2002 Ford Explorer Research & Reviews

Overview & Reviews

Average Score

3.83/5 Average
372 Total Reviews
This Year's Model Updates:

The 2002 Ford Explorer has been overhauled in an attempt to make it more carlike than ever before. Among the improvements are a 2.5-inch-wider stance and 2-inch-longer wheelbase for improved handling and roominess, a new independent rear suspension that improves ride and handling, while at the same time accommodating an optional third row of seats, larger door openings with a lower step-in height, an optional side curtain airbag system and an optional Reverse Sensing System.

Pros:
  • Available third-row seating, independent rear suspension, powerful engines, attractive new exterior design.
Cons:
  • Everyone and his uncle has one, driving characteristics are still pretty truck-like.

User Reviews:

Showing 91 through 100 of 372.00
  • Ford tough - 2002 Ford Explorer
    By -

    Only problem I have had is with one of the passenger power window mechanisms. The warranty took care of it.

  • Newby to 4x4s - 2002 Ford Explorer
    By -

    Ive only had my 02 Explorer Limited for less than 2 months but I love it! I went from a 90 Firebird to this. Its like going from a jonboat to a cruise ship. I decied I wanted a 4WD cause of the Nebraska winters. My family is predominantly GMC but they all like it a lot. My husband keeps trying to get me to swap him his 94 Jeep Grand Cherokee for mine. No way! I just like driving it. I dont care where. Who knows, maybe Ill encounter some probs but for now I like it a lot!

  • Skip this vehicle year (2002) - 2002 Ford Explorer
    By -

    Currently have 25,000K. Vehicle nothing but a headache. Problems with drivetrain - shifts hard and vibrates. Ford already replaced all 4 tires at not charge (tires replaced at 23,000K), still cant fix vibration or shift problems. Interior flaws - ticking sound in front dash. Ford cant fix that either. Hatch replaced once already. Still leaks and doesnt close flush. I love this vehicle but without the problems. Dont buy this model year. Also, if you have dogs, dont get the 3rd row seat. Dog keeps falling between the 2nd and 3rd row (with the 3rd row folded flat). Dog manages to slide the panel back every time and fall in. (I have a lab.)

  • Never again - 2002 Ford Explorer
    By -

    This was my first and last Ford purchase. I went with a newer and more expensive car hoping for better quality for my money, no such luck. I had the car no more than six months when the transmission went, costing me over two grand. Then just last month, not 6 months since the last time the transmission went again! Among many other problems this car has given me this has been the most expensive.

  • Needs Improvement - 2002 Ford Explorer
    By -

    AC makes rattleing noise, in the garage twice for check engine light. Gas mileage stinks. As soon as 36 mo. warranty was up, the rear grease seal on the rear drive began to leak. Cruise control works sometimes. Ford means fix or repair daily.

  • one terrible vehicle - 2002 Ford Explorer
    By -

    1) dash board vibration noise 2) loose driver seat track 3) front wheel rubbing on tire right turns 4) hard start when warm 5) cannot read dash board during some 6) day light conditions 7) loud chime ring when oil change not needed 8) loud chime ring when back tail glass open after driving a long time 9) cannot reach into center arm rest while driving-flawed design 10) no place to rest left foot while driving 11) difficult to find power seat switches on driver seat & heated seat button 12) poor gas mileage

  • Not bad used - 2002 Ford Explorer
    By -

    My main regret was buying it right before gas prices went up, for 2 reasons. 1.) this thing is terrible on gas (15/19). 2.) I paid $10,000 and now a year and a half later can be bought here for $6,000. So far the transmission seems to be fine. I also have the false door ajar light and bells. The wheel bearing started making noise (50-65mph) and at $1,200 Im not going to fix it. The body is good looking and the seats are very comfortable. I also like the 3rd row seats. Would probably sell for a better gas mileage SUV if I wouldnt lose $4,000. Would consider buying one if in great shape for $5,000. Mine has 113,000 miles so far and Ive had it a year and a half.

  • Not a very good buy - 2002 Ford Explorer
    By -

    Really regret buying this car. It was my first purchase and I was extremely excited about it and didnt think to ask many important questions. To be a V6 it got really bad gas mileage and maintance is insane. Have had it in the shop for serious repairs like two days after the warranty expired. It does look nice in my opinion but thats all this car has. Keep your money and buy something else

  • Buyers Beware - 2002 Ford Explorer
    By -

    The "Ford Quality is Job One myth". Our special order 02 Explorer arrived (after 2.5 months)with a failed transmission, it would either slip, slam or not shift. Ford had put 32 miles on it but apparently decided "dont fix it until the customer complains". After 3 days it still isnt fixed and the dealer is still trying to close the deal. Nice try Ford, but NO-SALE. After also having to replace an F150 engine last year at under 4000 miles, this 35 year Ford buyer is now enjoying his first ever Japanese vehicle.

  • disappointed & disgusted - 2002 Ford Explorer
    By -

    Three weeks after purchasing the vehicle the computer failed and had to be replaced. The Valenti dealership in Mystic, Connecticut took a week and one half to discern what the problem was and install a new computer. The key was stuck in the steering post lock on three occassions which was among the numerous other failings of the vehicle. After 42,000 miles the transmission failed and due to the fact that I rely on the vehicle for my livelyhood and their insistance that it would take over a week to fix the problem I took the vehicle to Ammco.

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