2004 Ford Explorer Research & Reviews

Overview & Reviews

Average Score

4.26/5 Average
359 Total Reviews
This Year's Model Updates:

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.

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

User Reviews:

Showing 81 through 90 of 359.00
  • explorer - 2004 Ford Explorer
    By -

    had a power seat switch that went bad. rear differential wine, both problems under warranty were fixed. i have 47000 miles on it, very reliable so far.

  • Excellent SUV - 2004 Ford Explorer
    By -

    Going from a Honda Accord to a Ford Explorer raised some questions from people around me; however, I was and still impressed with how different the Explorers are from a few years ago. I have proven my theory that they were beautiful cars, inside and out, and the gas mileage is not all that bad (excluding uncontrollible rising gas prices). I am really impressed with the whole package and I did not realize that Ford had come such a long way. Having only owned four cars: Nissan Pathfinder, Ford Mustang, Honda Accord, and now a Ford Explorer I have to say that I am completely satisfied. Needless to say, I love my 2004 Ford Explorer Limited.

  • Sleek and powerful - 2004 Ford Explorer
    By -

    Overall, I love this car. I love the roar it makes when you floor it! it feels like i have so much power. The AWD is a great feature and is fun too floor it in the snow. The car is so sleek and awesome looking. I have the chrome rims, chrome running board and chrome roof rack. Just watch out when you floor it the MPG goes down a lot! It is fun if you floor it long enough to watch it go through all the gears! There is no winding noise when you get up to 6 RPMS its actually a cool sound like a whistle. Everyone should get this car!

  • my ford - 2004 Ford Explorer
    By -

    This is the best vehicle that i ever bought. It is big, comfortable. I love my truck...

  • I love this truck - 2004 Ford Explorer
    By -

    I am new to driving SUVs, I think this one has been a real pleasure to drive. Car like drive with a truck feel. I highly recommend it.

  • Fit for a scrap yard - 2004 Ford Explorer
    By -

    After owning mostly Honda and Chevy vechicles, I thought I would try a Ford Explorer since I liked the look of them. Bad choice on my part. What a hunk of junk. The transmission went at 17k, rear differential needed repair at 25K. Too many things to list here. Its sold now, and I bought a Honda Pilot. All my Hondas (a 95 Civic, 2000 Accord, 2004 Civic) have been worth every penny. This Explorer I was almost willing to pay someone to take. Dont settle for this kind of quality people. There are better vehicles out there, and Ford doesnt make them!

  • Explorer XLT_Love It!! - 2004 Ford Explorer
    By -

    We traded in our Dodge Durango on the Explorer. What a difference! Even my husband agrees and he really isnt a "Ford" person. I think we made a believer out of him!

  • So Sad - 2004 Ford Explorer
    By -

    This is my second Explorer, and I bought this one because I had so much luck with the last. Im so sad that it appears I have a lemon. Horrible problems with stalling, rough shifting, hard idle. The style of the vehicle is nice, roomy, and user friendly. But the reliablity is horrible.

  • Things could be better - 2004 Ford Explorer
    By -

    I have owned my vehicle just over 1 year and I have had it in to the dealership 3 times due to the air- conditioning. It was making a terrible sound after I drove it a short distance, stopped, and then re- started the vehicle. Yet the dealership could not find anything wrong. Finally, after several months, the "High-pressure Valve" blew and caused a terrible noise/rumbling of the entire vehicle. Once that was repaired, under warranty, the vehicle drove fine and the air conditioner worked well. I also notice a Humming while I am accellerating. It can be quite irritating on long trips when you are in a rear seat.

  • One of the best years - 2004 Ford Explorer
    By -

    In spite of the low mpg, this model is an excellent reliable vehicle thats great to drive short or long trips. The overdrive is worth its weight in gold, dropping rpm to so little you forget the engine is running. No road noise, so you know the insulation is terrific. The downside is even the V6 only gets 16 mpg, but thats with the a/c on and doing 65mph. Not terrible considering the weight. This V6 is also a flex fuel, but if you use E85 the mpg is far worse. Plenty of room in the back for sleeping, or cargo. And you cant beat the 6 CD stereo, and the seat warmers that are coordinated with the cabin temp selection. For the sheer comfort this model is a winner.

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