2024 Ford Explorer Pre-Purchase Inspection Checklist
Model data compiled from public NHTSA records; may be incomplete, inaccurate, or out of date. General information, not professional advice — see Terms.
One honest thing before you start
We're car-data nerds, not mechanics. This checklist is general information — not professional advice — built from real recall records and thousands of owner complaints to make you a sharper shopper. Think of it as triage, not a diagnosis.
Before any money moves, get an independent inspection from a qualified mechanic (typically $100–$250). Our data comes from public sources and may be incomplete, inaccurate, or out of date — no checklist catches everything.
So here's the deal: use this to decide whether a car is worth that inspection. You're evaluating and buying the car entirely at your own risk — we're not liable for anything this checklist misses, anything it gets wrong, or any loss resulting from your purchase decision. Fair?
Known issues for the 2024 Explorer
5
Forward Collision Avoidance complaints Check
Test driver-assistance features on the drive and confirm no warning lights stay on. (3 complaints filed for this model-year.)
based on 3 NHTSA complaints
Visibility/Wiper complaints Check
Test wipers, washers, headlights, and all exterior lights, including the backup camera if equipped. (3 complaints filed for this model-year.)
based on 3 NHTSA complaints
Suspension complaints Check
Listen for clunks over bumps and look for uneven tire wear. (3 complaints filed for this model-year.)
based on 3 NHTSA complaints
Air Bags complaints Red flag
Check that no airbag warning lights are on, and ask the seller for proof that any airbag recalls were completed. (2 complaints filed for this model-year.)
based on 2 NHTSA complaints
Electrical System complaints Check
Test all electronics — lights, windows, infotainment, and driver aids — and confirm no warning lights stay on. (2 complaints filed for this model-year.)
based on 2 NHTSA complaints
Verify on NHTSA → · How we get our data →
3 additional complaints were filed without a specific component.
Open recalls
10
Equipment Red flag
Without a label that shows the proper restraint usage guidelines, the occupants may have an increased risk of injury in the event of a crash.
Seats Red flag
A seat that moves unexpectedly may not properly restrain an occupant during a crash, increasing their risk of injury.
Back Over Prevention Red flag
A rearview camera that displays a blank image can reduce the driver's view behind the vehicle.
Trailer Hitches Red flag
While towing a trailer, loose trailer hitch bolts can cause a loss of vehicle handling and control, or cause the trailer to detach.
Back Over Prevention Check
An incorrectly displayed rearview image can reduce the driver’s view behind the vehicle, increasing the risk of a crash.
Seat Belts Red flag
A loose seat belt buckle may not properly restrain an occupant during a crash, increasing the risk of injury.
Power Train Red flag
A park system that is damaged may not shift into "PARK," resulting in a vehicle rollaway and increasing the risk of injury or crash.
Seats Red flag
A seat that moves unexpectedly may not properly restrain an occupant during a crash, increasing the risk of injury.
The 31-point checklist
31
0 / 31 checked · 0 red flags ·
Before you go
We may earn a commission — it keeps the checklist free.
Check the VIN history on EpicVIN
Check it on CarFax (we don't earn from this)
Get an OBD2 scanner DEMO
Paperwork & history
Exterior & wheels
Interior & electronics
Under the hood
Test drive (15+ min, city + highway)
This tells you whether the car deserves a pro inspection (typically $100–$250) — it's not the inspection.
2024 Explorer–specific issues
Your verdict
Keep inspecting — you're under halfway. The red-flag items matter most.
No red flags? Nice. A pro's eyes on it before your money moves is still the play.
Two red flags just saved you the inspection fee. Plenty more cars out there.
We may earn a commission — it keeps the checklist free.
Frequently asked questions
How many recalls does the 2024 Ford Explorer have?
NHTSA lists 10 recalls for the 2024 Explorer. The most serious involve Hybrid Propulsion System (24V685000) and Equipment (24V852000). Ask the seller for proof each recall was completed.
What are the most common complaints about the 2024 Explorer?
The top complaint areas are Unknown or Other (4 complaints) and Forward Collision Avoidance (3 complaints), out of 21 total complaints.
What should I check before buying a used 2024 Explorer?
Run through the full inspection checklist below, verify any open recalls were completed, and get an independent pre-purchase inspection. Pay special attention to Unknown or Other, which drew 4 complaints for this model-year.