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 31 through 40 of 372.00-
My First Ford - 2002 Ford Explorer
By Monte - February 20 - 10:00 amThis 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.
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My First Ford - 2002 Ford Explorer
By monte - February 20 - 10:00 amThis 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.
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Nice truck/SUV, but worried - 2002 Ford Explorer
By mikeiver37 - February 16 - 10:00 amReally 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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Ford tough - 2002 Ford Explorer
By Satified - February 8 - 10:00 amOnly problem I have had is with one of the passenger power window mechanisms. The warranty took care of it.
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Skip this vehicle year (2002) - 2002 Ford Explorer
By CMJBJT - January 10 - 10:00 amCurrently have 25,000K. Vehicle nothing but a headache. Problems with drivetrain - shifts hard and vibrates. Ford already replaced all 4 tires at not charge (tires replaced at 23,000K), still cant fix vibration or shift problems. Interior flaws - ticking sound in front dash. Ford cant fix that either. Hatch replaced once already. Still leaks and doesnt close flush. I love this vehicle but without the problems. Dont buy this model year. Also, if you have dogs, dont get the 3rd row seat. Dog keeps falling between the 2nd and 3rd row (with the 3rd row folded flat). Dog manages to slide the panel back every time and fall in. (I have a lab.)
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Not bad used - 2002 Ford Explorer
By OKCsooner - December 30 - 9:25 amMy main regret was buying it right before gas prices went up, for 2 reasons. 1.) this thing is terrible on gas (15/19). 2.) I paid $10,000 and now a year and a half later can be bought here for $6,000. So far the transmission seems to be fine. I also have the false door ajar light and bells. The wheel bearing started making noise (50-65mph) and at $1,200 Im not going to fix it. The body is good looking and the seats are very comfortable. I also like the 3rd row seats. Would probably sell for a better gas mileage SUV if I wouldnt lose $4,000. Would consider buying one if in great shape for $5,000. Mine has 113,000 miles so far and Ive had it a year and a half.
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Four Time Explorer Owner - 2002 Ford Explorer
By MLF - November 14 - 8:56 pmI have owned four new Explorers: 94, 96, 98 and this 2002. Always liked the size, perfect for my needs. Never had any serious issues and up until recently, the 2002 was by far my favorite. Much better ride and handling. However, have had emissions problem that dealer & Ford cant seem to resolve. Exhaust has had strong sulfur smell that is intolerable. Dealer claims to have resolved now. Also, just had 4WD control module fail. Warranty repaired. They rented me a 2004 Explorer while mine was in shop; transmission very, very jerky. Always been loyal customer but beginning to lose faith and confidence in Ford Explorer. Since out of warranty, considering trading to different brand.
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Its been a year now -- no regrets - 2002 Ford Explorer
By Goose bumps II - September 15 - 2:00 amIve had my LTD Explorer a year today and Ive had to say this has been the best Truck ever. Rides nice, handles well, fuel is what Id expect from a V8 19 in town and 24 on the highway. Not one factory repair as yet.
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great package - 2002 Ford Explorer
By prmonse - September 7 - 10:00 amI steped up from a Sports car, because I needded more space and comfort. I wasnt dissapointed, this vehicle is roomy comfortable, relatively quite on the road, inspite huge wheel package, easy to drive. New shape is very handsome, thats what attracted me in the first place, although interior on my XLT looks plain and a little plasticly. The XLT package is a very desiarable package, the wheels alone are worth it. The deal maker was the great ford price, I got mine out the door with the aftermentioned XLTpackage, leather seats, 6 CD 80 watts sound system for 29 thousand and change.
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Not to my expectations - 2002 Ford Explorer
By mosinoi - August 12 - 9:27 amI have a 2002 Explorer, which I bought in 2001, when the new line first came out. Transmission was bad from the time I took it off the lot, brand new. The dealer could not fix it, and last year 166,000 miles later I put in a new transmission. I also have the "door ajar" light problem, even though the door is closed. The drivers rear wheel bearing broke about three years ago, now the passengers side broke, too, at 192,000. I guess for the mileage it has it has served me pretty well. But I was expecting to get a lot more from this care for the price I paid ($32,000). I would not buy a Ford car again, thats for sure. Ill go with the German imports.
