The 2008 Ford Explorer is a mid-size SUV that was part of the fourth generation of the Explorer line. It offers a traditional body-on-frame construction, providing robust towing capabilities. Available trims include the XLS, XLT, Eddie Bauer, and Limited. New pricing ranged from approximately $27,000 to $35,000. It remained popular for its blend of practicality, truck-like capabilities, and family-friendly features, offering seating for up to seven passengers.
The Good
The 2008 Ford Explorer offers solid performance, especially with the V8 engine, and decent reliability for its age. Comfort is a key advantage, with spacious seating and a smooth ride. Its classic SUV design appeals to those seeking a traditional look, while its value proposition makes it attractive to budget-conscious buyers. Its towing capacity is good and appeals to practical needs.
The Bad
Known weaknesses of the 2008 Ford Explorer include lower fuel economy compared to newer SUVs and potential issues with the transmission and transfer case, particularly in higher-mileage vehicles. Rust can also be a concern, especially in areas with harsh winters. Interior plastics can feel cheap and show wear easily. Keep an eye on electrical components as well.
2008 Ford Explorer: Quick Overview
- Engine Options:
- 4.0L V6: Standard engine
- 4.6L V8: Optional engine
- Horsepower:
- 4.0L V6: Approximately 210 hp
- 4.6L V8: Approximately 292 hp
- Fuel Economy (Estimated):
- 4.0L V6: 14-15 MPG city / 20-21 MPG highway
- 4.6L V8: 13-14 MPG city / 19-20 MPG highway
- 0-60 Times (Estimated):
- 4.0L V6: Around 9 seconds
- 4.6L V8: Around 7.5 seconds
- Towing Capacity (Maximum):
- Up to 7,300 lbs (with the 4.6L V8 and proper equipment)
- Trim Level Features:
- XLS: Base model, typically includes cloth seats, basic audio system, air conditioning.
- XLT: Adds alloy wheels, upgraded audio, and exterior chrome accents.
- Eddie Bauer: Features leather seats, woodgrain trim, dual-zone climate control, and premium audio.
- Limited: Top-of-the-line, including heated seats, navigation system, power-adjustable pedals, and premium sound system.
- All trims are available in 2WD or 4WD.
2008 Ford Explorer Specifications
Vehicle Information
| Year | 2008 |
| Make | Ford |
| Model | Explorer |
| Trim | - |
| Style | - |
| Type | Wagon |
| Category | Minivan Medium Truck |
Manufacturing Details
| Made In | United States |
| Manufacturing City | LOUISVILLE |
Dimensions
| Doors | 4-Door |
| Curb Weight | - |
| Gross Vehicle Weight Rating | - |
| Overall Height | - |
| Overall Length | - |
| Overall Width | - |
| Wheelbase Length | - |
| Standard Seating | - |
Engine & Performance
| Engine | 4.0 L V-6 |
| Engine Size | 4L |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 |
| Transmission | - |
| Transmission Type | - |
| Transmission Speeds | - |
| Drivetrain | Four-Wheel Drive |
Additional Features
| Anti-Brake System | - |
| Steering Type | - |
Pricing
| Manufacturer Suggested Retail Price (MSRP) | - |
| Invoice Price | - |
| Delivery Charges | - |
Vehicle History Report
Vehicle
Specifications
Specifications
Ownership
History
History
All History
Events
Events
NMVTIS Title
History Check
History Check
Salvage/Rebuilt
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Check
Accident
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Check
Theft
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Check
Open Lien
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Past Sale
Listings
Listings
Safety
Recalls
Recalls
Odometer
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Market Price
Analysis
Analysis
What Problems Does the 2008 Ford Explorer Have?
Frequently reported problems for the 2008 Ford Explorer include issues with the automatic transmission, particularly slipping or harsh shifting. The transfer case can also experience problems, especially in 4WD models. Other common concerns involve the rear liftgate, where the latch mechanism can fail. Electrical issues, such as problems with the power windows and door locks, are also reported. Rust, especially on the undercarriage and around the wheel wells, is a long-term reliability concern, particularly in regions with salted roads.
Recalls for the 2008 Ford Explorer have included issues related to the speed control system, which could lead to unintended acceleration. Always check the vehicle's VIN with the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) to ensure all applicable recalls have been addressed.
Long-term reliability can be improved with diligent maintenance, including regular transmission fluid changes and rustproofing treatments. Checking and replacing worn suspension components can also help maintain ride quality and handling. Some owners have also reported issues with the air conditioning system, such as compressor failure, so this is another area to inspect during routine maintenance.
Recalls for the 2008 Ford Explorer have included issues related to the speed control system, which could lead to unintended acceleration. Always check the vehicle's VIN with the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) to ensure all applicable recalls have been addressed.
Long-term reliability can be improved with diligent maintenance, including regular transmission fluid changes and rustproofing treatments. Checking and replacing worn suspension components can also help maintain ride quality and handling. Some owners have also reported issues with the air conditioning system, such as compressor failure, so this is another area to inspect during routine maintenance.
How long will the 2008 Ford Explorer last?
With proper maintenance, a 2008 Ford Explorer can easily reach 200,000 miles or more. Many owners report 15-20 years of service life. Key to longevity is consistent maintenance, including timely oil changes, transmission servicing, and addressing any cooling system issues promptly. Long-term durability can be compromised by neglect, especially concerning rust prevention and suspension maintenance. Weaknesses tend to emerge over time with the transmission, transfer case (if equipped), and electrical components. Regular inspections are crucial to catch and address these issues early.
Positive Owner Reviews
John S.
This Explorer has been a dependable family vehicle. It's comfortable for long trips, but the gas mileage is definitely noticeable. We've had minimal mechanical issues over the years.
David L.
We use our Explorer for family vacations. It's spacious enough for everyone and all our luggage. The third-row seating is a plus, but it does cut into cargo space.
Michael B.
I use my Explorer for work. It's tough and can handle rough roads. The 4x4 is great for off-road adventures.
Negative Owner Reviews
Sarah M.
I bought my Explorer used a few years ago. It's a practical SUV with plenty of cargo space. The interior is basic, but functional. For the price, it's a good deal.
Emily K.
Overall, I like my Explorer. It's safe and sturdy, but I wish it got better gas mileage. It's definitely a gas guzzler.
Chris P.
I've had some issues with the transmission and the air conditioning. Be prepared for some potential maintenance costs as it's an older vehicle.
What Technology & Safety Features are Included?
The 2008 Ford Explorer offered a range of built-in tech and safety features for its time. Entertainment options included a standard AM/FM radio with a CD player, with optional upgrades to a multi-disc CD changer and premium sound systems. Some models featured a navigation system as an optional extra.
In terms of driver-assistance features, the Explorer offered antilock brakes (ABS), traction control, and stability control. Higher trims had reverse parking sensors. Safety features included front airbags, side-curtain airbags for all three rows, and tire pressure monitoring.
The Insurance Institute for Highway Safety (IIHS) gave the 2008 Ford Explorer generally good ratings in frontal offset crash tests. The National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) also provided crash test ratings, which varied depending on the specific test. It’s advisable to consult the IIHS and NHTSA websites for specific crash-test results.
Compared to modern vehicles, the 2008 Explorer lacks advanced driver-assistance systems like adaptive cruise control or lane departure warning. However, for its time, it offered a reasonably comprehensive suite of safety features. The technology is dated, but still functional for basic entertainment and safety.
In terms of driver-assistance features, the Explorer offered antilock brakes (ABS), traction control, and stability control. Higher trims had reverse parking sensors. Safety features included front airbags, side-curtain airbags for all three rows, and tire pressure monitoring.
The Insurance Institute for Highway Safety (IIHS) gave the 2008 Ford Explorer generally good ratings in frontal offset crash tests. The National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) also provided crash test ratings, which varied depending on the specific test. It’s advisable to consult the IIHS and NHTSA websites for specific crash-test results.
Compared to modern vehicles, the 2008 Explorer lacks advanced driver-assistance systems like adaptive cruise control or lane departure warning. However, for its time, it offered a reasonably comprehensive suite of safety features. The technology is dated, but still functional for basic entertainment and safety.
What Colors Options are Available?
Exterior Colors
Black Clearcoat
Dark Shadow Grey Clearcoat
Redfire Clearcoat Metallic
Silver Clearcoat Metallic
White Suede Clearcoat
Estate Green Clearcoat Metallic
Gold Ash Clearcoat Metallic
Interior Colors
Light Parchment
Medium Flint
Dark Stone
2008 Ford Explorer Prices and Market Value
When new, the 2008 Ford Explorer had a price range of approximately $27,000 to $35,000, depending on the trim and options. Current used market prices typically range from $3,000 to $8,000, contingent on condition, mileage, and location. The Explorer has depreciated significantly due to its age and mileage. Factors affecting resale value include the vehicle's condition, maintenance history, mileage, and the presence of desirable options like 4WD or a V8 engine. Lower mileage and a clean title command higher prices. Rust-free examples also hold their value better.
2008 Ford Explorer Cost of Ownership
Insurance costs for a 2008 Ford Explorer are typically moderate. Fuel costs are relatively high due to its fuel economy. Maintenance and repair costs can be moderate to high, depending on the vehicle's condition and mileage. Long-term ownership costs can be considerable, especially if major repairs are needed. Regular maintenance is crucial to mitigate potential issues. Overall, the 2008 Explorer is not the most economical vehicle to own, but it offers value if purchased at a low price and well-maintained.
2008 Ford Explorer Fuel Efficiency
Fuel Type
Gasoline
Fuel Capacity
-
City Mileage
-
Highway Mileage
-
2008 Ford Explorer Safety Rating
NHTSA
2008 Ford Explorer Recalls & Defects
Equipment
Recall date
2010-09-03
Recall no.
10e043000
Source
NHTSA
Summary
Marathon IS Recalling Certain Seat Covers, Brand Superhides With Part Numbers 593, 594, 578, 960, 228, 228-09, 267-08, 333, 625, and 630, Sold FOR USE AS Aftermarket Equipment FOR Various Passenger Vehicles. These Seat Covers ARE Made OF Heavier Thread and ARE NOT Compatible With Seats Containing Side Airbags. THE Heavier Seat Cover Could Interfere With Full Deployment OF THE Airbag IN THE Event OF A Crash.
Consequence
AN Improperly Deployed Airbag Could Result IN Serious Injury.
Remedy
Marathon Will Notify Owners OF Record and Replace THE Seat Cover Free OF Charge. THE Safety Recall Began ON September 14, 2010. Owners MAY Contact Marathon AT 1-800-735-2769.
Notes
This Recall Only Pertains TO Aftermarket Marathon Seat Covers and HAS NO Relation TO ANY Original Equipment Installed ON General Motors, Ford, Chrysler, Toyota, or Nissan Vehicles.owners MAY Also Contact THE National Highway Traffic Safety Administration's Vehicle Safety Hotline AT 1-888-327-4236 (Tty 1-800-424-9153), or GO TO <A Href=http://Www.safercar.gov>http://www.safercar.gov</a> .
Visibility:glass, Side/Rear
Recall date
2007-12-11
Recall no.
07e104000
Source
NHTSA
Summary
Certain Curved Tempered Replacement Glass Manufactured BY Hangzhou Safety Glass LTD and Supplied TO Safelite BY Auto Temp Inc., Identified AS Dot-430, and Sold FOR USE ON Certain Domestic and Foreign Vehicles MAY NOT Break Into Small Pieces AS Expected OF Tempered Glass and Fails TO Conform TO Federal Motor Vehicle Safety Standard NO. 205, "glazing Materials."
Consequence
IN THE Event OF A Vehicle Crash, THE Occupant(S) MAY BE Seriously Injured BY Shattered Glass.
Remedy
Safelite Will Notify ITS Retail Customers and Replace THE Glass Free OF Charge. Retail Customers CAN Contact Safelite Toll Free AT 1-888-843-2906. Safelite Will Notify ITS Wholesale Customers and Reimburse Wholesale Customers FOR Current Inventory and AT A Specified Rate FOR Replacing Their Customer's Glass. Wholesale Customers CAN Contact Safelite's Wholesale Division, Service Autoglass Toll Free AT 1-888-246-6298. THE Recall Began ON January 15, 2008.
Notes
This Recall Only Pertains TO Certain Curved Tempered Replacement Glass Manufactured BY Hangzhou Safety Glass, Ltd. (Dot-430) and Supplied TO Safelite BY Auto Temp Inc., and HAS NO Relation TO ANY Original Equipment Installed ON THE Vehicles Listed Above. Customers MAY Contact THE National Highway Traffic Safety Administration's Vehicle Safety Hotline AT 1-888-327-4236 (Tty: 1-800-424-9153); or GO TO Http://Www.safercar.gov.
Power Train:automatic Transmission:cooling Unit and Lines
Recall date
2007-09-26
Recall no.
07v453000
Source
NHTSA
Summary
ON Certain Sport Utility Vehicles Equipped With THE 4.6l Engine and 6R Transmission, THE Bolt Securing THE Transmission OIL Cooler Line Fittings AT THE Transmission MAY NOT Have Been Sufficiently Torqued During Vehicle Assembly. AS A Result, THE Bolt MAY Loosen and THE Transmission OIL Cooler Lines MAY Disengage From THE Transmission, Causing A Transmission Fluid Leak.
Consequence
IF Leaking Transmission Fluid Contacts THE Catalytic Converter, IT MAY Pose A Risk OF Fire.
Remedy
Dealers Will Inspect and Have THE Transmission Cooler Line Attachment Bolt Tightened Free OF Charge. THE Recall Began ON August 30, 2007. Owners MAY Contact Ford AT 1-800-392-3673.
Notes
Ford Recall NO. 07s56.customers MAY Also Contact THE National Highway Traffic Safety Administration's Vehicle Safety Hotline AT 1-888-327-4236 (Tty 1-800-424-9153), or GO TO Http://Www.safercar.gov.
2008 Ford Explorer Insurance
Insurance for a 2008 Ford Explorer is moderately priced, reflecting its status as a Wagon with strong safety ratings and
reasonable repair costs.
reasonable repair costs.
How Does the 2008 Ford Explorer Compare to Other Wagon?
The 2008 Ford Explorer competed with vehicles like the Toyota 4Runner, Chevrolet Trailblazer, and Nissan Pathfinder. In terms of performance, the Explorer with the V8 offered comparable power to its rivals, while the V6 was adequate. Feature-wise, it offered a similar range of options, but some competitors had slightly more modern infotainment systems. Reliability is a mixed bag; the 4Runner generally has better long-term reliability, while the Trailblazer had known issues. The Pathfinder also had some reliability concerns.
Price-wise, the Explorer is usually more affordable on the used market than the 4Runner. A Chevrolet Trailblazer could be a cheaper alternative but would have similar reliability concerns. Nissan Pathfinder would be another similar option.
If reliability is a primary concern, the Toyota 4Runner is a better alternative, although it comes at a higher price. If budget is a major constraint, and you want similar cargo space with a lower price, the Trailblazer or Pathfinder can be considered, but factor in potential repair costs. Overall the Explorer is a solid mid-range contender.
Price-wise, the Explorer is usually more affordable on the used market than the 4Runner. A Chevrolet Trailblazer could be a cheaper alternative but would have similar reliability concerns. Nissan Pathfinder would be another similar option.
If reliability is a primary concern, the Toyota 4Runner is a better alternative, although it comes at a higher price. If budget is a major constraint, and you want similar cargo space with a lower price, the Trailblazer or Pathfinder can be considered, but factor in potential repair costs. Overall the Explorer is a solid mid-range contender.
Ranks #656 SUV
| 1 | 2023 Toyota 4Runner | (5.0★) |
| 2 | 2023 Honda CR-V Hybrid | (5.0★) |
| 3 | 2023 Lexus GX | (0.0★) |
| 4 | 2024 Mazda CX-90 PHEV | (0.0★) |
| 5 | 2024 Subaru Crosstrek | (5.0★) |
| 6 | 2024 BMW iX | (0.0★) |
| 7 | 2023 Ford Bronco Sport | (3.0★) |
| 8 | 2023 Mercedes-Benz EQB | (0.0★) |
| 9 | 2024 Chevrolet Trax | (5.0★) |
| 10 | 2023 Audi A4 allroad | (0.0★) |
| 11 | 2023 Hyundai Kona N | (0.0★) |
| 12 | 2023 Nissan ARIYA | (5.0★) |
| 656 | 2008 Ford Explorer | (5.0★) |
Final Verdict: Is the 2008 Ford Explorer a Good Wagon?
The 2008 Ford Explorer is ideal for buyers seeking a capable and affordable mid-size SUV with truck-like qualities, especially for towing. It's worth buying used if found in good condition with a solid maintenance history. It's best to look for higher trims like the Eddie Bauer or Limited for enhanced features, but these will typically command a higher price. A V8-equipped model is preferable for those needing more power. Consider a thorough inspection before purchasing, focusing on transmission, transfer case, and rust. For those prioritizing long-term reliability above all else, alternatives might be better, but for a budget-conscious buyer, it can be a good value proposition.
John S. on March 18, 2025
Reliable but ThirstyThis Explorer has been a dependable family vehicle. It's comfortable for long trips, but the gas mileage is definitely noticeable. We've had minimal mechanical issues over the years.
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Sarah M. on March 18, 2025
Good Value for the PriceI bought my Explorer used a few years ago. It's a practical SUV with plenty of cargo space. The interior is basic, but functional. For the price, it's a good deal.
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David L. on March 18, 2025
Lots of Room for the FamilyWe use our Explorer for family vacations. It's spacious enough for everyone and all our luggage. The third-row seating is a plus, but it does cut into cargo space.
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Emily K. on March 18, 2025
Not the Best Fuel EconomyOverall, I like my Explorer. It's safe and sturdy, but I wish it got better gas mileage. It's definitely a gas guzzler.
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Michael B. on March 18, 2025
Dependable WorkhorseI use my Explorer for work. It's tough and can handle rough roads. The 4x4 is great for off-road adventures.
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Jessica R. on March 18, 2025
Comfortable RideThe ride quality is surprisingly good for an older SUV. The seats are comfortable, even on long drives. However, the interior feels a bit dated.
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Chris P. on March 18, 2025
Some Maintenance IssuesI've had some issues with the transmission and the air conditioning. Be prepared for some potential maintenance costs as it's an older vehicle.
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Ashley T. on March 18, 2025
Safe and ReliableI feel safe driving my kids around in this Explorer. It's a solid and reliable vehicle. It might not be the flashiest, but it gets the job done.
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Kevin G. on March 18, 2025
Turning Radius is WideIt's a decent SUV for space, but navigating tight parking lots can be challenging because of its large turning radius.
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Brittany H. on March 18, 2025
Still Running StrongI've had this Explorer for over 10 years and it's still running strong! Regular maintenance is key. It's a great SUV for hauling things and long road trips.
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Cathleen V
Cathleen is an exceptional freelance writer covering hot topics in the automotive world from a gearhead's perspective. Her articles delve into various aspects of automotive technology and history, offering readers detailed insights into engine performance, reliability, and maintenance. Through her engaging and informative writing, Cathleen provides valuable information to automotive enthusiasts and consumers alike, helping them make informed decisions about vehicle maintenance and purchases.