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 81 through 90 of 359.00

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  Disappointed... - 2004 Ford Explorer
  By aeodie - October 14 - 10:00 am

  I decided to buy the explorer instead of a grand cherokee or 4 runner because I liked the styling and it seemed to be the perfect size for my family...not too big, but bigger than most mid-sized suvs. I bought a new vehicle because we were about to have a new baby and I wanted something reliable...that has not been the case. I have had the rear- end replaced because it was making a loud noise. I have had the engine light come on due to a spark plug problem. Two tires were replaced due to "abnormal wear," and the interior has had some problems. I have been disappointed with this vehicle, even though the service from Ford has been good.

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  I was surprised! - 2004 Ford Explorer
  By pDub - May 7 - 2:00 am

  Very comfortable and easy to drive. Doesnt feel like youre driving a SUV other than towering over people.

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  Love my Explorer - 2004 Ford Explorer
  By mascot - March 19 - 2:00 am

  The V8 4.6L engine has more than enough power for towing small trailers and boats. The vehicle handles excellant with a very comfortable ride. Much improved over the "old" Explorer.

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  What a pleasant surprise - 2004 Ford Explorer
  By Stevebro - February 5 - 2:00 am

  The best handling SUV weve ever owned (and weve owned a lot of them). Power is more than adequate with the base 4.0 6 cyl. Seats are a bit hard, but supportive. Sound system not the greatest, but then again, its the standard one. In hindsight, we should have opted for the upgraded sound system.

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  DVD Blocks the WAY - 2004 Ford Explorer
  By Mertz - January 6 - 10:00 am

  Nice SUV, Only problem with truck is it is its interior is smaller than a 93 model I had owned. Also the DVD players scene is right in your rear view mirror when the kids are watching, which is all the time. Still it beats having the kids fighting all the time on long trips. They were never so quiet before. Gas mileage could have been better 16-17 highway!!!! Over all GREAT SUV

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  Second time around - 2004 Ford Explorer
  By Plumber - November 18 - 10:00 am

  Ny company leases two Explorers (XLS) and I drove one of them for about a year. This was a bare bones model and I wished It had better appointments. I needed to buy a new car for myself, and chose the XLT Sport. This one is nicely appointed and what a difference it makes! Much quieter and smoother than the XLS. I find this to be a very practical vehicle to own. It does many things well, plenty of room, the ability to haul cargo, and the 4 wheel drive is great in the snow. If someone is going to own one vehicle, this one fits the bill.

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  Rattles - 2004 Ford Explorer
  By Don Crocker - September 24 - 2:00 am

  The engine performs excetionally well.The ride is like a car. The Auto 4 wheel works great in snow.Have not tried it on rocky terrain or swamps.Fuel economy is not great. The only problems I have is that it rattles in the back due to build quality.The transmission is slow to kick down to low gear.

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  Practical SUV - 2004 Ford Explorer
  By tatemark - September 13 - 10:00 am

  This is our second Explorer and we have been pleased with both. The improvements in the design, comfort and ride of the 2004 model are nothing short of amazing when compared with my trusty old workhorse 98. If you are looking for a reasonably priced mid- size SUV, look no further. Am looking forward to the development of the hybrid version--have enjoyed driving the Prius hybrid as a rental car and would love to have that kind of fuel economy in an SUV. As it stands now, we use the Explorer for carpool and hauling around town because of the mpgs. Other than that issue (which I admit is a big one) we love the car.

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  AWESOME - 2004 Ford Explorer
  By starfreek - August 12 - 2:00 am

  eASIER TO GO CAMPING IN THIS LARGER VEHICLE

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  mzhdg - 2004 Ford Explorer
  By beach babe - May 2 - 10:00 am

  i like the style