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 81 through 90 of 372.00
  • Love my new Explorer - 2002 Ford Explorer
    By -

    I cant believe the negative comments on this site. Did some of you buy your Explorers in Afganistan or something? I just got my new Explorer XLT and love it. Granted, my mileage is under 5000, but I just cant see this car suddenly falling apart and becomming a repair nightmare. The new styling in great, and Im so glad I got the V8 - great power and torgue. My only minor complaint is that there seems to be too much road vibration traveling up the steering column and into the steering wheel. Has anyone experienced this? Seems like there should be some more dampening in the steering column.

  • Last Ford I will ever buy - 2002 Ford Explorer
    By -

    This is my second Explore and I should have learned from the first one which lived up to the name “Exploder” (at about 120,000 miles I was dumping anywhere from $500 - $1500.00 per month in to it just to keep it running). My 2002 Explorer appears to be even worse. Just passing 91000 miles of nothing but city street travel I have replaced the internal components of the steering column twice which cost to date $3000.00 and the rear bearing for $600.00. The transmission has slipped since day one and I don’t want to know what that will cost to repair, the rear differential seals are leaking and the front bearing are starting to go. I am getting rid of the vehicle this weekend! Its Doge for me!

  • Good value for the price - 2002 Ford Explorer
    By -

    The car has performed well with very little service issues other than the computer going out at 135K ($1,400). Other than tires, one brake change, and oil, I have put no money into this car considering I have almost 150,000 miles on it. I would feel quite confident driving it to Alaska today if I needed to.

  • Its Cold Back Here - 2002 Ford Explorer
    By -

    I recently took a 1400-mile trip and the second row seat is incredibly uncomfortable after about 500miles. Second, climate control, the driver sweats while the second row passengers freeze. I cant see the digital compass when driving. After about 5000miles the floor compartment handles are very flimsy, Ive already broken one. Its roomy, and comfy for the regular about town drive. The buying experience was horrible. There was a mistake in the incentives and I actually received an extra $500 off the price. When the finance guy realized it, he called me up,insulted me, and threatened to sue me if I didnt write him a check. Jerk!

  • Too Bad - 2002 Ford Explorer
    By -

    Too bad Ford shot themselves in the foot with this model.. Beautiful ride, but the transmission has a severe flaw in the valve body. It was NOT milled correctly meaning the fluid equals out to not let it shift.. Ford should have redesigned a new trans and recalled all 02,03,04 . What are they thinking selling us a $30,00 dollar defective SUV?

  • a good buy used - 2002 Ford Explorer
    By -

    This is my 3rd Explorer.Obviously I like them and find them to always be a good buy used.Probably because there are so many of them.This one is a fully loaded XLT including sunroof.As I had to replace a transmission in my 98,I was very careful about regular and preventive maintainence.Didnt do any good,replaced transmission at 103000mi.About $1400 if you dont use a dealer and are a good shopper.Since I bought this unit at a good price,the transmission is an annoyance rather than a deal breaker.

  • Will Never Buy Again! - 2002 Ford Explorer
    By -

    Problems since day 1. Replaced all 4 wheel bearings, door ajar light is on all the time and there is no door open! Peeling clear coat around windows. Now tranny is slipping like crazy, cant wait to get rid of it as soon as I pay it off!

  • My First Ford - 2002 Ford Explorer
    By -

    This SUV has exceeded everyone expectation I had set when I began searching for a new vehicle. From day 1 of owning it, I have loved driving it. I commute approximately 2 hours a day (50 miles each way to and from work), so I have had plenty of time and opportunity to enjoy it. I would suggest anyone in the market to get the third row. Also, I would highly recommend the V8. While mileage does degrade with the larger engine, the trade off is worth it to have so much more HP. Other than that, I would recommend this SUV to anyone.

  • My First Ford - 2002 Ford Explorer
    By -

    This SUV has exceeded everyone expectation I had set when I began searching for a new vehicle. From day 1 of owning it, I have loved driving it. I commute approximately 2 hours a day (50 miles each way to and from work), so I have had plenty of time and opportunity to enjoy it. I would suggest anyone in the market to get the third row. Also, I would highly recommend the V8. While mileage does degrade with the larger engine, the trade off is worth it to have so much more HP. Other than that, I would recommend this SUV to anyone.

  • Nice truck/SUV, but worried - 2002 Ford Explorer
    By -

    Really a nice package for the money, but worried about long term ownership. Recently had rear end replaced @ 34,000 (under warranty). Seems these things eat a rear end every 30-40K. Ford dealer acted surprised, but Internet bulletin boards are full of this problem. Also, took 2 full weeks to repair. Managed to get a free rental car after first week, after throwing a fit to Corporate customer service. Guess that is one way to ensure buyers get the extended warranty. Not sure Id buy another one.

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