2002 Ford Explorer Research & Reviews

Overview & Reviews

Average Score

3.83/5 Average
372 Total Reviews
This Year's Model Updates:

The 2002 Ford Explorer has been overhauled in an attempt to make it more carlike than ever before. Among the improvements are a 2.5-inch-wider stance and 2-inch-longer wheelbase for improved handling and roominess, a new independent rear suspension that improves ride and handling, while at the same time accommodating an optional third row of seats, larger door openings with a lower step-in height, an optional side curtain airbag system and an optional Reverse Sensing System.

Pros:
  • Available third-row seating, independent rear suspension, powerful engines, attractive new exterior design.
Cons:
  • Everyone and his uncle has one, driving characteristics are still pretty truck-like.

User Reviews:

Showing 181 through 190 of 372.00
  • I cant believe it!!! - 2002 Ford Explorer
    By -

    You could have knocked me over with a feather if you would have told me Id be buying another explorer. I just had a 93 for 9 years and was ready for another vehicle. I was origninally thinking of a BMW X5 but the price was way out their, especially in this economy. I took the 02 explorer for a test drive and "thats all she wrote", I was sold. Rides like a luxury car and feels the same. Would not even know you were in an SUV. Ill know more in the upcoming New England winter but I would think this babys gonna perform as advertised, magnificently. So far, so good and am quite satisfied.

  • product manager - 2002 Ford Explorer
    By -

    great truck, fun to drive, good visibilty, good power , good handling

  • 02 Explorer - 2002 Ford Explorer
    By -

    Vehicle has been a pleasure to drive size/safety feature very assuring woiuld like better gas mileage and not as firm a ride.

  • So Far its OK - 2002 Ford Explorer
    By -

    Replaced a Ford Ranger Off Road with this car. What a difference in ride! This car rides like a luxury car in comparison. Very smooth so far. Had one problem with air bag light which dealer repaired.

  • Love and Hate it - 2002 Ford Explorer
    By -

    I have had a 98 and an 02. I have had a number of problems with the 02. The rear seals and wheel bearing have been replaced twice, 10K miles apart. The transmission has been in four times. The filter assembly changed twice and now it is in for a new tranny at 43K. Luckily I paid for an extended warranty. Life span of rotors is horrible, same as 98. Sunroof, front wheel bearings, and drivers seat cover replaced. The truck is great. The reliability is horrible. This will be the last Explorer. Too bad they cant make quality job 1 anymore. First model year, but should not have had this many problems.

  • Happy Explorer - 2002 Ford Explorer
    By -

    I looked for 2 months for an SUV. I test drove every SUV out there, At the end me and the wife were very confused. So I took a chance with the explorer.We went on a trip after putting on 1000 mi.The trip was 2 thousand mi. long. The Explorer handeled great. The wife and I so far love the car. The ride is better than any other SUV. It is very comfortable for taking trips. So far we have 3000 mi on the vehicle. On the highway it got 20 and 22 mi per gallon. We are very happy with the vehicle so far.

  • Skip This One - 2002 Ford Explorer
    By -

    Love the style, but hate the fact she leaked oil and had to bring her in 4 times with under 2k miles on her. Also, under 2k miles, needed new cat. converter. This is a piece of junk all for 29K.

  • Explorer - 2002 Ford Explorer
    By -

    Doesnt have all the fancy buttons but very practical with a great engine.

  • 100% RELIABLE - 2002 Ford Explorer
    By -

    I bought this Explorer new -- my first Ford. Loved the looks of it. I now have 69,000 absolutely trouble free miles -- some towing light trailers. Got over 50,000 on first set of tires. Other than pads and oil changes its never been in the shop. Best of all, not one squeak or rattle even after 69k miles, and Im paranoid about rattles. Interior design is a bit hokey but everything looks and works like new. In fact, the whole vehicle feels tight like new. I wish mileage was better for a V6 but I can live with it. I usually sell at around 75K miles but Ill keep this till one of us drops. I wouldnt hesitate to buy another. No, my last name is not Ford.

  • Great SUV - 2002 Ford Explorer
    By -

    Drove Chevys entire life and was sold on this Ford. Great SUV. The independent rear suspension is worth every peneny! V6 is adequate for day to day driving and has plenty of acceleration. Would recommend the V8 if you plan on a lot of hauling. Couldnt be happier. Great value for what you get. Only problem after 6,000 miles is an occasional start up problem. Sometimes it doesnt fire up properly when the engine is still warm. Sounds like this could be a common problem. Hopefully Ford is working on a fix. Great car. Extremely pleased!

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