Overview & Reviews

Ford's AdvanceTrac electronic stability control that was previously available on V8 models only is now available on all models, except the XLS and XLS Sport and all AWD models. The NBX version now comes standard with the off-road package and "NBX" tailgate badging, and can be ordered with a moonroof. Limited and Eddie Bauer models get a quad bucket seating option when equipped with the third-row bench, which adds second-row buckets and a floor console. Family buyers of the 2004 Ford Explorer should note that the optional rear air conditioner no longer requires the purchase of the third-row seat. Finally, a tire-pressure monitoring system is now standard on XLS Sport and higher trim levels, and a rear cargo shade is optional on XLT, Eddie Bauer and Limited models.

• Excellent ride and handling characteristics for a truck-based SUV, strong optional V8, comfortable cabin with user-friendly layout and seating for up to seven, good crash test scores.

• Dull cabin design with some low-grade materials, low resale value, confusing controls on highline models, lousy fuel economy.

User Reviews:

Showing 121 through 130 of 359.00

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  Monochrome Black Rocketship Eddie Bauer - 2004 Ford Explorer
  By Commander - August 11 - 7:02 pm

  Great Truck, great V-8 economy. Its fun to drive, sounds great roaring up to speed, and hits 60 in just about 8 seconds. Factory tires began to dry-rot after 3 years and 35k miles, replaced with Michelins, averaging 18.5 mpg. I wish RSC was available prior to the 05 model. I wish we had rear a/c in the AZ summers. I love the factory sound system in the Eddie Bauer. Im glad I didnt pop for the 4x4. Friend with an 05 4.0 4x4 is only averaging 15 mpg.

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  Should have bought extended warrenty - 2004 Ford Explorer
  By mlogan03 - July 25 - 11:38 pm

  I purchased my 2004 Explorer new in December of 2003. I bought the basic XLS model and planned on using it for the short drive to work and the occasional trips out of town. It has been reliable until just last week when the ABS light, Service Engine, and the wrench light all came on at the same time. The cruise control also failed. The throttle body had to be replaced along with the rear wheel speed sensor. The vehicle has 32,000 miles and has been driven with care. Somewhat disappointed with the vehicle. Fortunately the Ford Service here was quite professional and had the vehicle back running in a couple of days.

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  An Okay SUV - 2004 Ford Explorer
  By Al - July 19 - 6:01 pm

  Dont get me wrong I love my Explorer but I have had problems with the transmission when putting it into reverse - the engine produces a big bang noise. Ford claims that they cant replicate the problem although other Explorer owners have told me they deal with the same problem. Another problem that I face is when I fill up the cars tank, the fuel indicator dosent respond and sometimes looks like a clock moving all over the place ^_^ im trading it in.

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  New Ford Explorer - 2004 Ford Explorer
  By Ronald Cash - July 10 - 10:00 am

  I owned an Expedition, than a sport trac, now a new Ford Explorer. They all were awesome with no problems, except for the brakes wearing out quickly on the sport trac and the poor quality leather. I absolutely love the quality leather interior, the spaceousness and the smooth ride of the new Explorer. If you do not have a huge family. The Explorer with third row seating is just as nice as the Expedition.

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  Poorly Designed AC - 2004 Ford Explorer
  By LA - July 2 - 3:30 pm

  I must start by saying I live in South Louisiana. Auto AC is critical for comfort. AC is a must about 340 days out of the year down here. Bought it used w/ 16K miles have about 22K. Purchased in the fall so didnt have the sweltering heat to truely test the AC when purchased. Noticed this summer the AC just wasnt cooling the cab off. Feels cold at the vent. Brought to dealer who said the same thing. Unfortunately, nothing can be done since nothing found (all levels in check). Ill be looking for a trade soon. Overall comfortable. Leather interior is nice. Paneling and rest of interior is just OK. Rides very well for SUV

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  100 Anniversary Edition - Fantastic - 2004 Ford Explorer
  By drkgclark - June 27 - 2:00 am

  I bought this as a company car with the intent of selling it after the first year, but I have enjoyed it so much I plan on keeping it.

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  i love my suv - 2004 Ford Explorer
  By ferg - June 22 - 10:00 am

  i had a 1999 ford explorer i liked that truck,was sad to see it go. but now i got my 2004 ford explorer, dont miss the 1999 any more

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  Good job Ford - 2004 Ford Explorer
  By taur76 - June 17 - 10:00 am

  Overall a huge improvement over my 98 Explorer Sport. Stable and comfortable ride, handles well, respectable powertrain performance, safe and reliable. Overall, Ford did an impressive job.

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  My 3rd - 2004 Ford Explorer
  By Joe5689 - June 4 - 10:00 am

  We got the Estate green w/ Lght parchment. Looks like a 50K Vehicle. Love it, Love it love it..

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  Stay Away at all costs - 2004 Ford Explorer
  By Stephanie - May 31 - 7:39 am

  From day one I had problems with the radio. Now at 64,800 miles they think it blew a rod and needs a new engine! I am a 37 year old mother of 3 that drives to and from school, practices, etc. I still owe $9K on the truck and will need to put in an additional $6500 to get it running again. Oh, and Ford will warranty its new engine for 75K but not the one with the car originally --stay away. Obviously there is a defect with this engine. I am calling Ford to see what they will do. Unbelievable! I will never, never, never buy a Ford again. And this was my third one in 10 years!