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 241 through 250 of 372.00
  • Solid - 2002 Ford Explorer
    By -

    Excellent value for a sport utility.

  • Ford Help! - 2002 Ford Explorer
    By -

    I purchased this E.B. Explorer 6/2002, for my wife who only drives it to the office and back home. 9/04 it only has 16500 miles. Many under warranty problems such as window motor, water pump, belt tentioner, rear lift gate split down the middle,rear air conditoner problems, hood paint bubbling up,leaking right rear shock,defective rear compartment latch, all outside plastic (black) molding had to be replaced due to pealing, third brake light defective. I hope that F.M.C. opens their eyes to the many problems. Other than the above problems my wife loves her Ford Explorer and will not let me trade it in.

  • buy it! - 2002 Ford Explorer
    By -

    I am very pleased with the performance, ride, and quality of this vehicle. The cargo space is a huge plus against other SUVs in its class. The turning radius and handling are superb for an SUV. Adequate power and acceleration. Make sure you add the Sport Package for added comfort and design.

  • Lesson learned - 2002 Ford Explorer
    By -

    WE have owned this vehicle, with many problems. I noticed that the rear differential was not right from the start, but the dealership told us everything was fine each service. This is a known problem with this model year and warranty coverage is questionable. There are other problems known to Ford with this model and unknown to the consumer! We have 50K miles on it; 4 years old and now they surface after numerous complaints. I am not happy and will NEVER buy Ford again!

  • I LOVE my truck! - 2002 Ford Explorer
    By -

    I bought my 2002 Explorer XLT in January of this year (03). I have had nothing but pleasure out of it ever since. I love to drive it but it could get better mileage.

  • The best selling SUV for a reason - 2002 Ford Explorer
    By -

    This vehicle is wonderful. The V8 has a lot of power for a vehicle the size of an Explorer.. Could get better gas mileage.. The interior trim is much nicer than previous EB models. The ride is spectacular.. The new suspension is all that I read about and more.. Havnt taken it offroad yet, but Im looking forward to it..

  • Great car to run, poor car to own - 2002 Ford Explorer
    By -

    I own this car almost two months. The running and handling is really great. During the normal highway traffic, it is pretty quiet, without major wind, road and engine noises. Most features work just fine, except for the air conditioner (restricted to my car), which is bad for normal use. Even worse, about 1000 miles, the A/C does not work anymore (maybe, the motor was blown out). In addition, the steering wheel is a little deviated from the neutral position.

  • Do not buy this car!@!@! - 2002 Ford Explorer
    By -

    We bought our Ford 2 years ago and we had to replace the front bushings,the cluster(odometer) and the back seat window because it went bad. My car is back in the shop because the transmission is slipping. Of course there is nothing to do about the transmission they say and that I need to spend 160.00 to change the filter and fluid. It isnt due for that. So I guess I will wait until it totally breaks down. I would never buy this car. I am going back to my Tahoe when the 100,000 mile warranty runs out. I have to keep it until then.

  • Review quality Parts - 2002 Ford Explorer
    By -

    The Truck is good, but the quality of parts is so bad, cheaper material or low quality in asembly process, cause problems like internal sounds or engine problems.

  • 2002 Explorer Pros/Cons - 2002 Ford Explorer
    By -

    Ford did a great job on the 2002 Explorer Limited. I made a mistake and ordered it without the running boards. It is difficult for shorter people to get in and out of. The other poor feature is the seats. The lumbar support is wimpy. When I sat in it at the dealership, I believed the lumbar support to be adequate, however after driving it on a long car trip Ford should have increased the amount of lumbar support. Other than these two minor items, it is a great vehicle with no defects of any kind.

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