Pre-purchase inspection checklist — 2019 Ford Explorer
The 2019 Ford Explorer has numerous recalls related primarily to structural and suspension issues, with significant owner complaints about structure and powertrain components. While there are 300 complaints, they're somewhat varied, making it difficult to pinpoint endemic problems without thorough inspection. It's crucial to verify these issues haven't been resolved when considering a used purchase.
NHTSA data on file today
The 2019 Ford Explorer has 6 NHTSA recall campaigns and 302 owner complaints on file as of . Recall data is refreshed daily from NHTSA.
NCAP overall rating: 5.0 out of 5 stars, averaged across 2 NHTSA-tested trims.
Recall campaigns on file
- NHTSA #26V448000 Roof Rail Covers May Detach NHTSA notice
- NHTSA #26V101000 Rear Suspension Toe Link Fracture NHTSA notice
- NHTSA #26V012000 Engine Block Heater May Short Circuit and Cause Fire NHTSA notice
- NHTSA #24V031000 Exterior A-Pillar Trim May Detach NHTSA notice
- NHTSA #21V316000 Roof Rail Covers May Detach NHTSA notice
- NHTSA #19V633000 Reduced Seat Back Strength/FMVSS 202 & 207 NHTSA notice
Most-cited components in owner complaints
- Structure 151 complaints
- Unknown or Other 49 complaints
- Power Train 35 complaints
- Electrical System 20 complaints
- Engine 19 complaints
- Fuel/Propulsion System 14 complaints
Of the 302 complaints on file, 2 report a crash; across all 302 complaints, owners report 6 injuries (owner-reported, not verified by NHTSA).
Known issues to inspect
Roof rail covers detaching
How to check: Examine roof rails for secure attachment.
Rear suspension toe link fracture
How to check: Inspect rear suspension for damage or unusual wear.
A-pillar trim detachment
How to check: Check A-pillar trim for secure clips.
Test-drive walkthrough
- 01
Cold start
What to check: Listen for unusual engine noises.
Red flag: Loud knocking or rattling sounds.
- 02
First minute idling
What to check: Check for excessive vibrations.
Red flag: Strong vibrations felt inside car.
- 03
City driving
What to check: Observe ride comfort and any noises.
Red flag: Clunking or poor suspension feel.
- 04
Smooth acceleration
What to check: Monitor for transmission smoothness.
Red flag: Harsh shifts or slipping felt.
- 05
Full stop
What to check: Test brake responsiveness and noise.
Red flag: Soft pedal or squealing brakes.
- 06
Highway acceleration
What to check: Assess engine power and response.
Red flag: Lack of power or hesitation.
- 07
Parking maneuvers
What to check: Check steering precision and noise.
Red flag: Difficulty steering or grinding noise.
Questions for the seller
Use this exact phrasing.
- Has the roof rail recall been addressed?
- Have rear suspension issues been fixed?
- Are there any ongoing electrical problems?
- Has the engine block heater been inspected?
- What repairs have been made recently?
Documents to request
Don't sign anything until you have these.
- Recall repair records
- Maintenance records
- Accident history report
- Title and registration
- Warranty documentation
Generated by gpt-4o on from the NHTSA recall campaigns and owner-complaint counts on file for the 2019 Ford Explorer at the time. AI output can be wrong; confirm anything you find with a mechanic.
Next step
Looking at a specific 2019 Ford Explorer? Check the actual car
This checklist covers the model. From your free try.vin dashboard you can go further — paste the seller's listing for a deal score, or drop their photos for an AI condition report.