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6.6

fairly significant

Typical Repair Cost:

$423.00

Average Mileage:

73,086 miles

Total Complaints:

387 complaints

Most common solutions:

  1. Ford should pay for it (271 reports)
  2. not sure (46 reports)
  3. paid to have rear panel replaced (36 reports)
  4. file complaint with NHTSA to get a recall issued (15 reports)
  5. dealership replaced the entire panel (9 reports)
  6. used Ford assistance program ($100, Ford pays the rest) (4 reports)
Ford Explorer body / paint problems

body / paint problem

This problem may be covered under warranty. Ask your Ford dealer.

Helpful Websites About 2002 Ford Explorer cracked panel below the rear window

A D V E R T I S E M E N T S

problem #387

2007Jul 01

Explorer XLS

  • Automatic transmission
  • 100,000 miles

This sucks to have a 7 year old car and have a big crack in the back of your car. Ive seen so many other fords like mine or another year of explorer or probably another model and they have the same crack as i do on the back of their car. Ive seen way worse than on mine too. Ford you need to step up your game in making cars.

Tyler L.

Long Beach, CA, USA

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problem #386

2009Jun 01

Explorer XLT V6

  • Automatic transmission
  • 75,000 miles

The panel cracked on it's own a few years ago & I thought it was done by someone hitting it or something but recently the crack has gotten worse & the paint is coming off. It looks horrible. Then a friend told me that explorers are notorious for this. I am complaining to Ford & taking the steps needed to get them to fix & pay for this. The car is parked in a garage at home & at work & I live in Southern CA where it's around 70-80 degrees all year round. There is no excuse for this.

jerzeygirlinsocal

Lomita, CA, USA

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problem #385

2009Nov 10

Explorer XLT 4.0L

  • Automatic transmission
  • 67,000 miles

One day I walked outside to find a big crack from the top of the panel below my window all the way to the bottom. And my dad came to visit and told me to do a quick search online to see if anyone else had this same problem, and on this site I found that nearly 400 people had the same problem. I'm going to go to a Ford dealer this week and see what they do about it. I'll finish this complaint once they let me know what they plan on doing about it.

Matthew M.

Franklin, TN, USA

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A D V E R T I S E M E N T S

problem #384

2005May 01

Explorer XLT

  • Automatic transmission
  • 60,000 miles

We have the 2002 Explorer and the back hatch cracked in '05. The Dealership said it was a "geographical problem" having to do with heat & humidity.



After finding this site and several others, we can clearly see that we were lied to and this is a design flaw that Ford refuses to take responsibility for. I am filing a lawsuit against Ford Motor Co. I would like to make this a Class Action Suit.



If you would like to join this suit, you need to do 2 things:



1) Contact Ford Motor Company and file a complaint. Call 1-800-392-3673. Get the employee's name and employee #. WRITE IT DOWN!



2) File a complaint with the Federal Trade Commission. Call 1-877-382-4357. Get the employee's name and a reference # for your complaint. WRITE IT DOWN! They will also mail you a hard copy of the complaint.



After you have done this, contact me at katie_scarlett67@hotmail.com



I have contacted Attorney General Jim Hood (my state is Mississippi) about a Class Action Suit.

katie67

Meridian, MS, USA

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problem #383

2009Aug 01

Explorer XLS V6

  • Manual transmission
  • 90,000 miles

This problem being so wide spread should be fixed. It is unreal that Ford can ignore this problem.

Carol B.

Bangor, ME, USA

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problem #382

2009Apr 01

Explorer Eddie Bauer V8

  • Automatic transmission
  • 80,000 miles

This crack appeared overnight, literally! I thought someone in a parking lot had backed into my car. Since my car is parked in our driveway by itself, that couldn't be the case. Then I started noticing other Explorers around town with the same problem! I haven't taken it into the dealership yet, thought I'd check it out on the internet before doing so....I'm not filled with optimism about the chances of Ford doing the right thing, but at least I know what to expect. I've been very loyal to Ford; this is my second Explorer, but if they won't fix it at least in part, it will be my last.

Sarah E.

Bloomington, IN, USA

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A D V E R T I S E M E N T S

problem #381

2009Oct 21

Explorer Eddie Bauer V6

  • Automatic transmission
  • 156,000 miles

I noticed my rear window panel had cracked today from top to bottom (both sides of the Ford logo emblem). At first, I was dumbfounded that this could occur, but after finding this web site and reading numerous complaints about the same problem, I'm really perplexed. I plan to take it to a local Ford dealership soon to see what they will do. It just so happens I was planning to take it in for a recall on a defective cruise control that can catch fire. This cracking issue should certainly be a recall, too.

Joe D.

Blairsville, GA, USA

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problem #380

2009Oct 11

Explorer XLT V6

  • Automatic transmission
  • 93,866 miles

Very upset to see this huge crack this morning! I have loved this vehicle from the day we purchased it. Until now. We have always purchased Fords for their performance and quality. If this problem is not rectified by Ford, I will be singing another tune!

Brenda D.

Polson, MT, USA

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problem #379

2009Oct 01

Explorer XLT V6

  • Automatic transmission
  • 94,500 miles

I own a 2002 Ford Explorer XLT and the panel under the rear window has cracked for the second time. I had this repaired in 2005 when it cracked the first time and Ford had an assistance program so it only cost me $50.00. I was assured that the new part would correct the defect. Well here it is October 1st, 2009 and the Damm thing cracked again. I called the local dealership, but they were no help at all. The repair cost would be $450.00. I then called Ford Service direct and got a very uncaring 1-800 rep. who took my information, then basically told me I was screwed. It is amazing that FORD will not stand behind a known defect! I have taken very good care of the SUV and it still looks like new. Now I am stuck with a big crack in the ASS! I probably will not buy another ford based on the uncaring nature of their company.

Brian T.

Fort Collins, CO, USA

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problem #378

2009Jul 25

Explorer 3.2L

  • Automatic transmission
  • 87,000 miles

I have a 2002 Ford Explorer with a Cracked Panel Below The Rear Window. I feel if I paid $30,000 for my SUV. I feel it should be a recall item that can be fixed for free through ford. My truck is in very good condition as the paint and interior goes. With this crack in the back it makes my truck look like crap. I am going to go to the Ford Dealership and show them what has happen and see if it will get replaced for free. I will let everyone know that is having the same problem if Ford holds up on there part and fix the rear crack panel for free.

Lisa C.

Tacoma, WA, USA

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A D V E R T I S E M E N T S

problem #377

2008Mar 01

Explorer Eddie Bauer 4.0L V6

  • Automatic transmission
  • 149,129 miles

I didn't realize this was an issue for other Explorer owners until I read it here!
I too thought something must have hit my car & cracked that piece of plastic. I was forever blaming my husband for it!! SORRY HUNNY!!

Oddly enough, we first saw the "Y" shaped crack in the spring, over the summer it seemed to disappear, then in the winter it looked like the grand canyon!! Has anyone else noticed that??

I think its absolutely ridiculous that something as simple as this hasn't been fixed by Ford. Talk about not caring to save face! Well thats fine with me. This coupled with the transmission problems I've been having, I'll NEVER buy another Ford again for as long as I live!! I wouldn't even take one if you GAVE it to me!

rorychickenmilk1

Binbrook, Ontario, Canada

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problem #376

2007Jul 16

(reported on)

Explorer Limited

  • Automatic transmission
  • 71,000 miles

Last summer I noticed a 6 inch long gash below the rear window, thin, almost as if it was etched. It is a deep crack, confirmed by my body shop. Ford seems to have an excuse for everything, and now I'm out of warranty and seemingly out of luck. The body and paint on this car has given me multiple problems, from paint chipping to the panels fading/cracking and now this rear panel cracking.

delibertylaw

Broomall, PA, USA

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problem #375

2006Jan 09

(reported on)

Explorer XLT

  • 105,000 miles

It is quite amazing how Ford continues to maintain the same position.
How can you issue a bulletin for the repair of a defective part, but not acknowledge any liability for its repair? This is blatant corporate arrogance.

You have the gall to assert customer satisfaction is one of your most important objectives. This of course is second only to Quality is Job One... right?

I will post your response at the following site.

http://www.carcomplaints.com/Ford/Explorer/2002/body_paint/cracked_panel_below_the_rear_window. shtm



----- Original Message -----
From: crcfmc@ford.com
To: RMalave
Sent: Monday, January 09, 2006 5:38 PM
Subject: Ford Motor Company


Dear Ruben,

Thank you for contacting the Ford Motor Company Customer Relationship Center regarding your inquiry towards a defective part on your vehicle.

The circumstances that you have outlined in your original e-mail have been given careful consideration. Our records indicate that you contacted the Ford Customer Relationship Center via phone and our Customer Service Representative addressed your vehicle concern. If any new information regarding this matter should become available in the future, please let us know. However, at this time our decision remains the same.

We consider the satisfaction of our customers one of our most important objectives. If you have any other inquiries or concerns, please feel free to contact us and we will be happy to address them for you.

Sincerely,
Phil
Customer Relationship Center
Ford Motor Company

rmalave

Marlboro, NJ, USA

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problem #374

2004Oct 12

Explorer

  • Automatic transmission
  • 80,000 miles

We were going down the highway and half of the piece of plastic under the rear window just FLEW OFF and hit the car behind us!!!!! This could have gone through her window and decapitated this poor woman!!! I hate this stupid POS. Just one of the MANY problems we've had.

onwingsofdragons

Severna Park, MD, USA

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A D V E R T I S E M E N T S

problem #373

2007Nov 26

Explorer XLT V6

  • Automatic transmission
  • 89,000 miles

Same issue as the rest, the gap is from top to bottom of the panel and the gap is pretty wide. Seems there was a lot of tension on it.

Q: Can someone confirm if there is truly a risk that the panel could fly off?

Actions I will take:

1) file complaint with Ford - 800-392-3673 - done. The benefit here is when the Fed comes to them and asks "how many complaints" they by law must disclose. So call in, it takes a minute, and for now, expect to go no where, but it is documented.

2) Advertising - I did not know this site existed until I googled it. I am thinking a well placed bumper sticker on the offending cracked panel with "Got Crack? www.carcomplaints.com" and an arrow to the crack. Sufficiently controversial for people to look and help others like us find our place here. More importantly, it will look great when it goes into the local Ford Dealer for servicing. Just think of all the off lease Explorers they have to sell. You can order bumper stickers off the web, or perhaps print your own off your inkjet? (Avery label number 8255 is a permanent sticker you can likely order from your office supply store and make your own) Perhaps you only really need it on the day the truck goes in for service, if it is that ugly.

3) Report to Fed - which entity accepts these types of complaints? It does not seem to be CPSC.gov. So where?

It all about Documentation and Pressure, especially when it impact's Ford sales.

edredsled

Fairfield, CT, USA

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problem #372

2007Jan 03

Explorer LX 3.2L V6

  • Automatic transmission
  • 55,500 miles

I’m still blown away that Ford didn’t do anything to fix this problem. Talk about horrible costumer service. It looks terrible. I have personally seen 6 other Explorers on the road with this problem.

Brian B.

Roanoke, VA, USA

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problem #371

2009Sep 15

Explorer Eddie Bauer

  • Automatic transmission
  • 45,000 miles

Found one other vehicle like ours with the same complaint. Called ford and they refused to pay for it. Had to pay for it with my own money.

Tom B.

Cloverdale, IN, USA

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problem #370

2009Mar 29

Explorer Limted V8 (4.6L)

  • Automatic transmission
  • 80,000 miles

click to see larger images

cracked panel below the rear window cracked panel below the rear window

Complaint Photos

Couldn't believe this many people have complained and it hasn't been addressed - noticed mine when offloading from a fairy ride, thought something must have hit/or twisted it - was small at first now significant - worried about effects of impending winter.

Andrew L.

Vancouver, WA, USA

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problem #369

2008Jul 01

Explorer Eddie Bauer 4.0L V6

  • Automatic transmission
  • 92,048 miles

Panel below the rear window cracked all the way from top to bottom from normal driving conditions. From what I've read this is not an isolated occurrence, a lot of people have found this crack appear on it's own. I haven't bothered to get a quote to see how much a new panel would cost because I'm sure it's more than I'm going to pay for some cosmetic crack.

nightwisher

North Tonawanda, NY, USA

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problem #368

2009Jan 12

Explorer XLT 4.0L

  • Automatic transmission
  • 38,000 miles

After reading the boards here it's obvious Ford has a problem. I had no crack, took my SUV in to be repaired with the hinge recall and less than a year later I had a small crack, top to bottom in that panel. Now it's wider and a real eye sore. This is annoying as I take perfect care of the vehicle and was hoping to have it a long time. Looks like Toyota might get my business next time.

Dan M.

Rochester, NY, USA

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problem #367

2008Oct 24

Explorer

  • Automatic transmission
  • 80,000 miles

The back panel under the read window on my truck is cracked in 3 places. The Ford Dealership in Woodbury, NJ, informed us it would cost $450.00 to fix. B.S. - Ford should be recalling this, I see alot of 2002 Ford Explorers with the rear panel CRACKED!! This is Extremely frustrating since the SUVS cost alot. What I don't want is another piece of CRAP-American Made CAR. What a shame our country's automobile industry can't produce a good vehicle. (i found chevy's to be the same with their interior)

Mary W.

Woodbury, NJ, USA

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problem #366

2008Jan 02

Explorer XLS 4.0L

  • Manual transmission
  • 60,000 miles

When I first noticed this it started out as small vertical scratches. I almost confronted my neighbor about this because I suspected vandalism. I'm glad I did not. I started noticing other Explorers with the same problem. I'm going to make a complaint to Ford in the am.

m.r

San Antonio, TX, USA

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problem #365

2008Feb 04

Explorer XLT

  • Automatic transmission
  • 159,000 miles

Well, add my name to the list of Un Happy Ford Customers! I also have the crack under the rear window. I was un-sure what happened until I noticed the other 2002 Explorers in the state of Michigan also have the same crack in the same place! I am so ANGRY I just may print all of these complaints and send them off to Fords! I would think in todays economy Fords would want to keep their customers happy? I guess I thought wrong!!

gazdecki

Livonia, Michigan, USA

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problem #364

2005May 23

Explorer XLS 4.0L

  • Automatic transmission
  • 53,000 miles

At first it started as a minor crack, I had bought the car at a ford dealership at night and didn't see it, after several months is grew until it cracked the panel, then another started.

Hilario M.

Austin, TX, USA

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problem #363

2008Sep 20

Explorer XLT 4.0L V6

  • Automatic transmission
  • 90,000 miles

Panel under glass rear window developed a crack. For no apparent reason the panel split vertically right above, below and under the blue FORD elliptical logo.
This is about the 10th problem with this Ford 2002 Exlporer, here is the list:
1) Transmission rebuilt due to slipping / clunking
2) Both front wheel hubs were replaced due to a lot of steering wheel vibration
3,4) Rear AC mixer door (flapper) was replaced at 35,000 miles and again at 70,000.
5) Factory or dealer fitted Chapman alarm, prevents vehicle from starting (ongoing prob)
6) Emissions test failed due to exhaust sensor issue
7) Serpentine belt squealing from about 50,000 miles
8) Rear window lift cyclinder broke free from mounting (after recall upgrade was installed).
9) Black panels between side windows and rear quarters were replaced due to fading / flaky appearnance.

brian341036

Chandler, AZ, USA

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problem #362

2008Sep 18

Explorer

  • Automatic transmission
  • 52,000 miles

I called the dealership and was told that it has happened before to other vehicles of the same year, make and model and that to fix the problem it would be around $473.00. I have seen two other explorers of same color (red) that had the same problem. The split I have is about 2 inches from the ford oval on the right. It extends from the window to the bottom of the panel.

Angie S.

Orange, TX, USA

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problem #361

2007Sep 07

Explorer EB 4.0L

  • Automatic transmission
  • 70,000 miles

Same thing. Started as one crack vertically, now it is traveling horizontally the length of the window and getting longer, wider and uglier. I am surprised Ford is not acknowledging this as THEIR issue. This is my 4th explorer and this clearly happened after a cold snap we had here but now the start of summer has made it worse. If someone has any info of were I can complain to Ford let me know.

tfadale

Seattle, WA, USA

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problem #360

2009Jun 10

Explorer Limited V6

  • Automatic transmission
  • 50,000 miles

MY PANEL ALSO CRACKED. EVERYONE I SEE ON THE ROAD IS CRACKED

VERY POOR ON FORD


SAME THING HAPPENED TO ME.

John S.

Lebanon, NJ, USA

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problem #359

2009Jan 18

Explorer XLT V6

  • Automatic transmission
  • 185,000 miles

OUrs has 2 cracks, 1 running horizontally & 1 vertically. It happened a few months ago, and I think it was caused by the cold. I'm worried it'll get worse as the summer heats up, so I'm going to get it repaired. Nice to know Ford is so responsive to customers. No wonder the US car industry is in such trouble. I'll update once i settle on a COA.

Joe G.

Lexington Park, MD, USA

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problem #358

2008Sep 01

Explorer LX V6

  • Automatic transmission
  • 70,000 miles

Panel cracked, Hatch does not latch properly. Ford couldn't care less.

celine

Park Ridge, IL, USA

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problem #357

2008Dec 14

Explorer XLT

  • Automatic transmission
  • 63,000 miles

I am afraid to open the back as I don't want to loosen the seal on the window for fear it will fall out!!!

Fred N.

Lower Burrell, PA, USA

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problem #356

2009Apr 09

Explorer Limited V8

  • Automatic transmission
  • 85,450 miles

WE HAVE ALWAYS BEEN FORD PEOPLE, WE HAVE OWNED A TOTAL OF 13 FORDS OF WHICH WE STILL HAVE 5. WE HAVE NEVER HAD PROBLEMS WITH, UNTIL NOW I WAS SO HAPPY TO GET MY DREAM CAR MY 2002 EXPLORER LIMITED. I TAKE VERY GOOD CARE OF MY CARS INSIDE AND OUT SERVICING EVERY 3000 MILES IT HURTS TO SEE NOT ONLY THE CRACK PANEL UNDER THE BACK WINDOW BUT PART OF IT FALL OF. I CALLED FORD LIKE MANY OF YOU I WAS TOLD PRETTY MUCH THAT I SOL THE REPAIR WAS ON ME. I LIKE MANY OF YOU DON'T HAVE THE MONEY FOR THE REPAIR. THIS IS MAKING ME RETHINK BUYING ANY MORE FORD CARS

esquibel4

Las Vegas, NM, USA

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problem #355

2006Oct 17

Explorer XL V6

  • Automatic transmission
  • 82,125 miles

This is obviously a factor defect with seeing so many complaints as well as seeing it on so many other explores

haskell

Yorba Linda, ca, USA

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problem #354

2007Feb 08

(reported on)

Explorer 4.0L

  • Automatic transmission
  • 77,100 miles

I OWN A FORD 2002 EXPLORER, AFTER HAVING PROBLEMS WITH USED CARS I MADE THE CHOOSE TO BUY A NEW CAR. I LOVE MY CAR UNTIL THE PEOPLE WHICH BUILT IT WILL NOT FIX A CRACK PANEL. I HAVE HAD NO CRASH, REALLY DON'T OPEN IT. MY HOBBY IS MUSIC AND PLANNED TO KEEP MY EXPLORER AND AID SPEAKER, IPOD, STEREO AND SUB WOOFERS. THEN I NOTICE A CRACK IN THE PANEL AND CALLED FOR HELP. I CALLED 1-800-392-3673 AND WAS TOLD IT COULD HAVE BEEN CAUSED BY A RECALL ON 2002 FORD EXPLORERS. I WAS SENT TO THE DEALER SHIP AND DEALERSHIP SAYS THAT THEY HAVE 2 OF THESE PROBLEMS A WEEK. I WENT HOME AND CALLED THE NUMBER AND WAS TOLD I WOULD BE CALLED BACK IN A COUPLE OF DAYS. I WAS LEFT A MESSAGE AND CALLED THEM BACK THAT NEXT MONDAY AND WAS SPOKEN VERY BAD AND TOLD WHERE NOT FIXING THIS BECAUSE ITS NOT CAUSED BY THE RECALL, DEFECT AND OVER 75,000 OR NO EXTEND WARRANTY. I THOUGHT THERE WAS A DIFFERENCE IN ENGINE AND BODY WARRANTY. NOW I KNOW NOW HOW A TENNIS BALL FELLS AND FORD WILL NEVER HAVE ME AS A CUSTOMER FOR 5 YEARS AGAIN.

Kasein B.

Round Rock, Texas, USA

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problem #353

2007Feb 08

(reported on)

Explorer XLT 4.0L V6

  • Automatic transmission
  • 71,000 miles

cracked panel below rear window, same as everyone else. called ford customer service, they said get estimate ($302.89)at local ford dealer and call customer service back. I did so. but, like 99% of you I'm sol. Not sure if i would buy another ford again. too bad. By the way FORD, your customers are not made of $. It's a real eye sore, not what I would consider good advertising for FORD. Extremely unhappy in Schenectady NY

Vivian R.

Schenectady, NY, USA

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problem #352

2006Dec 22

(reported on)

Explorer ELS V6

  • Automatic transmission
  • 64,000 miles

I'm so relieved to have discovered this website! I just noticed this problem on my Explorer and, because it is one of many, I'm fed up! I have two cracks under the rear window on either side of the Ford logo. Haven't had it checked out with the dealer yet but I will. I felt so much better when I discovered that others have had this problem too. My Explorer overall has been one thing after another. But this issue in particular needs to be fixed by Ford. I wonder if anyone from the Ford Motor Co. monitors sites like these. I figure the more people who enter complaints the better!

Roberta E.

El Cajon, CA, USA

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problem #351

2006Dec 22

(reported on)

Explorer LX 4.2L

  • Automatic transmission
  • 40,000 miles

2002 ford explorer 40,000 miles just noticed large crack under rear window. My son works at a body shop and says there has been many complaints of this defect.

Joe H.

Pipersville, PA, USA

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problem #350

2006Dec 24

(reported on)

Explorer Limited 4.0L

  • Automatic transmission
  • 55,000 miles

After reading all complaints already logged for this problem I feel this will be my 4th and last Ford explorer, if Ford doesn't step up to the plate. Dealer says $600.00 to replace, so it will happen again---I don, t think so!

Larry H.

Swansea, IL, USA

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problem #349

2007Mar 22

(reported on)

Explorer XLS V6

  • Automatic transmission
  • 55,000 miles

I started developing a crack on the rear panel beneath the window about a year after purchase. It started slow, but was progressive and has now gone through the entire panel. I guess the stress has been relieved by the crack. This was poor workmanship on Ford's part. Ford should go ahead and recall the panel, just make a bunch up in the most popular colors (others available for something like a dollar). I would tolerate a slight variance in paint color vs. the stupid crack. I always figured it was my own car until I started seeing them. This will probably be as common as the sagging rear bumper on prior models.

Charles M.

Sykesville, MD, USA

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problem #348

2007Apr 03

(reported on)

Explorer

  • Automatic transmission
  • 75,000 miles

I like many others have a large crack in the back of my 2002 Ford Explorer. It is next to the right of the emblem and spans all the way through the shell from glass to top hatch opening. This happened a couple weeks ago and I have been watching for other explorers and am starting to see more of this.

Billy B.

Austin, TX, USA

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problem #347

2007Apr 04

(reported on)

Explorer XLT

  • Automatic transmission
  • 60,000 miles

About a month ago my wife thought something hit the roof. It was actually the sound of the panel splitting from top to bottom.
I sent an email to Ford, but they pretended not to know what the problem was. They want me to send pictures. Judging from previous complaints, Ford will probably reply with "the out of warranty defense".

I have notice since, several Explorers and Mountaineers with the same damage. There is no doubt this is a Ford flaw and they should be responsible.

David H.

Allen, TX, USA

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problem #346

2007Mar 22

(reported on)

Explorer V8

  • Automatic transmission
  • 70,000 miles

Crack in the plastic panel below the lift window cracked during cold weather. I first noticed the crack while the vehicle was parked in our attached garage. Have taken the vehicle to a Ford dealer and will check on wararnty coverage and repair costs.

in52engr

Amboy, IN, USA

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problem #345

2008Feb 29

Explorer V6

  • Automatic transmission
  • 120,000 miles

I love my Explorer. I rolled my last one and, YES I GOT ANOTHER ONE.. It has a crack under the back window on the back hatch. I am very disappointed. I can't afford to have it fixed and it is very noticeable. I have seen several just in my home town that have the same crack. I think Ford should recall this problem.

Gloria M.

Jackson, TN, USA

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problem #344

2009Apr 02

Explorer XLT V6 4.0L

  • Automatic transmission
  • 52,000 miles

I can't believe this isn't a recall. I have seen this so many times, I almost thought that Ford Intentionally had them split like that. But no.... it's a crack, they all have it in the same rough area. Sadly, mine isn't centered properly, its about 2/3 inches off center, so it looks pretty harsh.

Matt M.

Vancouver, WA, USA

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problem #343

2006Sep 01

Explorer XLT 3.2L V6

  • Automatic transmission
  • 80,000 miles

I too thought the damage was caused by being hit by something. All you have to do is look around, same crack in all explorers.

jcurtis763

Wilmington, MA, USA

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problem #342

2008Mar 01

Explorer XLT 4.0L V6

  • Automatic transmission
  • 85,000 miles

Got the vehicle from my brother-in-law. He said this website is crawling with people complaining about this. It is a Ford problem, but they are just being schmucks and won't stand behind their product.

Paul S.

Albuquerque, NM, USA

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problem #341

2009Feb 14

Explorer 4.6L V8

  • Automatic transmission
  • 118,061 miles

This crack was already in the vehicle when I bought it second-hand, but when I researched it on the net and discovered that EVERY 2002 FORD EXPLORER apparently has the same problem AND Ford won't recall or fix it, I was stunned. How can the many and varied faults of this vehicle go unchecked.

Ford, you need to have a good look at yourself. This is my first Ford and most likely MY LAST!

welly

Brisbane, QLD, Australia

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problem #340

2009Feb 06

Explorer Limited 4.6L V8

  • Automatic transmission
  • 82,000 miles

As the problem for many Explorer drivers, the panel is cracked. Repair cost is high. Ford should recall on this.

Eugene Y.

Urbandale, Iowa, USA

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problem #339

2009Mar 02

Explorer XLT 4.0L V6

  • Automatic transmission
  • 66,000 miles

The adhesive part is also a pain in the ass. What is the best adhesive to use so this panel stays on ? This is the second time I replaced this piece. There are three other fords where I work and all have the same crack on the rear panel. All except one are 2002 explorers the other is a mountaineer.
Ford won't stand by their product. My next truck will be a Toyota.

Dave S.

NEwton, MA, USA

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problem #338

2009Jan 15

Explorer XLT 4.0L

  • Automatic transmission
  • 55,494 miles

click to see larger images

cracked panel below the rear window cracked panel below the rear window cracked panel below the rear window cracked panel below the rear window cracked panel below the rear window

Complaint Photos

My 2002 Ford Explorer XLT rear panel under the window suddenly cracked in January this year (2009), when we had extreme cold weather here in Montana. I was furious and accused my children of wrecking my car. Then, after much investigating figured that no one had driven it to wreck it, and I surely had not wrecked it, we assumed that the weather had caused it to crack on a FLUKE. I was at the post office the other day, and a man came up and asked if I was driving the red Explorer with the back cracked rear panel below the window. When I said "yes", he told me that his Explorer had done the same thing and that he started noticing all other Explorers that he saw like ours, and ALL OF THEM WERE CRACKED AS WELL. He said that after MUCH billowing, the local Ford dealer here had replaced it and admitted that they knew it had been a problem with our make and model. He said to complain LOUDLY, and that they would probably replace it. I did not buy my Explorer from the Ford dealer, so I think I have little chance of getting it replaced. THIS IS RIDICULOUS! Ford KNOWS that this panel should have been recalled, and they are getting away with making us Ford owners replace it. That's not fair, to say the least! All of us need to write and complain to Ford and to our local dealers, and perhaps they will take notice and warranty their defect. In today's economy, few of us can afford to throw away the cost of replacing that panel, and especially when it should be Ford's problem to fix it. I will do as Carol, who posted on here, is doing and start writing down colors of Explorers and their license plate numbers and compile a list of complaints to Ford as well. And, if I can, I will take pictures of the ones that have cracked back panels for the record. Perhaps Oprah or 60 minutes will listen to this "rip off" by Ford. I also own an older Ford Explorer, and you can rest assured that this will be the last Ford product that I buy.

Kathryn W.

Billings, MT, USA

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