- The Real Owner Experience
- Is the 2018 Explorer Good Value Now?
- Buying Tips for Used 2018 Explorers
- Tech & Safety Features Breakdown
- FAQ
Thinking about a 2018 Ford Explorer?Get honest owner reviews on its ride, space, and value. Find out if this popular SUV is right for you.
The Real Owner Experience
Many drivers have strong opinions about the 2018 Ford Explorer. It's a large SUV, and people like some things a lot. But there are also things that bother them. Here's a closer look at what stands out from owners talking about this popular car. Understanding these points can help you decide if a used 2018 Ford Explorer is the right vehicle for you and your family.
Key Things People Like
Owners highlight many positive aspects of the 2018 Ford Explorer. These features make it a strong choice for families or anyone needing a capable and comfortable SUV.
Smooth Ride Comfort:Drivers often say the ride is very smooth. It handles city bumps and rough roads well, so you feel less shaken up. On long highway trips, the 2018 Ford Explorer feels stable and comfortable. This makes it a good car for journeys across the country or just daily commutes in the city.
Useful Space Inside:The Explorer offers plenty of room. You can fit up to seven adults, though the third row is better for shorter rides. There's also lots of space for luggage, groceries, or sports gear. The seats are easy to fold down. This creates a really large cargo area when you need to carry big items. It's a truly versatile SUV for families.
Strong Engine Choices:The 2018 Ford Explorer comes with different engine options. The standard engine is a 2.3-liter four-cylinder. It works well for daily driving and getting around town. If you need more power, there's a V6 engine option. This engine makes the Explorer feel much quicker. It’s great for passing on highways or when the car is full. The Sport model, with its more powerful engine, offers an even more spirited drive.
Easy Tech Use:The technology inside the 2018 Ford Explorer is straightforward. Owners find the touchscreen simple to use. The buttons are also placed logically. This means you won't spend a lot of time trying to figure things out. It's designed to be user-friendly for everyone.
Common Complaints
While there's much to like, owners also voice some common complaints about the 2018 Ford Explorer. These are important to consider if you're looking at buying one.
Fuel Bills:This SUV uses more fuel than many newer cars. This is especially true for models with the V6 engine. Because it's a large and heavy car, it needs more gas. So, your fuel costs might be higher than what you're used to with smaller, more efficient vehicles. This is a common point in many 2018 Ford Explorer reviews.
Slow Screen Response:Some owners feel the main display screen is not very fast. It can take a moment to respond when you touch it. This might be a little frustrating if you're used to very quick smartphone-like screens in newer cars.
Noisy Driving:When you push the 2018 Ford Explorer hard, like accelerating quickly or going uphill, the engine can sound loud. Some drivers find this engine noise a bit much, especially at higher speeds or when trying to gain speed quickly.
Is the 2018 Explorer Good Value Now?
Even a few years later, the 2018 Ford Explorer can be a great buy. It offers a lot for its price. Many car buyers in the UAE and Saudi Arabia look for good value, and this model delivers.
Price Range Today
Prices for a used 2018 Ford Explorer can vary. This depends on its condition, how many miles it has, and its trim level. Here's a general idea of what you might expect:
Condition | Approx. Price Range |
|---|---|
Well-Used | AED XX,XXX / SAR XX,XXX |
Low Miles | AED XX,XXX / SAR XX,XXX |
Top Trim Model | AED XX,XXX / SAR XX,XXX |
*Note:These are estimated prices and can change based on market conditions, vehicle history, and specific features. |
Why it still sells
The 2018 Ford Explorer remains a popular choice in the used car market for several good reasons:
Less expensive than newer models:Buying a pre-owned 2018 Ford Explorer means you save a good amount of money compared to a brand new car. It's a smart choice for your budget, getting you a big SUV without the big new car price tag.
Easy to find spare parts:Ford vehicles are very common. This means that if you ever need a spare part for your 2018 Ford Explorer, it will be easy to find. Parts are usually available and not overly expensive, which helps with future maintenance.
Good track record for lasting many miles when cared for:The 2018 Explorer is known to be a durable SUV. If it has been well-maintained and received regular service, it can last for many more miles. This makes it a reliable used vehicle option.
Buying Tips for Used 2018 Explorers
When you're looking to buy a used 2018 Ford Explorer, it's wise to be careful. Check these areas specifically to make sure you get a good deal and avoid future problems. A thorough inspection is key to a smart purchase.
Transmission Behavior:Always take the car for a long test drive. Pay close attention to how the transmission shifts gears. It should be smooth and without any jerking. Listen for strange noises when the car changes speed. Drive at different speeds and through all gears to confirm the transmission is working properly.
Water Leaks:Check the interior carefully for any signs of water leaks. Look at the headliner, especially near the sunroof if the car has one. Also, check the floor mats and carpets for damp spots or mildew smells. Inspect the seals around the doors and windows. Water damage can lead to rust and electronic problems later on.
Brake Wear:The 2018 Ford Explorer is a heavy SUV. This means its brakes can wear out faster than in smaller cars. Inspect the brake pads and rotors. They should not be too thin or have deep grooves. During your test drive, listen for squealing or grinding noises when you brake. Also, feel if the steering wheel shakes, which could mean worn rotors.
Electronics Check:Make sure every electronic feature works. Test all power windows, door locks, and the infotainment system. Play music, check the radio, and try connecting your phone via Bluetooth. Don't forget to test climate control, heated seats, and all USB ports. A minor issue with one item could point to a larger electrical problem.
Tech & Safety Features Breakdown
The 2018 Ford Explorer includes a good set of technology and safety features for its time. While not cutting-edge compared to brand new models, they offer good convenience and protection.
Standard Kit
Every 2018 Ford Explorer came with some important safety and tech features right out of the factory:
Basic rearview camera:This helps you see what's behind you when backing up. It makes parking and moving in tight spaces much safer.
Automatic braking:Some versions had basic pre-collision assist with automatic braking. This system can help stop the car if it senses a crash is about to happen, reducing the chance of an accident.
Upgrade Options
For those who opted for higher trims or extra packages, the 2018 Ford Explorer offered more advanced features:
Adaptive cruise control:This system does more than just hold your speed. It can automatically adjust your speed to keep a set distance from the car in front of you. This is very helpful on long highway drives.
Parking helpers:These include sensors and sometimes cameras that assist you when parking. They can alert you to objects around the vehicle, making parallel parking or backing into a spot easier and safer.
Blind spot alerts:Lights in your side mirrors warn you if there's a car in your blind spot. This is a great feature for changing lanes safely on busy roads.
Limitations
Even with these features, it's important to remember that the 2018 Ford Explorer's safety technology is not as advanced as what you find in current cars. Compared to 2025 models, the safety tech might feel basic. Newer vehicles have more sophisticated driver-assistance systems that can steer, keep lanes, and offer more comprehensive collision avoidance.
FAQ
Q:Do 2018 Explorers cost a lot to keep running?
A:The running costs for a 2018 Ford Explorer are about average for a large SUV. Parts are generally easy to get because Ford vehicles are common. This helps keep repair costs decent. However, as noted, the fuel bills are higher than with many newer, more fuel-efficient vehicles. Regular care and following the service schedule can prevent big repair costs and keep your maintenance budget in check.
Q:How does the third-row seat feel for adults?
A:The third-row seat in the 2018 Ford Explorer is generally fine for short trips, especially for smaller adults or teenagers. However, tall adults may find legroom tight on longer journeys. For children, the third row is very comfortable and provides ample space. A great feature is how easily the seats fold down flat when you don't need them, creating a large, flat cargo area.
Q:Is the 2.3L four-cylinder engine too weak?
A:The 2.3L four-cylinder engine is good for daily city driving and for carrying light loads. It provides enough power for most everyday tasks. But if you often carry heavy items, tow trailers, or need quick acceleration for highway merging, the optional V6 engine performs better. The V6 gives you more power and a stronger feeling when the car is under stress.
Q:What model year is better:2018 or 2020?
A:The 2020 Ford Explorer model has some updated technology features. It also has improvements that make the cabin quieter inside. So, it offers a more modern feel. However, the 2018 model provides a very similar large SUV experience and quality. The main difference is that the 2018 model can be bought at a much lower price point in the used car market. This makes it an excellent value choice if you're looking for a spacious SUV on a tighter budget.
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