Overview & Reviews

For the 2003 Ford Explorer, sport versions of the XLS and XLT debut, along with a new trim level called NBX (No Boundaries Experience). The NBX includes special exterior trim, unique 17-inch alloy wheels, all-terrain tires, a Yakima roof rack, rubber floormats and a cargo area liner. All-wheel drive is newly available on all but the NBX model. XLS models come standard with an automatic transmission and a CD player for 2003, while XLT models get a chrome grille and metallic interior accents. Eddie Bauer models have satin-finish 17-inch wheels this year. Limited models get upgrades such as chromed exterior trim, chrome wheels, a leather-upholstered center console cover and new woodgrain interior trim. A tire-pressure monitoring system is available on Limited models. An Off-Road Package including underbody skid plates, suspension upgrades, front tow hooks and unique wheels debuts. Finally, a rear seat DVD-based entertainment system will be available later in the year.

• Independent rear suspension, comfortable seating for up to seven, strong powertrains, foolproof Control Trac 4WD, available rollover protection system, optional stability control system, DVD-based entertainment system.

• Low-grade interior materials, quirky ergonomics.

User Reviews:

Showing 161 through 170 of 340.00

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  My second Explorer-less quality - 2003 Ford Explorer
  By Scott - January 16 - 1:46 pm

  This is my second Explorer (1996 and 2003). Overall it is a good vehicle but not excellent. I have had more repairs than I expected. It is in for servicing now and at 60,000 miles both front ball joints have to be replaced. The driver heated seat no longer works. I have a DVD entertainment system and it had to be replaced (luckily under warranty).The tailgate hydraulics have never worked in cold weather (need to physically push up tailgate). I am concerned about power window motor going out in rear passenger window (does not always work). I have been satisfied for the most part with this vehicle but am concerned that too much is going to fall apart. My 1996 has 130,000 miles and held up better.

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  Ford Explorer - 2003 Ford Explorer
  By Alex Esconde - January 6 - 10:00 am

  This is a great vehicle. It is surprisingly smooth for a SUV. I have had it for two months, and dont really have any major complaints except for the interior materails (the leather and plastic seem prety cheap). I would definately recommend buying this SUV.

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  solid suv - 2003 Ford Explorer
  By dannylv - January 3 - 10:00 am

  after about a year of researching used mid-sized suv trucks i decided on the explorer and i couldnt be happier. it has everything we need, having a newborn and a 6 year old, with the optional 3rd row seat and 2nd and 3rd row air. the 210 hp engine provides plenty of power and doesnt lag even with the a/c pumping full blast out here in the desert heat.

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  Nice styling but problematic - 2003 Ford Explorer
  By mrmeister - December 22 - 10:00 am

  Had a good experience with 96 Explorer V6. Really like the way the new design style and the 4.6L V8 engine. Too many trips to the dealership though to fix warranty problems - A/C system failed, driver side heat blows cold air, airbag light on, transmission hesitation, now the lift gate recall. Ford quality has decreased, I had no problems with the 96. This is the 3rd Ford Ive purchased since 96 but due to warranty problems this will be my last. What problems will reoccur once 36k warranty runs out? I cant be any worse off trying another brand next time.

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  Ford Explorer EB 4WD - 2003 Ford Explorer
  By ac7860 - December 8 - 10:15 am

  I have owned this truck for many years now and I must say that it has held up quite well. Yes, there were problems but very few and minor. I have 87K miles now and there has been no problems with the entire drivetrain. I think if one keeps the regular maintenance (tires, brakes, fluids, etc.) up there should be few problems with the truck for well over 150K. Moreover, compared to my 01 F150 4X4 and some other vehicles I have driven, this Explorer is a dream to drive in the Michigan winters.

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  State of the Art SUV - 2003 Ford Explorer
  By Pogi - November 19 - 10:00 am

  This one definitely kicks. Mine had a punchy V8 which is very reliable when overtaking or merging lanes. Rides very smooth like a car. A striking appearance especially the front silver grille, combined with the boxy look of the front. At night, the dashboard looks like the control panel of a jetliner - control buttons here and there. The automatic climate control is truly versatile - it does all 4 you including defogging the windows. Steering is very responsive. Overall performance is excellent in all areas and conditions - thanks to its front AND rear independent suspensions.

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  Problematic Transmission - 2003 Ford Explorer
  By mejia329 - October 27 - 11:21 am

  This is my latest and probably last Ford purchase ever. Ive serviced my 03 Explorer 4WD XLT at recommended intervals only with my dealer over the last 4 years. Ive had major engine work done once and the transmission rebuilt three times. There was a wheel bearing problem at around 20k and the rear heating unit quit working around 60k. The latest transmission issue (torque converter) is setting me back $1,200.00. Overall this is a very disappointing purchase.

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  Ford Explorer 2003 review - 2003 Ford Explorer
  By Realtorreviewer - September 22 - 3:10 pm

  The vehicle has been for the most part an excellent vehicle for sales! I am in and out all the time, throwing things in the back for kids sports etc. Very good for traveling. Only negative I have experienced is some blind spots when looking to the rear sides.

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  Cruising Down South - 2003 Ford Explorer
  By Roaddog - September 17 - 7:48 am

  I owned a previous Explorer(1995 Limited, 4X4). Was first SUV but ride and lack of power sent me to the 2003. I love the styling, improved ride and torque in this model. To my surprise, drove 20.000 miles in one year. Averages around 21 mpg on highway with A/C blowing and flat out cruising. Never had a problem with acceleration or performance. Recently had rear end clutch pack replaced at 49.000 miles. Made an earlier decision to purchase an extended warranty because I obtained vehicle used. Dealer fixed with no charge to me. This is a documented service issue for vehicle model. Drivers seat a bit firm and could use a little more adjustability.

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  The Real Ford Explorer - 2003 Ford Explorer
  By Peter Farell - September 8 - 10:00 am

  I love my Toyota Avolon but my wife has the worst 4 year old For Explorer. Ford has a bad everyting. Except while where here in Hollywood Beach, Florida it is good in the snow from when we drove it to Coldorado and it broke down 15 minutes north of us. We came back down with a rental and drove the Avolon which now has over 73000 miles on it and is brand new. The Ford is also brand new too. Our Honda Accord lasted 26 years and our old Avolon lasted 17 years . The Accord is still working with 64 millon miles on it since I used to go from Spring Lake, New Jersey to New York City everyday. The Toyota had 74 thousand miles on it.