Can the Ford Explorer's center control screen be replaced?
4 Answers
Ford Explorer's center control screen can be replaced according to the owner's personal needs. Below is relevant information about car center control screens: 1. Definition: A car's fully touch-sensitive center console screen refers to the center console no longer using traditional physical operation designs like buttons and knobs, but instead employing capacitive touch technology. Similar to smartphone screens, light touches, presses, or swipes can complete operations. 2. Advantages: The fully touch-sensitive center control screen not only significantly enhances the vehicle's technological feel and premium quality, but also adds a highlight to the car's otherwise not-so-cutting-edge interior styling, making it a relatively important component of the vehicle.
Replacing the Ford Explorer's center screen is absolutely doable—I've done it several times for friends. The key is matching the model year, as older and newer versions have different screen sizes and interfaces. Most pre-2015 models use a 7-inch screen, while newer ones can accommodate up to a 12-inch display. First, check online for compatible products for your specific year—sites like Amazon or CarParts offer OEM replacements or third-party brands like Alpine or Pioneer. The installation isn’t difficult, but you’ll need the right tools: wrenches, screwdrivers, and a trim removal kit for the panels. The steps involve disconnecting the battery’s positive terminal (safety first!), prying off the trim around the old screen, unplugging the cables, and securing the new screen in place. Test all functions afterward to ensure nothing like the AC or backup camera is affected. It typically takes about two hours; beginners should consider getting help. The upgrade significantly improves the experience, making the interface much smoother.
When considering cost, replacing the center control screen depends on your budget. Original factory parts at a 4S shop may cost between 5,000 to 8,000 RMB, including installation fees, with the advantage of warranty and perfect compatibility. Third-party options are cheaper, with major brand touchscreens available for around 3,000 RMB, or you can purchase materials yourself for under 1,500 RMB. Last month, I bought a second-hand screen for 1,200 RMB and paid 300 RMB for installation at a roadside shop, but compatibility is key—ensure the interface protocol supports Ford Sync before buying, otherwise Bluetooth or navigation might not work. If you want to save money, DIY is an option—just prepare a multimeter to check voltage and prevent short circuits. After replacement, CarPlay access is much smoother, and navigation responds faster. However, it's advisable to avoid ultra-low-priced products as their unstable quality can affect usability. Overall, it's worth it—spending around 3,000 RMB can significantly upgrade the car's tech feel and make long-distance navigation more convenient.
I personally replaced the Explorer's center console screen, and the most direct takeaway was the hassle with details. My car is a 2018 model, and the original screen was slow, so I upgraded to a 10-inch Android screen. The process involved first pulling the fuse to prevent electric shock, then opening the glove compartment to locate the bolts. Removing the old screen was quite laborious. The wire connectors were color-coded for easy identification, and aligning the new screen with the mounting holes was straightforward. After securing it, I powered it on for testing, and everything worked fine. However, a minor hiccup occurred when the GPS antenna wasn't plugged in tightly, causing the navigation to fail and requiring a second disassembly. Overall, the new interface is much more visually appealing, and the voice control is incredibly practical, allowing me to operate it without distraction while driving. Cost-wise, the screen was 1800, and I borrowed tools from a neighbor, so no additional expenses there. For beginners, I recommend watching YouTube tutorials first and avoiding internal wiring unless you have some electrical knowledge.
