Case file · FORD-EXPLORER-2011-2019 · Field document

Ford Explorer 2011–2019 · Pre-purchase checklist

Bring this to the inspection. Every check below is specific to this generation's documented failure modes — not generic used-car advice.

1. Check 01

   On any V6: pull the oil cap and dipstick and look for a milky, coffee-with-cream film — that's coolant in the oil from a failing internal water pump. Walk away if you see it.

2. Check 02

   Check the coolant level and look for unexplained coolant loss; the water pump weeps internally, so there may be no puddle under the car.

3. Check 03

   On AWD cars: sniff for a hot, burnt-gear-oil or 'propane' smell after a drive and look for dark fluid leaking on the passenger side near the back of the engine — classic dying PTU.

4. Check 04

   Run the A/C and heater and pay attention to any exhaust odor in the cabin, especially under hard acceleration with windows up — the long-running CO-odor complaint.

5. Check 05

   Drive it from a rolling stop and through 1–2 gear changes; feel for a hesitation-then-harsh-bump shift, the known 6F50 valve-body symptom.

6. Check 06

   Run the VIN through NHTSA and a Ford dealer for open recalls — rear suspension toe-link and exhaust/odor service actions are common on these.

7. Check 07

   Watch for the door-ajar warning staying lit with all doors shut (a known nuisance fault) and any 'steering assist fault' message.