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 201 through 210 of 340.00
  • The Explorer - 2003 Ford Explorer
    By -

    The Explorer is not only a wonderful mid-size SUV, its Fords best SUV, yet. It has made up for past mistakes. A roomy cabin and optional third row seat are a nice add on! A V-6 or V-8 engine can tow great weight. The 1/2 trunk hatch helps with loading groceries. Optional leather interior. 6-CD player is a nice feature. Seating 8 is great, too.

  • Very Limited - 2003 Ford Explorer
    By -

    This model has been downgraded from previous Limited trim levels. The result is unsatisfactory. The ride is harsh and noisey. The interior is cramped and loaded with cheap plastic. The Lexus RX330 would be a much better choice for the money

  • 2003 FORD EXPLORER LIMITED - 2003 Ford Explorer
    By -

    Found that the gas peddle was uncomfortable. I cant explain it but my 2001 Olds and 2001 Jeep never had this uncomfortable feeling. Cant seem to get into a comfortable position even with the power gas/brake and seat positioning??? The ride is great for a vehicle of this type. I required a V-8, classIV hitch and the side air bag curtian which I have. Im averaging about 18.8 miles per gallon which I feel is good for this size vehicle. I asked the dealer to install daytime running lights to work in conjunction with the automatic headlights. Not done yet!

  • danny - 2003 Ford Explorer
    By -

    this car has been in the dealer since l bought it i did not get to drive it for 1week the car does not start in the morning and this car has alot of body role you feel you are going to flip when you take a turn at 20 i am going to buy the chevy tahoe because it has better ride. that will be the last time i will buy a ford

  • Quite a change - 2003 Ford Explorer
    By -

    Although Ive only had the vehicle a very short time, it looks like a love affair is in the making. I went from a Mitsubishi Spyder Convertible to the Explorer and love it. I was afraid it would feel too big, but does not. I love the fit and finish in the new fords and the exterior turns heads. The 6 cyl 4.0 seems to pack enough punch and the 5 speed tranny is a dream.

  • Great SUV - 2003 Ford Explorer
    By -

    Bought in November and it runs great. Ford service is excellent (in my experience). The 4.6L V8 is very powerful, but you can almost see the gas gauge moving. Smooth ride compared to other trucks and SUVs Ive driven before...even with the tougher suspension of the off-road pkg. If you can find it, I highly recommend the traction control system. It really comes in handy in wet, icy, or snowy conditions. The interior needs some work...leather seats only on 1st two rows, and appears only to be on the seats, not on door trim. The dashboard computer is great...tells you gas mileage, miles till empty, oil life remaining, and other engine status.

  • its a nice ride - 2003 Ford Explorer
    By -

    I switched from a ford windstar minivan to the explorer 4wheel drive truck. The only drawback is that there is less trunk space in the explorer. Other than that the truck is great to drive and more comfortable to be riding in. WE NEED MORE SUVs.....BIGGER IS BETTER AND MUCH MORE SAFER !!!!!

  • Best SUV - 2003 Ford Explorer
    By -

    I love the ride. I love the look. It just needs a V-8 for more power.

  • FORD EXPLORER GREAT FAMILY VEHICLE - 2003 Ford Explorer
    By -

    If you want a vehicle thats dependable, reliable, comfortable ride, and if you have grandchildren then this SUV is what you need. Its great for trips because you have plenty of storage and the seats are very comfortable. Because we have grandchildren we opted for fabric seats and with the fabric protector spills arent a problem. The grandchildren like it when theyre together because they arent crowded. They can even get in the very back seat from either side of the car.

  • Ford Eddie Bauer Explorer - 2003 Ford Explorer
    By -

    This is a great SUV. I have owned several explorers over the years and use this vehicle for both commuting and significant off road driving during hunting trips. This vehicle has been tested in some very muddy, slippery and uneven terrain off road and comes through like a shining star. Its by far the best SUV for people who want to utilize the "utility" in sport utility vehicles. I have the V8 powered eddie bauer version. It wont win any drag races but delivers smooth, powerful accelleration and has more than enough power and low end torque for driving around town, on the highway, off road and towing a trailer.

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