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 311 through 320 of 372.00
  • Transmission Terror - 2002 Ford Explorer
    By -

    Replaced transmission at 67,000 miles which cost $3,000 at Ford. There were several electrical problems that cost several hundred dollars out of warranty. Spend the extra money and get a foreign made SUV. You will save in the end.

  • Definite Keeper - 2002 Ford Explorer
    By -

    Great interior features. I have the dual temperature controls and stereo is excellent. I was pleasantly surprised by the fuel mileage for such a heavy vehicle 5600 pounds(18 mpg combined). Road feel was solid and easy to drive which is a wife factor.

  • Goood - 2002 Ford Explorer
    By -

    Test drove the xlt 4.0, I own a 1998 explorer xlt but this years is 10 times better than the old model, I orderd the limited with V8, eventhough the 4.0 felt strong I will incline for the 4.6 just in case.

  • Just what I was looking for - 2002 Ford Explorer
    By -

    I just purchased this vehicle yesterday. Love the new design. Much more room overall inside. Comfortalbe seating all the way around. *I read one of the reviews about the rear window exploding. Thats my only concern.

  • 02 Explorer - 2002 Ford Explorer
    By -

    I really like my Explorer. I just dont like how hard it is on gas. I also do not like how hard it is to have access to the 3rd row seating. Having to lift that latch and the seat is a pain. I have also had a leak in my rear end already and my transmission is starting to slip at 70,000 miles.

  • Best SUV on the road - 2002 Ford Explorer
    By -

    Smoothest SUV ride I have ever experienced. I never though an SUV would be as comfortable and handle so nicely.

  • Quality is NOT #1 - 2002 Ford Explorer
    By -

    I have owned mine for almost 3yrs and have had many probs. w/it. They tried fixing the a/c five times before they replaced the entire system. Now I have a rattling noise under the hood and its taken 3 trips to the dealership and it is still not fixed. The seats are horrible in the rear AND front, no comfort what so ever! Storage space is great and good sized SUV. The back window opens up if you dont want to lift the entire rear door, but I have a crack in the plastic that covers the rear window. Some times the rear window requires more force to shut it and it will take 2 or 3 times to close it before it finally closes.

  • READ this BEFORE you buy - 2002 Ford Explorer
    By -

    I LOVE my Explorer, BUT, beware before you buy one. Make sure you buy the extended warranty as mine expired in 3 years. I have only 26,900 miles on it and heres the diagnosis I just got from the service department. It needs drive chain replaced at a cost of $878.00. It needs clutch packs in the rear end differential at a cost of $800.00. It needs solenoid packs in the transmission at a cost of $800.00. It needs a fuel dampener at a cost of $240.00. WHAT on EARTH? I drive and maintain my vehicle as well as I did my own children. Ford engineers arent doing their job. I was told they recalled the 97-99s on the drive chain but apparently they didnt fix the problem for the future ones.

  • First time buyer - 2002 Ford Explorer
    By -

    I like the amount of space the option of the 3 row seat and the comfort of the automobile in general. I like the new look ie. wider frame. With the wider frame I feel there is less of a chance of roll over. I have test drove Exolorers before and I think the 2002 Explorer rides better than the older models. When purchasing the Explorer I would not think that one would expect the SUV to ride like a car. The Explorer is not made like a car nor is it made to be a car. The Explorer is a 4x4 automobile. If you want a vehicle that rides like a car then buy a car. I give the Explorer a Thumbs UP!!

  • Awesome!! -- Explorer Limited - 2002 Ford Explorer
    By -

    I must admit that I was definitely NOT a Ford Explorer fan at all -- but that all changed when I stepped inside a sleek, black Ford Explorer Limited that stole my heart, while making it race at the same time. The 02 Explorer is just a wholly new animal, inside and out and it shows, and feels. The ride is great, the looks are fantastic, and I have already begun to neglect my Lincoln LS and Audi A4 for the Explorer. It is a truly great car with excellent room and the soul of a luxury car. I have only had it for a short time but I can give it my highest recommendation without reservation (HAPPY TRAILS!!)

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