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 61 through 70 of 359.00

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  2004 Ford Explorer XLT - 2004 Ford Explorer
  By onthego - June 7 - 10:33 am

  This vehicle is as good looking as any other out there. The quality is good, better than Mountaineer, but the ride is not as good as it could be (maybe because of the ATV tires that it came with). The gas usage is less than the window sticker using 89 octane. Overall it is not a bad vehicle and I am not sorry I purchased it. Ford has a problem with rear view outside mirrors shaking when driving down highway, hard to see behind vehicle, especially on windy day.

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  Never Again - 2004 Ford Explorer
  By mcook30512 - June 2 - 4:51 pm

  40,000 miles and the transmission went. $3,900 to repair. I have been reading of too many similar occurrences with these vehicles so I would never consider buying another.

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  Not a bad SUV... - 2004 Ford Explorer
  By driver - May 31 - 5:05 pm

  I traded in my Mustang GT for an Explorer since I needed a bigger family car. At first we looked at the Escape but decided on the Explorer. We bought the truck in July and went on a family trip in Sept., drove over 4000 miles with no problems. I think though that I might be getting some problems with the tranny now, the truck has 23000 miles. Ill take it in and get the dealer to check it out, under warranty. Aside from that the truck drives/runs/works great. I love it, never will go back to a car... unless gas hits $10 gallon!

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  Ford is this one for you - 2004 Ford Explorer
  By Brooklyn Dodgers - May 28 - 10:00 am

  Has a real good ride, could get better gas millage, sound proof.

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  We have had no problems - 2004 Ford Explorer
  By L - May 4 - 12:23 am

  I like the design and look of this truck. I only wish that we leased this vehicle instead of buying it, because I now want to upgrade to the 2006 Explorer. Before buying our Explorer we had a TrailBlazer, and I have to say that this truck handles much better on the highway.

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  An Ok SUV - 2004 Ford Explorer
  By Ken - February 28 - 8:09 pm

  I think the dealer wanted to move this Eddie Bauer as it had the V8 & most of the options including captains chairs in rear seat & canopy air bags. Got a great deal as it was on the lot for 4 months. Engine is flawless but highway MPG is 18 unless you get off the highway for a few miles & then average drops to 13-14. Lots of problems with transmission shifting but all was fixed in a timely manner by Ford. Ford should get with it on the leather seats with the inserts & make them solid leather. Heated seats failed & wrong parts kept on being ordered by the dealer. Dealer prep was less than desirable as lots of buffing compound was left on. Paid $31,000 for a MSRP $39,500. Not bad overall.

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  Explorer, not too shabby! - 2004 Ford Explorer
  By packer kp - January 31 - 1:37 pm

  I love the comfort of the XLT, I think they look sharp also. I am not impressed with the city mileage 13.5 to 14 mpg. I have had it in twice for warranty tranny work so that scares me sometimes it takes a second to engage when putting it in gear. Overall I would say I am pleased as long as the tranny holds up.

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  Very Pleased - 2004 Ford Explorer
  By JOEL - December 14 - 2:00 am

  third explorer we owned. very happy with overall performance and reliability. however, could have a little more rear passenger leg room. better ride than most suvs but still a little truck like. very happy with space and cargo room.

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  Ups and downs with the 04 Eddie Bauer - 2004 Ford Explorer
  By Rick - August 6 - 2:38 am

  We like our 04 Eddie Bauer, but it should be more refined for the money. I was reading reviews to find out if anyone else was experiencing some of the nuances of this vehicle. The rear hatch is very heavy, and yes, it is hard to find the seat warmer button. However, experiencing the rotten egg smell when you turn on the A/C (that the dealer cant seem to correct) and the sluggish transmission are main concerns. The turning radius is poor, and the car "lurches" when turning tight at slow speeds. Also, the car stalled out once while my wife was driving down the road! Snow sets the rear sensors off and each tire needs its own pressure sensor since the gauge is always on.

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  Love mine. - 2004 Ford Explorer
  By blupencl - July 22 - 10:00 am

  Love it, but am disappointed in the mileage. Got the least fancy one on the lot (no huge tow package, for instance) and still get only 14 in town. Ive been told that this will improve after 5000 miles. We shall see.