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 11 through 20 of 359.00

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  Junk - 2004 Ford Explorer
  By John - December 10 - 2:25 pm

  I purchased this car new. It is now December of 2008 and this car has seen the dealership more than my driveway. Ford has put a bad car out on this one. I love my dealership, they have done everything possible to make me happy but the product that Ford put out will make me go onto to GMC or other.

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  Look elsewhere - 2004 Ford Explorer
  By spence - March 26 - 9:46 pm

  Clunks going into reverse, rear bangs when making sharp corners, front end shakes even with brand new premium tires, rotors warped making brakes pulsate, front end squeaks when going over bumps, rear gate low quality....rattles continually, engine feels disconnected from gas pedal, sliding moonroof cover falls off track, CDs get jammed in player every time, factory speakers are junk. I had a 96 Explorer for ten years. It was the best vehicle I ever owned. So I figured Id get another after the other was trouble- free for all those years. What a mistake. Stay clear of these vehicles.

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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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  Bad Transmission - 2004 Ford Explorer
  By WV Driver - December 12 - 7:58 pm

  My explorer is 3 years old and has 48K miles. The transmission went out - totally. The cab is cramped, there is little leg room for a 5"10" man, and your feet freeze on the passenger side. There is too much engine noise on the passenger side. The gas mileage is poor. Did I mention the transmission burnt up - totally ruined? From now on I am sticking with reliable ole GMC!

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  tyrannical tranny - 2004 Ford Explorer
  By lisa - November 12 - 6:53 am

  Had this vehicle less than 2 years and with only 62k miles it needs a new transmission. Of course the warranty is expired. All of the mechanics are aware of this problem with the 2004 tranny - and apparently so is Ford Motor Company!

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  Rough transmission - 2004 Ford Explorer
  By cjp8 - February 22 - 9:08 pm

  Upgraded from a 1999 Explorer to the 2004 version with 3rd row seating, 4 wheel drive, dvd player at a good price for our family car to handle snow storms. But having trouble with transmission. 3-4 repair attempts so far. Regular driving without towing. Rough gear changes with some lag and lurching. I think there was at least one recall item in transmission and on-going repair method protocol from Ford. Extended warranty may save me some money.

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  Do not buy - 2004 Ford Explorer
  By ibo316 - February 6 - 5:30 pm

  I bought this through my friend who works for Ford in Detroit by way of the friends and family plan. I will never buy another Ford ever. The seats are hard, uncomfortable, and flat. Ford goes nuts over everything being electronically controlled like the transmission. The transmission fluid cannot respond as fast as the electronics. There is noticeable gas pedal delay when you slow and try to accelerate and when passing. The original front brake pads cause the rotors to glaze and then the dealer tells you that the rotors are warped. Do not fall for this if you do not ride the brakes like crazy.

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  Poor Quality - 2004 Ford Explorer
  By Poor Quality - October 1 - 2:00 am

  I have two New Ford Suv’s both with stall issues. Engine shakes a little ruff at times. No more Ford vehicles for me. I do not recommend. Ford should seek help from Honda or Toyota.

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  quality is not job one - 2004 Ford Explorer
  By RoyAllen - June 1 - 2:00 am

  Things started trim items started falling off after a month,the car squeeks all the time from the springs,door cjecks keep loostening up.Cant wait for the doors to fall off,whats next.Oh and by the way the linkage got so loose,that I cant go from drive into park,without stopping at reverse.

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  Waste - 2004 Ford Explorer
  By Frank M - June 30 - 2:00 am

  Comfort is ok but the handling is like a truck. The sway when cornering is untolerable and is annoying and dangerous.