Owning a Ford Explorer means having a versatile vehicle ready for anything life throws your way, from family road trips to weekend DIY projects. But the true potential of your SUV is unlocked with the right gear. The perfect accessories can dramatically enhance your Explorer’s functionality, protect its interior, and tailor it to your specific lifestyle needs.
Whether you’re looking to conquer clutter, add cargo space, or simply add a personal touch, the market is full of options. To help you navigate the choices, we’ve curated a list of essential upgrades designed to maximize convenience, security, and style for your Explorer, ensuring every drive is more organized and enjoyable.
Essential Accessories for Your Ford Explorer
- Maxzina Seat Aisle Storage Box for Ford Explorer
- Yakima Rooftop Cargo Carrier, Hard Top Shell Box
- Husky Liners Weatherbeater Floor Mats
- CURT 13382 Class 3 Trailer Hitch
- MAXLINER Custom Fit Floor Mats 3rd Row Liner
- Gempro LED Fender Side Marker Light
- Window Visors Rain Guards for Ford Explorer
- BulletProof Hitches Anti Rattle Hitch Clamp
- McGard Chrome Cone Seat Wheel Locks
- Dee Zee Running Boards for Ford Explorer
Maxzina Seat Aisle Storage Box for Ford Explorer
Declutter the second row of your 6-passenger Explorer with this ingenious foldable storage box. It fits perfectly in the center aisle, providing a dedicated spot for toys, snacks, and supplies. The premium PU leather is not only stylish but also waterproof and easy to wipe clean, making it ideal for families with children or pets.
Beyond simple storage, the unit features a sturdy lid that creates a safe, flat perch when closed. Front and rear handles make it simple to lift and carry, functioning as a portable console organizer for road trips. The Velcro-adjustable center divider lets you customize the interior space to fit items of various sizes.
Yakima Rooftop Cargo Carrier
When your cargo needs exceed the interior space of your Explorer, the Yakima SkyBox NX is the perfect solution. This hard-shell rooftop carrier provides a generous 18 cubic feet of secure, weatherproof storage. It’s large enough to hold gear for four campers or fit snowboards and skis up to 175cm in length.
A standout feature is the dual-sided access, allowing you to load and unload from either side of your vehicle for maximum convenience. Security is also a priority, with a robust locking system that secures your gear inside the box and the box itself to your vehicle’s roof rack. This carrier is built for heavy-duty use on all your adventures.
Husky Liners Weatherbeater Floor Mats
Protect your Explorer’s factory carpet from mud, snow, sand, and spills with these custom-fit Husky Liners. Designed specifically for the 2020-2026 models, these mats offer complete coverage for the front and second-row footwells. The high-walled design contains messes effectively, preventing liquid and debris from damaging your vehicle’s interior.
Constructed from a durable, proprietary ProGard material, these liners are built to last and are backed by a lifetime guarantee. They are easy to remove for cleaning, and their non-slip surface ensures they stay firmly in place. This is a practical investment that maintains your SUV’s resale value and keeps the cabin looking new.
CURT 13382 Class 3 Trailer Hitch
Expand your Explorer’s capabilities by adding a robust towing solution. The CURT class 3 trailer hitch features a standard 2-inch receiver, ready for a wide range of towing and cargo-carrying accessories. With a rating of 3,500 lbs gross trailer weight, it handles trailers, small boats, and cargo carriers with confidence.
This hitch is engineered for safety and reliability, undergoing rigorous real-world testing at CURT’s Detroit facility according to SAE J684 standards. The straightforward design provides a clean look while offering dependable strength. It’s important to note that this hitch is not compatible with vertically hanging bike racks.
MAXLINER Custom Fit Floor Mats 3rd Row Liner
Don’t forget to protect the often-used third-row seating area. This MAXLINER floor mat is precision-engineered to fit the 2020-2023 Ford Explorer, providing all-weather protection where you need it. It effectively guards against stains, snow, mud, and salt, preserving the carpet below.
Using advanced scanning technology, this liner achieves a perfect custom fit with raised lips that trap moisture and debris. The durable, stain-resistant material is easy to clean with a simple hose-down. It’s the ideal companion to front and second-row mats for complete interior floor protection.
Gempro LED Fender Side Marker Light
Upgrade your Explorer’s style and visibility with these smoked LED side marker lights. Designed as a direct replacement for the factory units on compatible models, they offer a modern, sleek look. The smoked lens provides a custom appearance that enhances the vehicle’s aesthetic.
These are not just for looks; they are significantly brighter than standard bulbs, thanks to 30 SMD LED chips. The error-free design ensures they work seamlessly with your vehicle’s electrical system without flickering. Built with durable ABS plastic and a tough PC lens, they are waterproof, dustproof, and built to last over 55,000 hours.
Window Visors Rain Guards for Ford Explorer
Enjoy fresh air in your cabin regardless of the weather with these out-channel window visors. They install seamlessly into the window channel of your 2020-2025 Explorer for a clean, OEM-like appearance. The high-quality material is resistant to UV rays and scratches, ensuring they look good for years.
The primary function is to allow you to crack your windows open during rain without letting water inside, which also helps reduce interior fogging. The secure 3M-grade adhesive keeps them firmly in place at any speed. This addition improves comfort and ventilation on long drives or during unpredictable weather.
BulletProof Hitches Anti Rattle Hitch Clamp
Eliminate the annoying noise and movement of your hitch receiver with this heavy-duty anti-rattle clamp. Designed for 2.5-inch hitches, it functions as a stabilizer by tightening the hitch insert securely against the receiver walls. This creates a silent, rigid connection that improves driving confidence when towing or using a cargo carrier.
Constructed from 1/2-inch thick pressed break steel, this clamp is built for strength and longevity. The black textured powder coat finish provides a durable layer of corrosion resistance. It’s a simple yet effective tool for anyone who frequently uses their hitch and values a quiet, secure setup.
McGard Chrome Cone Seat Wheel Locks
Protect your investment with this set of four premium wheel locks. These cone seat lug nuts are designed for wheels that utilize a 60-degree tapered seat and feature an M14 x 1.5 thread size, a common specification for many modern vehicles. Each set includes a unique key to prevent unauthorized removal.
McGard locks are manufactured in the USA to meet or exceed OEM standards. The through-hardened and tempered construction provides superior strength, while the multi-layer plating process, including a layer of chrome, offers excellent protection against rust. This is an affordable and effective security measure for your factory wheels.
Dee Zee Running Boards for Ford Explorer
Make entering and exiting your Explorer easier for passengers of all ages and sizes with these durable running boards. They provide a sturdy, non-slip step that reduces the climbing distance into the cabin, which is especially helpful for children and older adults.
Beyond their functional benefit, these running boards add a rugged, stylish accent to your SUV’s profile. Constructed from high-quality materials, they are built to withstand daily use and the elements. The custom fit for 2020-2023 models ensures a seamless installation and a professional, integrated look.
Buying Guide: What to Look For in Ford Explorer Accessories
When I start looking for the best accessories for my Ford Explorer, my first step is always to figure out what I actually need. It’s easy to get distracted by cool gadgets, but the best additions are the ones that fit my specific lifestyle. Are my main priorities protection, cargo space, or maybe some tech upgrades for those long family road trips? Answering that question helps me narrow down the options and spend my money wisely on things I’ll genuinely use.
Compatibility is my absolute number one rule. I always double-check that any part or accessory is specifically designed for my Explorer’s model year. The 2025 model might have slight differences from a 2023, and a part that doesn’t fit perfectly is just a waste of cash. I look for products that list my exact vehicle trim and year in the product description. For electronics, especially things like dash cams or LED light kits, I make sure the power draw is safe for my vehicle’s electrical system and that installation doesn’t require any sketchy wire splicing.
Material quality is another big one for me. For floor mats, I want a heavy-duty rubber like TPE or a high-quality carpet that can handle muddy boots and spilled coffee. For cargo organizers or roof racks, I look for durable, UV-resistant plastics and reinforced steel or aluminum that won’t rust. A cheap price tag is tempting, but I’ve learned that with car accessories, you often get what you pay for. A well-made set of mats or a sturdy hitch will last for the life of the vehicle, while a flimsy one will need replacing in a year.
Finally, I think about installation. Am I comfortable doing this myself, or will I need to pay a professional? Something like all-weather floor mats or a cargo liner is a simple drop-in solution. But for more complex items like a tow hitch, a roof rack, or especially any wiring work, I’m honest with myself about my skill level. Sometimes, paying for professional installation is safer and ensures the accessory works correctly without risking damage to my new Explorer. By focusing on my needs, compatibility, quality, and installation, I can pick the perfect accessories for my Ford Explorer that add real value and function.
FAQ
Are aftermarket Ford Explorer accessories as good as genuine Ford parts?
This is a common question, and from my experience, it really depends on the accessory. Genuine Ford (OEM) parts are guaranteed to fit perfectly and are engineered specifically for your vehicle. However, many aftermarket companies produce items that are just as good, if not better, and often at a lower price. For things like floor mats, cargo liners, and roof racks, reputable aftermarket brands can offer superior materials and features. For complex electronic components or items critical to safety, I often lean towards OEM for the peace of mind.
What is the most useful accessory for a Ford Explorer?
If I had to pick just one, I’d say a set of heavy-duty all-weather floor mats. They protect your investment from day one, dealing with everything from winter slush and salt to summer sand and dirt. They’re relatively inexpensive, easy to install yourself, and they preserve the factory carpeting, which helps with resale value. For families or anyone who leads an active lifestyle, it’s the first thing I would buy for my Explorer.
Can I install a tow hitch myself?
Installing a tow hitch is a more advanced project. It often involves removing the rear bumper, drilling into the frame, and handling heavy components. While a very skilled DIYer with the right tools can manage it, I usually recommend professional installation for most people. Proper installation is critical for safety, ensuring the hitch can handle the rated load without compromising the vehicle’s structure. Getting it wrong can be dangerous and lead to expensive damage.
Will adding aftermarket accessories void my Ford warranty?
Generally, no, but there’s an important caveat. Under the Magnuson-Moss Warranty Act, simply installing an aftermarket part cannot void your vehicle’s warranty. However, if that aftermarket part is proven to have caused a failure in another covered component, the repair for that specific failure might not be covered. For example, a poorly installed aftermarket LED light kit that shorts out and damages the main wiring harness could lead to a denied warranty claim for that electrical repair. Always keep records and consider professional installation for complex items.
What should I look for in a roof rack or cargo box?
My main considerations are weight capacity, ease of installation, and aerodynamics. First, I check the dynamic (while driving) and static (parked) weight limits of both the Explorer’s roof rails and the rack or box itself to ensure it can handle my gear. I also look for a system that’s easy to install and remove, as I don’t always need it. Finally, a sleek, aerodynamic design is key for minimizing wind noise and avoiding a big hit to my fuel economy on the highway.