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 21 through 30 of 372.00

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  Had been pretty good until - 2002 Ford Explorer
  By POEO - September 11 - 2:00 am

  Like most Explorers of this vintage, the transmission just went at 96,000 miles. Major slippage from 2nd into 3rd, now looking at a $2000+ repair. This is a very common problem so beware if you are looking at picking up a used one. Ford knows about it, but doesnt care too much. Looking to see if there is a class action lawsuit in the works as its not a question of if but when this problem will occur in these trucks. Had been a pretty decent car up until this, now crossing my fingers that this isnt the start of major issues to come. Before this I was considering another Explorer in 2012, now probably not as these type of major issues seem to continue to plague American made cars.

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  Junk - 2002 Ford Explorer
  By Kern - August 23 - 12:37 pm

  I bought this slightly used with only 14k miles. Nice looking truck inside and out. But after only owning it a year, everything started going wrong. Interior lights shorted out and so did the mirror ext. lights. Coil spring went. Mechanic said it was a design flaw that fords knew about it. Wheel bearings all the way around at 40k miles. Power window problems at 50k. Then at 80, rear diff. and trans went so we got rid of it. It was a money pit. It still rode nice the day we got rid of it but too many repairs. My last Ford explorer purchase.

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  Poor Transmission - 2002 Ford Explorer
  By Sergio - August 6 - 9:25 pm

  I bought the Explorer Limited and have been satisfied with it except for the transmission. During the warranty phase (5 yr/50K mile) Ford repaired the transmission but at 87K the trans had to be rebuilt. Again at 103K the trans was repaired by Ford Dealership (this time Ford paid) and they claim the fix it part as recommended by Ford Detroit was installed. I have lost confidence in my Explorer. Has someone had similar experiences w/ their transmission and will this fix it be good for another 80-100K miles?

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  Fantastic SUV - 2002 Ford Explorer
  By susy - July 25 - 9:40 pm

  I love my explorer. So far, no problems. Im better satisfied with this Ford than I have with all of my former purchases. Exactly what I was looking for and couldnt be happier.

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  Heavy Duty Clutch! - 2002 Ford Explorer
  By ranger Ed - June 30 - 6:43 pm

  The heavy duty clutch is a loser! The first one went out at approx. 60k. Then it went out in Feb 10 and I still cant get a replacement because Ford stopped making that clutch. I guess even they knew how bad it was. Im currently working with a clutch specialty shop in California to try and build a clutch from scratch.

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  Do Not Purchase - 2002 Ford Explorer
  By susanconn - June 17 - 8:33 pm

  This car has been nothing but trouble since we purchased it. The transmission has been rebuilt, wheel bearings replaced, and now the o/d off light is blinking, the service engine light is on and the ABS warning light is on. Apparently the o/d off light blinking means our transmission is not functioning properly again.

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  very dependable - 2002 Ford Explorer
  By Craig - May 15 - 12:43 pm

  vehicle has 72,000 miles on it and Ive only replaced the tires and rear brakes...this SUV has been good to me but, then again, I dont drive like a maniac and change the oil every 4,000 miles.

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  Break Downs - 2002 Ford Explorer
  By Dan - May 1 - 2:50 pm

  With less than 90,000 miles, I have replaced four wheel bearings, rear coil springs and struts, four wheel drive module, "Transmission" and now the starter. This is the worst ford I have ever owned, and Ford will not stand behind any of my break downs. I have owned fords all my driving life and this is the last one. I have over $6,000.00 in repairs to this vehicle in just under a year.

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  3rd XLT - 2002 Ford Explorer
  By Tim - April 11 - 8:31 pm

  Have had three Explorers since the first in 91, No unusual trouble with any of them. The latest, a 2002 has been with us the longest 103,000 + miles. Just replaced the rear struts, the only other real expense was tires at 75,000 miles. Bought all 3 new and was pleased with every one. Quality is job one - well done!

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  What a RIP OFF! - 2002 Ford Explorer
  By Rachael - March 25 - 2:16 pm

  I have had problems for the past 2 years w/ this vehicle. I have replaced 3 wheel bearings w/ in the past year and now they are loose again. I have the infamous rear panel crack, replaced fuel pump, replaced intake manifold, replaced fuel line, had starter problems, rear passenger door does not lock, door ajar light will not stop (WD40 is a temporary fix). I am afraid to drive it because the check engine light is always on. This truck is high maintenance. Ford Motor company does nothing to help. Basically every month I make a payment I feel like I am being robbed. CHECK OUT ALL REVIEWS BEFORE BUYING THIS SUV.