Overview & Reviews

Ford's AdvanceTrac electronic stability control that was previously available on V8 models only is now available on all models, except the XLS and XLS Sport and all AWD models. The NBX version now comes standard with the off-road package and "NBX" tailgate badging, and can be ordered with a moonroof. Limited and Eddie Bauer models get a quad bucket seating option when equipped with the third-row bench, which adds second-row buckets and a floor console. Family buyers of the 2004 Ford Explorer should note that the optional rear air conditioner no longer requires the purchase of the third-row seat. Finally, a tire-pressure monitoring system is now standard on XLS Sport and higher trim levels, and a rear cargo shade is optional on XLT, Eddie Bauer and Limited models.

• Excellent ride and handling characteristics for a truck-based SUV, strong optional V8, comfortable cabin with user-friendly layout and seating for up to seven, good crash test scores.

• Dull cabin design with some low-grade materials, low resale value, confusing controls on highline models, lousy fuel economy.

User Reviews:

Showing 91 through 100 of 359.00

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  Good all around suv - 2004 Ford Explorer
  By Nathan Lutz - April 6 - 2:00 am

  I really enjoy the ride and it handles very well and is great in the snow.

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  Decent Overall SUV - 2004 Ford Explorer
  By iris49 - February 18 - 10:00 am

  This is a decent overall SUV but does need to improve the seats and the engine to really make it a much better one. I tested a Buick Rainier and its seating and 5.3L V8 are far superior to the Explorer but the Rainier is hard to get in and out of the backseat and doesnt come with a third row seat.

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  Eddie Bauer Ford Explorer - 2004 Ford Explorer
  By Saltnppr - December 31 - 10:00 am

  Great SUV, fun to drive, nice interior and great design for drivers wheel, with radio and air controls handy. Average milage between highway and city is about 12 mpg. AWFUL!!!!

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  2004 Ford Explorer XLS 2WD - 2004 Ford Explorer
  By ESanchez - November 18 - 10:00 am

  This SUV is truely built "Ford Tough." It lives up to the standers that the Ford Motor Company is known for. The XLS model is built for 5 and is confortable for a small family that requires a spacious vehical. The fuel economy is ok for an SUV and its also very confotable. This is a vehical for a family with a smaller budget that wants to enjoy a quality vehical!

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  ford explorer - 2004 Ford Explorer
  By cfd3girl - October 24 - 10:00 am

  I have had three items that were defected that needed to be replaced already. The warranty covered it but what a hassle to go through already.

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  impressions of the explorer - 2004 Ford Explorer
  By A plan jim - August 30 - 2:00 am

  test drove previous model, did not like the choppy ride. test drove current XLT and Eddie Bauer in current model thorougly impressed with Eddie Bauer compared with a fleet managers limited explorer. A plan pricing drove me to the new vehicle. I love the vehicle, no problems on the mountain, love the ride and ambiance of the vehicle considerably better looking than the Chevy Trailblazer and roomier than the 4runner. Wife has since appropriated the Explorer for herself.

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  explorer vs. escape - 2004 Ford Explorer
  By Jarl Peltonen - October 24 - 10:00 am

  I recently traded a 2002 Escape for the Explorer XLS. My initial impressions were for the added cargo space and handling. The 2004 Explorer has improved handling with a little swaying in turns, but overall much improved. The blind spots are almost non existent due to the door pillar being further back. The cabin is quiet at high speeds vs. the Escape which was very noisy. For the price this is a perfect vehicle for my needs.

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  review - 2004 Ford Explorer
  By chipaplo - October 19 - 10:00 am

  i like it a lot.

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  Reliable but boring - 2004 Ford Explorer
  By ncstewart - September 5 - 10:00 am

  Ive had mine for four months and wish I hadnt jumped so quickly -- especially since I made the mistake of getting a 4x2 vs. a 4x4. I intended to trade in about 4 years anyway but with this latest rollover news, resale is going to be even more in the toilet.

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  My Explorer - 2004 Ford Explorer
  By SteveF - September 5 - 10:00 am

  A great handling SUV My first one , powerful and comfy