Model year guide

2009 Ford Explorer

Recalls, most-reported problems, crash-test ratings, fuel economy and what a 2009 Ford Explorer is worth — from official NHTSA and EPA data. 47 on record.

2009 Ford Explorer — representative photo
Representative photo · via Wikimedia Commons

2009 Ford Explorer at a glance

Safety recalls1
Owner complaints33
Combined16 mpg
Typical price$8,704

Free: specs, open recalls for that exact car, build sheet and fair price.

2009 Ford Explorer recalls 1

Equipment NHTSA Campaign #10E043000 · 03/09/2010

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.

Fix: 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.

Source: U.S. NHTSA. A recall applies to a model year, but only a VIN check shows whether a specific car has had the repair done.

2009 Ford Explorer common problems

The most-reported problem areas from 33 owner complaints filed with NHTSA — and what to check before you buy.

Vehicle Speed Control
Test cruise control and throttle response, and watch for any hesitation or unintended acceleration.
Engine
Listen for knocks or ticking, check for leaks and blue/white exhaust smoke, and make sure it doesn't overheat. No check-engine light should be on.
Service Brakes
Brakes should feel firm and quiet — no grinding, pulsing or pulling. Check for an ABS light and uneven pad/rotor wear.
Electronic Stability Control (esc)
Have a trusted mechanic inspect this system as part of a pre-purchase inspection.
Wheels
Inspect wheels for bends, cracks and curb rash, and feel for vibration at highway speed.
Electrical System
Test every electrical feature: windows, locks, infotainment, charging and all lights. Watch for flickering, dead accessories or warning lights.

2009 Ford Explorer MPG & running costs

Combined16 mpg
City14 mpg
Highway20 mpg
Est. annual fuel cost$3,850

Source: U.S. EPA / DOE fueleconomy.gov, averaged across trims.

What's a 2009 Ford Explorer worth?

Low
$5,600
Typical price
$8,704
High
$12,400

From 46 comparable 2009 Ford Explorer listings.

Estimated 5-year cost to own

A rough guide to what running a 2009 Ford Explorer costs over five years and 75,000 miles.

Fuel (5 yrs)$19,250
Depreciation (5 yrs)$6,050
Total$25,300
Per mile$0.34

How this is estimated: fuel is the U.S. EPA annual cost at 15,000 miles a year. Depreciation compares today's typical asking price for this model year ($8,704) with the same model 5 model-years older ($2,639), from CarLogs listing data. Not included: insurance, maintenance, repairs, taxes, registration and finance costs. Treat it as a comparison guide, not a quote.

2009 Ford Explorer trims & engines on record

Trims
XLT · Eddie Bauer · Limited
Engines
4.0L 6-cyl 210 hp · 4.6L 8-cyl 292 hp

2009 Ford Explorer vehicles on record

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Other Ford Explorer model years

2021 2020 2019 2018 2017 2016 2015 2014 2013 2012 2011 2010 2008 2007 2006 2005 2004 2003 2002 2001 2000 1999 1998 1997 1996 1995 1994 1993 1992

2009 Ford Explorer — frequently asked questions

Does the 2009 Ford Explorer have any safety recalls?

Yes — NHTSA lists 1 safety recall for the 2009 Ford Explorer. Recall repairs are free at any franchised dealer. Whether a specific car still has one open depends on its VIN.

What are the most common problems with the 2009 Ford Explorer?

Based on 33 owner complaints filed with NHTSA, the most-reported problem areas are vehicle speed control, engine, service brakes.

What gas mileage does the 2009 Ford Explorer get?

The U.S. EPA rates the 2009 Ford Explorer at about 16 mpg combined (14 city / 20 highway).

How much is a 2009 Ford Explorer worth?

Comparable 2009 Ford Explorer listings run roughly $5,600–$12,400, typically around $8,704 (from 46 vehicles).

Sources: NHTSA (recalls, complaints, crash tests), U.S. EPA (fuel economy). Vehicle data only — CarLogs never shows owner information.