2014 Ford Explorer — should you buy one?

Why people love the 2014 Ford Explorer

The 2014 Explorer's 3.5-liter EcoBoost V6 paired with the six-speed SelectShift transmission delivers 290 horsepower and feels genuinely quick for a three-row SUV, especially off the line. Owners keep these because the third row actually folds flat enough to haul plywood, and the panoramic moonroof makes the cabin feel less boxlike than competitors from that year. The independent rear suspension soaks up highway bumps better than body-on-frame rivals, which shows up as fewer lower-back complaints on long drives.

Common complaints and known issues

Transmission shudder and hesitation between 60k and 100k miles is the most common gripe—the SelectShift needs recalibration or fluid replacement, sometimes both. Panoramic moonroofs start leaking around 80k miles, pooling water in the headliner and rear cargo area. At 90k–120k miles, the front door latch mechanism fails intermittently, leaving doors stuck or rattling. Paint peeling on the roof and hood shows up by 70k miles, especially in high-UV climates. NHTSA has logged multiple complaints about transmission slipping during acceleration and infotainment touchscreen freezing.

Typical asking price

Under 80k miles: $18,500–$23,000. 80k–140k miles: $14,000–$18,500. Over 140k miles: $9,500–$13,000. Price spread widens significantly based on service history (transmission work drops value 15–20%), accident reports, and whether the moonroof has leaked. Midwest examples tend to run $1,000–$2,000 cheaper than comparable vehicles in the Southwest.

Ranges are typical 2026 asking prices, not appraisals. The actual fair offer depends on this specific car's title history, accident record, and open recalls — which is what EstimateProof tells you.