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 131 through 140 of 359.00

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  Timing chains broke - 2004 Ford Explorer
  By Lee - May 30 - 8:26 am

  I have had this SUV for just over 3 years, and in that time its been in the shop for electrical panel shutdown (3 times!), and is now in for major engine repair - two timing chains busted, only 65000 miles. Of course the warranty is up, and will cost over $3K to fix! When its back from the shop (four weeks now) I am trading it in for a Toyota, before the tranny goes too!

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  Not a bad truck - 2004 Ford Explorer
  By SN190498 - May 29 - 4:53 pm

  The ride quality is surprisingly good for a truck chassis. Ours has not had any technical issues except for the incorrect transmission oil debacle. The rear axle does have a binding problem (2WD) which hopefully will be resolved with changing the axle fluid. Turning left or right from a standstill results into a rattling vibration. Only regret is not having the canopy airbag system. It is difficult to comprehend that Ford toutes this safety system and then builds so many cars without it. Overall this was not a bad purchase in early 2004 since there was less competition. If we would buy another SUV today we would get a Hyundai Santa Fe or similar.

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  Nice - 2004 Ford Explorer
  By heth - May 22 - 2:00 am

  The 2003 model Explorer is awesome. The ride is exellent, the sound system nice. The room is comfortable yet easy to manuever. Overall Ford you get a 9.9!

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  Still Happy - 2004 Ford Explorer
  By Jd - May 5 - 4:11 pm

  Just coming up to 50,000 miles, not much to complain about. Still have original tires and brakes on the vehicle. Needs a little more refinement on the inside. The 2007 took care of that otherwise still happy.

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  My 2004 Explorer - 2004 Ford Explorer
  By 2004 Ford Explorer - April 20 - 5:27 am

  Ive had my Explorer for 3 years. It has 29,000 miles. Its been a good vehicle and I purchased it because of the great success I had with my 99 Explorer. Ive been to the dealer for 3 problems. First was the rear differential. Second was rust on the the front edge of the hood. Hood replaced and repainted. Third was the front wheel bearings. All repairs fell under warranty except for bearings. Starting to have some concerns with transmission. Some lag with shifting and occassional noise being produced. Found many tranny complaints on the web. Good vehicle.

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  Turkey Here - 2004 Ford Explorer
  By Turkey Here - April 6 - 6:32 pm

  At 45,500 miles the front wheel bearings needed to be replaced so I did $ 780. The dealer took the occasion then also to try to take my head off with an unneeded rear end replacement for a gargantuan sum. We didnt even get to talk about the repair needed to the back of the drivers front seat. I should have expected the problems, I guess, because there certainly is enough press about this car. But this was my 6th new Ford and the others were bulletproof. So I guess it was to be expected. No extended warranty and under water for a serious amount, so I guess Ill have this one for a bunch and have more tales to tell if the tranny goes likes others have. Read resignation here.

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  Ford Explorer XLT - 2004 Ford Explorer
  By Steve Crane - April 4 - 3:14 pm

  Good Gas mileage for class of vehicle. I love the 3rd row seat, and roomy interior. I have had no mechanical problems with this vehicle.

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  Approaching 7,000 miles - 2004 Ford Explorer
  By JPD - April 3 - 2:00 am

  I drive commute over 100 miles a day and the Explorer offeres a stable, comfortable ride in heavy traffic. This is my second Explorer and I hope I can drive this one for 8 years as well.

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  A great SUV for a great price - 2004 Ford Explorer
  By lawyermommy - April 3 - 2:00 am

  This is the most economical of choices in buying an SUV. You get a lot of car without breaking the bank! We got this with 0% financing, and still cant believe our luck! Not only does it get really impressive gas mileage (were averaging about 19 mpg) it has enough room for all of our junk! My SIL has a Durango- and she gets about 9-12 mpg- and doesnt seem to have as much room in the loading area. I love it!

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  2004 XLT - 2004 Ford Explorer
  By xxxxxxxxxx - April 3 - 2:00 am

  Great power with the V6 and nice ride as far as a typical American built SUV. Lots of space...third row seating is a nice feature.