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 331 through 340 of 372.00
  • Fixed Or Repaired Daily - 2002 Ford Explorer
    By -

    Rear passenger ball joint went at 40,000 miles. 4WD module went at 15,000 miles. Transmission went at 79,000 miles. Gear shifter snapped off column at 79,500 miles. Automatic Idle Control went at 81,000 miles. Power windows sometimes work, sometimes not. Keyless entry key pad works sometimes, not always.

  • Still Loving It, Except For... - 2002 Ford Explorer
    By -

    Since Day 1, I have loved everything about my Explorer-itÂ’s roominess, style, sound, handling, and more. 3rd row seat is great, although it may pinch your hand when lowering it from behind. Only 2 complaints; First, I keep finding plastic covers around my car that have come off where the seats are bolted to the floor; must be pretty useless since they have experienced only gentle use. Secondly, the front seat belts have gradually worn away some of the plastic framing at the seat belt adjustment location.

  • Nice SUV, poor transmission - 2002 Ford Explorer
    By -

    My second Explorer and my second bout with a poorly designed transmission. I like everything else about the vehicle, plenty of power, great auto 4WD system, comfortable, solid, tight, great in snow, and with the 3rd row seat, lots of room for our 4 teenagers. Rear axle seal needed replacement at 75K miles (minor expense) and rear wheel bearing needed replaced at 80K miles (major expense). I attribute these faults to the SUVs first year spent as a rental car.

  • Better than my Cherokee - 2002 Ford Explorer
    By -

    Be sure to replace all four tires when in need, otherwise the fourwheel drive system shows a slight vibration. Fixed easily with new tires.

  • Luving it.. - 2002 Ford Explorer
    By -

    Very happy with my 2002 1/2 Explorer. The exterior design is very sharp, and the interior extremly well thought out. Abundant cup holders, two power points, big center console. Third seat is comfortable and useful. Vehicle defect free with 1500 miles on it. The automatic four wheel drive system kicks in immediately when needed, tested it off-road and it worked great. A very good vehicle IMHO!

  • wow - 2002 Ford Explorer
    By -

    i love my truck. Roomy, comfortable, rides and handles extremely well; all the bells and whistles. Cons: Not the greatest gas mileage, but is getting a little better As the proud owner of my fourth Ford Explorer, I can honestly say the 2002 Explorer is absolutely the best model yet! New technology, great styling, 3rd row seat. Cons: Gas mileage, ugly key fob. I recently traded an amazing 230,000 mile Honda Accord for a brand new Explorer. The main reason being that I need more space.

  • Like a lot! - 2002 Ford Explorer
    By -

    Fun to drive for an SUV. Very functional for variety of uses - around town, towing, hauling.

  • Go Ford! - 2002 Ford Explorer
    By -

    Be careful of quick or sudden turns. It took some time to get used to driving in high winds on the freeway. Sometimes it has felt unsteady. It has a high pitch sound when changing gears.

  • Very Good Vehicle - 2002 Ford Explorer
    By -

    Ive had 2 recall items. No problems with the truck. Rides very well. Great handling and performance with the V8. Pulls like a champ. In town mileage isnt good, what do you expect from a V8 in town. Decent mileage at highway speed, drops off when pushing 80 on the interstate -- no surprise. Better than any other SUV Ive driven or ridden in: Blazer, Trailblazer, Tahoe, Durango, Cherokee. If you dont want to deal with minor defects or factory recalls, dont buy a vehicle; take a cab or rent a limo.

  • Never Again - 2002 Ford Explorer
    By -

    I thought this would be a great vehicle. Instead, we have had it in the shop at least 10 times. I am on the 4th transmission and it to is going. The back panel has broken numerous times, the dealership has to replace it several times when I take it in because they cant get it on without it cracking. The black paint around the doors is peeling - I was told that isnt covered in the paint warranty that we bought! The ignition had to be replaced twice because it wouldnt turn. We have had to replace numerous other parts on this vehicle. What I had hoped is to have a great vehicle for years - instead Im stuck with a lemon.

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