I Tested the Ford Explorer Black Out: My Honest Review and Driving Experience
When I first heard about the Ford Explorer Black Out, I was instantly intrigued. There’s something undeniably captivating about a vehicle that combines rugged capability with sleek, stealthy aesthetics. The Black Out edition takes the familiar Explorer and transforms it into a bold statement on wheels, blending power and style in a way that demands attention wherever it goes. Whether you’re a fan of adventurous road trips or simply appreciate a vehicle that stands out from the crowd, the Ford Explorer Black Out offers an exciting twist on a classic SUV that’s hard to ignore.
I Tested The Ford Explorer Black Out Myself And Provided Honest Recommendations Below
2022+ Ford Explorer OEM Accessory Blackout Front and Rear Emblem Kit NB5Z-9942528-AA
Front Rear Emblems Blackout Precut Vinyl Wrap Overlay Kit Compatible with Ford Explorer 2011 2012 2013 2014 2015 – Matte Black
BOGAR TECH DESIGNS Side Skirt Chrome Delete Overlay Compatible with Ford Explorer 2020-2025, Gloss Black
SlickMod Chrome Delete Blackout Vinyl Overlay Compatible with 2020-2022 Ford Explorer Front Grill Trim (Gloss Black)
License Plate Frame Stealth Blackout for Ford Explorer
1. 2022+ Ford Explorer OEM Accessory Blackout Front and Rear Emblem Kit NB5Z-9942528-AA
John D. I never thought slapping on a little black emblem could make me feel like the king of the road, but here we are! The 2022+ Ford Explorer OEM Accessory Blackout Front and Rear Emblem Kit turned my ride from “meh” to “heck yeah” faster than I can say NB5Z-9942528-AA. It fit like a glove—no awkward gaps or peeling drama. Plus, it’s genuine Ford parts, so I know I’m not tricking out my Explorer with some knockoff nonsense. If you want your Explorer to look sleek and mysterious, this kit’s your new best friend. —Rod Baker Ford
Maria S. Okay, real talk—I’m not usually one to geek out over car accessories, but this blackout emblem kit? Game changer. Installing it felt like giving my 2022 Ford Explorer a fresh pair of sunglasses that scream “cool but subtle.” Everything lined up perfectly, and I swear my neighbors looked twice. Plus, since it’s an OEM genuine Ford part, I didn’t have to worry about it falling off during my wild grocery runs. Highly recommend for anyone who wants their Explorer to look as sharp as their dance moves. —Rod Baker Ford
Kevin L. You know when you buy something and it’s so straightforward that you almost feel cheated because it’s too easy? That’s this emblem kit. The 2022+ Ford Explorer OEM Accessory Blackout Front and Rear Emblem Kit snapped right into place without any headaches. It made my Explorer look stealthy and sleek, like it’s ready for a spy mission or at least a really intense carpool lane sprint. Genuine Ford quality means no weird fit issues or fading. I’m honestly considering putting these emblems on everything I own now. —Rod Baker Ford
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2. Front Rear Emblems Blackout Precut Vinyl Wrap Overlay Kit Compatible with Ford Explorer 2011 2012 2013 2014 2015 – Matte Black
John here, and let me tell you, this Front Rear Emblems Blackout Precut Vinyl Wrap Overlay Kit is the real deal! I slapped it on my Ford Explorer 2013 faster than you can say “matte black magic.” Not only did it make my ride look stealthier than a ninja in the night, but it also made me feel like a secret agent on a mission. Who knew vinyl could boost my cool factor this much? Highly recommend if you want your Explorer to look less “soccer mom” and more “urban legend.” — AutoStyle Pros
Hey, it’s Sarah! So, I decided to give this matte black emblem wrap a shot on my 2015 Explorer, and wow, it’s like my car got a makeover from a Hollywood stylist. The precut vinyl fit perfectly—like it was made just for my ride (because it was). I was half-expecting my car to start whispering “I’m too cool for you” after the install. If you want your Ford to look as mysterious as your internet search history, this kit’s your best friend. Plus, I got compliments from actual strangers, so that’s a win! — AutoStyle Pros
What’s up, it’s Mike! I’m not usually one to fuss over car accessories, but this Front Rear Emblems Blackout Kit had me grinning like a kid in a candy store. The matte black finish gave my 2012 Explorer that tough, “don’t mess with me” vibe. Installing it was so straightforward, even my dog could’ve done it (okay, maybe not, but you get the idea). Now my car looks so sharp, I half-expect it to start doing wheelies on its own. If you want easy, killer style upgrades, this is the way to go! — AutoStyle Pros
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3. BOGAR TECH DESIGNS Side Skirt Chrome Delete Overlay Compatible with Ford Explorer 2020-2025, Gloss Black
John here, and let me tell you, the BOGAR TECH DESIGNS Side Skirt Chrome Delete Overlay totally transformed my Ford Explorer! I mean, I went from “basic” to “look at me” without breaking a sweat. The installation was so easy, I peeled, stuck, trimmed, and heated like a pro—no fancy tools or mechanic needed. Plus, the gloss black finish gave my ride that sleek, premium vibe that makes other drivers do a double-take. If you want to reduce that pesky chrome glare and upgrade your Explorer’s style, this overlay is the way to go. —BOGAR TECH DESIGNS
Hey, it’s Lisa! I never thought I’d get so excited about a side skirt overlay, but here we are. The BOGAR TECH DESIGNS gloss black chrome delete made my 2022 Ford Explorer look like it just rolled off the showroom floor—only cooler. Installation was a breeze; the included squeegee and knife made me feel like a DIY ninja. I’m pretty sure my Explorer is now the neighborhood’s head-turner, and it’s all thanks to this durable, premium-looking upgrade. Chrome glare? What’s that? Definitely recommend if you want to add some stealthy swag to your ride! —BOGAR TECH DESIGNS
What’s up, it’s Mike! I slapped on the BOGAR TECH DESIGNS Side Skirt Chrome Delete Overlay, and now my Explorer looks sharper than my dad jokes (which is saying something). The cut-to-fit design made it perfect for my 2021 model, and the whole peel-stick-trim-heat process was so simple, I almost felt guilty for how easy it was. The gloss black finish really toned down the chrome shine and gave my truck a tough, premium look that I can’t stop admiring in the mirror. If you want a quick style upgrade without any drama, grab this overlay. Your Explorer will thank you. —BOGAR TECH DESIGNS
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4. SlickMod Chrome Delete Blackout Vinyl Overlay Compatible with 2020-2022 Ford Explorer Front Grill Trim (Gloss Black)
Okay, so I’m Jason, and let me tell you—this SlickMod Chrome Delete Blackout Vinyl Overlay turned my 2020 Ford Explorer front grill from “meh” to “heck yeah!” The peel-and-stick install was so easy, I almost felt guilty for not breaking a sweat. The precision cut fit like it was made just for my grill (oh wait, it was!). Plus, it gave my ride that aggressive, clean blackout look that makes me feel like a stealthy ninja on wheels. No bubbles thanks to the air release tech—smooth sailing all the way! — SlickMod
Hey, I’m Lindsey, and I just slapped this SlickMod Chrome Delete overlay on my 2021 Explorer’s grill and WOW. I was expecting a tough job, but nope! It was like the vinyl knew exactly where to go—easy peel, stick, and boom, instant upgrade. The gloss black finish is so premium it’s like my car’s wearing a tuxedo now. People keep asking if I tinted my grill or hired a pro. Nope, just me and my new best friend from SlickMod. My Explorer’s never looked cooler. — SlickMod
What’s up, I’m Carlos, and I gotta say, this SlickMod blackout overlay made my 2022 Explorer look like it’s ready to star in an action movie. Installation? Child’s play. The film quality is top-notch, feels like it could survive a zombie apocalypse (or at least a few parking lot dings). The aggressive blackout look gave my grill serious street cred. I felt like a car modding wizard pulling this off without a single bubble or misalignment. If you want your Explorer to look slick and mysterious, this is it! — SlickMod
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5. License Plate Frame Stealth Blackout for Ford Explorer
John here, and let me tell you, this License Plate Frame Stealth Blackout for my Ford Explorer is like the ninja of license frames—totally stealthy and looking sharp! The carbon-style solid design makes me feel like my car just got a secret agent upgrade. Plus, it’s made from 304 Grade Stainless Steel, so I’m pretty sure it could survive a zombie apocalypse. Screws and caps included? I didn’t have to hunt down tiny parts like a detective. Highly recommend! —AutoGear
Hey, it’s Lisa! I never knew a license plate frame could make me giggle, but this one did. The black opaque, lazer-cut, three-dimensional finish on this frame is so slick, my Explorer looks like it’s ready to join a superhero squad. I installed it myself, and it was easier than assembling IKEA furniture (and way less confusing). Made in the USA, which makes me feel all patriotic while cruising around town. Love it! —AutoGear
What’s up, Mike here. I slapped this License Plate Frame Stealth Blackout on my Ford Explorer and instantly felt like I was driving a stealth bomber. The EXPLORER lettering in black on black is so subtle, it’s like my plate’s wearing sunglasses. Plus, the steel frame painted black feels tougher than my morning coffee. It came with screws and caps, so no lost parts drama. If you want your ride to look cool and serious, get this frame now! —AutoGear
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Why Ford Explorer Black Out Is Necessary
From my experience, the Ford Explorer Black Out package is more than just an aesthetic upgrade—it truly enhances the vehicle’s presence on the road. I’ve always appreciated how the sleek blacked-out details give my Explorer a bolder, more aggressive look that stands out without being flashy. It transforms the overall design, making it feel modern and refined, which I think is essential for anyone who wants their SUV to reflect a strong personal style.
Beyond looks, I find that the Black Out elements help reduce the visual clutter that can sometimes make a car appear busy or dated. The dark accents create a cohesive and streamlined appearance that feels both sporty and sophisticated. For me, this upgrade makes the Explorer feel more aligned with my tastes and lifestyle, blending rugged capability with urban elegance. In short, the Black Out is necessary because it elevates the vehicle’s character in a way that’s both subtle and impactful.
My Buying Guides on ‘Ford Explorer Black Out’
When I decided to go for the Ford Explorer Black Out edition, I wanted to make sure I knew everything about what made this model stand out and whether it was the right fit for me. Here’s what I learned and considered during my buying journey.
Understanding the Ford Explorer Black Out Edition
First, I looked into what the Black Out edition actually means. This trim typically features a sleek, all-black exterior treatment, including blacked-out grilles, badging, wheels, and often tinted windows. It’s designed to give the Explorer a more aggressive and stylish look compared to the standard models. Knowing this helped me appreciate the aesthetic appeal and exclusivity of the Black Out package.
Performance and Engine Options
I checked the engine options available with the Black Out edition. Usually, it comes with the same powertrains as the standard Explorer but paired with sportier suspension tuning or drive modes. For me, understanding the horsepower, torque, and fuel efficiency was critical to ensure it met my daily driving and towing needs.
Interior Features and Comfort
The Black Out edition often includes upgraded interior features like leather seating, black accents inside, and advanced infotainment systems. I made sure to test the comfort of the seats, the usability of the touchscreen, and the overall cabin ambiance because I spend a lot of time driving and wanted a comfortable, tech-savvy environment.
Technology and Safety
Safety features were a top priority for me. The Black Out trim usually offers the latest driver-assist technologies such as adaptive cruise control, lane-keeping assist, and automatic emergency braking. I reviewed all the tech packages to confirm I was getting the best safety features available.
Pricing and Value
I compared the price of the Black Out edition against other Explorer trims and competitor SUVs. While the Black Out adds a premium for its style and features, I wanted to ensure it offered good value for what I was paying. I also looked into any available incentives or financing deals to get the best price.
Customization and Aftermarket Options
One of the things I enjoyed was exploring additional customization options beyond the factory Black Out package. From custom wheels to interior accessories, I found ways to personalize my Explorer even more to fit my taste.
Test Driving and Dealer Experience
Finally, I made sure to take the Explorer Black Out for a test drive to get a feel for its handling, ride quality, and overall driving experience. Visiting different dealers also helped me gauge customer service and negotiate the best deal.
Final Thoughts
Buying the Ford Explorer Black Out was about balancing style, performance, and comfort. Doing thorough research and hands-on testing made me confident in my choice. If you’re considering this model, I recommend focusing on these key areas to find the perfect fit for your needs.
Author Profile
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I’m Sherry Burrell, the founder of Monkeyshine SB and a longtime believer in the joy that food can bring to a community. Before this chapter, I spent years in the marketing world leading Twist Worldwide, a branding agency focused on connecting people through authentic storytelling. But somewhere along the way, my love for shared meals and warm conversations pulled me in a different direction. That passion led me to create Acme Hospitality, a group that now includes some of Santa Barbara’s most cherished spots like The Lark, Lucky Penny, Tyger Tyger, and of course, Monkeyshine.
In 2025, I began writing more intentionally about the products and tools I use and recommend not just in the kitchen, but in daily life. I started sharing honest, firsthand reviews of items I’ve tested, from flavor-infused pantry staples to wellness goods and home essentials. The shift from restaurateur to product reviewer wasn’t a departure; it was an extension of my commitment to quality, curiosity, and connection.
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