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

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  Gas Hog, but fun! - 2004 Ford Explorer
  By RKMIII - February 15 - 10:00 am

  Had a 2002 with a V6...no pickup whatsoever...but it got 20-22 mpg on the highway. The V8 has lots of pep, but 16mpg highway...

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  Nice, but not my bag. - 2004 Ford Explorer
  By giznad - January 14 - 2:00 am

  I rented on for a week long trip. It was what I expected in an American SUV. Bland exterior and interior, underpowered engine, but it its defence. It did swalow all my cargo and make it from Orlando to Key West on one tank of gas. For my 30K Ide look to an Audi Wagon or an Infinity FX 35/45

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  Very Happy - 2004 Ford Explorer
  By socialwork2 - November 15 - 10:00 am

  I bought the AWD Explorer on July 10, 2004, and already have over 1000 mi on it. It is fun to drive, and great to look at. The ride feels like a truck, but a smooth one anyway. It feels nice to be in the drivers seat. Interior is very functional with the 3rd row seat, and it looks good too. Impressive all the way around. There is a squeek coming from the front wheels over bumps or rough roads. It sounds like defective ball joints, but the dealer was hesitant to replace them since everything is funtioning well. Im am taking it back in to get them replaced because it is annoying and still under warrenty. Nothing major by any means. Highly recommend

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  Purchased Used - 2004 Ford Explorer
  By Tim - October 13 - 1:51 pm

  I purchased this, Ford certified, truck with just 15k miles. V8 has decent power but not overwhelming. I like the V8 in the newer (06) Explorers, however the ridiculous interior door release & handles prohibited me from buying the newer model. Good room, quiet & smooth ride. Some ergonomic quirks though. 2nd and 3rd row seats dont fold flat, interior door release take time getting used to. Build quality is about average.

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  Great SUV but check that transmission - 2004 Ford Explorer
  By Stevew - October 9 - 10:00 am

  Great SUV good ride not the best I have had but good for the price paid. Drives like a car and has the zip you need. The transmission went out after 6000 miles and had to be replaced. Seems Ford has known of this problem for a while. Ford refuses to do a recall when they know the transmissions effected.

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  Ford Explorer - 2004 Ford Explorer
  By mattnkathy1 - September 23 - 10:18 am

  I drive 23 highway miles one way to work. The Explorer handles 70mph comfortably. Over 70mph and fuel economy suffers. 4 wheel drive works great in both full time and auto. People always say "nice truck" when riding in my truck for the first time.

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  Me - 2004 Ford Explorer
  By JW - September 9 - 12:02 pm

  So far nothing but carefree driving. Getting about 18 mpg in the city and 21 on the highway...not bad for an suv.

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  Better than your average SUV - 2004 Ford Explorer
  By Gang Green - August 19 - 12:36 am

  This is first American automobile purchase and so far I am very pleased. Did alot of research and comparison to the Highlander(Toyota), Pathfinder (Nissan) and Pilot(Honda). Liked a little bit of everything in each vehicles but not enough to purchase them. Then one day I decided to test drive the Explorer thinking there has to be something great that made it the top-selling SUV in 10 yrs. Well, I was genuinely surprised by the strong performance of the V8 engine, spacious interior, comfortable ride and great handling. Anyway, 5 months/7000 miles later its going great!! Better $$ bargain as well. The service (including oil change) is great too and it beats my Acura(ex-car) experience.

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  Brand new - 2004 Ford Explorer
  By arturopc - August 17 - 10:00 am

  Just bought it for my wife after an extensive research and test drives and she loves it.

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  2004 explorer - 2004 Ford Explorer
  By amet - August 17 - 10:00 am

  this is to me the best looking exterior of all trucks. it is great to drive and is not as bad on fuel as i had expected. if they had only put the f-150 interior inside. i love my truck so far and will probably keep it for a long time to come.