2019 Ford Explorer: True Cost of Ownership (5-Year Breakdown)
The 2019 Ford Explorer is a three-row midsize SUV that blends family-hauling practicality with available V6 performance, making it a popular used buy for growing families and road-trip regulars alike. At roughly $26,000 on the used market, it sits at an accessible price point, but the true cost of ownership tells a more nuanced story worth understanding before you sign.
Monthly cost breakdown
The 2019 Explorer has already absorbed its steepest depreciation curve, losing roughly 50-55% of its original MSRP by now, which actually benefits used buyers; however, it will still shed another $8,000-$10,000 in value over a 5-year used ownership period from a $26,000 purchase price.
Pros
- Already past peak depreciation, so the $26,000 entry price represents strong per-dollar utility for a 3-row SUV
- Available 365-hp EcoBoost V6 delivers truck-like towing (up to 5,000 lbs) without a truck's fuel penalty
- Strong parts availability and widespread Ford dealer/independent shop familiarity keeps labor costs competitive
- Standard safety features including blind spot monitoring and cross-traffic alert on most trims add long-term value
Cons
- EPA-rated 17 city / 24 highway mpg on the 3.5L EcoBoost means fuel costs are consistently above average, adding up to roughly $11,700 over 5 years at current gas prices
- Repair frequency is higher than segment rivals like the Toyota Highlander, with average annual repair costs around $1,200-$1,600 on older units
- Reliability ratings from J.D. Power and Consumer Reports for this generation are below average, increasing the risk of unplanned repair bills
- Cargo space with all three rows up is tight at 21 cubic feet, a practical limitation that frustrates some owners compared to newer rivals
Common problems to watch for
- 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
The verdict
The 2019 Ford Explorer at $26,000 is a reasonable but not exceptional cost-of-ownership proposition — you get a lot of SUV for the money, but above-average repair frequency and thirsty engines keep monthly costs firmly in the $800+ range. Shoppers who prioritize reliability and lower running costs should cross-shop the Toyota Highlander or Honda Pilot before committing. If you do choose the Explorer, budget a $1,500-$2,000 contingency fund for the known issues and ensure any open recalls, especially the exhaust intrusion fix, have been completed.
Best for: Budget-conscious families who need occasional third-row seating and light towing capability and are comfortable with Ford dealer maintenance networks.
Frequently asked questions
Is the 2019 Ford Explorer reliable enough to buy used?
It's considered below-average in reliability for its class, scoring around 2.5 out of 5 on RepairPal, with higher-than-average repair frequency. It's manageable but expect more shop visits than you'd see with a Highlander or Pilot.
How many miles per gallon does the 2019 Ford Explorer get?
The base 2.3L EcoBoost gets around 20 mpg combined, while the popular 3.5L EcoBoost averages about 19 mpg combined; real-world figures with a family load tend to run 1-2 mpg lower than EPA estimates.
What is the towing capacity of a 2019 Ford Explorer?
The 3.5L EcoBoost V6 can tow up to 5,000 lbs when properly equipped, making it suitable for small boats, jet skis, and pop-up campers — a genuine strength of this model.
How much does it cost to insure a 2019 Ford Explorer?
Average annual insurance for a 2019 Explorer runs approximately $1,650-$1,750 for a typical driver, though this varies widely by state, driving record, and coverage level.
Has the exhaust fumes recall been fixed on 2019 Explorers?
Ford issued a software fix and body sealing repair under a Technical Service Bulletin and recall program; always run the VIN through NHTSA.gov before purchase to confirm all recalls are completed on any specific vehicle.
What is the resale value of a 2019 Ford Explorer after 5 more years?
From a $26,000 purchase price today, expect the 2019 Explorer to be worth approximately $14,000-$16,000 in five years at 72,000 miles, representing roughly $10,000-$12,000 in total depreciation over that period.
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Estimates are AI-generated guidance based on typical costs for this year, make and model.