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 151 through 160 of 372.00

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  Will never own another Ford - 2002 Ford Explorer
  By Tara - December 10 - 5:11 pm

  Bought this car brand new off the lot with 79 miles on. Now I know why they were trying to get rid of them. First transmission was put in at 24k miles, second transmission put in at 64k miles and its in the shop again with another transmission problem (second time this year). Im out around $6000 with transmission costs and rental cars. This is really not worth it, stay away. Because of this problem (and a few minor ones) I will not ever own another Ford again.

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  Sad to say I hate it! - 2002 Ford Explorer
  By Olt07 - December 6 - 11:17 pm

  I purchased my first SUV after having a neon. Others advised me against buying the first year of a model change. I loved having the SUV for 4wd in snow. However, when your control module does not work, I lost the love quickly. I have had it for 24,000 miles after buying at 61,000. Replaced wheel bearing, EGR sensor, 4WD Control Module, Radio, Front Differential Clutch Pack and shortly a $1200 rear end. Now I need to figure out when the best time would be to ditch this hunk of junk! Reliability and Build Quality is absolutely crap. I cannot sacrifice that for any amount of comfort or beauty. Considering all of these problems are "common" Id say-Stay away from the Ford EXPLODERRRR!!

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  Cwilliam - 2002 Ford Explorer
  By c william - December 6 - 3:46 pm

  Good performance, excellent for highway and commuter traffic.

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  Worst transmission Fords ever built - 2002 Ford Explorer
  By bottechia - December 6 - 2:33 pm

  My transmission first stated to delay going in reverse, you know the 3-4 second wait before it engages. Then the transmission would not change into second gear so I took it in to Ford. I was told I needed a new transmission at the cost of $3100.00 and I only had 38,000 miles on it. Ford knows with this many transmission problems with 2002 and up Explorer they should recall them to keep customers happy.

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  At Ford, Quality is Job None - 2002 Ford Explorer
  By Andrew - November 24 - 5:06 am

  Stay away from the 02 Explorer. Its a repair bill waiting to happen. My last two visits were $1100 a pop, and this after having all of the regularly scheduled maintenance done at Ford dealerships. A major bungle by the engineers. From ball bearings to shattering trim, this things a mess. I wonder if Ford built it on the cheap in order to get business for their service depts. Thats where they apparently rake in the dough. Im done with Ford.

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  Love my Explorer - 2002 Ford Explorer
  By Guillermo - November 20 - 9:29 pm

  I use this truck only for roads trips and as family car. It has a very smooth drive comparing to other SUVs it also has one of the biggest V6 engines of its class the space for passengers and cargo is more than enough aven if you are on the last rear seat. Just to make shorter, great performance, comfortable interior, nice looking desing, built to last, all that you can expect from a Ford truck.

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  Prepare to spend on repairs - 2002 Ford Explorer
  By Kevin - November 15 - 3:07 pm

  Nothing but a money pit to keep rolling down the road. Purcahsed it with 19000 miles and have spent way too much to keep it running. Most problems are major expenses. Major drive train problems $$$$.

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  Better but not perfect - 2002 Ford Explorer
  By cwhitford - November 15 - 2:00 am

  Had a 98 XLT V6 and traded for the 02. Much improved ride and handling. Better stock stereo than 98, but an upgrade should have been offered like in the 04s. Transmission filter assembly had to be repaired. still shifts hard at times, bad smell from cat converter after engine pushed hard. dealer says it is normal. Overall happy with truck.

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  Our 4rd Explorer, but Qual. falls short - 2002 Ford Explorer
  By caplanm - November 12 - 2:00 am

  This is our 4th Explorer. From an engineering point of view, it is the best. From a quality and reliability point of view, it is the worst, and quite possibly, the worst new vehicle which has ever sat in our driveway. The styling is excellent. The ride, handling, and comfort are stellar.

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  Big Ol Lemon - 2002 Ford Explorer
  By michigander - November 4 - 10:00 am

  Bought the 02 XLT used and within a month started to experience serious problems. Dealer (Scott McNamara) indicated it went through a detailed inspection. Have replaced both rear wheel bearings, front left wheel bearing. On a long road trip experienced loud noises and two independed dealers found problems with front and rear stabalizer bars, front and rear control arms, serious leak from oil pan and others, car was not drivable. Our cost would have been a total of $3000, over two months. Dealer did not back up this vehicle so we dumped it. Will never buy another Ford product. Quality is not job one with them.