Do all Explorers have roof racks?
No, not all Explorers have roof racks. While roof racks are a common feature on many SUVs and crossover vehicles, including the Ford Explorer, they are not a universal requirement or standard equipment on all Explorer models.
Exploring the Explorer's Roof Rack Options
The Ford Explorer is a popular midsize SUV that has been in production since the early 1990s. Over the years, the Explorer has been offered with a variety of roof rack configurations, ranging from basic crossbars to more advanced systems with integrated side rails and attachment points.
Some key points about roof racks on the Ford Explorer:
- Roof racks are available as optional equipment on many Explorer trims and model years, but are not standard on all versions.
- The availability and type of roof rack system can vary depending on the specific Explorer model, trim level, and model year.
- Higher-end Explorer trims, such as the Limited and Platinum, are more likely to come equipped with roof racks as standard features.
- Aftermarket roof rack systems can also be added to Explorers that do not have them from the factory.
So in summary, while roof racks are a common sight on Ford Explorers, they are not a universal requirement or standard feature across the entire model lineup. Buyers should check the specific details and options for the Explorer they are interested in to determine if it includes a roof rack system.
What's the difference between Explorer ST and Platinum?
The main difference is that the Explorer ST is a high-performance, sport-focused SUV, while the Platinum is a luxury-focused trim, despite both sharing the same powerful 400-horsepower engine and advanced tech. The ST features a sport-tuned suspension, sportier interior with suede inserts, red stitching, and performance elements like a black mesh grille and red brake calipers. The Platinum has a more luxurious feel with leather seats, satin chrome accents, a more comfortable suspension, and premium touches like illuminated sill plates.
Performance and handling
| Feature | Explorer ST | Explorer Platinum |
|---|---|---|
| Engine | 3.0L EcoBoost V6 with 400 hp and 415 lb-ft of torque | Standard 2.3L EcoBoost (300 hp) or optional 3.0L EcoBoost V6 (400 hp) |
| Suspension | Performance-tuned, firmer ride | Standard suspension, softer and more comfortable |
| Exhaust | Quad chrome exhaust tips | No quad exhaust tips (has dual tips) |
| Brakes | Performance brakes with red calipers | Standard brakes |
| Steering | Flat-bottom steering wheel with paddle shifters | No paddle shifters |
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Interior and exterior design
| Feature | Explorer ST | Explorer Platinum |
|---|---|---|
| Seating | ActiveX™ seating material with Miko® inserts and red stitching | Tri-diamond micro-perforated leather seats |
| Exterior Accents | Black gloss accents | Satin chrome and brushed aluminum accents |
| Grille | Black mesh grille | Wing design with satin chrome |
| Wheels | Matte gunmetal gray rims | Available dark alloy polished aluminum rims |
| Interior Trim | Matte dark gray and high gloss black trim | Real gray ash wood and high gloss black trim |
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Additional features
| Feature | Explorer ST | Explorer Platinum |
|---|---|---|
| Headlights | Standard | Adaptive LED headlamps |
| Sill Plates | "Ford Performance" sill plates | Illuminated brushed aluminum sill plates |
| Third-Row Seat Control | Manual lever to move third-row seat | Electric button to power-fold third-row seat |
| Sunblinds | Not standard | Second-row sunblinds |
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What Ford Explorers to stay away from?
Ford Explorer models to avoid include the 2002-2006 models, which are known for serious transmission and engine problems, and the 2020 model year, which had numerous recalls and quality control issues. Other problematic years include the 2016 due to recalls and poor construction, and some early 2021s built in 2020 due to manufacturing issues, although later 2021 models and the 2022 model are generally considered more reliable, despite 2022 receiving some criticism for ride quality and fuel economy.
This video explains why some model years of the Ford Explorer are more problematic than others: 56sAlex The Car DoctorYouTube · Mar 2, 2025
Specific years to avoid
- 2002-2006: The third generation of this model is notoriously unreliable, with widespread complaints about transmissions, engines, and electrical systems.
- 2016: This year had significant quality control issues, including faulty parts, poor assembly, and recalls for recalls for loose control arm bolts, seat belts, and airbags.
- 2020: The first year of the new design had quality control issues, including transmission problems, recalls, and poor fit and finish.
- 2022: While more reliable than earlier years, this model received a lukewarm reception from some reviewers due to a stiff ride, less-than-stellar fuel economy, and a lack of features compared to competitors.
Common issues in other model years
- 5th Generation (2011-2019): While generally more reliable than the third generation, some models experienced issues like premature wear on suspension components and water pump failures on the 3.5L engines.
- 6th Generation (2020-Present): Owners have reported problems such as premature failure of the CV axle boot, issues with the hub disconnect actuator, and rattling exhaust flex pipes.
Do all civilian explorers have roof rails?
Police Interceptor Utilities are typically manufactured without roof rails, while civilian Explorers come standard with them.
Which is better, Explorer XLT or Limited?
The main differences are that the Ford Explorer Limited is a more luxurious trim than the XLT, offering standard leather seats, heated and ventilated front seats, and more premium technology and safety features like a 12-speaker Bang & Olufsen sound system, voice-activated navigation, and a 360-degree camera. The XLT comes with cloth seats and standard first-row heated seats, and while it shares some safety features, the Limited adds more advanced ones.
You can watch this video to learn about the features of the XLT and Limited trims of the 2022 Ford Explorer: 1mBuild Your OwnYouTube · Jan 15, 2022
Ford Explorer XLT vs. Limited
| Feature | Ford Explorer XLT | Ford Explorer Limited |
|---|---|---|
| Seating | Standard cloth or optional ActiveX | Standard leather-trimmed |
| Front Seats | Standard first-row heated seats | Heated and ventilated front seats with driver memory |
| Second-Row Seats | Heated second-row seats are optional | Standard heated second-row seats |
| Technology | Standard 8-inch touchscreen, smart device app connections, and tri-zone auto climate control | Adds voice-activated navigation, 12-speaker Bang & Olufsen audio system, wireless charging pad, and hands-free power liftgate |
| Safety | Includes lane keeping, frontal collision avoidance, blind-spot detection, and rear cross-traffic sensing | Adds evasive steering assist, a 360-degree camera with split-view display, and adaptive cruise control |
| Exterior | Standard 18-inch wheels | Adds 20-inch premium aluminum wheels, LED fog lamps, and power-folding heated side mirrors with security approach lamps |
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Which one to choose?
- Choose the XLT if you want a capable and well-equipped SUV that is more budget-friendly, and you don't need the premium features of the Limited.
- Choose the Limited if you are looking for a more luxurious experience with enhanced comfort features like leather seats and ventilated front seats, plus more advanced technology and safety systems.
