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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  2004 ford explorer - 2004 Ford Explorer
  By ford guy - January 11 - 10:32 pm

  I have a 2004 Ford explorer I bouth it in 2005 with only 25,000 miles five years later this car has been great to me so far I did have a ac/motor problem but it was covered under the warranty. I have done every maintenance that is recommended to this car and I do believe that it will last a lot longer. My parents have a 2005 explorer with almost 200,000 miles on it and only had problem with window motor. I would grade this car a A-.

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  The Best Ive Owned - 2004 Ford Explorer
  By vlovett - December 24 - 10:00 am

  Our Eddie Bauer Explorer makes travel very enjoyable. Very comfortable and quiet--we swapped our OE tires for Goodyear Fortera--really smooth and quiet. Rear Entertainment Center keeps my two grand daughters to occupied to ask how much farther. This Explorer handles so much better than my previous 2000 model. We just love the vehicle.

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  My Explorer - 2004 Ford Explorer
  By Poisenivy2 - November 22 - 2:00 am

  I love to drive my Explorer. It handles the road very well and has a smooth ride. If I were to buy an SUV all over again, I would invest in a V8 engine instead of a V6. I would like a little more pickup when driving up hills. I also enjoy the great customer service that I received at Academy Ford in Laurel, MD. I can drop my car off for an oil change and their shuttle will drive me home and pick me up when it is ready.

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  2000 better than 2004 - 2004 Ford Explorer
  By Nighthawk779 - November 15 - 11:33 pm

  This is my third Explorer and my last. My 2000 has been the best of the 3 2000 03 &04, All 3 had the transmission rebuild, but only the 2000 has had nothing else repaired. Everything works as well as new over 205,000 miles on it now. The engines have never been a problem until now. We now have electical and rear end noise now. The 2000 pulled trailers boats and what you could get on the bumper with no effort. I wish they would bring back sun visor recorder. Also the 2nd sun visor. But I am looking at Highlanders now. 3600 for a new transmission had me looking for a different manufacturer. P.S. we did change trasmission fuild every fluid at 30,000 at the dealer no less.

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  2004 xlt two wheel drive 4.0 v-6 - 2004 Ford Explorer
  By BFR - October 28 - 10:42 am

  bought used with 12000 miles on it in 2005. I now have 92000 10/28/09. I had one front wheel bearing go out. changed the hub assembley myself was not to hard but cost was $200.00.New tires at 86000 miles, and never rotated the tires once, and they wore even. Gas milage 15/16 city 21/22 highway.I run mobil 1 oil and change every 6000 miles.My wife drives it 80% of the time , and loves it. I coach baseball and have plenty of room to haul everything.No complaints

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  I would buy an Explorer again - 2004 Ford Explorer
  By Witmer - September 30 - 10:00 am

  My Explorer is an excellent family ride. Seats 7, 4wd for the snow and 21 MPG on my daily commutes on the freeway of 45 miles each way. The dealer has been exceptional (Blue Oval certified). I paid 34,000 for the vehicle and it has been trouble free. I opted for the v-6 and glad I did with gas now 2 bucks a gallon.

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  One year in, and still enjoying it. - 2004 Ford Explorer
  By JR - August 22 - 11:58 am

  I had a 1995 Explorer when I was in high school and it had been awhile since Id had an SUV so when we had the great gas crisis of 2008 I thought I could get into another one cheaply. Since I was buying used, I didnt care what the resale value was and this Explorer was a deal I couldnt pass up. Its been trouble free and very handy.

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  Horrible, Horrible, Horrible... - 2004 Ford Explorer
  By Lindsay - August 6 - 8:54 pm

  Save yourself money and do not buy this. I have spent $9K in trying to keep my truck running. This is my second explorer. The first I shelled out $4K on a new engine. This one, I spent $9K rewiring it, replacing the transmission, etc. I am devastated but will never, ever buy a ford again.

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  Great Ride & Good Value - 2004 Ford Explorer
  By mboard - August 6 - 10:00 am

  Bought this Explorer because it is comfortable and safe (Ford has resolved the rollover/tires issues that may have scared some in years past). Im impressed with the quality and the ride. The interior room is exceptional for its size and the stereo sound system is very nice. Im willing to give up alittle gas mileage that some of the smaller SUVs have....the trade is a smoother, quieter ride with more vehicle to protect my family.

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  Paint flys off in sheets off of roof - 2004 Ford Explorer
  By haasis3 - July 22 - 4:46 pm

  Our 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.