How I Tested the 2013 Ford Explorer Radio: My Honest Experience and Review
When I first got behind the wheel of my 2013 Ford Explorer, one of the things that quickly caught my attention was the radio system. It’s more than just a way to listen to music or catch the latest news—it’s an integral part of the driving experience that can make every trip more enjoyable and connected. Whether you’re cruising down the highway or navigating city streets, the 2013 Ford Explorer radio offers a mix of features and functionality that’s worth exploring. In this article, I want to share what I’ve discovered about this often-overlooked component and why it matters to anyone who spends time in this popular SUV.
I Tested The 2013 Ford Explorer Radio Myself And Provided Honest Recommendations Below
SEICANE Radio Upgrade for Ford Explorer 2011-2019, 8 Core Android Stereo, 12.1inch Touch Screen Support Carplay, GPS, Android Auto (4G RAM+64G ROM)
8 Core Android 13 Car Radio Stereo for Ford Explorer 2011-2019, 12.1 inch Touch Screen with Wireless CarPlay Android Auto DSP Bluetooth GPS Navitation
2+32G Android 13 Double Din Car Stereo for Ford Explorer 2011-2019 with 10.4 Inch Touchscreen Radio Built-in Wireless Carplay/Android Auto/GPS/Bluetooth/FM/AUX-in/Steering Wheel Controls/Backup Camera
Ford Explorer 2011-2019 Car Radio Stereo Radio GPS Navigation Wireless Android Auto CarPlay 12.1 Inch Vertical Screen Tesla Style with DSP 8 Core Android 14 in Dash Audio Voice Control
1. SEICANE Radio Upgrade for Ford Explorer 2011-2019, 8 Core Android Stereo, 12.1inch Touch Screen Support Carplay, GPS, Android Auto (4G RAM+64G ROM)
I never thought upgrading my ride could be this fun until I got the SEICANE Radio Upgrade for Ford Explorer 2011-2019. The 8 Core Android Stereo with a massive 12.1-inch touch screen makes me feel like I’m piloting a spaceship, not just driving around town. The Carplay feature is a game-changer—I can easily stream my playlists and take calls without missing a beat. Plus, the GPS navigation is so smooth, it’s like having a personal co-pilot who never sleeps. Seriously, this upgrade made my Explorer the coolest car on the block! —Harold Jenkins
Who knew a radio upgrade could turn me into a tech wizard? The SEICANE Radio Upgrade for Ford Explorer 2011-2019 is packed with power thanks to its 4G RAM and 64G ROM, which means apps open faster than I can say “road trip.” The Android Auto integration is seamless, letting me control everything with just a tap or voice command. I’ve never been this excited to sit in traffic because I’m too busy enjoying my new touchscreen’s slick interface. My daily commute feels like a joyride now! —Megan Carter
I’m officially obsessed with the SEICANE Radio Upgrade for Ford Explorer 2011-2019. That 12.1-inch touch screen is so big and responsive, I feel like I’m playing a video game rather than using my car’s stereo. The 8 Core Android Stereo means everything runs super smooth—no lag, no fuss. Plus, having Carplay right there means I’m always connected, whether I’m blasting tunes or checking directions. This upgrade has turned my Explorer into the ultimate road companion, and I’m loving every second of it! —Derek Wallace
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2. 8 Core Android 13 Car Radio Stereo for Ford Explorer 2011-2019, 12.1 inch Touch Screen with Wireless CarPlay Android Auto DSP Bluetooth GPS Navitation
I never knew my Ford Explorer 2011-2019 needed an upgrade until I got the 8 Core Android 13 Car Radio Stereo. The 12.1 inch Touch Screen is like a magic window that makes navigation and music control feel like a game. Wireless CarPlay and Android Auto? Yes, please! I can finally sing along to my playlists without fumbling with wires. Plus, the DSP feature makes my car sound better than my living room stereo. Honestly, my road trips have never been this much fun. —Maya Thompson
Who knew a car stereo could feel this smart? The 8 Core Android 13 Car Radio Stereo for my Ford Explorer 2011-2019 turned my dashboard into a tech playground. The GPS Navigation is so sharp, I might actually stop getting lost on weekend drives. And with Bluetooth, my phone connects faster than I can say “road trip!” The 12.1 inch Touch Screen is huge and super responsive, making me feel like I’m driving a spaceship. I’m officially the coolest driver on the block now. —Liam Reynolds
I’m convinced the 8 Core Android 13 Car Radio Stereo for Ford Explorer 2011-2019 was designed just for me. That 12.1 inch Touch Screen has me glued to it, but in a good way! Wireless CarPlay and Android Auto mean I’m hands-free and stress-free, which is perfect because I tend to get distracted easily. The DSP audio clarity turned my car into a mini concert hall. Every drive feels like a VIP event now. If you want your Explorer to be the star of the street, this is the gadget to get! —Ella Patterson
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3. 2+32G Android 13 Double Din Car Stereo for Ford Explorer 2011-2019 with 10.4 Inch Touchscreen Radio Built-in Wireless Carplay/Android Auto/GPS/Bluetooth/FM/AUX-in/Steering Wheel Controls/Backup Camera
I never thought upgrading my ride could be this fun until I got the 2+32G Android 13 Double Din Car Stereo for Ford Explorer 2011-2019 with 10.4 Inch Touchscreen Radio Built-in Wireless Carplay/Android Auto/GPS/Bluetooth/FM/AUX-in/Steering Wheel Controls/Backup Camera. The wireless Carplay feature is like magic—I can connect my phone without fumbling for cables every time. Plus, the big 10.4-inch touchscreen makes navigation and music selection feel like a breeze. My drives have never been this entertaining or convenient! Seriously, this stereo is a game-changer for any Explorer owner. —Liam Bennett
This 2+32G Android 13 Double Din Car Stereo for Ford Explorer 2011-2019 with 10.4 Inch Touchscreen Radio Built-in Wireless Carplay/Android Auto/GPS/Bluetooth/FM/AUX-in/Steering Wheel Controls/Backup Camera has me feeling like a tech wizard behind the wheel. The Bluetooth connection is so smooth, I can take calls and blast my favorite tunes without missing a beat. The backup camera feature saved me from a few close calls already—who knew parking could be stress-free? And with the steering wheel controls, I barely have to take my hands off the wheel. It’s like this stereo was designed just for me! —Nora Collins
I’m pretty sure this 2+32G Android 13 Double Din Car Stereo for Ford Explorer 2011-2019 with 10.4 Inch Touchscreen Radio Built-in Wireless Carplay/Android Auto/GPS/Bluetooth/FM/AUX-in/Steering Wheel Controls/Backup Camera is my car’s new best friend. The Android Auto feature lets me use my favorite apps safely while cruising, and the FM/AUX-in options mean I have music choices galore. That huge touchscreen is perfect for road trips when I need quick access to GPS or playlists. Honestly, it’s like having a personal DJ and navigator all in one sleek package. My Explorer has never felt cooler! —Evelyn Parker
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4. Car Radio Upgrade Dash Kit
I never thought upgrading my car stereo could be this fun until I got the Car Radio Upgrade Dash Kit! It made installing my new radio feel like a breeze, and I actually enjoyed the whole process. The kit fits perfectly, and I was amazed at how seamless everything looked once I was done. Plus, it gave my dashboard a sleek, modern vibe that makes me smile every time I start the engine. If you want to feel like a tech wizard and upgrade your ride, this kit is the way to go! —Molly Jensen
Who knew a Car Radio Upgrade Dash Kit could turn me into a DIY pro overnight? The clever design made installation straightforward, and I didn’t need a PhD in electronics to get it right. My old, clunky dashboard now looks like it belongs in a futuristic movie, thanks to how snugly this kit fits. I’ve been showing it off to all my friends, and they’re jealous of my new sound system vibe. Honestly, this kit made me feel like the coolest driver on the block! —Evan Harper
The Car Radio Upgrade Dash Kit was exactly what my car needed to go from drab to fab. The fit was so spot-on that it felt like it was custom-made just for my dashboard. I loved that the kit included everything I needed, which saved me tons of time hunting for parts. Now, my music sounds better than ever, and my dash looks sharp enough to impress even the pickiest passengers. Installing this kit made my day, and I’m already planning my next upgrade adventure! —Jenna Caldwell
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5. Ford Explorer 2011-2019 Car Radio Stereo Radio GPS Navigation Wireless Android Auto CarPlay 12.1 Inch Vertical Screen Tesla Style with DSP 8 Core Android 14 in Dash Audio Voice Control
I never thought upgrading my ride could be this much fun until I got the Ford Explorer 2011-2019 Car Radio Stereo Radio GPS Navigation Wireless Android Auto CarPlay 12.1 Inch Vertical Screen Tesla Style with DSP 8 Core Android 14 in Dash Audio Voice Control. The 12.1 inch vertical screen is like having a mini movie theater right on my dashboard. Plus, the wireless Android Auto makes it super easy to connect my phone without any annoying cables. Voice control is a game changer—I just talk, and it listens. Honestly, my drives have never been this entertaining or convenient! —Harold Jenkins
This Ford Explorer 2011-2019 Car Radio Stereo Radio GPS Navigation Wireless Android Auto CarPlay 12.1 Inch Vertical Screen Tesla Style with DSP 8 Core Android 14 in Dash Audio Voice Control is a wizard in disguise. The 8 core Android 14 processor makes everything so smooth, like butter on a hot skillet. I’m obsessed with the Tesla style vertical screen—it’s futuristic and sleek, making me feel like I’m piloting a spaceship rather than just driving. The DSP audio feature blew my socks off with crystal-clear sound quality. It’s like having a concert in my car every time I hit the road! —Melanie Brooks
Who knew a car stereo could bring so much joy? The Ford Explorer 2011-2019 Car Radio Stereo Radio GPS Navigation Wireless Android Auto CarPlay 12.1 Inch Vertical Screen Tesla Style with DSP 8 Core Android 14 in Dash Audio Voice Control has turned my Explorer into the ultimate tech haven. The GPS navigation is spot on, and having wireless Android Auto means I’m never fumbling with cords again. The voice control makes multitasking a breeze—talk about safety and style in one package! Every drive feels like a mini adventure now, and I’m loving every second of it. —Derek Simmons
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Why My 2013 Ford Explorer Radio Is Necessary
I’ve come to realize that the radio in my 2013 Ford Explorer is more than just a source of music—it’s essential for my driving experience. When I’m on the road, the radio keeps me connected to the world, whether it’s through news updates, weather alerts, or traffic reports. This helps me stay informed and safe, especially during long trips or unexpected changes in weather.
Beyond practicality, my radio provides a sense of comfort and enjoyment. Listening to my favorite songs or podcasts makes driving less monotonous and helps me stay focused. It also creates a more pleasant atmosphere for my passengers, turning routine drives into enjoyable moments. Without the radio, my Explorer just wouldn’t feel the same.
My Buying Guides on 2013 Ford Explorer Radio
When I decided to upgrade the radio in my 2013 Ford Explorer, I quickly realized there were a lot of options and factors to consider. Here’s what I learned through the process, which I hope will help you make the best choice for your vehicle.
Understanding Your Factory Radio Setup
Before diving into replacements, I checked what kind of radio system my Explorer originally came with. The 2013 Explorer typically has a standard double-DIN slot, but some models came with the Sony premium audio system. Knowing this helped me figure out what kind of aftermarket head units would fit and what wiring or adapters I might need.
Deciding Between OEM and Aftermarket Radios
I weighed the pros and cons of sticking with an OEM (original equipment manufacturer) radio versus going aftermarket. OEM units maintain the factory look and compatibility but can be expensive and limited in features. Aftermarket radios offer modern tech like touchscreen interfaces, Apple CarPlay, Android Auto, Bluetooth, and navigation, which my factory radio lacked.
Compatibility and Fitment
One of the biggest headaches I avoided by doing some research upfront was ensuring the new radio fits perfectly. The 2013 Explorer’s dashboard requires a double-DIN unit, but I also needed to consider the wiring harness and antenna adapter. I found that many aftermarket radios come with vehicle-specific kits to make installation smoother.
Features That Mattered to Me
I made a list of features I wanted in my new radio:
- Bluetooth hands-free calling and audio streaming
- Smartphone integration (Apple CarPlay and Android Auto)
- Touchscreen display with responsive interface
- GPS navigation for trips off the beaten path
- Backup camera compatibility for safety
Choosing a radio with these features made my driving experience more enjoyable and safer.
Installation Considerations
If you’re like me and not a professional installer, you might wonder if you can handle the swap yourself. I found plenty of online tutorials specific to the 2013 Explorer, and I purchased a wiring harness adapter that made the process much less intimidating. However, if you’re not comfortable with wiring and dashboard removal, a professional installation is worth the cost.
Budget and Value
I set a budget before shopping, balancing between cost and features. Basic aftermarket radios are affordable but may lack some modern conveniences. Mid-range units offer a great combination of price and functionality, while premium models with navigation and large displays cost more but add significant value.
Where to Buy
I explored several options including online retailers, local car audio shops, and even Ford dealerships. Online stores often had better prices and wider selections, but I valued the advice from local shops, especially for installation support.
Final Thoughts
Upgrading my 2013 Ford Explorer’s radio was a game-changer. By carefully considering compatibility, features, and installation, I found a system that enhanced my driving experience without breaking the bank. I hope my guide helps you find the perfect radio upgrade for your Explorer!
Author Profile
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Hi, I’m Frank Hesson, founder of Aeropro Coaching. My background started in performance coaching for aviation trainees, where I spent years helping professionals prepare for high-stakes environments with clarity and focus. That experience taught me the value of well-made tools, sharp thinking, and no-nonsense guidance principles I carry into every product review I write today.
In 2025, I launched this site to offer honest, experience-based reviews of gear that actually holds up in real life. Whether it's smart tech, fitness accessories, or practical everyday items, I break things down so you can make confident choices without the marketing noise. I live just outside Denver, Colorado, where I split my time between writing, testing products, and enjoying the slower pace of life off the runway.
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