The Ford Explorer continues to define the midsize SUV category, combining cutting-edge technology, versatile performance, and refined design. However, when winter arrives with its challenging conditions, even this capable vehicle benefits from strategic accessories that enhance safety, functionality, and comfort. 

Premium Winter Tires

Performance When It Matters Most

Winter tires remain the single most important seasonal upgrade for your Explorer. Unlike all-season tires, specialized winter tires use unique rubber compounds that retain flexibility in freezing temperatures, providing crucial traction when roads become treacherous.

The available all-wheel drive system works most effectively when paired with proper winter tires. Options like the Michelin X-Ice Snow and Bridgestone Blizzak DM-V2 deliver exceptional performance on snow-covered roads. These tires feature specialized tread patterns with deeper grooves and micro-sipes that channel away slush while biting into snow and ice.

For those seeking more capability, the Nokian Hakkapeliitta R5 SUV provides remarkable grip in extreme winter conditions. With a tread design specifically engineered for SUVs like the Explorer, these tires offer shorter braking distances and improved handling stability on icy surfaces.

All-Weather Floor Mats

Interior Protection From Winter Elements

Your elegant Explorer interior deserves protection from winter’s harsh elements. Premium TPE (Thermoplastic Elastomer) floor liners provide complete coverage with precision-engineered, vehicle-specific designs that follow every contour of your footwells.

These all-weather mats feature raised edges that contain melting snow, road salt, and mud that would otherwise damage your vehicle’s carpeting. Unlike basic carpet mats, TPE liners are waterproof, easy to clean, and remain flexible in cold temperatures without cracking.

For comprehensive protection, opt for a complete set covering all three rows of your Explorer, along with a matching cargo liner. This creates a unified system that protects your entire interior space from winter debris.

Winter Wiper Blades

Enhanced Visibility In Challenging Conditions

Standard wiper blades often struggle with heavy snow and ice, becoming rigid and ineffective in cold temperatures. Winter-specific wiper blades feature a robust rubber shell that prevents ice buildup while maintaining the flexibility needed for proper contact with your windshield.

Premium winter wipers, designed for the specific Explorer dimensions, ensure streak-free performance even during heavy snowfall. Models featuring articulated frames maintain even pressure distribution across the entire windshield, preventing snow and ice from accumulating on the blade itself.

For optimal visibility, pair these specialized wipers with winter-formulated windshield washer fluid containing antifreeze properties. This prevents the fluid from freezing in your reservoir and lines, ensuring reliable operation throughout the winter months.

Remote Starter System

Comfort Before You Enter

A remote starter system transforms winter driving by allowing you to warm your Explorer before leaving the comfort of your home. This feature is particularly valuable for the Explorer, as it provides time for the advanced heating system to reach optimal temperature.

Beyond comfort, pre-warming serves important safety functions by defrosting windows and mirrors, improving visibility before you begin your journey. For Explorer models equipped with heated seats and a heated steering wheel, a remote starter automatically activates these features, creating a welcoming environment even on the coldest mornings.

The latest remote starter systems offer an impressive range and can be integrated with your smartphone, allowing you to start your vehicle from virtually anywhere. This connectivity complements the tech-forward Explorer design philosophy while adding genuine winter utility.

Winter-Specific Emergency Kit

Preparedness For The Unexpected

Winter driving demands enhanced emergency preparedness. A specialized winter emergency kit serves as essential insurance against unexpected situations, particularly during snowstorms or in remote areas.

A comprehensive winter kit for your Explorer should include:

• Collapsible snow shovel for digging out from unexpected accumulation
• Traction aids such as sand, salt, or purpose-made traction mats
• Thermal emergency blankets that reflect body heat
• Hand warmers and extra winter clothing
• LED flashlights with extra batteries
• Energy-dense food supplies and water
• First-aid supplies for minor emergencies
• Portable jump starter/power bank for electronics and battery issues

Store these items in your spacious cargo area using an organized storage system that prevents movement during driving while maintaining accessibility when needed.

Explorer Roof Rack Snow Accessories

Transport Solutions For Winter Sports

The available roof rail system becomes even more valuable during the winter months when properly equipped with specialized accessories. Snow sport carriers allow secure transport of skis, snowboards, and other winter gear without compromising interior space or visibility.

Premium roof-mounted carriers feature aerodynamic designs that minimize wind noise and impact on fuel economy. The best options utilize push-button opening mechanisms that can be operated while wearing gloves and incorporate rubber padding to protect equipment from scratches.

For Explorer owners who frequent winter recreation areas, a roof-mounted cargo box provides weatherproof storage for gear and luggage. Modern cargo boxes feature dual-side opening for convenient access from either side of the vehicle and low-profile designs that maintain garage clearance.

Wheel Well Liners

Protection From Corrosive Elements

Winter road conditions introduce highly corrosive elements like salt and chemical de-icers that accelerate rust formation, particularly in wheel wells where moisture and debris accumulate. Specialized wheel well liners provide a protective barrier that shields these vulnerable areas from damage.

Made from durable, flexible materials, these liners install behind the wheel wells, creating a smooth surface that prevents slush, salt, and gravel from adhering to metal. Beyond corrosion protection, these liners reduce road noise by dampening wheel well acoustics, enhancing the already quiet cabin.

For complete protection, pair wheel well liners with custom-fit mud flaps that minimize spray onto the vehicle’s body panels while reducing debris thrown toward following vehicles.

Battery Maintainer

Reliable Starts In Cold Weather

Cold temperatures significantly reduce battery performance, placing additional strain on your electrical system during winter months. A quality battery maintainer provides intelligent charging that extends battery life while ensuring reliable starts regardless of temperature.

Modern maintainers connect easily to your Explorer battery and can be plugged into standard household outlets. The best options feature multi-stage charging algorithms that prevent overcharging while conditioning the battery for optimal performance.

For Explorer owners who park outdoors or in unheated garages, a battery maintainer is an affordable insurance against inconvenient no-starts during the coldest days of winter.

Winter-Grade Glass Protection

Clear Visibility Through Treatment

Winter presents unique challenges for maintaining clear glass surfaces. Specialized glass treatments create a hydrophobic barrier on your Explorer windshield and windows, causing water and snow to bead up and slide off more easily.

These treatments improve visibility by preventing ice adhesion and reducing the formation of frost. Application before winter arrives creates a protective layer that lasts for months, making ice scraping easier and improving wiper performance during snowfall.

For side windows and mirrors, these treatments prevent the accumulation of road spray that can quickly obscure visibility in winter driving conditions. The result is dramatically improved all-around visibility with less maintenance required.

Heated Seat Covers

Additional Warmth For Every Passenger

While higher trim levels of the Explorer offer factory-heated seats, aftermarket heated seat covers provide this luxury for all models. These covers install easily over existing upholstery and connect to your vehicle’s 12V power system.

Premium options feature multiple heat settings, automatic shutoff for safety, and breathable materials that maintain the comfort of your seating surfaces. Modern designs integrate seamlessly with the interior Explorer aesthetic while providing therapeutic warmth that makes winter commutes more comfortable.

For passengers in the second row without factory-heated seats, these covers transform the winter riding experience, especially during the first minutes before the vehicle’s heating system reaches full effectiveness.

Ford Explorer: Impressive Capabilities 

The Ford Explorer delivers impressive capabilities in winter conditions, particularly when equipped with thoughtfully selected accessories that enhance its performance, safety, and comfort. From essential traction upgrades to convenience features that make cold-weather driving more pleasant, these accessories represent smart investments that protect your vehicle while improving the ownership experience.

Whether navigating urban streets or exploring scenic winter landscapes, these accessories ensure your Explorer remains as capable and comfortable as possible. Visit your local Ford dealer today to explore these winter-ready options and experience the difference they can make during the challenging winter months ahead.

Disclaimer: Content contained in this post is for informational purposes only and may include features and options from US or international models. Please contact the dealership for more information or to confirm vehicle, feature availability.