Does the Ford Explorer hold its value?
Yes. The Ford Explorer generally holds its value reasonably well for a non-luxury, three-row SUV, though it doesn’t lead the segment.
Resale performance for the Explorer depends on year, trim, mileage, and current demand for family-oriented SUVs. This article reviews how value retention is measured, how the Explorer stacks up against rivals, and practical strategies to protect resale value, using the latest data available through 2024–2025.
How resale value is measured
Several metrics guide resale value, including how much value a vehicle loses over time, the remaining value after a certain number of years, and how much buyers are willing to pay in used-car markets.
- 3-year depreciation as a gauge of short-term value retention
- 5-year depreciation to compare mid-term resale potential
- Residual value projections and typical auction/discounted-sale prices
- Used-vehicle demand indicators such as supply, market timing, and return-to-market speed
Together, these indicators help frame how well the Explorer retains value relative to peers in the non-luxury, family-SUV segment.
Explorer's value retention in context
Industry data through 2024–2025 suggests the Explorer typically loses a substantial portion of its original price over five years, placing it near the mid-pack among mainstream midsize SUVs. It generally trails class leaders such as the Toyota Highlander and Honda Pilot in resale strength, but it often performs better than some lower-volume or older-model rivals. Model-year, condition, and mileage are especially influential in how close a given Explorer sits to the overall band.
Key drivers of depreciation for the Explorer
Several factors can accelerate or slow depreciation for the Explorer, depending on market conditions and vehicle history.
- Model-year and generation differences, including redesigns and powertrain updates
- Mileage accumulated and maintenance history, including timely service and recalls
- Desirability of trim and options (e.g., all-wheel drive, third-row seating, advanced safety tech)
- Competition from other family SUVs and shifts in fuel prices or consumer preferences
Understanding these drivers helps buyers choose a model year and configuration that maximize future resale value, and helps current owners maintain records and condition to protect value.
Value vs rivals: how the Explorer stacks up
A quick comparative snapshot shows where the Explorer tends to sit within its class when it comes to value retention.
- The Toyota Highlander and Honda Pilot have historically held resale value slightly better than the Explorer in many cycles, especially for well-maintained, popular configurations.
- The Explorer often sits near the class average for depreciation among mainstream three-row SUVs, performing well relative to budget-focused models but not consistently leading the pack.
- Rivals like the Nissan Pathfinder and Chevrolet Traverse generally offer competitive resale prospects, with outcomes tied closely to year, mileage, and condition.
Bottom line: the Explorer remains a solid choice in its segment for resale value, but it does not universally outrun the top performers from Toyota and Honda.
Practical tips to maximize resale value
Whether you own or plan to buy an Explorer, following resale-minded practices can help preserve value over time.
- Choose a widely desirable trim with strong option packages and avoid highly customized configurations
- Keep thorough maintenance records and address recalls promptly to demonstrate reliability
- Maintain low to moderate mileage and avoid excessive wear, especially on the interior and drivetrain components
- Protect the exterior and interior condition (mats, coatings, paint touch-ups) to minimize cosmetic depreciation
- Stay current with preventive maintenance and document all service intervals at official dealerships or trusted shops
- Refresh tires and brakes as needed to avoid outlier maintenance costs at resale time
By prioritizing these practices, owners can help preserve a higher portion of the Explorer's original value when it comes time to sell or trade in.
What to consider when buying used Explorer with value in mind
When evaluating a used Explorer for resale potential, focus on the model year, mileage, and overall condition. Newer generations with updated powertrains and tech tend to hold value better, while very high-mileage examples may require more aggressive price adjustments. A vehicle with complete maintenance records and a clean history typically commands a stronger resale price than a similarly equipped but poorly documented unit.
Summary
The Ford Explorer generally holds its value solidly for a non-luxury, three-row SUV, but it typically does not lead the class for resale value. Its depreciation is influenced by year, mileage, trim desirability, and overall market demand for family crossovers. Compared with top rivals like the Toyota Highlander and Honda Pilot, the Explorer offers competitive retention but benefits most from prudent buying choices, meticulous maintenance, and careful handling to maximize resale outcomes. For buyers and owners alike, prioritizing well-maintained, lower-mileage examples with popular configurations remains the best strategy to protect value over time.
What year to stay away from Ford Explorer?
You should generally stay away from 2002–2006 Ford Explorers due to widespread transmission failures and other issues like engine and suspension problems. Other years with significant problems include 2016, with a large recall involving faulty fuel tanks and suspension components, and 2020, which had many recalls and customer complaints.
2002–2006 models
- These models are widely considered the least reliable, with a major reputation for transmission failures that can be very expensive to fix.
- Owners also reported engine problems (like timing chain and head gasket issues), suspension wear, and electrical malfunctions.
Other years to approach with caution
- 2016: This year had a recall involving faulty suspension components and a fuel tank.
- 2020: This model year had a high number of recalls and complaints, including issues with the transmission, power loss, and a potential rollaway defect.
- 2008: This model year is also listed by some sources as a year to avoid due to low owner satisfaction scores and recalls.
Does the Ford Explorer have a good resale value?
When you buy a used Ford Explorer, you're also getting a vehicle with excellent resale value. Ford SUVs, especially the Explorer, are known to hold their value well over time. That means when you're ready for your next vehicle, your Explorer can still provide a strong trade-in return.
What Ford holds its value the best?
Market data consistently shows that models such as the Ford F-150 and Ford Bronco remain in high demand. Their lasting popularity, safety ratings, and innovative features contribute to their strong reputation for retaining value.
What is the #1 most depreciating car?
Cars That Hold Their Value Worst
- Jagur I-Pace: 72.2% Depreciation.
- BMW 7 Series: 67.1% Depreciation.
- Tesla Model S: 65.2% Depreciation.
- Infiniti QX80: 65.0% Depreciation.
- Maserati Ghibli: 64.7% Depreciation.
- BMW 5 Series: 64.7% Depreciation.
- Nissan Leaf: 64.1% Depreciation.
- Maserati Levante: 63.7% Depreciation.
