2002 Ford Explorer Consumer Discussions

Ford Explorer Air Conditioner and Heater Problems

• Re: A/C + HEATER SEMI-BROKE 2002 Ford Explorer. [rconant2]

  Written by: djones04 on Jan 25, 2012 7:29:09 PM

  OMG you are awesome, thank you sooooo much for the details..i found it within 5 minutes...i have heat........i love this site..Girl Power Baby!!!

• Re: A/C + HEATER SEMI-BROKE 2002 Ford Explorer. [harkess]

  Written by: djones04 on Jan 25, 2012 7:03:29 PM

  I hope you are still on this site as I need some more information on exactly where i am putting my hands in the dash..Uggg no heat, please help!!

Ford Explorer AWD 4WD Questions

• 2002 Explorer 4x4 High light flashing

  Written by: stacysch on Jan 25, 2012 8:47:47 AM

  I have a 2002 Explorer XLT with about 108,000 miles on it. About a year ago my 4x4 High light would flash 8 times every 3 or 4 minutes. It made a noise like it was trying to throw itself into 4 wheel drive when I was driving anywhere and made a grinding noise when turning to the left that sounded like it was metal on metal. The eletronic shift motor, ... Read More

Ford Explorer Electrical Problems

• Re: 2002 Ford Explorer Sports Trac [janie13]

  Written by: nvbanker on Jan 22, 2012 8:56:27 PM

  This sucks, but you may have no recourse. This is not common, but there was a recall on SOME Ford trucks about a speed control connection that could cause a fire. I have no idea if your truck was included in the recall. Also, if so, it may have already been fixed. Otherwise, it's not a design flaw on the truck. Apparently you don't what the cause was, so I don't ... Read More

• 2002 Ford Explorer Sports Trac

  Written by: janie13 on Jan 21, 2012 4:04:40 PM

  I purchased a 2002 Explorer Sports Trac which just happened to caught on fire last night. I searched for any recalls that may have been issued on this vehicle. Fortunately my son was able to get out of the truck in time. He was traveling on the freeway, when the truck all of the sudden died he coasted to the inside lane. When he tried to restart the truck smoke came ... Read More

Ford Explorer Starting and Stalling Problems

• Re: 2000 Ford Explorer won't idle when below 50 degrees [heyjules]

  Written by: twayne38 on Jan 12, 2012 4:44:40 PM

  Regarding your idle problem, I have a 2002 Sport Trac Explorer and had the exact same problem. It's the IAC sensor located under the air duct and on top of the motor, simple fix for me, just removed the air duct, unplugged the sensor , and as I recall removed to bolts and it slides right out. Now there is a pental inside that you can clean with "Gum Out" or ... Read More

Ford Explorer Electrical Problems

• Re: 2002 Ford Explorer XLT Electrical Problems [kelseyxo]

  Written by: dominic13 on Dec 13, 2011 8:44:10 AM

  I had this issue with mine and it was the alternator

Ford Explorer Air Conditioner and Heater Problems

• Re: 2003 Ford Explorer XLT-blowing cold air [demetriusj]

  Written by: langworthy68 on Nov 15, 2011 6:29:11 PM

  http://www.explorerforum.com/forums/showthread.php?t=294140 Go to this site. I just fixed mine a few weeks ago. This is great step by step instuctions. The problem is the blend door actuator. I bought mine off ebay for $41. The model is a DORMAN 604-202 (at least that is the one for the 2002, go to the dorman website and look yours up).

Ford Explorer Transmission Questions

• How do i check trani fluid pressure on a 02 Ford Explorer XLT?

  Written by: miss_nikki on Nov 10, 2011 11:32:24 AM

  Hi everyone! I hope everybody's doing great! Can anyone tell me how i can check the transmission fluid pressure on a 2002 Ford Explorer XLT? I just found out how complicated it is to put the trani fluid in to this car, so i would like to check the pressure first =) I think the fluid is low, but I'm not 100% sure... It would be great if somebody could help ... Read More

Ford Explorer Electrical Problems

• Re: 2002 Ford Explorer XLT Electrical Problems [kelseyxo]

  Written by: mike634 on Nov 9, 2011 8:26:25 PM

  Had the same issue with mine. The exhaust Y pipe with the catalytic converter was the issue. It was not cheap!!!!

Ford Explorer Air Conditioner and Heater Problems

• heater blows hot then blows cold air

  Written by: mike636 on Nov 9, 2011 7:12:38 PM

  I have a 2002 Ford Explorer and when the car heats up it will blow hot air but after about a minute or two the air starts getting colder and then blows only cold air - i turn the controller to cold and after about a minute i turn it back to heat and it will blow heat for about a minute and then go back to blowing cold air - ... Read More

Ford Explorer Electrical Problems

• 2002 Ford Explorer XLT Electrical Problems

  Written by: kelseyxo on Nov 8, 2011 5:48:36 PM

  I have a 2002 ford explorer xlt and when i was driving the suv started to loose power, the rpms wouldnt go over 2000, and it started to loose speed. It would start and drive with difficulty it would only go about ten mph and again the rpms wouldnt go over 2000. After it was towed home it would start and then stall, now it wont even start. I plugged the ... Read More

• Electrical, Heating problems

  Written by: ctd69wyz on Sep 22, 2011 8:51:29 AM

  I have been on this Forum for 1hour now (just registered) and this is crazy that I'm having the majority of these problems on my 2002 FORD EXPLORER worse puchase ever and I have an Extended Warranty. I have electrical problems with the locks switching on an off Lights not turning off, dashboard lights on, 4/4 that won't engage I recently had to get a new Transmission rebuilt from the dealership ... Read More

Ford Explorer Air Conditioner and Heater Problems

• 2002 Explorer HVAC Flow Control Valve and Door

  Written by: stjimm on Aug 20, 2011 4:30:49 AM

  2002 Ford Explorer. Symptoms: AC and heat controls work fine. Fan speeds work fine. But air flows only through front vents. When I attempt to change air flow to floor or defrost, the air continues to flow through the front vents. Observations: There is a flow control valve located to the upper left of the glove compartment box. When I turn the flow control switch on the front panel from floor ... Read More

• Re: 2002 Explorer Blower Only Through Vents [stjimm]

  Written by: willjk on Aug 19, 2011 4:21:56 AM

  Hi stimm I have a 2004 Ford Explorer but yours could be the same. Open your glove box ans gently push the back sides in to each other and then your glove box will drop down some more.Then look with a flash light right in the left top corner behind the glove box. You will see a vacumm rod that is suppose to slide into your vent changer, that could be ... Read More

• Re: 2002 Explorer A/C blowing out of defroster vents. [clusterbuster]

  Written by: clwill82 on Jul 11, 2011 3:55:04 PM

  CLUSTERBUSTER IS RIGHT!!!!! Pop the glove box down and look at the vacuum cylinder (brass or aluminum) in the upper left part of the void left by the box. There should be a lever attached to the plunger of cylinder, THAT IS THE FLOW CONTROL VANE OPERATING LEVER. Moving the lever changes the flow location. The CRAPPY TIN METAL LEVER ARM on the flow control vane broke and wasn't attached to ... Read More

Ford Explorer Starting and Stalling Problems

• Re: Truck won't start every time [bigstu67]

  Written by: peh53 on Jun 26, 2011 7:04:05 AM

  I had this problem with my 2002 Explorer. After driving it awhile, I would shut it off and it wouldn't start. When trying to restart it would turn over but wouldn't start. It also would start after sitting awhile. Took it to Ford and at first they couldn't find the problem. What I realized, it had to be over 90 degrees out. Took it back to ford when it was hot ... Read More

Ford Explorer Air Conditioner and Heater Problems

• Air Conditioner Output rotates automatically

  Written by: sss914 on Jun 21, 2011 4:01:12 PM

  I have a 2002 Ford Explorer Eddie Bauer. Recently I noticed that the air conditioner will automatically rotate the output of airflow from the dash to the floor to the windshield every 30 seconds or so. It doesn't matter if the A/C is on automatic or on manual and I am attempting to tell the A/C to blow out of the dash, the floor, etc. What could possibly be malfunctioning and ... Read More

Ford Explorer Keypad Questions

• 2002 explorer Factory set keypad code

  Written by: chixy5 on Jun 19, 2011 2:29:20 PM

  I purchased my 2002 ford explorer in 2008 and since then have been trying to find the factory set keypad code. I have been asked to bring it over to the dealership to get my code after I would have parted with $100. I didn't go to the dealership since I found on my manual that the code is located inside the car on the computer module. This module I have ... Read More

Ford Explorer Transmission Questions

• 2002 explorer OD light flashes

  Written by: chixy5 on Jun 19, 2011 7:01:01 AM

  Hello, I am new to this forum. I have a 2002 ford explorer with a 4.0, V6 engine. When driving the OD light starts flashing after some stop and move circle and continues through out the trip. The transmisson dosen't shift to the 4th gear until I take my foot off the gas after doing above 3000rpm for some seconds. Sometimes it would shift to the 4th gear with a screeching ... Read More

Ford Explorer Mercury Mountaineer 2005 and earlier

• Cracked Backlight housing.

  Written by: nvbanker on Jun 11, 2011 5:07:01 PM

  I had a 2002 with this problem, a 2004 with this problem, and still have a 2003 with this problem. All of them cracked, Ford replaced them all under warranty until the warranty expired, the replacements all cracked too. This is the reason why Ford changed the tailgate design in 2006 and eliminated the composit sill on the backlight, they couldn't cost effectively remedy the problem. Maybe they should have come ... Read More

• Re: Cracked rear panel in 2003 Ford Explorer [wizardofid79]

  Written by: explorerx4 on Jun 3, 2011 2:28:37 PM

  I think everyone will agree that this is an annoying problem. It just looks bad. What it is not, is a safety issue. I had the panel crack on my '02, it got replaced and the replacement cracked, too. Second time was probably my fault. The fact is, 2002 was the first year the Explorer had this design. To me, the clouded plastic headlights I see across many brands is more ... Read More

• Re: Cracked rear panel in 2003 Ford Explorer [klain]

  Written by: wizardofid79 on Jun 3, 2011 8:21:00 AM

  I have the same problem with my 2004 ford explorer and so far its mum's the word from FORD. I know if atleast 13 other explorer owners with the same problem; what do they think we are "STUPID"? I fianlly got back home and will see the NHTSA at ther DC office and show them this problem and the pictures from the others. They had this same problem before 2002/003 models ... Read More

Ford Explorer Electrical Problems

• Re: 2004 Ford Explorer electrical problem [dberkebile]

  Written by: gwest3024 on May 31, 2011 10:22:42 AM

  Sir, what was the end result for your 2002 explorer. My son's has a close issue, it just shut off going up a hill. I have good fuel, spark and air but it will not run and when you touch tyhe power windows button it seems to short the dash out.

Ford Explorer Transmission Questions

• Re: 2002 Ford Explorer transmission [pjford]

  Written by: whiteone on May 16, 2011 6:22:35 PM

  I have an 98 explorer. Transmission went bad in it. Can any other tranny fit in it?? It is an 6.0 sohc, 4wd. Please help

Ford Explorer Electrical Problems

• Re: 2004 Ford Explorer electrical problem [wojnar]

  Written by: dberkebile on May 14, 2011 6:53:39 AM

  This sounds suspiciously like what happened to my wife's Explorer 2002 last night. She was driving home and all the gauges, lights, and radio went out. In about 5 minutes or so, the truck stalled with a dead battery. Apparently no warning lights on the dash came on. Going to have the alternator tested and hope that's the problem.

Ford Explorer Air Conditioner and Heater Problems

• Re: 2005 explorer heating and cooling issues [gunner0331]

  Written by: hash_penni on Nov 4, 2010 8:44:51 AM

  ok i figured out what the prob was in my 2002 ford explorer. we thought that our blend door was the problem, but turns out it wasnt. the knocking noise you are all hearing, or at least what i was hearing, was the gears in the blend door actuator, which is connected to the heater controls, which makes the blend door move. we took out the box, which in my truck, ... Read More

Ford Explorer 2002 Coolant Leak

• Re: Ford Explorer 2002 Coolant Leak [jimmijones]

  Written by: stevew56 on Mar 21, 2011 2:17:47 PM

  most likely it is the intake gasket not the head gasket 500-600 job

2002 Ford Explorer antifreeze getting in oil

• Re: 2002 ford explorer antifreeze getting in oil [monya2010]

  Written by: problemsolved on Mar 18, 2011 5:46:32 AM

  After viewing your antifreeze/oil problem I decided to reply as follows: Oil and Water do not mix anywhere. Problem is why? well we all know that most indications occur in the sealing channels and conditions of the engine i.e. milage,maintenance,etc. Ford is one of the worst. Yet it can happen to any make and model. As per the washing machine, thats the typical indication of a blown head gasket. Your rpms ... Read More

Ford Explorer Transmission Questions

• Re: Ford Explorer transmission problems [wwest]

  Written by: nvbanker on Feb 9, 2011 10:24:19 AM

  Really good question, but I don't think it did. I think the damage was done to that transmission by the initial fill, and rebuilding the valve body and reflashing was not sufficient to repair it. That's just a theory, it could be they had a batch of bad transmissions that year from France (where they were built), and the fluid thing was incorrect, although it was pretty well documented at the ... Read More

• Re: Ford Explorer transmission problems [nvbanker]

  Written by: jmathis555 on Feb 1, 2011 1:32:25 PM

  I definitely haven't heard the '03 Explorer was any better than the 2002. I always thought they were identical (at least in terms of engine/transmission/etc)? CarComplaints.com gave both years an Avoid Like The Plague rating. -John

Ford Explorer Air Conditioner and Heater Problems

• Re: 2002 Eddie Bauer Heater propblem [jrampello]

  Written by: jclingan on Jan 26, 2011 2:36:25 PM

  Did you find a solution to your heater problems? Your description of the problem is identical to my issue. I have a 2004 Ford Explorer 4.6l Eddie Bauer with Dual Climate Control. I purchased the HeaterTreater Blend door thinking it would correct the problem, however after I took out the actuator motors (the dual climate control system has TWO), I discovered the BLEND Door was find and both actuators were working ... Read More

2011 Ford Explorer

• Re: Towing [guy27]

  Written by: nvbanker on Jan 26, 2011 10:22:25 AM

  The Jeep Grand Cherokee has always been a unibody, albeit with Rear Wheel Drive. The GM Acadia, Enclave, Outlook and Traverse are all unibody with FWD, just like the new Explorer. So this is not new, and if the body is stiff enough, and the Explorer is the stiffest one at this time, the ride should be fine while towing. Of course, I haven't towed with one yet, so I could ... Read More

• Re: Cargo space, Explorer vs. Traverse vs. Expedition [tbone_rare]

  Written by: keyssidecar on Aug 18, 2010 10:36:48 AM

  Cargo space is not my primary goal........ the point is I DO NOT BELIEVE the posted cargo space of the Traverse (116 cu ft). The Traverse is only 8 inches longer than the 2011 Explorer and the Traverse is 1/2 inch less in width than the Explorer........ so how in the world can you have 44% more cargo space in the Traverse? I was leaning toward the Traverse until last year, ... Read More

Ford Explorer Air Conditioner and Heater Problems

• 2002 Ford Explorer

  Written by: buchanfamily on Jul 31, 2010 3:31:26 PM

  I have a 2002 Ford Explorer and the heater and air conditioner dont work if you turn either on there is a clicking that starts only cold air comes out for heat and the air comes out warm not hot but not real cold either anyone have any suggestions?

Ford Explorer Transmission Questions

• 2002 Ford Explorer transmission

  Written by: pjford on Jul 13, 2010 6:36:10 PM

  I have a 2002 Ford Explorer 6cyl 4.0l engine 4x4 XLT. My Transmission is shot and I'm looking for a best fit, used transmission from another vehicle. Could you tell me what make, model, and year vehicle that I could use as a replacement for my vehicle? Basically, can a 2002 Ford Explorer transmission be replaced with transmission from any other year?

Ford Explorer Air Conditioner and Heater Problems

• Re: 2002 Ford Explorer A/C blows out of defroster only [carlylambrecht]

  Written by: wayne6197 on Jul 10, 2010 12:28:41 PM

  Hey Carly, Yeah I found out what my problem was. Go to post #293 and to Clusterbuster's reply to my original post. All it is is a plastic lever that connects the flapper arm to the vaccum canister, the plastic lever was broken. Lower your glovebox, look way to the left and up a little and you'll see it. Fairly easy to get to. Now I have to find out where ... Read More

• Air conditioning compressor clicking

  Written by: jpod3 on Jul 6, 2010 4:08:28 PM

  I have a 2002 ford explorer sport, mileage 91,000 - when I turn the air conditioning on, a loud clicking sound comes from the compressor. It blows cold air - just wondering if there was anything I could do to quieten this noise (other than not using the air). Is this a warning of trouble to come or does it need refrigerant?

• Re: 2002 Ford Explorer A/C blows out of defroster only [wayne6197]

  Written by: carlylambrecht on Jul 5, 2010 9:21:53 PM

  HELLO...MY 02 EXPLORER IS HAVING THE SAME ISSUE...DID YOU EVER FIND THE CORRECT PROBLEM TO GET IT FIXED?

• Air conditioning compressor noise

  Written by: jpod3 on Jul 5, 2010 4:40:43 AM

  I have a 2002 ford explorer sport, mileage 91,000 - when I turn the air conditioning on, a loud clicking sound comes from the compressor. It blows cold air - just wondering if there was anything I could do to quieten this noise (other than not using the air).

• 2002 Ford Explorer A/C blows out of defroster only

  Written by: wayne6197 on Jun 22, 2010 1:05:30 PM

  I have a 2002 Ford Explorer that the A/C blows only out of the defroster vent. Every now and then it will blow out of the floor and dash vents but this is not often. I took it to the dealership and they said they thought it was an "arm" on the heater core that was bad and it would cost $1000 to fix it. Sounds fishy to me. Does anyone ... Read More

Ford Explorer Maintenance and Repair

• Quick question

  Written by: fowlerro on May 13, 2010 2:16:12 PM

  Hello this is my first post and boy do I need help I have a 2002 ford explorer that cuts off and wouldnt start back up. The fuse in slot 41 blows and I have to replace it and it start up . what does that fuse belong to ?

Ford Explorer Electrical Problems

• Re: 2002 ford explo locks and more [mntwindan]

  Written by: mntwindan on May 5, 2010 11:22:14 AM

  I kept my SUV in the garage last night and had no problems. So, this is ongoing and it could be more than just moisture shorting it out. My wife has a 2002 Ford Explorer also and has had this same problem. She said she stopped the car in a safe place and shut if off and re-started it and had no further problems. My guess is the sensor probably just ... Read More

• Re: 2002 ford explo locks and more [kdarmon58]

  Written by: mntwindan on May 4, 2010 6:53:59 PM

  Hi Kevin, I am having the exact same problem. It did it all the way to work this morning on a 40 minute drive. I stopped and checked all the doors and the rear hatch. On the way home, nothing...no problems. Let me ask you if you have a crack panel right below your rear window? Next to the Ford emblem? I am thinking maybe it is getting moisture in there ... Read More

Ford Explorer 2002 Coolant Leak

• Re: Ford Explorer 2002 Coolant Leak [monya2010]

  Written by: belaircarguy on May 2, 2010 4:12:40 AM

  Sounds like it could be a head gasket. Turn the vehicle on and look at the tailpipe. If you see white smoke (not just the initial water vapor on a cold morning), the engine is burning antifreeze. Get this vehicle to a mechanic right away! This will be an expensive repair if heads need to be replaced, as usually by that point the engine has overheated and internal parts are warped. ... Read More

• Re: Ford Explorer 2002 Coolant Leak [steveav67]

  Written by: monya2010 on Apr 28, 2010 7:09:33 PM

  Hey my name is Nikki I am 22yr old and I have the same problem with my truck..I have a 2002 Ford Explorer 4.6 (V8) I also have straight antifreeze in my oil pan, i can't even get an oil change and my RPM is reading the dot below the 1. I dnt know what that means. My engine is shaking like a washing machine and i also have to keep ... Read More

2002 Ford Explorer antifreeze getting in oil

• Re: 2002 ford explorer antifreeze getting in oil [mrhaney2]

  Written by: monya2010 on Apr 28, 2010 6:47:43 PM

  Hey my name is Nikki I am 22yr old and I have the same problem with my truck..I have a 2002 Ford Explorer 4.6 (V8) I also have straight antifreeze in my oil pan, i can't even get an oil change and my RPM is reading the dot below the 1. I dnt know what that means. My engine is shaking like a washing machine and i also have to keep ... Read More

Ford Explorer Air Conditioner and Heater Problems

• Re: A/C + HEATER SEMI-BROKE 2002 Ford Explorer. [tannett]

  Written by: exploder02 on Apr 28, 2010 7:07:39 AM

  I am having the same problem with my air system. I was wondering what the clicking in the rear over the driver side back tire was and how do you fix it? Mine makes the noise sometimes and other times it doesn't. Also my door sensor says i have a door open i was wondering if anyone has any advice to figure out which door the sensor is bad on? Thanks ... Read More

• 2002 ford explorer blend door replacement!!!!!

  Written by: silentruler96 on Apr 6, 2010 7:42:03 PM

  someone please tell me the best way to get to and replace my faulty blend door on my 2002 ford explorer.

2002 Ford Explorer antifreeze getting in oil

• Re: 2002 ford explorer antifreeze getting in oil [mrhaney2]

  Written by: makko1 on Mar 27, 2010 11:23:51 PM

  sounds like a blown head gasket

Ford Explorer AWD 4WD Questions

• Re: 2002 Explorer 4WD problems, HELP please! [plm454]

  Written by: 02explorerlady on Feb 25, 2010 12:52:56 PM

  I had the same issue with my 02 Ford Explorer XLT. Overdrive Light & 4 Wheel High Light blinking like crazy, and my 4 wheel drive wouldn't engage. I heard a loud clunk! Well the clunk was my bands in my tranny were burned out and a part that held it in broke right off, also my planetariums were gone. Had my tranny rebuilt for $1,200.00's by a local mechanic. Runs ... Read More

• 2002 Explorer 4WD problems, HELP please!

  Written by: plm454 on Feb 11, 2010 2:21:32 PM

  2002 Ford Explorer XLT 4.6 V8>>>4x4 won't engage...dash light blinks 4x4auto and 4x4 high simultaneously ramdomly. No 4x4 in any mode when buttons are pushed. The front wheel bearing hubs have been making noise and I am having them both replaced tomorrow (could this be related to the 4wd problem?). The 4wd worked fine up til 3 mths ago when I had brake pads and rotors replaced on the front. A ... Read More

• Re: 2002 ford explorer v-6 automatic 4x4 [jtruckergirl]

  Written by: jtruckergirl on Feb 6, 2010 12:49:03 PM

  Ok any other ideas????? we have replaced all 4 tired with brand new ones, today we jsut replaced the drivers side hub and still no change at all....any other guesses?? I am starting to get irritated and im going to sell it if we cant figure it out....this is nuts. The ford dealer dont know whats wrong with it...the truck has been in for a complete trans service including fluid and ... Read More

• Re: 2002 ford explorer v-6 automatic 4x4 [fillr68]

  Written by: jtruckergirl on Jan 30, 2010 2:26:37 PM

  Thank you, We are ordering the wheel hub for the drivers side. We still have our 4x4 unplugged so that wont keep engaging. We live here in Florida so we dont use it anyway. The tires sure did make a difference in the ride and took care of some of the problem. So we have our fingers crossed that the wheel hub makes the difference and fixes the problem. I will ... Read More

• Re: 2002 ford explorer v-6 automatic 4x4 [jtruckergirl]

  Written by: fillr68 on Jan 30, 2010 1:09:40 PM

  yes......wheel bearings hubs make a nasty grinding rubbing noise..and the driver side goes bad first..I changed both of mine and the truck drives great..and they are fairly easy to replace..

• Re: 2002 ford explorer v-6 automatic 4x4 [jtruckergirl]

  Written by: jtruckergirl on Jan 29, 2010 6:30:43 PM

  ok i just bought brand new tires all the way around and mytruck still making noice up front. You turn it to the left and it makes a rubbing type noice ( wawawawa) you go straight or to the right it doesnt make the noice...any ideas??

2002 Ford Explorer antifreeze getting in oil

• 2002 ford explorer antifreeze getting in oil

  Written by: mrhaney2 on Jan 25, 2010 8:07:48 PM

  i have a 2002 ford explorer 4.0 flex fuel engine and antifreeze is getting into the engine oil...engine runs smooth with no miss....i filled the reservoir and drained the oil 2 days later and straight antifreeze came out of pan before the oil came out. could it be just a intake manifold gasket causing this?...vehicle was in a accident before i bought it...like i said the engine runs smooth and doesnt ... Read More

Ford Explorer AWD 4WD Questions

• Re: 2002 ford explorer v-6 automatic 4x4 [fillr68]

  Written by: jtruckergirl on Jan 23, 2010 3:52:44 PM

  Thank you...would the wheel hub cause it to want to try engaging into 4x4?? We just bought the truck last week and it has 2 matching tires on back but 2 different tread designs up front...all the same size though, the 235/70/16's all the way around. So you think its the tires or could still be the wheel hub. Now we do have a noise on the driver side, sounds like ... Read More

• Re: 2002 ford explorer v-6 automatic 4x4 [jtruckergirl]

  Written by: fillr68 on Jan 23, 2010 3:42:30 PM

  I had a problem like that with my 99 Explorer..found that my front tires were out of balance the vibration which was very mild caused the 4 wheel drive to engage at any speed..hope this helps..you may want to check the wheel bearing hubs driver side goes up around 100.000 miles they can be noisey....

• 2002 ford explorer v-6 automatic 4x4

  Written by: jtruckergirl on Jan 23, 2010 11:00:37 AM

  My Ford Explorer tries to engage into 4x4 while driving down the road at all speeds. We had the actuator checked and it is working. Sometimes it does it sometimes it doesnt. When driving it acts up and the 4x4 light flashes also. The transmission itself was serviced and fluids and filter changed, This truck only has 124,000 miles on it. It is something up front, you can hear it when ... Read More

• Re: 4x4 blinking light [doctoral]

  Written by: jtruckergirl on Jan 23, 2010 10:55:25 AM

  I am also have a problem with my 4x4 light flashing on my 2002 ford explorer 4.0 v-6 automatic and sometimes while driving down the road it feels like the 4x4 high is trying to kick on and it does this at all speeds on dry pavement....I am getting very frustrated. I tested the actuator by turning on the key an putting in neutral to hear the actuator..i can here it ... Read More

Ford Explorer Maintenance and Repair

• 2002 ford explorer

  Written by: pwild on Oct 15, 2009 3:03:47 PM

  Evening all, would anyone recommend a shop for the usual wheel bearings and differential repairs in the Brampton, Ontario area.

Ford Explorer 2002 Coolant Leak

• Re: Ford Explorer 2002 Coolant Leak [jimmijones]

  Written by: cshultzie on Jan 18, 2010 1:00:17 PM

  Thanks for the reply but can you tell me how to be sure this is happening. Why can't the dealer find this or suggest this?

• Re: Ford Explorer 2002 Coolant Leak [cshultzie]

  Written by: jimmijones on Jan 17, 2010 6:30:38 PM

  sorry to break it to you, it is going out through your head gasket.

Ford Explorer Electrical Problems

• electrical issue

  Written by: cupcake911 on Jan 16, 2010 4:31:42 PM

  I have a 2002 ford explorer and when I hit any bumps the door locks go off and on and the interior light flashes....I just replaced the transmission in this vehicle, I can not afford much else. Please help.

Ford Explorer AWD 4WD Questions

• 4x4 blinking light

  Written by: doctoral on Jan 11, 2010 7:59:34 AM

  I was having problems with my 2002 ford explorer. It would engage and not engage in 4x4 high at inappropriate times. Sometimes it would get tought to steer into a corner turn and at other times it would feel as if I hit something when going into reverse. The 4x4 light would blink intermittently. After reading this forum I decided to take a chance, purchased a 4x4 control module, followed the ... Read More

Ford Explorer Maintenance and Repair

• 2002 Explorer Front End Collision Concern

  Written by: mckejac72 on Dec 29, 2009 8:05:36 PM

  I was hit in my 2002 Ford Explorer 4x4 in the front, somewhat at an angled head on approach. The car that hit me was a Ford Taurus. It was low enough that it missed the radiator, etc. but the damage is from the front center bumper area and over to the drivers side front & lower. It hit low enough that I had concerns right away about my suspension and ... Read More

Ford Explorer Brake Problems

• 02 ford explorer sport trac abs brakes pulsate

  Written by: tjbell5 on Dec 16, 2009 8:22:17 AM

  My 2002 ford explorer sport trac abs brakes pulsate below 5 mph everytime I stop. Any ideas?

Ford Explorer Maintenance and Repair

• 2002 Ford Explorer Eddie Bauer

  Written by: debango on Nov 16, 2009 11:51:49 AM

  Hi, I'm new to this forum. Anyone with a 2002 Explorer Eddie Bauer Edition (V8) How do you like it? Any problems with it (Major or Minor)? Just bought one used with 81000 miles on it. Please let me know. Thanks.

Ford Explorer Air Conditioner and Heater Problems

• Re: no heat [elvoolz]

  Written by: hash_penni on Oct 23, 2009 7:50:48 AM

  ok i figured out what the prob was in my 2002 ford explorer. we thought that our blend door was the problem, but turns out it wasnt. the knocking noise you are all hearing, or at least what i was hearing, was the gears in the blend door actuator, which is connected to the heater controls, which makes the blend door move. we took out the box, which in my truck, ... Read More

• Re: A/C + HEATER SEMI-BROKE 2002 Ford Explorer. [harkess]

  Written by: hash_penni on Sep 30, 2009 11:08:53 AM

  I am having this same problem...i have tried doing this already and it is not working...this may sound crazy, but do you have any more specifics on this...the knocking drives me crazy because i need heat!!!

Ford Explorer 2002 Coolant Leak

• Re: Ford Explorer 2002 Coolant Leak [steveav67]

  Written by: cshultzie on Aug 14, 2009 9:50:06 AM

  Help....I am having the same problem with my 2001 Explorer AWD with 90,000 miles. Did you find out what was causing this problem and how to fix it? The dealer has run diagnostics and high pressure tests and found no leaks twice but I keep finding my coolant reserve empty. Can anyone help me?

Ford Explorer Missing and Idle Problems

• Explorer idling noise

  Written by: jsrammacher on Aug 3, 2009 2:38:48 PM

  2002 Ford Explorer, 86K mls, makes a rattling noise when idling and lower speeds. Any solutions? Trans? Torque convertor? It has been happeing for 2 yeras, 45K miles.

Ford Explorer Electrical Problems

• 2002 Ford Explorer Electric Seats Blow a FUSE

  Written by: cvansickle on Jul 24, 2009 8:28:53 PM

  I recently purchased a 2002 Ford Explorer. So far.... OK However, I have had it less then 3 weeks and have had to change the fuse for the electric seats 3 times. Does anyone have any ideas of what I can do to prevent this?? Thanks in advance!!

Ford Explorer Transmission Questions

• Was it worth it?

  Written by: wasitworthit on Jun 3, 2009 10:59:43 AM

  I have just recently purchased a used 2002 ford explorer, eddie baure edition, with 100,000 miles on it. Now as of right now it has had (to my knowledge) no transmition problems, But does have a noise durring idle. I have breefly researched the car before I got it, but aparently not quite enough because of all the transmition problems I am reading about. Now my question is " Did I ... Read More

Ford Explorer 2002 Coolant Leak

• Re: Ford Explorer 2002 Coolant Leak [steveav67]

  Written by: explorerx4 on May 22, 2009 2:28:38 PM

  what kind of coolant are you using?

• Ford Explorer 2002 Coolant Leak

  Written by: steveav67 on May 14, 2009 6:44:47 PM

  I have a 2002 Ford Explorer that has been running well up untill the past couple of days. It has 165K miles, I just got a lot of regular maintanence done on it. 2 days ago I noticed it smelled hot and when I checked I realized the coolant reserve was empty. I put more coolant into it but by the time I got home the reserve was empty again. Over ... Read More

Ford Explorer Transmission Questions

• Re: 2002, XLT [wpd029]

  Written by: acunningham1 on May 4, 2009 8:21:54 PM

  I have a 2005 Ford Explorer XLS and the transmission went out at 43,000 miles. Did not purchase the extended warranty because this was my second Ford Explorer (1998) and did not have any problems. The O/D light came on and called Ford dealership. They told me it was a transmission problem but did not have a mechanic on site as it was a Friday evening. I took it into an ... Read More

• Re: 2002, XLT [fordex1]

  Written by: wpd029 on May 4, 2009 6:20:37 PM

  Same thing happened to me, I have a 2002 Explorer XLS, Ford completed an overhaul on the transmission and it was under warranty. I just brought my car into Ford for transmission issues. Slipping and shudder from 4th to 5th. Ford wanted $4370.00 to fix. You know what I told them. Brought it to another Transmission Repair Facility and they said $2755.00. When conducting a follow up with the facility they ... Read More

Ford Explorer Electrical Problems

• Re: 2002 ford explorer light blink like police car [peezal]

  Written by: tangled911 on May 31, 2008 7:44:34 AM

  Had the same problem I replaced the daytime running lights module also check for broken wires at module. On a 95 explorer it is located on the drivers side rad support access is from underneath it`s a rectangular box.

Ford Explorer Transmission Questions

• Re: 2003 Ford Explorer has blinking O/D light. [redruby529]

  Written by: jmathis555 on Mar 31, 2009 9:56:34 AM

  I've got a 2002 & same thing happened, O/D light blinking & slipping between gears. Unfortunately mine was a "needs a new transmission" issue. Sounds like it's very common, I posted a complaint on CarComplaints.com & were well over 200 other complaints for the exact same thing. I'm not sure how to post a link on here but hopefully this helps you: http://www.carcomplaints.com/Ford/Explorer/2003/ Looks like it's a huge problem that affects ... Read More

Ford Explorer Electrical Problems

• 2002 ford explorer light blink like police car

  Written by: peezal on May 23, 2008 1:17:52 PM

  Hi, I have a 2002 ford explorer, made the last payment in April, and in May a problem began. When I start the car, the day lights blink on and off like a police car. If I turn on the headlights, the blinking stops. It's kinda funny how many people pull over for me, but I would like to fix the problem. This has been happening for a few weeks now, ... Read More

Ford Explorer Mercury Mountaineer 2005 and earlier

• 2002 Ford Explorer a good vehicle?

  Written by: bigdan1 on Feb 28, 2009 5:22:08 PM

  I am thinking about buying a 2002 Ford Explorer. It has 71,000 miles, and asking price is $5,000. It is a private party in Chicagoland area. I took a quick look and it seems nice, but I don't know anything abouth the Explorer. I have been a Ford man my whole life, but only Taurus since 1993, and a couple of Lincoln Town Cars before that. Any and all input is ... Read More

Ford Explorer Air Conditioner and Heater Problems

• Re: 2002 Ford Explorer Heating Problems please help!! [heatertreater]

  Written by: ceikey12 on Jan 8, 2009 1:37:24 PM

  Thanks heatertreater. Just to be clear...from this thread it sounds like the common result of the blend door failure is no heat. In my case, the air gets plenty hot (or cold if using AC) it just doesn't adjust from defrost, to floor, to vents, etc. Are we talking about the same failure mode (blend door) which will have this result as well?

• Re: 2002 Ford Explorer Heating Problems please help!! [Mishasma]

  Written by: heatertreater on Jan 5, 2009 9:23:59 PM

  This thread has discussed both the old and newer plenum boxes. The pre 02 box is the easier to fix. As mentioned, you can fully open the glove box and view the actuator motor on top of the box. Ford didn't leave much room to work on the motor, but with a little patience, the motor can be removed. Figure on some scraped knuckles and a couple of censored comments to ... Read More

Ford Explorer Maintenance and Repair

• Re: 2004 Ford Explorer-Whistling noise [jeddyboy]

  Written by: Fordnomore1 on Jan 2, 2009 12:40:43 PM

  What you have is a pinion ring bearing going bad in the rear end.. This usually happens between 36,000 and 75,000 miles on these poorly built explorers. It is a very common problem that Ford has known about ever since 2002, but they keep putting them out there. Repair will run you in the neighborhood of $1200.00 to $1500.00. It is only going to get worse. I am currently trying to ... Read More

Ford Explorer Transmission Questions

• 2002 Eddie Bauer Explorer - O/D Light Flashing, Check Transmission message

  Written by: TheKernal on Dec 27, 2008 3:32:06 PM

  We purchased this Explorer used in early 2005 with about 50K miles on it and it's been a pretty good car. In 2006, we took it to the Ford dealership because we were having some shifting issues. They replaced some solenoids and it has been behaving OK up until about a month ago. We live in the mountains and climb some pretty steep grades. The O/D light and Check Transmission warning ... Read More

Ford Explorer Maintenance and Repair

• Accessory plugs will not work

  Written by: mab5916 on Dec 26, 2008 6:52:26 AM

  I have a 2002 Ford Explorer. The accessory plugs (cell chargers, GPS, chargers, etc.) have stopped working. Neither plug will work, front/rear. I checked the fuses under the dash and could not find any that needed replacing. Any suggestions or what specific fuse I should look at? Thanks

Ford Explorer Air Conditioner and Heater Problems

• Re: 2002 Ford Explorer Heating Problems please help!! [hash_penni]

  Written by: Mishasma on Dec 18, 2008 11:53:22 AM

  Hi Hash penni... I have a 98 Explorer and have recently discovered that my A/C is stuck on... I took it in to get the Thermostat changed (which was bad by the way), only to have the repair man, who is a former Ford employee, explain to me that the blend door actuator has gone bad... In mine, he opened the glove box and dropped it, and behind it on the ... Read More

• 2002 Ford Explorer Heating Problems please help!!

  Written by: hash_penni on Dec 18, 2008 11:29:39 AM

  My 2002 Ford Explorers heat will not work....It blows out air just fine, but its cold...when I turn the controller on heat, it makes a knocking sound and just keeps blowing out cold air. I was reading a few other problems and I may get it, but if someone could tell me how to fix it....that would be great!!! Thanks

• Re: A/C + HEATER SEMI-BROKE 2002 Ford Explorer. [harkess]

  Written by: tsnyder2177 on Nov 28, 2008 5:08:35 PM

  I may have the same no heat issue with my 02 Explorer. I've been off work following surgery so a dealer fix is out of the question.Can reply to: buckeyesrule04@yahoo.com

• 2003 explorer heater (front) not working.

  Written by: goldezz on Nov 16, 2008 6:44:24 AM

  ok people, this is the link for good advise and good pics. http://www.heatertreater.net/Ford%20Explorer%2002-08.html

Ford Explorer Engine and Diagnostics Problems

• 2002 Ford Explorer-stalling issues

  Written by: cpickford on Oct 28, 2008 6:57:17 AM

  Hey there! Well after doing a lot of reading and just by knowing how much I drive my truck, I decided to clean out the intake. I just came back from good old Canadian Tire with a can of Throttle Body Cleanner. I did notice some gunk in the intake before-but never really thought anything about it at the time. Wish me luck-I will let yous know the results. ;)

• 2002 Ford Exp-stalling

  Written by: cpickford on Oct 26, 2008 9:32:52 AM

  I just bought a new battery thinking maybe that was the problem-but no it was not the issue. When I am usually at a stop light or idle the Explorer seems to have a click noise just before the speed in the motor changes to a lower idle-then stalls. Please has anyone experienced this problem-would you be so kind as to help me out with my problem

Ford Explorer Air Conditioner and Heater Problems

• Heater Dimentia

  Written by: hogfan4 on Oct 22, 2008 9:04:32 AM

  I've spent nearly 5 hours looking at blogs trying to find the answer to my issue. I'm getting close but no homerun's yet. Description: 2002 Ford Explorer: Dual Air Control Heat/ACMax Issue 1: Clicking Noise in Drivers Rear Firewall - Sounds like its the blend door and for this model, I can simply take the inside panels off and replace the acutator. (Is that Correct?) BUT, I have to ensure that ... Read More

Ford Explorer Maintenance and Repair

• Re: Gear shift lever broken-Ford Expl 2002 -please help ! [paul7281]

  Written by: fordsrus2 on Oct 19, 2008 2:23:22 AM

  Paul7281...Fordsrus2 here... Any advice or tips on removing the shifter linkage from column on 96 ford explorer. I have a part somewhere on the shifter linkage rod broken and need to remove in order to repair...any advise would be appreciated...tx

• Re: Gear shift lever broken-Ford Expl 2002 -please help ! [prubbo]

  Written by: paul7281 on Oct 16, 2008 3:03:53 PM

  Hi prubbo, paul7281 here. My original steering column-part number was 4L2Z-3C529-DA, I replaced it with this part 5L2Z-3C529-A, and it was new from Ford out of the box. I don't know how much shaft protruded out of the column, but my original steering wheel did fit correctly. prubbo, you did not pull the steering column your self?? Do you know if it's out of a 2002-2004 Ford Explorer or Ford Mountaineer?? ... Read More

Ford Explorer Air Conditioner and Heater Problems

• Re: A/C + HEATER SEMI-BROKE 2002 Ford Explorer. [harkess]

  Written by: rconant2 on Oct 4, 2008 12:54:32 PM

  I'm a Service Tech. and I worked on this for over two hours before I found the lever, so I wanted to share my info so the next person might not have to look so long. After the glove box is open, on the far left hand wall you will see two silver canisters with metal arms sticking out of them. Immediately below and behind the arm of the lower canister ... Read More