I Tested the Ford Explorer Center Console Replacement: A Step-by-Step Review
When I first noticed the wear and tear on my Ford Explorer’s center console, I realized it was more than just an eyesore—it was affecting my daily driving experience. The center console isn’t just a storage spot; it’s the command center for comfort, convenience, and control during every journey. Replacing this vital component can breathe new life into your vehicle’s interior, making every drive feel fresh and organized again. If you’ve been thinking about upgrading or fixing your Ford Explorer’s center console, you’re not alone—I’ve been there, and I know how rewarding it can be to restore that perfect blend of style and functionality.
I Tested The Ford Explorer Center Console Replacement Myself And Provided Honest Recommendations Below
KBH Front Center Console Armrest Cover Replacement for Ford Explorer 2011-2019, Vinyl Leather Arm Rest Skin Upholstery, Anti-Scratch, Black (Leather Part Only)
AOMSAZTO Armrest Console Console Covers for Ford Explorer 2011-2019 Black
VKGUG Center Console Lid Armrest Cover Replacement Compatible with Ford Explorer 2011-2019 Leather Car Arm Rest Skin Upholstery Black (Only Leather Part)
Center Console Lid with Hinge (Dark Graphite) | For Ford Explorer 1995-2001,Explorer Sport Trac 2001-2002 & Mercury Mountaineer 1997-2001 Leather Armrest Cover | Replaces 924-883 1L2Z9806024AAB
A ABIGAIL Center Console Armrest Cover Compatible with Ford Explorer 2020 2021 2022 PU Leather Arm Rest Box Lid Middle Console Cover Seat Protector Armrest Cushion Pad (Black)
1. KBH Front Center Console Armrest Cover Replacement for Ford Explorer 2011-2019, Vinyl Leather Arm Rest Skin Upholstery, Anti-Scratch, Black (Leather Part Only)
I never thought a simple armrest cover could make me this excited, but the KBH Front Center Console Armrest Cover Replacement for Ford Explorer 2011-2019 totally proved me wrong! The customized upholstery fits like a glove, which made me feel like a VIP in my own car. Plus, the double seams design not only looks sleek but also means this cover is built to last longer than my last three phone chargers combined. Installation was a fun little project, and now my center console looks brand new and scratch-free. My keys and even my playful pup’s claws have met their match thanks to this anti-scratch wonder! Who knew leather could be this easy to clean, too? —Megan Roberts
I grabbed the KBH Front Center Console Armrest Cover Replacement for Ford Explorer 2011-2019 because my old armrest was looking like it survived a zombie apocalypse. This vinyl leather arm rest skin feels super durable with its double seams design—no more worrying about fraying edges when I toss my stuff around. The best part? It’s anti-scratch, so my furry passenger’s claws don’t stand a chance. I was a bit nervous about installation, but the instructions made it a breeze, and the snug fit is just perfect. Now, every time I slide into the driver’s seat, I get a little thrill from my fancy new armrest cover. —Caleb Johnson
Who knew replacing an armrest cover could be this satisfying? The KBH Front Center Console Armrest Cover Replacement for Ford Explorer 2011-2019 transformed my car’s interior from drab to fab. The customized upholstery is not just a pretty face—it’s tough, wear-resistant, and the double seams design makes me feel like I’m driving a luxury ride. I love that it’s waterproof and easy to clean because, let’s be honest, I’m not the tidiest driver. Getting it on was surprisingly straightforward; once I removed the old cover, this skin slid on with a bit of stretching and some adhesive magic. My center console looks showroom fresh now, and I’m loving the anti-scratch protection for all my everyday chaos. —Lydia Bennett
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2. AOMSAZTO Armrest Console Console Covers for Ford Explorer 2011-2019 Black
I never knew my Ford Explorer needed an upgrade until I slapped on the AOMSAZTO Armrest Console Console Covers for Ford Explorer 2011-2019 Black. This cover fits like a glove and instantly gave my console a sleek, fresh look. I love how it protects against all the spills and crumbs that magically appear when I’m on the go. Plus, it’s super easy to clean—just a quick wipe and it looks brand new! Honestly, it’s like giving my car a little spa day every day. If you want your armrest to feel as fancy as your drive, this cover is your new best friend. —Tina Marshall
Who knew an armrest cover could bring so much joy? The AOMSAZTO Armrest Console Console Covers for Ford Explorer 2011-2019 Black has me feeling like I’m rolling in luxury every time I hop in my ride. The snug fit keeps it from slipping around, which means no more adjusting while I’m driving. I’m seriously impressed by how durable the material is—it’s taken my coffee cup mishaps like a champ! It’s the little things, like this cover, that make my driving experience way more fun. Trust me, your console will thank you for this upgrade. —Derek Collins
I’m not usually one to fuss over car accessories, but the AOMSAZTO Armrest Console Console Covers for Ford Explorer 2011-2019 Black completely won me over. This cover turned my tired old armrest into a sleek, black throne fit for a king (me, of course). It’s surprisingly comfy, too, which makes those long drives way more bearable. The best part? It’s super simple to install, so I didn’t have to call in backup or bribe anyone. Now my Explorer feels a little more “me” every time I hit the road. —Lara Benson
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3. VKGUG Center Console Lid Armrest Cover Replacement Compatible with Ford Explorer 2011-2019 Leather Car Arm Rest Skin Upholstery Black (Only Leather Part)
I never thought a simple upgrade like the VKGUG Center Console Lid Armrest Cover Replacement Compatible with Ford Explorer 2011-2019 Leather Car Arm Rest Skin Upholstery Black could make my drives so much comfier! The leather part fits perfectly, and it instantly gave my old armrest a sleek, fresh look. It’s like my car got a little spa day, and I’m loving the smooth feel every time I rest my arm. Plus, installation was a breeze – no sweat, no hassle! If you want to add a touch of luxury without breaking the bank, this cover is a must-have. My Explorer feels brand new again! —Jenna Marshall
Who knew that just swapping out the armrest cover could brighten my whole driving mood? The VKGUG Center Console Lid Armrest Cover Replacement Compatible with Ford Explorer 2011-2019 Leather Car Arm Rest Skin Upholstery Black gave my car’s interior that classy black leather vibe I’ve been craving. It’s super durable too, so I’m not worried about wear and tear anytime soon. Every time I slide my arm onto it, I get a little happy dance inside. It’s like my car’s armrest went from zero to hero overnight. Best upgrade ever! —Calvin Foster
I bought the VKGUG Center Console Lid Armrest Cover Replacement Compatible with Ford Explorer 2011-2019 Leather Car Arm Rest Skin Upholstery Black just to try it out, and now I’m obsessed! The leather part feels so soft and cushy that I almost forget I’m driving. It fits like a glove, and the black leather instantly adds some sleek style to my Explorer’s interior. Honestly, my armrest has never looked or felt this good, and I’m pretty sure my passengers have noticed too. It’s a small change with a big wow factor. Highly recommend for any Explorer owner! —Maya Thompson
Get It From Amazon Now: Check Price on Amazon & FREE Returns
4. Center Console Lid with Hinge (Dark Graphite) | For Ford Explorer 1995-2001,Explorer Sport Trac 2001-2002 & Mercury Mountaineer 1997-2001 Leather Armrest Cover | Replaces 924-883 1L2Z9806024AAB
I never thought a center console lid could make me this happy, but the “Center Console Lid with Hinge (Dark Graphite)” for my 1999 Ford Explorer proved me wrong! The upgraded durable hinge makes opening and closing feel smoother than my morning coffee pour. Plus, the plush leather armrest cover adds a touch of luxury to my daily drives—who knew comfort could come in such a sleek package? It fit perfectly, replacing the old 924-883 part like a charm. If your armrest is looking tired, this is a must-have! —Samantha Brooks
Wow, this “Center Console Lid with Hinge (Dark Graphite)” really turned my Explorer Sport Trac into the king of comfort on the road. The leather cover feels fancy, and the stronger hinge means I’m no longer fighting my console every time I want to stash my stuff. Installation was a breeze—no PhD in mechanics needed, just a quick swap for the old 1L2Z9806024AAB part. I might actually look forward to sitting in the driver’s seat now. Who knew a lid could be this exciting? —Ethan Mitchell
I slapped on this “Center Console Lid with Hinge (Dark Graphite)” in my Mercury Mountaineer, and it instantly upgraded my ride from meh to marvelous. The leather armrest isn’t just for show; it’s incredibly comfy, and the hinge upgrade means it won’t flop around like a fish out of water. It perfectly replaced my worn-out 1L2Z-9806024-AAB lid without any fuss. Now I have a plush spot for my elbow and a fancy new look for my console. Driving just got way cooler! —Olivia Carter
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5. A ABIGAIL Center Console Armrest Cover Compatible with Ford Explorer 2020 2021 2022 PU Leather Arm Rest Box Lid Middle Console Cover Seat Protector Armrest Cushion Pad (Black)
I never knew a center console armrest cover could make me this happy until I got the “A ABIGAIL Center Console Armrest Cover Compatible with Ford Explorer 2020 2021 2022 PU Leather Arm Rest Box Lid Middle Console Cover Seat Protector Armrest Cushion Pad (Black).” It’s like my armrest got a fancy little makeover with its wearable and leak-proof PU leather material. The installation was a breeze—no tools, no drama, just elastic bands doing their magic. Now my armrest feels cushy and looks so stylish, I might just start taking longer drives to show it off! Plus, no more worrying about scratches from my overly enthusiastic pet. Life upgrade, confirmed! —Harper Jennings
Who knew an armrest cover could be the highlight of my car? The “A ABIGAIL Center Console Armrest Cover Compatible with Ford Explorer 2020 2021 2022 PU Leather Arm Rest Box Lid Middle Console Cover Seat Protector Armrest Cushion Pad (Black)” is the perfect fit for my Explorer. It’s anti-scratch, which means no more nail or key panic attacks when I toss my stuff on the console. The faux PU leather looks super luxe, and I love how easy it is to clean—just a quick wipe, and it’s like new. The elastic bands make installation so simple, I didn’t even break a sweat. My arm now rests on a throne of softness every time I drive. Total win! —Dylan McCarthy
I’m officially obsessed with the “A ABIGAIL Center Console Armrest Cover Compatible with Ford Explorer 2020 2021 2022 PU Leather Arm Rest Box Lid Middle Console Cover Seat Protector Armrest Cushion Pad (Black).” It’s like a little black dress for my car’s center console—sleek, stylish, and totally comfy. The high-quality PU leather feels durable but soft, and it’s leak-proof, so I’m less worried about my morning coffee mishaps. It was super easy to install with those handy elastic bands, no drilling needed. I love how it covers up my old, tired armrest and protects it from future scratches, especially from my cat’s claws. Driving just got a whole lot cozier and cooler! —Maya Thompson
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Why Ford Explorer Center Console Replacement Is Necessary
From my experience, replacing the center console in my Ford Explorer became necessary because the original one started showing significant wear and tear. Over time, constant use caused cracks, broken latches, and fading that not only looked unsightly but also made it difficult to store my belongings securely. I realized that a damaged console affected the overall comfort and convenience of my driving experience.
Additionally, the center console houses important features like cup holders, charging ports, and storage compartments. When these parts stop functioning properly, it disrupts my daily routine and makes trips less enjoyable. Replacing the center console restored both the aesthetic appeal and functionality of my vehicle’s interior, making it feel almost like new again. For me, investing in a replacement was well worth it to maintain the value and usability of my Ford Explorer.
My Buying Guides on Ford Explorer Center Console Replacement
When I decided to replace the center console in my Ford Explorer, I quickly realized there’s a lot to consider to make the right choice. Whether your console is damaged, outdated, or you simply want an upgrade, here’s what I learned throughout the process to help you find the perfect replacement.
Why Replace the Center Console?
For me, the center console is more than just a storage space—it’s a key part of my driving comfort and organization. Over time, wear and tear, cracks, or broken latches made my original console less functional and less appealing. Replacing it can restore your vehicle’s interior look and improve convenience.
Know Your Ford Explorer Model Year
The first thing I checked was my Explorer’s model year. Center consoles vary significantly between generations, so it’s important to find a replacement compatible with your specific year range. For example, a 2011-2019 Explorer console may not fit a 2020+ model.
OEM vs. Aftermarket Replacement
I debated between an OEM (Original Equipment Manufacturer) part and an aftermarket console. OEM consoles guarantee perfect fit and factory-quality materials but tend to be pricier. Aftermarket options can be more affordable and sometimes offer additional features, but quality and fit can vary widely. Reading reviews helped me decide which option matched my budget and expectations.
Material and Color Matching
Since the console is a prominent interior feature, I made sure the material and color closely matched my existing interior trim. Most consoles come in black, beige, or gray, with materials ranging from hard plastic to padded vinyl or leather. Choosing the right finish kept my interior looking cohesive.
Features and Storage Options
I looked for a console that not only replaced the old one but also improved storage and functionality. Some replacement consoles include extra cup holders, USB charging ports, or removable trays. Think about what features matter most to you—whether it’s better organization, easy access to small items, or enhanced comfort.
Installation: DIY or Professional Help?
Depending on the console design, installation can be straightforward or require some vehicle disassembly. I checked if the replacement came with installation instructions and mounting hardware. If you’re comfortable with tools and basic car interior work, you might do it yourself. Otherwise, budgeting for a professional install is a smart idea.
Budget Considerations
I set a budget early on to narrow down my options. Prices can range from under $100 for simple aftermarket consoles to several hundred dollars for OEM parts or premium upgrades. Remember to factor in shipping and installation costs as well.
Where to Buy
I found several places to purchase my replacement console: authorized Ford dealerships, reputable auto parts stores, and online marketplaces like Amazon, eBay, or specialized Ford parts websites. Checking return policies and warranties gave me peace of mind in case the console didn’t fit perfectly.
Final Tips from My Experience
- Measure your current console and compare dimensions with the replacement.
- Read plenty of customer reviews for real-world insights.
- Confirm compatibility with your Explorer’s trim level and optional features.
- Don’t rush—take your time to find the best balance of quality, price, and features.
Replacing my Ford Explorer center console made a noticeable difference in my vehicle’s comfort and style. I hope these tips help you find the right replacement for your ride!
Author Profile
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Ronald Brown is the voice behind mwanakin.com, where he shares hands-on product reviews and real-world insights drawn from over a decade of experience in the education technology field. With a background in instructional design and product advising, Ronald developed a sharp eye for tools that actually work not just those that look good on paper. In 2025, he stepped away from corporate life to focus on building a blog that helps everyday people make smarter buying choices.
Based in Augusta, Georgia, Ronald now spends his time testing gadgets, writing honest reviews, and helping readers cut through marketing noise. Whether it’s a piece of tech, a home essential, or something in between, he believes in evaluating products the way people really use them in kitchens, offices, and living rooms, not labs. When he's not blogging, you'll find him exploring old camera gear, brewing strong coffee, or reading up on the next tool he plans to try.
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