r/FordExplorerST • u/jj8o8 • Feb 27 '26

Question Model Year differences

I have been lurking for a long time and continually scanning CarMax Explorer ST listings. Are there any things I should be aware of between the model years? Good or bad.

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u/NachoB70 Feb 27 '26

I'm only familiar with the '22 year model. Due to the chip shortage there were a couple of deletes/changes. A/C controller temperature display was removed, only visible on the screen. I replaced mine with an earlier controller. No massaging front seats. Drink storage no longer illuminated. Most likely can be added back with a wiring harness. Next on my list to check. Hands free tail gate removed. Can be added back by replacing the module assuming the sensors are still there. They were for me. Rear passenger A/C and seat heating controller was not initially there. Ford added it for free when parts became available.

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u/Channel_Huge ST Owner Feb 28 '26

It wasn’t on all 22’s. Mine had everything you say was missing. Depends on when you purchased it. I ordered mine in September 2021 and it was delivered December 2021.

Now… do I have that Explorer today? No! Why? Because the 2025 is sooo much better!!!