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 271 through 280 of 372.00
  • 2202 ford expl - 2002 Ford Explorer
    By -

    Fun to drive. Have taken 3 long trips very comfortable, smooth ride but solid. Strong engine (V8) but am slightly disappointed in fuel econ 14.5 town 18 highw . Like the interior appointments easy to read insturment panel. Will buy another

  • Very Solid SUV - 2002 Ford Explorer
    By -

    I love the practicality and cargo capacity. It is a very value-packed SUV, and is great for families and off roaders alike. It is also very smooth riding and reliable.

  • Cant wait to sell...way upside down! - 2002 Ford Explorer
    By -

    What was I thinking?! The resale value on this vehicle sucks! Luckily I got it for A-plan pricing due to a family member otherwise no way. I have to admit that at 37000 miles I have had service issues. Do note that transmission slip problem is there and will probably get worse. I had 3 Taurus that had this problem really bad! Go Japanese instead!!

  • SO far, I like it - 2002 Ford Explorer
    By -

    I bought my 02 XLT a couple weeks ago. It was a rental truck and looked and smelled new. 19,000 miles. Very poor resale value as I got it for 20k! It is dumb to buy one of these new! It feels quite solid all around. Drives very smooth. Other than the height and minimal road noise, feels like a car. I hope I stay this happy. Could use more power. I also would like slightly bigger tires. Stereo is a little weak, but I like the tape and CD feature. 3rd seat is great feature. Rear air is necessary, as the back heats up and the front blowers are not that powerful.

  • Great Family Vehicle - 2002 Ford Explorer
    By -

    This is a very good reliable family vehicle. Goes in snow in Northeast PA without difficulty. The deal beat the competition by thousands. We probably will buy another in a few years.

  • It was a good buy - 2002 Ford Explorer
    By -

    This vehicle is much nicer than my previous 98 XLT. Its roomier, quieter (though still loud), and the 3rd row seating is great when travelling with a crowd. I have the 6-cylinder engine and the acceleration is fine for how I drive the car. The gas mileage has been less than what I expected (around 15mpg, 18 if Im driving on the highway). Overall, it is a definite upgrade from the previous version but is still somewhat loud and drives, for lack of a better term, more like a truck compared to other (higher-priced) vehicles in its class that I test drove. If you need space, and want a mini-SUV, then you should definitely test drive this vehicle.

  • A Great Value - 2002 Ford Explorer
    By -

    I was very skeptical about owning a Ford due to all the concerns about reliability and depreciation. The newly redesigned Explorer definitely proved me wrong. This vehicle is a very good value for its price. Its not fancy, but very utilitarian (as an SUV should be). The fuel economy is actually not too bad for its size (I got 20.5 hwy and 15 local). Loved all the different compartments in the cargo area. Ride is somewhat truck-like but seats were comfortable and this was our "go to" roadtrip car. Didnt have too many problems with it except for the recall about the hatch (which was noisy over large bumps). Exterior clear gloss paint started fading around the windows after 5 years.

  • Safety/Security that they talk about so. - 2002 Ford Explorer
    By -

    DOES NOT HAVE AS A SAFETY FEATURE dusk sensing headlamps, auto delay off headlamps, which are a very important saftey feature for woman at night, also does not have daytime driving lights, which I thought all vehicles must have.

  • Ford Exp. Limited - 2002 Ford Explorer
    By -

    Great SUV to have as far as the space, look, and comfort. I think this is a great vehicle. The only concern I have is that the truck runs very loud as far as the engine is concerned. Everything else to me is great!

  • Finally , Quality Job #1 - 2002 Ford Explorer
    By -

    Ford has finally built a quality vehicle. I have been a G.M. buyer until this one come out. NO comparison of the quality of Bravada , GMC , or others. The Limited wins hands down ! I am in the process of trading it in on a new 2004 Limited.

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