AI.