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 281 through 290 of 372.00
  • Sorry I bought one! - 2002 Ford Explorer
    By -

    I had wanted an Explorer for as long as I could remember. I bought mine when it was 2 years old with 35,000 miles on it. The first weekend I had it one of the handles for the back compartments broke. Within a week, a sensor went out. Was great for two years, and then started hearing weird noises from the back. Ive had 3 wheel bearings replaced, additive added to the clutches and now theyre saying a spring is cracked, the clutches need to be replaced, and the differential is shot. Total cost for all is around $2,500. This will be my last Ford. Im moving on to Toyota!

  • Powertrain is terrible - 2002 Ford Explorer
    By -

    My 02 has had a leak in fuel line, new cat converter, fly wheel in transmission, clutches in differential, blower motor in air conditioner, front power seat motor, had to turn rotors at 20k miles. This thing is a lemon. Stay away. I cant afford to keep it and the TMV is so low now that I cant afford to sell it either.

  • can you say transmission - 2002 Ford Explorer
    By -

    the first transmission went out nov 03 the dealer southbay ford put a rebuilt transmission then less than a week later put a new transmission then again jan 04 other than it drinks alot of gas the car is really nice.

  • Suprisingly Versitile - 2002 Ford Explorer
    By -

    When I purchased this vehicle, I was expecting the good ride and reliability but I have been suprised at the towing power of the six cylinder engine and the vehicles off road capabilities. I hunt elk in Idaho and have used the vehicle pulling rv trailers and camping rigs. While hunting I have used it off road with suprising success.

  • Experience led me to FoMoCo - 2002 Ford Explorer
    By -

    I have owned 3 Chevys, 5 Fords, 2 Mercurys, 1 Pontiac, 1 Oldsmobile, 5 Ford pickups, 2 GMC pickups. I drove virtually all until they dropped or were taken by ex-wives. A couple were wrecked. The last was a 1995 Ford Explorer that was ran into by a semi - and drove away although body damage totaled it. This Ford Explorer is the best vehicle I have had, not the newest, just with features (all of them work). Great to drive, reasonable on fuel, powerful performer, room for four easily, good all-around-home vehicle.

  • 4.6 Liter 8 cyl Eddie Bauer - 2002 Ford Explorer
    By -

    Foggy windows every time it rains (very poor climate control). Third row seat means a sloped cargo floor. Heavy items fall out to the ground when you open the liftgate - watch your feet! No separate fog light switch - you cant use fog lights when using the auto lamp feature. Auto lamps only stay on for 20 sec after vehicle is shut off. Heated seats turn off after 10 minutes. Cheap plastics used throughout interior. Screeching noise from instrument cluster area. Ford is still scratching their head over that one.

  • SUV of the Year - 2002 Ford Explorer
    By -

    This is my first SUV. I have always had mustangs and I decided it was time to get something a little bigger. The Explorer is perfect to take trips in, load kids in and even adults. I have really enjoyed the Explorer and I feel that there is plenty of room for everyone.

  • Bye Bye, Pathfinder... - 2002 Ford Explorer
    By -

    Traded in our 03 Pathfinder for a 02 Explorer Limited. My wife says the Pathfinder seemed like a toy compared to the Explorer. We feel much more secure in the Explorer. Fairly smooth, solid ride, comfortable seats, awesome traction control, and tons more room than the Pathfinder. 3rd row seat is roomier than I expected. Interior plastics and trim seem a bit cheap, but everything is laid out well. Good vehicle for a small (but growing) family.

  • Love it! - 2002 Ford Explorer
    By -

    I love this SUV. Had a 97 Explorer and got an 03 Pathfinder. Pathy didnt serve us well as a family car with a kid and a big dog always with us. There was no room for our stuff. The 02 Limited is roomy with a big back seat and the third row seat couldnt be easier to put up and down. It comes with a lot of standard features that are a big bonus. I love the ride and the way it holds the road, it doesnt feel top heavy in the turns. We feel very safe in this car.Gas mileage isnt bad for a car this size and a V8. Will drive this car as long as it has life in it.

  • Done at 3 years & 75K - 2002 Ford Explorer
    By -

    Lots of problems. Transmission lurches, rotor failures, rear hatch latch, poor CD player, dashboard electronics failures. Now electrical problems causing the car to die hard on the road. Took the dealer 3 days to find & fix a number of electrical problems due to worn/corroded wires & contacts. Yikes! This after only 3 years & 75K on hwy and in garage. Selling it while I still can...

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