Used 2002 Ford Explorer Consumer Reviews
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Love It, But Very Unreliable
I want to say that I do really like this car when it's working. Tranny went out at 30k and now again at 55k. When I asked the service superisor if it was my fault, I was told it is due to junky parts and that I could not have done anything to stop this from happening. Not a good sign. Other problems include back hatch rattling open constantly, water pump replaced, wiper motors gave out, paint between doors bubbling. Doesn't like to start when weather is between 30 and 35 F. Sometimes dies in reverse when first started. It is comfy, loads of room for those tall people, and decent gas mileage for a big SUV.
No major problems here
I think the reviews are pretty tough on sites like this because more often than not, it is the people who have problems that seek out to put up a review. Anyway, love my Explorer - just right size, not to big or too small. Tows like a champ with the healthy V8. Only two minor issues - squeaky front suspension and the airbag warning light came on. The dealership replaced the bushings on the front suspension and replaced a sensor for the airbag - no problems since! I think the transmission definitely could be improved. I sometimes find it slipping into gear after moving from park to drive or reverse, but once again, not the end of the world. I'm happy!
- XLT 4dr SUVMSRP: $3,99554 mi away
- XLS 4dr SUVMSRP: $2,995190 mi away
- XLS 4dr SUVMSRP: $6,977232 mi away
Problems with 2002 Explorer
Ford let my Explorer out of the factory with some strange problems. High beams stay on-can't fix without replacing steering column (don't use high beams, and if I forget and use them I have to disconnect the battery to turn them off). Replaced noisy wheel bearings at 70K. Power window motor on rear driver's side door out at 30K. Door ajar light on and off since 10K (gave up taking it to dealer after three visits). AC/heater floor vents leak. Transaxle seals replaced at 90K. Rear passenger side turn signal out at 100K. Lights work, but turn signal doesn't work. Clear coat started peeling on the passenger side of the vehicle in 2007. I am tired of the nagging little problems..
Junk
I bought this slightly used with only 14k miles. Nice looking truck inside and out. But after only owning it a year, everything started going wrong. Interior lights shorted out and so did the mirror ext. lights. Coil spring went. Mechanic said it was a design flaw that fords knew about it. Wheel bearings all the way around at 40k miles. Power window problems at 50k. Then at 80, rear diff. and trans went so we got rid of it. It was a money pit. It still rode nice the day we got rid of it but too many repairs. My last Ford explorer purchase.
Poor Transmission
I bought the Explorer Limited and have been satisfied with it except for the transmission. During the warranty phase (5 yr/50K mile) Ford repaired the transmission but at 87K the trans had to be rebuilt. Again at 103K the trans was repaired by Ford Dealership (this time Ford paid) and they claim the fix it part as recommended by Ford Detroit was installed. I have lost confidence in my Explorer. Has someone had similar experiences w/ their transmission and will this fix it be good for another 80-100K miles?