5 Star Reviews for 2002 Ford Explorer

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 11 through 20 of 372.00
  • very good truck - 2002 Ford Explorer
    By -

    very nice to drive not exactly used for normal things but took every thing i put it through got it with 33000 on it and now have 230000 and still going

  • 02 explorer xlt - 2002 Ford Explorer
    By -

    We have had this explorer for ten years. We have had know issues what so ever. We have taken our explorer on multiple long trips. We have got as much as 21 mpg. A little uncomfortable but over all feels like you are driving a car.

  • I love this car. - 2002 Ford Explorer
    By -

    This is my second Explorer and I would buy a third one. This car has been amazing with very little work needed.

  • LOVE IT - 2002 Ford Explorer
    By -

    We love the vehicle far more than we thought we would. It is a joy to drive.

  • Love the improvements - 2002 Ford Explorer
    By -

    I had a 1993 Explorer and got unbelievable service from it. Changed to a 2002 after searching for a car but just couldnt find anything that we liked as well as our old Explorer. Am running the XLT with V-8 and love the power and ride. Did have the "shattering" lift gate panel problem but dealer fixed it. (They had a service bulletin explaining the problem) Dealership has been great with follow-up since sale. I dont know if all Ford dealers are as good as mine but mine is great. I havent run it a full year yet but love the ride, power and auto 4wd. Puddle lighting is nice and overall a nice looking ride.

  • impressed - 2002 Ford Explorer
    By -

    i am extremely impressed with what ford did with the new explorer. when i first heard about the new design with an IRS i assumed it would be an oversized station wagon like some of the comprtition.but it wasnt! its still a truck;that rides as good as the others and has an impressive amount of saftey and comfort options for the money. keep it up ford.

  • has been a great SUV! - 2002 Ford Explorer
    By -

    Cant believe hearing about all the probs people have been having with these! Very happy owner here. Owned since new,112k miles on my 4 door 2WD 4.0 V6 as of now. Rear axle replaced at 30k under warranty. Front suspension components were all replaced finally at 100k. Some AC components were also replaced. No continuous or nagging problems. Took a 6500 mile road trip from Detroit to Death Valley and back without a lick of probs back in 05. 123 degrees at Furnace Creek and AC kicking ice cold. Great for the long haul!

  • LOVE MY SUV - 2002 Ford Explorer
    By -

    Ive only had my car 2 months but I love it I drove it from Missouri to California and back which is a total of 3,700 and had no problems but my brakes needed to be replaced once we got to California it drives just as smooth and quiet as it drove when we bought it.....I guess the only problem I have with it is the six disc CD changer sometimes gets stuck and its hell getting the cds out

  • HAVE A CRACK UNDER THE REAR WINDOW??? - 2002 Ford Explorer
    By -

    I see so many people posting about getting a crack on the body below the rear window, sometimes under the rear wiper. I had that on my 02 Explorer Limited in 05, but had it fixed asap as it was a recall issue. So if your dealer says they cant fix it... thats a bunch of bull. As for my Limited, I dont have it any longer, and wish I still had it! I have a huge commute and couldnt afford the gas when it went up to $5 a gallon, so traded it in for a sedan. Am now looking to get rid of the sedan and find another Explorer. The limited trim and features were excellent and I converted more GMC/Chevy and import guys that hated Fords with it. Also worth noting, never had any mechanical probs with it

  • Satisfied Owner - 2002 Ford Explorer
    By -

    Originally set out to purchase a GMC Envoy SLT 4x4, but was more impressed with the Explorers ride quality, drivers seating position, and cargo area...have used the Explorer for numerous road, camping, and skiing trips...very good gas mileage considering the size and weight...4.0L V6 provides ample power around town, but struggles with four adults + gear on mountain grades and passing on two- lane highways...have to run the A/C on cool days (mid/upper 60s) because the manual mode warms outside air too much, even when set at 60.

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