Dealer visit checklist

2019 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 2019 Ford Explorer problems to check

  • Transmission hesitation and shudder on the 6-speed automatic, a well-documented issue that may require a fluid change or valve body repair
  • Carbon buildup on intake valves of the 3.5L EcoBoost engine due to direct injection, potentially causing rough idle and misfires around 60,000-80,000 miles
  • Exhaust fumes intrusion into the cabin, a recall-era issue (covered under NHTSA investigations) that some owners still report on unrepaired units — always verify recall completion
  • AC compressor and blend door actuator failures are common and can run $400-$900 to fix
  • Rear liftgate strut and power liftgate motor failures reported frequently, typically a $150-$300 repair

Ask: have these recalls been fixed?

  • STRUCTURE:BODY: Ford Motor Company (Ford) is recalling certain 2016-2019 Explorer vehicles.
  • 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.
  • 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 2016-2018 Focus, 2019 Explorer, and 2024 Explorer 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 $26,000 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

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