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 71 through 80 of 372.00
  • ITS Junk - 2002 Ford Explorer
    By -

    it was great the first year, but i could have bought a new car with of how much i have payed to get things fixed on it. we also have a 1997 Nissan Altima and it is rarely fixed but our ford every 3 moths it in the shop. ITS A LEMON!!! I will never drive a ford again even if it was given to me. right now the rear heat doesnt work and makes a thumping noise, there is a massive computer problem, windshield fluid drips from the celling, the radio or cd player doesnt work ( and i have 6 cds stuck in it) there is a wheel bearing problem and it grinds, AND THAYS JUST AT THIS POINT IN TIME! DONT BUY ONE!!

  • Worst Car I ever owned - 2002 Ford Explorer
    By -

    Bought the 2002 Fod Explorer brand new from the dealer. Only 55,000 miles on in. The past year we had to replace the transmission (3k) and all wheel bearings at 400 each. Going broke. Will never buy a Ford again. This is by far the worst car I have ever owned.

  • Ford Tire Company...Not our problem - 2002 Ford Explorer
    By -

    Ford Motor Company has left thousands of customers with vehicles that they do not back, because it is not their problem.

  • waste of money - 2002 Ford Explorer
    By -

    Waited until I could afford Exp. 1st rear end replaced(warranty), then not under warranty was window motor, faded window panels and abs sensor. Then within last 6 months cracked rear panel in lift gate and heat/air fan control is stuck on vent. With in last week transmission solenoid pack needs to be replaced as do all 4 wheel bearings. When I contacted Ford they replied "we hope that your future experiences with Ford products will be more positive." Huh?

  • All Cracked Up - 2002 Ford Explorer
    By -

    I have enjoyed owning the Explorer over the past year, however I have been disappointed with the quality. Over the past year I have had the front bushings replaced, one of the windows stopped opening, and just recently the panel on the back hatch has cracked. I was told this problem was due to poor engineering. Overall I am happy but am worried more problems will occur after the warranty period is up.

  • fixed or repaired daily - 2002 Ford Explorer
    By -

    The looks and the 4.6 shifted me to buy this big piece of junk, I owned limos with the 4.6 that got over 300k with no problems, so I brought this xlt, my mechanic hugged me and said we might as well be family now, so many problems with this suv. Omg. Maybe Ill be lucky, nope 111,000 miles tranny acted up, Wayne county Ford pa, said we dont bother rebuilding that tranny, new 1 $4,600, . Installed, rear wheel bearings, broken springs, alternator, rear seal, a/c gets warm then boom overheats twice... Uhaul refuses to let this car be used to tow, my sable can LOL, to all who love there explorers good luck cause your gonna need it, my last Ford

  • Wished for better - 2002 Ford Explorer
    By -

    I had owned the previous model Explorer and liked it. Pluses for this model included a nicer ride with less cornering sway, a bit roomier interior. Cargo space is excellent for hauling all kinds of camping gear. Only initial downside was that the car is noisy on the highway. That having been said, the car has been a turkey. Transmission #1 failed at just past the warranty mileage for a $2.5K repair. Now that transmission is failing at the same point - perfect planned obsolescence. By 80K miles I had to replace all four wheel bearing sets, and both rear springs. Had several expensive cases of engine oil leakage which required replacing engine seals. Interior trim falls off. On & on.

  • Great Vehicle, No problems - 2002 Ford Explorer
    By -

    Bought used with 33,000 miles a little while ago. Great family vehicle, love the 3rd row seat. Gas mileage for SUV is acceptable, compared to OTHER SUVs. Interior is well appointed, heated seats great, interior os sturdy. love the factory subwoofer. Exterior is fine, but plastic molding around foglights made cheap. Have to replace all 4 disks and pads already. Would buy again.

  • Worth Mud - 2002 Ford Explorer
    By -

    Dont buy this unless you have money to waste. Every year since I have owned this vehicle I have had to put money into it. All four wheel bearings at about $400 each, now the rear differential is going out. If you have money to throw away buy this Explorer. If not better buy foreign! America needs to catch up or the big 3 will fail in the near future.

  • REGRET BUYING A FORD PRODUCT - 2002 Ford Explorer
    By -

    Well.where do i start. I bought it 2004 and its been down hill ever since. The wheel bearings,replaced rear struts and springs twice, Ive spent a $1,000 dollars and the truck still shakes and dies at stop lights. I feel we as consumers need to take issue with FORD and press the issue with recalling these 30,000 dollar piece of junk. So I challenge you all with me and lets pursue a recall for all these mishaps with the FORD EXPLORERS.

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