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 61 through 70 of 372.00

• 

  Skip This One - 2002 Ford Explorer
  By JSNC - October 13 - 10:00 am

  Love the style, but hate the fact she leaked oil and had to bring her in 4 times with under 2k miles on her. Also, under 2k miles, needed new cat. converter. This is a piece of junk all for 29K.

• 

  100% RELIABLE - 2002 Ford Explorer
  By JT - September 28 - 10:56 am

  I bought this Explorer new -- my first Ford. Loved the looks of it. I now have 69,000 absolutely trouble free miles -- some towing light trailers. Got over 50,000 on first set of tires. Other than pads and oil changes its never been in the shop. Best of all, not one squeak or rattle even after 69k miles, and Im paranoid about rattles. Interior design is a bit hokey but everything looks and works like new. In fact, the whole vehicle feels tight like new. I wish mileage was better for a V6 but I can live with it. I usually sell at around 75K miles but Ill keep this till one of us drops. I wouldnt hesitate to buy another. No, my last name is not Ford.

• 

  My Troublesome 2002 Ford Explorer - 2002 Ford Explorer
  By Tom Martin - September 24 - 4:53 pm

  I take pride in maintaining my vehicles. But this has been nothing but trouble. At 45,000 miles, the transmission had to be rebuilt. Earlier, the rear end was replaced. At 50,000 miles, I try to start up and put in reverse to back out of drive. The gearshift broke off. Had to replace at over $1,000. Ive had an Explorer before with very satisfactory performance, but this one...nothing but trouble. The dealer has been great. But bottom line, its still a dud. Oh, by the way, seems I now have some sort of electrical problem. Odometer reading is so dim I cant read it. It comes and goes. How frustrating. Im just trying to get my moneys worth now before I move to Japanese brand.

• 

  A Great One! - 2002 Ford Explorer
  By JusTrusty4 - September 14 - 10:00 am

  I love this car! Ive had a couple of problems with it, but over all its the best car that Ive ever owned. Its the perfect height to see the road without feeling like youre going to flip over any second and with the windows down (all 4 go down all the way!) and the sunroof open it might as well be a convertable. Also the engine is very powerful and I never feel like Im driving a truck becuase of the awesome pick-up. This is also one of the most spacious cars Ive been in and even adults dont find it particularly uncomfortable sitting in the 3rd row.

• 

  Still Ok - 2002 Ford Explorer
  By bh_okedoke - September 8 - 10:00 am

  The truck is still doing good. Noticed some funny shifting patterns, so the dealer reprogrammed the transmission, what ever that means. Gas milage is still the pits (we have the v8 - how can detroit produce 405hp cars that average 22 mpg, and not produce a 235 hp v8 that can do better than 15 average mpg?). The truck is still pretty tight. Also noticing a low vibration humm at highway speeds, 65 - 70 - I think its the drive shaft. Just replaced original tires at 36K - went with Toyo series this time around in hopes of getting more miles).

• 

  2002 Explorer XLT - 2002 Ford Explorer
  By wicked witch - July 13 - 10:00 am

  This is my first SUV after driving 3 minivans. What a aonderful change. The third row seating option allows me the oppurtunity to still take along "friends" without having to take the van. The auto 4WD gives me added security in treacherous conditions. The leather seating and premium sound system leave me feeling like I purchased a more expensive vehicle. I look forward to driving my 02 XLT each day.

• 

  Great for city driving - 2002 Ford Explorer
  By GW Carro - July 10 - 10:00 am

  I have ahd my Explorer for almost three years now. I have found it to be a reliable and versatile vehicle. The engine is a little noisey. The front end quality is poor due to plastic parts in the bumper area and headlight area. The Explorer offers plenty of room and easy access to loading and unloading cargo. Gas milage is average, with approx 20 mpg on the road. I have noticed several rattles starting to appear in the front of the vehicle, which is irritating. If I had it to do all over again, I would probably opt to buy the larger Expedition V8 or the Chevy Tahoe.

• 

  Squeeky When Its Cold - 2002 Ford Explorer
  By mpf202 - January 7 - 2:00 am

  At temps around 25-35 Degrees there is a noise that I believe to be the panels of the hatchback rubbing against the rear side panels. A little annoying but they stop when it gets the temp rises above 35 or falls below 25.

• 

  So Far, So Good - 2002 Ford Explorer
  By bh_okedoke - December 2 - 9:00 am

  Just bought the vehicle on 03/06/02. So far, everything is ok... Runs well, and this unit seemed to be put together pretty tightly (manufactured 01/02). One thing to note if you are concerned about safety. The superior crash test ratings are based on models manufactured after 10/29/01 - read the fine print on the Ford site - I asked the dealer about this, and they confirmed there was a change made to some frame components, whatever that means?

• 

  V8 Helps a Lot - 2002 Ford Explorer
  By 0% - October 25 - 10:00 am

  Purchased the XLT with a V8 and towing package. Plenty of low end power and smooth acceleration. Leather interior is very comfortable and 3rd row seating is a definite plus for loading kids and friends at the same time.