Your Ford Explorer is a versatile workhorse, ready for family road trips, daily commutes, and weekend adventures. To keep it performing at its peak and to enhance your driving experience, the right accessories are key. From essential maintenance items that protect your engine to comfort and safety upgrades, equipping your SUV with high-quality products is a smart investment.
This expert-curated roundup for 2025 focuses on components that deliver reliability and performance. We’ve selected products that address the core needs of an Explorer owner, ensuring your vehicle remains dependable, efficient, and comfortable for years to come. Whether you’re a dedicated DIYer or simply want to make informed purchasing decisions, these picks will help you get the most out of your SUV.
Our Top Accessory Picks for Your Ford Explorer
- K&N Premium Oil Filter: 20,000 Mile Engine Protection
- Mobil 1 Extended Performance Full Synthetic Motor Oil
- Castrol EDGE High Mileage 5W-30 Advanced Full Synthetic
- FRAM Extra Guard CA10242 Replacement Engine Air Filter
- ACDelco Gold A3123C Air Filter
- Rain-X Latitude 2-In-1 Water Repellent Wiper Blades
- MICHELIN Defender LTX M/S All-Season Radial Tire
- Schumacher Electric 10A Car Battery Charger and Maintainer
- Husky Liners Weatherbeater Floor Mats
- Valvoline Advanced Full Synthetic 5W-30 Motor Oil
K&N Premium Oil Filter: 20,000 Mile Engine Protection
The K&N Premium Oil Filter is engineered for drivers who demand superior engine protection and extended service intervals. Its high-flow design ensures a consistent and robust flow of oil to your Explorer’s engine, which is vital for maintaining performance and reducing wear. The pleated synthetic-blend media is highly effective at trapping and removing harmful contaminants from your motor oil.
This filter is built with versatility in mind, as it is designed to operate perfectly with all types of motor oil, including synthetic, conventional, and blended formulas. A standout feature is the convenient wrench-off nut at the base, which makes installation and removal a straightforward task, even in tight engine bays. For those following extended oil change schedules, this filter provides reliable 20,000-mile protection.
Mobil 1 Extended Performance Full Synthetic Motor Oil
Mobil 1 Extended Performance Full Synthetic Motor Oil is formulated to provide outstanding engine protection for up to 20,000 miles between oil changes. Its advanced formula controls oxidation to prevent oil breakdown, ensuring that the oil maintains its protective properties over a longer period. This helps to keep your Ford Explorer’s engine running smoothly and efficiently.
The oil utilizes Mobil 1’s Triple Action+ Formula, which combines exceptional engine performance, protection, and cleanliness. It also meets the stringent ILSAC GF-6 standards, which means it provides protection against low-speed pre-ignition (LSPI) and timing chain wear. This contributes to a cleaner engine and can help improve your vehicle’s fuel economy, making it a smart choice for modern engines.
Castrol EDGE High Mileage 5W-30 Advanced Full Synthetic
For Ford Explorers with higher odometer readings, Castrol EDGE High Mileage is a specially formulated solution. This advanced full synthetic motor oil is designed to address the specific challenges faced by older engines. It uses Phosphorus Replacement Technology to help extend the life of your vehicle’s emission system, which is crucial for long-term reliability and compliance.
This oil actively works to reduce common issues in high-mileage engines, such as oil leaks, burnoff, and the formation of power-robbing deposits. By keeping the engine cleaner internally, it helps maintain compression and performance. With a recommended oil change interval of up to 15,000 miles, it offers a balance of extended protection and practical maintenance for your well-used Explorer.
FRAM Extra Guard CA10242 Replacement Engine Air Filter
A clean engine air filter is fundamental to your Explorer’s performance and efficiency. The FRAM Extra Guard air filter is designed to provide double the protection of a standard filter, trapping harmful dirt, dust, and debris before they can enter the engine. This robust filtration helps ensure optimal air flow for better combustion and engine response.
This filter is a direct fit for a wide range of Ford Explorer models, from the 2012-2015 2.0L to the 2016-2022 2.3L and various 3.5L engines. It offers reliable protection for up to 12,000 miles, making it a cost-effective and essential maintenance item. Regularly replacing your air filter with a quality product like this can help maintain fuel economy and engine power.
ACDelco Gold A3123C Air Filter
The ACDelco Gold Air Filter is a premium option for owners seeking to maintain their Explorer’s engine health. It is engineered with a focus on excellent filter capacity and efficiency, meaning it can hold a significant amount of contaminants while still managing airflow effectively. This balance is key to supplying the cleanest possible air to the engine with minimal restriction.
By ensuring a steady flow of clean air, this filter enhances the performance and efficiency of your engine, which can contribute to extending its overall service life. It’s a straightforward upgrade that supports the smooth operation of your vehicle. For those who prefer OEM-level or superior quality parts, the ACDelco Gold line is a trusted choice.
Rain-X Latitude 2-In-1 Water Repellent Wiper Blades
Visibility is a critical component of safe driving, and the Rain-X Latitude 2-In-1 Wiper Blades are designed to excel in adverse conditions. These blades feature a patented water repellent formula that is applied directly to your windshield with each swipe. This dual-action system both clears precipitation and actively repels water, causing it to bead up and roll away.
The result is superior driving visibility and safety during rain, sleet, and snow. Installation is simple with the universal adapter that fits the vast majority of vehicles, including the Ford Explorer. By improving your ability to see the road, these wiper blades provide a significant upgrade to your vehicle’s safety features for a relatively small investment.
MICHELIN Defender LTX M/S All-Season Radial Tire
The MICHELIN Defender LTX M/S is a top-tier all-season tire built for the demands of a vehicle like the Ford Explorer. It is engineered to provide all-season durability, offering reliable traction in a variety of weather conditions, from dry pavement to wet roads and light snow. Its robust construction is designed to meet the challenges of modern, high-torque SUVs.
A standout benefit of this tire is its exceptional tread life, which means you can expect many miles of dependable service. The eco-friendly design also contributes to lower rolling resistance, which can have a positive effect on fuel economy. For Explorer owners looking for a long-lasting, capable, and comfortable tire, the Defender LTX M/S is a premier selection.
Schumacher Electric 10A Car Battery Charger and Maintainer
The Schumacher Electric 10A Charger is a versatile 3-in-1 device that serves as a charger, maintainer, and battery reconditioner. It’s an essential tool for any garage, especially for vehicles that may not be driven daily. The unit can deliver a 10-amp charge for faster recovery or a 2-amp charge for gentle maintaining, giving you flexibility based on your needs.
Its smart trickle charge feature is particularly useful for long-term battery health, as it safely maintains 12V batteries over time without the risk of overcharging. This can significantly extend the life of your Explorer’s battery, saving you money and the inconvenience of a dead battery. It’s a smart, set-and-forget solution for battery care.
Husky Liners Weatherbeater Floor Mats
Protecting your Explorer’s interior from mud, snow, sand, and spills is simple with the Husky Liners Weatherbeater Floor Mats. These liners are custom-molded to fit the specific contours of your vehicle’s footwells, providing comprehensive coverage. They are made from a durable ProGard formula that is designed to last for the life of your vehicle.
Cleaning is remarkably easy; simply remove the liners, rinse them off, and reinstall them. The deep channels and raised edges contain messes effectively, preventing liquids and debris from damaging your factory carpet. For families, outdoor enthusiasts, or anyone who wants to keep their cabin looking new, these floor mats are an incredibly practical and valuable accessory.
Valvoline Advanced Full Synthetic 5W-30 Motor Oil
Valvoline Advanced Full Synthetic Motor Oil is a high-performance option designed to provide maximum engine protection and performance. Its advanced formula helps to fight the four main causes of engine breakdown: heat, deposits, wear, and sludge. This ensures that critical engine components are well-lubricated and protected under a wide range of operating conditions.
This motor oil is engineered to maintain optimal viscosity, which is crucial for protecting your engine at both high and low temperatures. It offers excellent thermal and oxidation stability, allowing it to perform consistently over time. For Ford Explorer owners who want reliable, high-quality engine lubrication from a trusted brand, Valvoline’s full synthetic is a solid choice.
What to Look For in the Best Accessories for Your Ford Explorer
When I start looking for new accessories for my Ford Explorer, my first step is always to think about what I actually need. It’s easy to get carried away with cool-looking gadgets, but the best additions are the ones that fit your specific lifestyle. Are you a weekend warrior who needs extra cargo space and protection? Or are you more focused on making the daily school run and commute more comfortable and convenient? Answering this question helps me narrow down the options and spend my money wisely.
Next, I pay very close attention to fit and compatibility. The Ford Explorer has gone through several generations, and an accessory designed for a 2020 model might not fit a 2025 model perfectly. I always double-check the product description and make sure it lists my specific Explorer’s model year. A poorly fitting floor liner or a dash cam that interferes with the rearview mirror can create more problems than it solves. For electronics, I also consider how an accessory integrates with the SYNC system. I don’t want a device that requires a messy tangle of wires when there are cleaner, integrated options available.
Material quality is another huge factor for me. I look for accessories made from durable, automotive-grade materials. For things like floor mats, that means a robust rubber or thermoplastic that can handle mud, snow, and spills without warping. For cargo organizers or roof racks, I look for strong, powder-coated steel or reinforced polymers that won’t rust or crack under stress. It’s worth investing a little more upfront for something that will last the life of the vehicle, rather than replacing a cheap accessory every year.
Finally, I think about installation. How much work am I willing to put in? Some items, like a new phone mount or a center console organizer, are simple plug-and-play. Others, like a full set of running boards or a trailer hitch, might require professional installation. I’m honest with myself about my own mechanical skills and the tools I have available. A complex installation can turn a fun upgrade into a frustrating afternoon if I’m not prepared. By considering my needs, compatibility, quality, and installation effort, I can confidently choose the best accessories for my Ford Explorer that I’ll be happy with for years to come. This approach ensures my 2025 Explorer is perfectly equipped for my adventures.
FAQ
Are aftermarket Ford Explorer accessories reliable?
Yes, absolutely. While genuine Ford parts are a safe bet, many aftermarket manufacturers produce incredibly reliable and high-quality accessories. The key is to do your research. I always look for brands with strong reputations and plenty of positive customer reviews. Checking forums dedicated to the Ford Explorer can also give you real-world feedback on how a product holds up over time. Often, aftermarket options can offer better features or a more competitive price than OEM parts without sacrificing quality.
What is the most useful accessory I can get for my Explorer?
In my opinion, a set of all-weather floor mats is the single most useful accessory you can buy. They protect your vehicle’s carpet from dirt, salt, mud, and spills, which preserves the interior’s value and makes cleaning a breeze. Whether you have kids, pets, or just an active lifestyle, they pay for themselves many times over. For those who frequently use their third row, a cargo liner that extends over the folded seats is a very close second for its utility.
Will installing accessories void my Ford Explorer’s warranty?
Generally, no. According to the Magnuson-Moss Warranty Act in the U.S., a dealer cannot void your vehicle’s warranty simply for using an aftermarket part. However, if they can prove that a specific aftermarket accessory directly caused a failure, they might deny warranty coverage for that specific repair. For example, an improperly installed aftermarket light bar that causes an electrical short could lead to a denied claim for related electrical issues. I always recommend keeping the installation instructions and receipts for any major accessories.
Can I install roof rack crossbars myself?
Most of the time, yes. Many crossbar systems for the Ford Explorer are designed for straightforward DIY installation. They typically clamp onto the existing side rails on your vehicle’s roof. The process usually just requires a few basic tools like a hex key or a socket set. It’s crucial to follow the manufacturer’s instructions precisely, especially regarding torque specifications, to ensure the bars are secure and won’t damage your roof. If you’re not comfortable working on your vehicle’s roof, having a professional install them is a good option for peace of mind.
Where is the best place to buy accessories for my Ford Explorer?
I usually start my search online for the best selection and prices. Major automotive sites like AutoAnything and CarID are great because they have extensive catalogs and fitment guides. For more specialized or off-road focused gear, websites like etrailer are excellent. Don’t forget to check the official Ford accessories website, especially if you’re looking for OEM parts, as they often run sales. Finally, I always check Amazon for user reviews, but I am extra careful to confirm the product’s fit for my exact model year before purchasing.