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Used 2003 Ford Explorer Consumer Reviews

4.3 out of 5 stars
354 reviews

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3.25 out of 5 stars

Mixed

Bill, 06/27/2010
2003 Ford Explorer XLT AWD 4dr SUV (4.0L 6cyl 5A)
1 of 1 people found this review helpful

Before 36K ran out Ford fixed trans three times and put in a new one, finally. Replaced total rear end after Differential gears went NG twice. Ford than replaced bearings in their new rear end. Brakes are typical Ford truck and don't last. I have had Fords for 40 years. Mileage is terrible, 15 mpg. Electric sensors are typical made in China junk and have failures galore. This is my last Ford. Too bad, Ford just buys crappy parts from the lowest bidder and the consumer pays the price. I hear their new small cars are decent. Stick with Toyota or if you like Ford explorer stick with the V8 Eddie Bauer It is a better all around quality version of the other explorers but you pay or that.

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4.63 out of 5 stars

Family American car

Airman, 08/04/2005
2003 Ford Explorer XLT 4WD 4dr SUV (4.0L 6cyl 5A)
1 of 1 people found this review helpful

i have no problem with this car. And for the good deal I got I' m so lucky. I was looking for economy car or power car and I choose the power car (about $800 extra a year for gas).

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3 out of 5 stars

Looking for something new

Megan, 06/04/2008
2003 Ford Explorer XLT 4WD 4dr SUV (4.0L 6cyl 5A)
1 of 1 people found this review helpful

I bought my Explorer in 06 used with 54k. I noticed while test driving there was a sort of howling sound when I went about 55mph, but didn't mind it much compared to my Neon I was trading in for it. Since then, I have had problems with one of the rear windows working only when it wants to, I've not been able to put the shifter in reverse multiple times, the mechanism to recline the seat has also came off many times.The seal on the rear window has came off and I noticed this when I found water in the back. My a/c is out as I speak, so I will be taking that in, although I had it recharged at the end of last summer. I've kept up on maintenance and it is not paying off as it should.

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3.38 out of 5 stars

Great Options, Poor Mechanics

pshaver, 09/16/2008
2003 Ford Explorer Eddie Bauer 4WD 4dr SUV (4.0L 6cyl 5A)
1 of 1 people found this review helpful

I've had my Eddie Bauer Explorer for a few years now, and it definitely has its high points. The features and comfort of the interior are great. There is adequate room for adults in the second row. The V-6 model pulls my 4,200lb boat/trailer combo pretty well (though I had to add a class IV hitch). My only complaint is the reliability. I never buy extended warranties, but I did on this vehicle (luckily). I've put only 12000 miles on this truck, and replaced the differential, axle seal, transmission cooler, cruise control servo, oil pan gasket, and rear main seal (all between 34000 and 36000 miles). Many of these failed prior to ever towing, so I can't blame that.

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4.13 out of 5 stars

Original owner

Jim, 12/29/2008
2003 Ford Explorer Eddie Bauer Rwd 4dr SUV (4.0L 6cyl 5A)
1 of 1 people found this review helpful

I finally choose to buy American with an extended warranty, glad I bought the warranty. The rear end was replaced within one year, tail lights replaced, several of the power windows replaced, ball joints replaced, a/c replaced. All of the repairs have been done under 60000 miles. Not a good testament to quality. I thought that I would save moneyand buy American, the resale value has offset any savings. I will purchase a Japanese vehicle next time.

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