Overview & Reviews

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.

• Available third-row seating, independent rear suspension, powerful engines, attractive new exterior design.

• Everyone and his uncle has one, driving characteristics are still pretty truck-like.

User Reviews:

Showing 111 through 120 of 372.00

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  Disappointed in DC - 2002 Ford Explorer
  By JRob - August 10 - 1:30 am

  Rear end noise caused the dealership to replace 2 axles and a drivetrain. Now they tell me my tires are "cupped." After reading other reviews I think this is a more serious epidemic. Plastic exterior on rear hatch cracked with freezing rain. ABS parts failure. Bubbling interior door panel fabric in cold weather. My wife threatens to leave me if I ever buy another Ford.

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  Too many problems for the price - 2002 Ford Explorer
  By julz - August 2 - 12:14 am

  Passenger window motor went out, cds get jammed in player. One cylinder (think thats what its called) went out at 55,000. Then appeared a long crack in the hatch rear trim (and no its not the liftgage that was recalled). Then at 70,000 miles I had to get my transmission rebuilt. My mechanic showed me the parts and told me they were crap. Trying to cut corners and save money I guess. Like Ford wasnt making enough off of $32,000. Then at 78,000 it happened again-and by the way I baby this SUV and do all maintenance as needed. Transmission again but this time my mechanic couldnt find the exact problem in the transmission- had to put a new catalytic converter in among some other parts. Geez

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  Decent Truck - 2002 Ford Explorer
  By Dave - August 1 - 12:37 pm

  We bought this truck used with just over 40k on the odo. Now have over 88k and it hasnt been too bad. Biggest problem is the 4x4 low stopped working. I havent spent the money to get it fixed because I never use low range 4x4. Considering this was a first year redesign, it hasnt been too bad. The power is great. The third row is a nice feature. There is plenty of storage. I bought an 07 SportTrac because I was so happy with this Explorer. That being said, I think we are going to get a Honda Minivan next year because we need more space and the reliability/resale value/gas mileage is so much better. Overall, the 02 Explorer is a great family vehicle, just needs some minor tweaks.

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  Nice Vehicle - 2002 Ford Explorer
  By Bruce Frier - July 27 - 10:56 am

  We have enjoyed this vehicle for over three years. It recently has developed electrical problems which include the "Door Ajar" light coming on when no doors are ajar the anti-theft- alarm going off several times in the day and night for no reason when the car is locked giving us no choice but to leave the car unlocked power windows randomly not working and when a brief stretch of loose gravel caused the Control-Trac to go in to 4-Wheel- Drive-High we had trouble getting it to return to two-wheel drive.

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  Proud Explorer Owner - 2002 Ford Explorer
  By Edward Costantini - July 27 - 10:00 am

  I still have a 1994 Explorer which I bought new. I now have a 2002 Explorer also.If I get the good service out of my new Explorer that I have gotten out of my 1994 I will be very pleased There is a world difference in smooth riding in my new Explorer.I have 8000 miles on my new Explorer now. But time will tell on quality.I have been to the Ford dealership one time with viberation in the steering colum,and they corected it.So far I like the new vehicle very good.

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  No More Explorers For Me - 2002 Ford Explorer
  By Brian - July 27 - 12:42 am

  This was my second Explorer. The first was a sport model and required a new transmission 250 miles beyond the warranty. The second was this 2002 fully loaded Limited V8 4x4 and I purchased the extended warranty. Around 300 miles short of the warranty expiring I had four valve lifters replaced and then a month later I took it in because the water level began to drop for no apparant reason. Cause: a cracked engine block and the whole engine needed to be replaced for $6K if not on warranty. I have driven Fords ever since I first got my license at age 16. My best car ever was a 1970 Mach I Mustang, but I wil never buy another Explorer. In fairness to Ford, my worst car was a Mercedes.

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  explore with me - 2002 Ford Explorer
  By laura - July 12 - 4:30 pm

  In all I have had lots of fun driving the Explorer. It has awesome pick up and dependability.

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  Be Careful Buying 02 Explorer XLS - 2002 Ford Explorer
  By FORGET FORD - July 6 - 12:20 pm

  This vehicle has been nothing but problems for me from day one. I am on the 4th set of hinges for the lift glass, with the first set breaking within a year and being told that I was lucky because it usually breaks the glass. Rear trim piece cracked do to manufacturing flaw and will not be fixed unless I pay. Transmission (XLS) has had problems due to flaw in design and had to have serviced. Luckily, caught problem before I had to replace transmission.

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  Excellent Vehicle - 2002 Ford Explorer
  By cyprinella - June 28 - 10:00 am

  Would do it all over again. We love this SUV!

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  Do not buy - 2002 Ford Explorer
  By mbistoocool - June 23 - 9:17 am

  Too many problems to recommend purchasing, trans, plug wires every year, oil pressure regulator, wheel bearings, timing chain tensioner, back hatch that cracked so many times dont bother getting fixed anymore, paint chipping on roof, many more. Very nice truck to drive and still love the look of it after 6 years, interior has held up very well. Too bad reliability is so poor. When its not in the shop it is a great truck.