Source: EPA FuelEconomy.gov & manufacturer data. Figures reflect base trim; actual specs vary by trim level.
About the 2018 Ford Explorer SL
With an overall Carivo score of 7.2/10, the 2018 Ford Explorer SL earns a Good rating among the suvs we've scored. Its strongest dimension is Safety at 8.2/10, while Reliability at 6.5/10 is where it trails the competition most noticeably. It's a capable but unexceptional suv — stronger alternatives exist if you're willing to shop the segment carefully.
Reliability and safety are the two dimensions that matter most for long-term ownership costs. We rate reliability at 6.5/10 — below the segment average in our scoring. Budget for potentially higher maintenance costs and check the recall record below before buying. On safety it earns 8.2/10: respectable, if not class-leading — several competitors bundle more driver-assist tech as standard. Check your trim's official ratings at nhtsa.gov.
Performance lands mid-pack at 7.3/10: enough power and composure for everyday needs, without the dynamics that distinguish the segment's driver-focused options. Technology comes in at 7.6/10 — functional and modern, with wireless connectivity and core ADAS features, though some competitors pack more standard tech at this price point.
Priced from $40,907–$49,045, 18 MPG, seating 7, the Ford Explorer SL sits in the mid-market bracket of the suv segment. The value score of 6.9/10 is a red flag — comparable alternatives offer meaningfully more for the same outlay. Shop the segment before deciding. At 8 years old, resale value, parts availability, and whether a successor model has improved on its weak points are all worth investigating before committing.
Bottom line: There's a case for the 2018 Ford Explorer SL, but it needs the right buyer. Its value and reliability scores trail the class, and several higher-rated rivals sell for similar money — comparison-shop before committing.
Carivo scores are our own editorial assessment, informed by NHTSA safety and recall records, EPA fuel-economy figures, and manufacturer-published specifications. Scores are reviewed periodically and updated when new data becomes available. See our full methodology →
How It Ranks Among SUVs
The 2018 Ford Explorer SL ranks #1611 of 2454 suvs in the Carivo database — better than 34% of the segment. Its 7.2/10 overall score is 0.2 points below the segment average of 7.4/10. Its $40,907 starting price is about 13% above the segment's median of $36,079.
Varies widely by driver and state — always quote the exact trim before buying
We only print costs we can compute from sourced data (EPA fuel economy, NHTSA recalls). We don't estimate maintenance or depreciation — anyone who gives you one number for those is guessing.
Which Explorer SL Year Should You Buy?
Smart-money pick: the 2015 Ford Explorer SL scores 7.1/10 — within striking distance of the 2018's 7.2 — and starts roughly $4,500 lower. If you don't need the newest model year, that's money better spent on a higher trim or kept in your pocket.
Strong safety ratings from NHTSA and independent testers
Modern, intuitive tech suite with wireless connectivity and up-to-date ADAS
Versatile body style handles daily commuting and weekend adventures equally well
✗ Where it falls short
Reliability scores are mid-pack; some owners report higher-than-expected maintenance needs
Driving dynamics are adequate but uninspiring; not the choice for enthusiast drivers
Fuel economy at 18 MPG is low — running costs will add up quickly
Common Questions — 2018 Ford Explorer SL
Is the 2018 Ford Explorer SL reliable?
We rate the 2018 Ford Explorer SL's reliability 6.5/10 — below the segment average, so budget for higher maintenance.
Is the 2018 Ford Explorer SL worth buying?
It scores 7.2/10 overall, ranking #1611 of 2454 suvs in our database (better than 34% of the segment). Stronger-scoring alternatives exist at similar prices — use our compare tool before committing.
How much does the 2018 Ford Explorer SL cost?
The 2018 Ford Explorer SL starts at $40,907 and ranges up to $49,045 across trims (MSRP when new). At 18 MPG, expect roughly $2,917/year in fuel at 15,000 miles/year.
Which Explorer SL years should you avoid?
No standout weak years: across the 11 Explorer SL model years we've scored, every year lands within half a point of the best (7.5/10). Pick on price and condition rather than year.
Owner Essentials — Ford Explorer SL
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More Ford Reviews
Explore the full lineup of Ford models scored by Carivo — ranked by overall score across reliability, safety, value, performance, and technology.
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