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 41 through 50 of 359.00-
Should have bought extended warrenty - 2004 Ford Explorer
By mlogan03 - July 25 - 11:38 pmI purchased my 2004 Explorer new in December of 2003. I bought the basic XLS model and planned on using it for the short drive to work and the occasional trips out of town. It has been reliable until just last week when the ABS light, Service Engine, and the wrench light all came on at the same time. The cruise control also failed. The throttle body had to be replaced along with the rear wheel speed sensor. The vehicle has 32,000 miles and has been driven with care. Somewhat disappointed with the vehicle. Fortunately the Ford Service here was quite professional and had the vehicle back running in a couple of days.
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Poorly Designed AC - 2004 Ford Explorer
By LA - July 2 - 3:30 pmI must start by saying I live in South Louisiana. Auto AC is critical for comfort. AC is a must about 340 days out of the year down here. Bought it used w/ 16K miles have about 22K. Purchased in the fall so didnt have the sweltering heat to truely test the AC when purchased. Noticed this summer the AC just wasnt cooling the cab off. Feels cold at the vent. Brought to dealer who said the same thing. Unfortunately, nothing can be done since nothing found (all levels in check). Ill be looking for a trade soon. Overall comfortable. Leather interior is nice. Paneling and rest of interior is just OK. Rides very well for SUV
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Not a bad truck - 2004 Ford Explorer
By SN190498 - May 29 - 4:53 pmThe 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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Still Happy - 2004 Ford Explorer
By Jd - May 5 - 4:11 pmJust 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 amIve 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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Approaching 7,000 miles - 2004 Ford Explorer
By JPD - April 3 - 2:00 amI 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 amThis 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 amGreat 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.
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Excellent Value - Great Car! - 2004 Ford Explorer
By davecogs - March 24 - 10:00 amCurrenty w/ 1500 Miles on the SUV (V8), the truck gets two thumbs up. IT was a great value ($42000 list) that ended up costing $32,000 + Tax. The ride, siz, and power are all great. The only bad thing I have to say about the truck is the Gas Milage is terrible (10 MPG City/13 Highway).
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Great Truck - 2004 Ford Explorer
By JD - March 13 - 5:13 pmGreat SUV so far - 47000 miles and still going, I still have the original tires with more miles to go. No problems since day 1.
