2003 Ford Explorer Research & Reviews

Overview & Reviews

Average Score

4.15/5 Average
340 Total Reviews
This Year's Model Updates:

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.

Pros:
  • 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.
Cons:
  • Low-grade interior materials, quirky ergonomics.

User Reviews:

Showing 181 through 190 of 340.00
  • 2003 V8 Explorer Limited - 2003 Ford Explorer
    By -

    This Limited is very comfortable, performs well, rides smooth, and hadles the New England winter supurbly!

  • Transmission Issues on a 2003! - 2003 Ford Explorer
    By -

    This will be the first and last American made car I ever buy. After 13 years of driving Japanese vehicles and having excellent performance and reliability I decided to buy an American made SUV. The Ford Explorer may be the #1 selling SUV but I have spent $4k in repairs after owning the car only 6 months. Besides having low quality rotors that were not able to be turned, the transmission had to be rebuilt. Ford would offer nothing to me even though the SUV is only 2 years old (barely out of warranty). From now on I will stick to Honda, Nissan, and Toyota.

  • Great SUV - 2003 Ford Explorer
    By -

    This is my wifes first SUV and she loves it. We looked at many others, but for the price, we couldnt beat the Explorer. The Automatic 4WD works seamlessly on ice, and the leather seats are great for long drives. We went without the 3rd row seat, and boy, are we glad we did. Without kids, we would much rather have the storage space. Our only complaint so far is the fuel door location. Drivers side would be nice. Also a handle for closing the tailgate would come in handy...especially for shorter people.

  • 2003 Explorer - 2003 Ford Explorer
    By -

    We had to decide between the Explorer and Honda Pilot. Such a close race - nearly identical cars. The Explorer won for two reasons - additional options (Eddie Bauer) and dealership support/concern/friendliness. Ford matched the cost of the Pilot so we couldnt refuse. The two vehicles were so close and the Explorer has a conventional spare tire, extra room in the third seat for the kids feet, moon roof, 6 disc CD changer, dual function hatch and two tone paint. Even with 30HP less than the Pilot, it has the same acceleration numbers and better towing capacity.

  • 2003 Explorer XLT - 2003 Ford Explorer
    By -

    I drove my brothers Explorer this summer and really liked it, I purchased my own 2 weeks ago and am glad I did. The XLT Sport package is a really nice set up. Its 4.0L V6 packs more than enough power, and it drives really well. And its only 4inches longer and 4 inches wider than my Passat (trade).

  • Ford is the best - 2003 Ford Explorer
    By -

    I have this SUV for 10 months now and everything is perfect. I have not had any problems with this vehicle at all. It is extremely comfortable and versatile. The v-6 has more than enough power. The 4WD and the ABS/Traction Control are a dream. You wouldnt even know there was any snow on the ground and this past weekend we had 2 feet of it.

  • Dont let the looks fool you! - 2003 Ford Explorer
    By -

    I purchased my 2003 Ford Explorer with 170,000 miles from a private seller because I loved the way it looked. I have always driven SUVs. I like feeling high up and safe. The Explorer was a good vehicle to meet those wants. The Explorer was fast and powerful! A great vehicle for any sort of hauling. Its also very roomy and comfortable. Ford really did a great job with the Eddie Bauer. It had so many great features for a 2003. Unfortunately the Explorers reliability or lack thereof was enough to drive me away from it after only a few months of ownership. I didnt expect much from an older SUV with high miles but I certainly did not expect what I got. There were times when I did not want to drive anywhere because I was too afraid to! The Explorer was a smooth and comfortable ride, Ill give it that. But maybe thats because I was comparing it to the frequent tow truck rides. I ended up selling the Explorer with around 183,000 miles because I didnt want to foot the bill for a bad transmission, leaking head gasket, three bad wheel bearings, bad steering and suspension components, and a bad charging system.

  • My 2003 Ford Explorer - 2003 Ford Explorer
    By -

    The first thing I noticed was how quiet the vehicle is on the road. Very comfortable. Plenty of power with the 4.0L engine. Very nice styling.

  • love it or leave it..........I like it ! - 2003 Ford Explorer
    By -

    Tell you more.......she puts out ...and not only looks, 4.0 Lt motor good on gas....255k miles Florida born ..rust free great body

  • Couldnt be happier - 2003 Ford Explorer
    By -

    Overall Im very happy with my purchase. Had an initial problem with the rear end clutchs and dealer did a quick and efficient repair. Weve taken a couple of long trips and have been pleased with the comfort of the ride. Does good in the deep snow and handles well overall. Based on our experience so far Id buy another Explorer.

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