2013 Ford Explorer Struts: Early FWD & Late AWD Picks

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You want your 2013 Ford Explorer to feel safe, controlled and comfortable before a long drive. Replacing worn front struts can reduce bounce, front-end clunks and brake dive when the original suspension is tired. A complete, vehicle-specific strut assembly can make the job faster because the coil spring and related hardware come pre-assembled.

This guide focuses on front strut assemblies that can fit specific 2013 Ford Explorer configurations, including early-build FWD models and late-build AWD models. Because fitment changes by drivetrain, build date and OEM part number, confirm your VIN, production date and left/right part numbers before ordering.

Top Picks

How We Picked These Struts

You need struts that match your Explorer first, then ride quality, installation simplicity and value come next. We prioritized complete front assemblies that list Ford Explorer compatibility, include the coil spring, and provide clear enough fitment details to help you match the part to your drivetrain and build date.

We also looked for practical buyer signals, such as included hardware, OEM replacement numbers, warranty language and whether the product is easier for a mechanic or experienced DIYer to install. Exact ratings, review counts, discounts and availability can change, so check the current Amazon listing before you buy.

Readair Front Complete Struts Assembly (Early 2013 FWD)

If your Explorer is an early-build FWD model, this Readair pair is the cleanest match in the list because the fitment note is specific. You get both front assemblies with coil springs already mounted, which helps reduce installation complexity and avoids reusing tired mounts or springs from the old struts.

Choose this set if the front end feels bouncy, clunks over bumps or dives too much under braking. The main limitation is fitment. It is not the right pick for late-build AWD Explorers, so check the build date and OEM numbers before clicking through.

Why You’ll Like It

• Clear early-build FWD fitment for 2011-2012 and some 2013 Explorers
• Complete left and right front assemblies simplify the parts search
• Good choice when you want an OE-style replacement before a long trip
• Helps address bounce, road noise and tired front-end feel when old struts are worn

Situational Benefits

Fitment Notes

Best for 2011-2012 FWD and 2013 FWD Explorers built before 09/04/2012. Avoid it if your 2013 Explorer is AWD or uses different OEM numbers.

Readair Complete Struts Spring Assembly Front

This Readair set is a strong option if you want a simple front-pair replacement and your OEM numbers match 272621/272620. It keeps the buying process straightforward because you are not shopping for struts, springs and mounts separately.

It is best for drivers who want a no-fuss ride refresh for normal commuting and family travel. As with every strut assembly here, do not assume universal 2013 fitment. Match the listing to your drivetrain, production date and original part numbers.

Why You’ll Like It

• Pre-assembled front pair reduces installation steps
• Useful when you want a direct replacement instead of rebuilding old struts
• OE-style design is aimed at returning the front end to a more controlled feel
• Good fit for buyers who value simple parts matching and a complete assembly format

Situational Benefits

Fitment Notes

Match the 272621/272620 replacement numbers before ordering. If your Explorer uses 172620/172621 or 172729/172730, compare carefully or choose a listing built around those numbers.

ECCPP Front Complete Strut Assembly (Set of 2)

The ECCPP set is a practical pick if you want a pre-assembled pair that lists 2011–2013 Explorer compatibility and replaces 272621/272620. It includes the major pieces most buyers expect in a quick-strut assembly, so it can be easier than rebuilding worn original struts.

It is a good fit for value-focused buyers who still want a complete pair. The buyer caution is the same as the Readair option above: verify your exact OEM numbers and drivetrain before ordering because a wrong strut can create ride height, handling or installation problems.

Why You’ll Like It

• Complete pair includes strut, coil spring and related assembly components
• Good option for replacing worn front struts without using a spring compressor
• Useful for buyers comparing Readair and ECCPP options around the same OEM numbers
• Can improve ride control when old struts are leaking, noisy or weak

Situational Benefits

Fitment Notes

Best for shoppers whose Explorer matches the 2011–2013 listing and 272621/272620 replacement numbers. Confirm whether your vehicle requires a FWD or AWD assembly before buying.

Vextone Front Struts (Late-Build 2013 AWD)

This Vextone pair is the one to check if your 2013 Explorer is the later 3.5L AWD configuration that matches OEM numbers 172729/172730. It does not belong in the same bucket as early FWD struts, so treat it as a drivetrain-specific option rather than a universal 2013 pick.

The complete assembly format is useful for restoring front-end control without transferring old springs and mounts. It is especially helpful for AWD owners who need a listing that clearly calls out the later fitment range.

Why You’ll Like It

• Clear option for 2013–2019 Ford Explorer 3.5L AWD fitment
• Includes coil springs and mounts as part of the ready-to-install front pair
• Good fit for late-build AWD owners who should not buy early FWD assemblies
• Helpful for smoothing worn front suspension before daily driving or road trips

Situational Benefits

Fitment Notes

Best for 2013–2019 Ford Explorer 3.5L AWD applications that match 172729/172730. Avoid it for early-build FWD Explorers unless Amazon’s fitment tool and your OEM numbers confirm otherwise.

Detroit Axle Front Complete Struts w/ Links (2011–2013 FWD)

This Detroit Axle kit makes sense if you have a compatible FWD Explorer and want to refresh more than just the strut assemblies. The included sway bar end links add value when those parts are also worn or noisy, which is common on higher-mileage front suspensions.

Choose it if you want a fuller front-end kit for an early FWD model. Avoid it if your Explorer is AWD or if you only need the struts and prefer to buy links separately from a brand you already trust.

Why You’ll Like It

• Includes two complete front strut assemblies plus two sway bar end links
• Useful for fixing clunks when both struts and links are suspect
• Good value when you want more included hardware in one purchase
• Best suited to compatible 2011–2013 FWD Explorers

Situational Benefits

Fitment Notes

Best for 2011–2013 Ford Explorer FWD models when the listing and your vehicle match. Check included sway bar links on arrival and confirm left/right placement before installation.

Detroit Axle Front Strut Kit (2011–2013 FWD)

This Detroit Axle kit is the simpler FWD option if you do not need sway bar links bundled in. It gives you the two complete front strut assemblies and keeps the product choice focused on the main repair.

It is best for budget-minded FWD owners who want a ready-to-install pair and plan to inspect other front-end parts separately. Because some aftermarket struts can slightly change ride feel or height, compare the listing notes and inspect the vehicle after installation.

Why You’ll Like It

• Simple two-piece front strut kit for compatible FWD Explorers
• Good choice when the sway bar links are still in usable condition
• Complete assemblies reduce spring-transfer work
• Budget-friendly alternative to larger kits with extra hardware

Situational Benefits

Fitment Notes

Best for 2011–2013 FWD Explorers built before 09/04/2012 when the listing confirms compatibility. Avoid it for AWD models and always schedule an alignment after installation.

Before You Buy: 2013 Explorer Strut Checklist

FAQ

How Do I Know If My 2013 Ford Explorer Needs New Struts Before The Holidays?

You may notice a bouncy or floaty ride over bumps, extra nose dive when braking, uneven tire wear, visible fluid on the strut body, or clunking from the front suspension. A simple bounce test can also help: press down firmly on one front corner and let go. If the vehicle continues bouncing instead of settling quickly, the strut may be weak.

If you see these symptoms before a long holiday drive, have the suspension inspected. Worn struts can reduce ride control and make the SUV feel less stable, especially when it is loaded with passengers and luggage.

Should You Buy Complete Strut Assemblies Or Replace Only The Shock?

Complete strut assemblies are usually easier and safer for most buyers because the coil spring and mount come pre-assembled. That helps you avoid using a spring compressor, which can be dangerous without the right tools and experience. Replacing only the strut cartridge or shock portion may cost less in parts, but it takes more labor and depends on the old spring, mount, boot and bearing being in good condition.

For a road-trip repair, a complete pair is often the simpler choice. Replace front struts in left/right pairs so the handling stays balanced.

Can You Install These Struts Yourself?

An experienced DIYer with proper tools can install complete front strut assemblies, but suspension work still requires care. You need to support the vehicle safely, follow torque specs, inspect related parts and avoid driving long distances before alignment.

If you are unsure about tools, safety or diagnosis, have a trusted shop handle the installation. A professional alignment after the repair is strongly recommended.

Which Strut Assembly Should I Pick For A 2013 Explorer?

For an early-build FWD Explorer, start with the Readair or Detroit Axle FWD options that specifically mention 2011–2013 FWD or a build date before 09/04/2012. For a late-build AWD Explorer, check the Vextone option if your SUV matches the 3.5L AWD listing and OEM numbers 172729/172730. If you are comparing similar FWD pairs, choose based on included parts, warranty language, seller support and whether you need sway bar links in the same kit.

Final Recommendation

If you want the safest first choice for a compatible early-build FWD Explorer, start with the Readair Front Complete Struts Assembly because the fitment note is the clearest. If you want a FWD kit with extra front-end hardware, the Detroit Axle kit with sway bar links is the more complete bundle. If your 2013 Explorer is a late-build AWD model, the Vextone AWD listing is the one to check before considering any FWD option.

The most important step is not choosing the highest score. It is choosing the assembly that matches your exact drivetrain, build date and OEM numbers. After installation, get the alignment done so the new struts can deliver the ride, tire wear and steering feel you expect.

Product	Image	Best For	Key Fitment Note	Included Parts
Front Struts for Ford Explorer 2011-2013 FWD – Readair		Best overall early FWD match	2011-2012 FWD and 2013 FWD built before 09/04/2012	Two complete front strut assemblies
Complete Struts Spring Assembly Front Struts – Readair		Best simple front pair	Check 272621/272620 replacement numbers	Two complete front strut and coil spring assemblies
ECCPP Complete Struts Spring Assembly – ECCPP		Best balanced value	2011–2013 listing, check 272621/272620	Pre-assembled front pair with springs and mounts
Vextone – Front Struts Shocks Complete Assembly		Best for late-build AWD	2013–2019 Ford Explorer 3.5L AWD, check 172729/172730	Two complete front strut assemblies with springs and mounts
Detroit Axle – Front Struts Sway Bars		Best FWD kit with links	2011–2013 Ford Explorer FWD	Two complete front strut assemblies plus sway bar end links
Detroit Axle – FWD Front Struts for Explorer 2011-2013		Best budget FWD kit	2011–2013 FWD, built before 09/04/2012	Two complete front strut assemblies with coil springs