Dealer visit checklist
2018 Ford Explorer checklist
Print it or keep it on your phone. Tick each item as you go so nothing gets missed.
Inspect the car
- Check every panel gap and look for mismatched paint (signs of past accident repair)
- Look at the tires: even wear, matching brands, at least 4/32" tread
- Check under the car and engine bay for oil, coolant or other leaks
- Start the engine cold; listen for knocks, ticks or squeals and watch for smoke
- Test every window, lock, seat, light, the A/C, heat and infotainment
- Test drive on city streets and highway: straight braking, smooth shifts, no pulling
- Ask for the service records and a vehicle history report
- Have an independent mechanic do a pre-purchase inspection (about $100–$200)
Known 2018 Ford Explorer problems to check
- Transmission shudder or hesitation is a widely reported issue on 2018 Explorers, particularly with the 6-speed automatic — a fluid change with Mercon LV can help but some units need deeper repairs
- Police-reported cabin CO/exhaust smell entering through the HVAC system was subject to a Ford investigation and TSBs; check that any TSB fixes have been applied before buying
- Panoramic sunroof rattles and occasional seal leaks are common complaints, especially in higher-trim models like the Platinum
- Power running board motor failures are reported on equipped trims, with replacement costs ranging $400-$800
- Coolant leaks from the degas bottle or radiator hose connections have appeared on higher-mileage examples and should be inspected at purchase
Ask: have these recalls been fixed?
- SEATS:FRONT ASSEMBLY:RECLINER: Ford Motor Company (Ford) is recalling certain 2018-2020 F-150 and 2019-2020 F-250, F-350, F-450, and F-550 Super Duty pickup trucks, and 2018-2019 Ford Explorer, 2019-2020 Expedition, and 2020 Escape vehicles equipped with driver and/or passenger's manual front seat back recliner mechanisms.
- FUEL SYSTEM, GASOLINE: Ford Motor Company (Ford) is recalling certain 2018 Ford Explorer vehicles equipped with 2.3L or 3.5L GTDI engine.
- STRUCTURE:BODY: Ford Motor Company (Ford) is recalling certain 2016-2019 Explorer vehicles.
- STRUCTURE:BODY:ROOF AND PILLARS: Ford Motor Company (Ford) is recalling certain 2011-2019 Explorer vehicles.
- EQUIPMENT:ELECTRICAL:ENGINE BLOCK HEATER: Ford Motor Company (Ford) is recalling certain 2016-2019 Lincoln MKC, 2016-2023 Explorer, 2019-2020 Fusion, 2019-2024 Ranger, 2020-2022 Lincoln Corsair, Escape, 2021-2024 Bronco, Bronco Sport, and 2022-2024 Maverick vehicles.
- SUSPENSION:REAR: Ford Motor Company (Ford) is recalling certain 2017-2019 Explorer vehicles.
- STRUCTURE:BODY: Ford Motor Company (Ford) is recalling certain 2016-2019 Explorer vehicles.
Negotiate the price
- Know the typical price: about $24,500 for this model year
- Negotiate the out-the-door price, not the monthly payment
- Get the full price with every fee listed in writing before you sign
- Bring your own loan pre-approval so the dealer has a rate to beat
- Say no to add-ons you didn't ask for (paint protection, VIN etching, nitrogen tires)
- Negotiate your trade-in separately, after the car's price is agreed
- Be ready to walk away; another listing is usually a click away