4 Star Reviews for 2004 Ford Explorer

Overview & Reviews

Average Score

4.26/5 Average
359 Total Reviews
This Year's Model Updates:

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.

Pros:
  • 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.
Cons:
  • Dull cabin design with some low-grade materials, low resale value, confusing controls on highline models, lousy fuel economy.

User Reviews:

Showing 71 through 80 of 359.00
  • nice vehicle = get an 8 cylinder - 2004 Ford Explorer
    By -

    i was one of the first ones to buy the new explorer a few years ago. its been nice. it rides a little rougher than gmc cars but its good for the money. i had an old explorer with 8 cyclinders. i tried to save a few dollars and went with the 6 this time. people told me you wont feel the difference. wrong! if you like driving like i do, get the 8 cyclinders. other than that, its not a bad vehicle.

  • My 3rd Ford Explorer Limited - 2004 Ford Explorer
    By -

    My 3rd Ford Explorer Limited. Loved my first two. Bought a Lexus RX300 but went back to Ford. Like this one but had to have rear end replaced after 4 months, 2K miles. Ford was good about warranty repairs. Still a little rough changing gears. Chrome running boards rusty after 1 winter. Great interior features and design. Comfortable and now seems very reliable and quiet. Easy to handle, good pick up, great on long trips. BUT, I wish Ford would take the too numerous seams out of the leather seats. Not good on people who drive in shorts or skirts. 96 seats were the best! We dont need the high "thigh" supports on the sides of seats. These arent race cars. But, I will buy another Ford Explorer again.

  • not bad - 2004 Ford Explorer
    By -

    THIS IS OUR SECOND EXPLORER AND WE DO LIKE THEM. HOWEVER, WE WISH THERE WAS MORE LEG ROOM IN THE BACKSEAT AREAS. IT ALSO TAKES ROAD BUMPS VERY ROUGHLY. IT WOULD BE NICE TO HAVE RECIRCULATED AIR INSTEAD OF ONLY USING OUTSIDE AIR.

  • A few quibbles - 2004 Ford Explorer
    By -

    Only had it for a month but considering my occupation requires me to drive trucks and/or suv I would say it has been a great buy. With the dealer discount and rebates I ended up spending a lot less than the foreign models. Only time will tell if it holds up. 2 things tho: theres a rattle in the back hatch. Think its the 2 plastic latches in the door. And the radio doesnt have the greatest reception.But its been fun to drive.

  • Xlt Ford SUV 2004 - 2004 Ford Explorer
    By -

    I enjoy the driving, and so far no problems 20000 miles.

  • Rear Axle Problem - 2004 Ford Explorer
    By -

    Purchased this used last week. Heard a whine in the rear end. Took it to the Ford dealer and they are replacing the entire rear end. They told me that a few have come back due to this problem.. Gas mileage is 15 in the city and 20 on the highway. Engine is very quiet. Sometime you need to listen to see if it is running. I think the BF goodrich tires make the ride rough due to the tread design. The front rotors needed turned due to a vibration in the steering wheel between 40 - 6o mph. Purchase a Ford ESP extended warranty over the web from a Ford dealer for a better price. With all the equipment on this I think you will need it!

  • XLS - Nice - 2004 Ford Explorer
    By -

    Much nicer than expected. I got it for under $17k. Ride is much better than expected. Nothing like my 1999 Sport. Very good radio/CD and very very roomy. Unreal VALUE is the name of this game.

  • 2004 Explorer Eddie Bauer - 2004 Ford Explorer
    By -

    Great Truck so far. We upgraded from the Escape. Another Great SUV. FOrd owns the market on SUVs. I used to like the Jeeps but not any more.

  • my explorer - 2004 Ford Explorer
    By -

    it is enjoyable and fun to drive it is really good in the snow but i have had it for 2 weeks and my gas bill is 200.00

  • my ford - 2004 Ford Explorer
    By -

    it is a fun car to dive around town and take kids to places

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