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 51 through 60 of 359.00-
Paint flys off in sheets off of roof - 2004 Ford Explorer
By haasis3 - July 22 - 4:46 pmOur experience with Ford and this Ford Explorer has made us decide not to purchase any more Ford vehicles. This vehicle has had problems with warning lights showing up when there is no problem (started happening the very first month!), after 4 years the paint on the roof peeled off in sheets down to the bare metal and then rusted. Ford would have nothing to do with it (talked to Customer Service, the Ford body shop and dealership in SC). They wanted just under $1000 to repaint it even though it is obviously a flaw in the manufacturing and I have seen other reports on the internet. Also, now after 4.5 years, the gear shift indicator showing if you are in Park, Reverse, Drive doesnt work.
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interior is great, mechanically its junk - 2004 Ford Explorer
By danny - July 17 - 11:46 pmneeded a SUV for the family loved it for the 1st 3 years,then the transmission, the rear lift gate, the CD player, the brakes, the back seat all went to hell. Ford wont recall and repairs are to expensive. Have always been a Ford guy, no more, going with toyota or Nissan, maybe a GMC. Would not recommend this vehicle to anyone, the transmission is not reliable at all. Although the interior is comfortable and easy to use, mechanically its not worth it
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Excellent SUV - 2004 Ford Explorer
By stdavis - July 16 - 2:00 amThe Explorer is an excellent overall value. It can manage people or cargo with ease. It is very capable in all weather conditions. I particularly enjoyed it in last winters ice storm. It performed flawlessly. I found the V6 to be adequate while towing a small trailer and in most situations. The build quality is excellent and I think that it is the best looking sport utility made.
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V8 Eddie Bauer - 2004 Ford Explorer
By Patrick M. - July 11 - 2:00 amThis SUV is awesome. I just traded in my 01 Suburban and they dont even compare. Better gas mileage than my old vehicle and its not a huge boat but still has plenty of room. Performs well off road and in snow. Great vehicle.
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Rear End - 2004 Ford Explorer
By Matt - June 25 - 10:48 amFord needs to step to the plate and repair manufactures defective differientials. I do not beleive that in this day and age this part of the drive train should ever wear out esspecially when the humming atarted at about 50,000 miles. I also beleive that Ford knows of the problem and was aware that the rear ends where flawed at assembly and installed them anyway. A goodwill recall is the right thing to do. I will drive it till it dies and buy elsewhere if Ford does not mend my rear end. :-)
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Great SO FAR!!!! - 2004 Ford Explorer
By Moonbeam - May 29 - 2:00 amAlot of comfort,and I dont feel over powered by its size.Silver birch is a great color.Handles much better than 2002 sport model but would have been nice to get an extra $1000 rebate but I just missed it.I like the back tail gate set up,top part opens with just a click on the key.Smooth ride,no wind noise alot of room but if your over 6"3 center consoel is to wide and you hit your right leg on it.I think change holder should slide out at the push of a button but you have to open the center to get the change.New saftey features saved on insurance.All and all I am very pleased and I will enjoy my new ride.
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Rear Differential Failure - regret it! - 2004 Ford Explorer
By janev115 - May 28 - 4:38 pmThis car has always run rough - particularly the engine. Transmission had to be replaced when the car was less than a year old. The engine always had a loud whine on the highway and I had intermittent problems with the ABS light coming on and the 4x4 high light flashing. Turns out, this is all related and the entire rear differential needs to be replaced! A google search reveals that I am not alone. However, I am alone when it comes to paying the bill to fix this problem, apparently. Id never buy this car again. Right now at 79,900 miles, but the whine has been going on for years. I just thought it was a loud truck.
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2004 Ford Explorer Orig. Sticker Price? - 2004 Ford Explorer
By Yankeeboy1 - May 16 - 3:18 pmI just purchased a pre-owned 2004 Ford Explorer XLT, 4x4, sunroof, V-8, 3rd seat, DVD, CD, running boards, keyless entry, all options, last owner had memo title in glove box stating purchase price of $46,029.17? Could this be correct? This no where near came up to this on any sites I looked at? Anybody validate this original price for me on an 2004 Explorer?
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Performance SUV for the family - 2004 Ford Explorer
By GP - May 3 - 10:10 pmBought used with 38K two years ago. 53K now. Love the sound of the V8. Strong acceleration. Surprised by how well it handles. Pretty nimble for its size. Lots of convenient features. My kids love the DVD entertainment system. Rear parking sensor is nice but just went. Need to repair.
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Still Getting My Moneys Worth - 2004 Ford Explorer
By WNYFordGuy - April 17 - 1:42 pmMy Dad recommended it because of the rebates/incentives/Z-plan discount. I was sold on the 3rd-row seat and very smooth ride. 52k miles later, I havent been disappointed - its been great for hauling kids/equipment to sports events, camping trips, and my short commute to work on our rough winter roads. Its interesting to read the other reviews - how can you complain about fuel economy (I get 15-16 MPG) when you run a heavy SUV with a relatively powerful 4.0 V6? I have no qualms about the tranny (though it whines in extreme cold at certain RPMs), even if it clunks into reverse occasionally. I agree that the rear hatch trim is lousy. For what I paid, its been a pretty good value.
