9.0
pretty badTypical Repair Cost:
$2,522.00
Average Mileage:
81,511 miles
Total Complaints:
95 complaints
Most common solutions:
- rebuild transmission (42 reports)
- transmission overhauled (17 reports)
- Ford should comp the damage (12 reports)
- issue a recall! (12 reports)
- replace transmission (10 reports)
- not sure (2 reports)
transmission problem
Helpful Websites About 2002 Ford Explorer enclosed transmission had to be overhauled
2009Jun 26
Explorer Limited V8
- Automatic transmission
- 83,456 miles
We have had several problems with this vehicle. We bought used and have only had it for 6 months. So far, the shifter has broken off, resulting in the whole column needing to be replaced. That cost 2000.11 at the dealership. Not even two weeks later, we noticed clunking when going from park to reverse and drive. Also slipping when shifting between gears. We took it to a local shop and they recommended a rebuild on the transmission. That cost 3245.00. Now we are hearing a whining sound and it STILL clunks and slips!!!!! Why hasn't ford done something? How many people does this have to happen to before they admit that something is wrong with this vehicle? I have never cared for ford. This is all just a reminder as to why!
2009Jun 03
Explorer XLT 4.0L V6
- Automatic transmission
- 120,000 miles
I bought this 2002 Ford Explorer in 2005, it was a rush decision, bought it because I needed the space for my 3 children. The Factory stereo was replaced 3 times under warranty, still does not work. basically totaled my truck on glare ice,Geico did not total it for me and basically paid $18,000 in repairs initially, ford missed a ton of other things that needed repair, so that ended up being another $4,000 in repairs. 1 year later I realized there was a rattling noise and after thorough inspection found several other things that ford must have overlooked. Among the most shocking was to see my coil over springs in the rear on left and right cracked in 3 places each, on a vehicle with high rollover risk I assure you the damaged coil over springs triple the risk. The dealer ripped me off, the Ford blue team is highly disappointing and the paint job sucked, its chipping off and bubbling, plus overspray with the clear coat. Now in April I had a check engine light come on, had a friend read the code. Bad EGR valve. A week ago I got another light on the dash, o/d is flashing, the same day the truck started shifting HARD. All 65,000 miles that I personally put on the truck are highway miles. Another thing that sucks is that you can not check your tranny fluid with a dipstick(lame). My compass insists that I am always going south. There is a ticking noise in the back of my truck, I do not know the source of it. A common thing that I seem to see is the cracked piece under the rear window, I got it. Keyless entry is junk. I am constantly replacing fuses for my seats. I guess I better go by a Chevy. Bottom line dont trust ford Company's dealers, their warranties, or the wretched blue team. I have lost my faith in Ford products after seeing all these similar complaints. Its making it really hard for those of us who believe in buying AMERICAN.
A D V E R T I S E M E N T S
2006Jun 01
Explorer XLT 3.0L V6
- Automatic transmission
- 63,500 miles
After having the vehicle to the dealer twice for trans leaking it started not shifting properly. The dealer then rebuilt the transmission. THIS WAS THE ONLY VEHICLE I EVER PURCHASED AN EXTENDED WARRANTY FOR AND I AM GLAD I DID!!!!! Ford will never get another dime from me!!!!!
2006Oct 06
Explorer XLT 6 cyl
- Automatic transmission
- 39,400 miles
At an oil change at 38,500 miles, the Ford dealer's report card for the transmission gave it an "A" grade. Only 900 miles later it failed (out of warranty). It had had the standard recommended transmission upkeep service at the same Ford dealer at 28,500 miles.
If not for the extended service contract, it would have been a $ 3,400 repair.
2009May 06
Explorer XLT 3.2L V6
- Automatic transmission
- 67,000 miles
Just adding to the list, without warning at 68,000 miles O/D light starts flashing while trying to get on highway, transmission wont go from 2-3 gear, repair estimate $2900 to overhaul. There is no way I should have to pay for a transmission at 68,000 miles. I was the sole owner of this vehicle and i have definitely not abused it. Unless ford stands behind their vehicles and compensate people for what they know is a defective product I will never buy another Ford again!!!
A D V E R T I S E M E N T S
2009May 30
Explorer Eddie Bauer V8
- Automatic transmission
- 84,000 miles
I am also incredibly frustrated with FORD and will NEVER buy another FORD product again! My FIRST transmission went at only 34K miles and I was within my warranty by 5 days! Talk about cutting it close! After battling with them to get it replaced, it worked until 85K miles when the transmission failed without warning! You'd think there'd be a warning light for something as significant as the transmission.
As I was driving my son to a soccer game, the car started bucking! The check transmission and O/D off lights were illuminated. When I stepped on the gas, the RPMs revved up, but the car didn't engage. It never crossed my mind that a SECOND TRANSMISSION would FAIL - let alone after 50K miles (on this tranny)!!!!! I'm now being told that it needs to be replaced to the tune of $3400 because the fluid is black and burnt!!! (This price includes a Ford or Jasper tranny with 3 years/100K mile warranty). Another mechanic stated that the pins failed and 3rd gear is gone. He will replace them with brass casings for $2400 assuming that is all that's wrong. Since I don't know about cars, I don't know if I'm being scammed. The price seems high, especially since it only comes with a 12 month/12K mile warranty. If this 2nd mechanic replaces the tranny, it will cost $3300, carry the same 12 month/12K miles, and pins cased in brass. You'd think Ford would have put the brass casings on the 2nd tranny to ensure this one wouldn't fail.
Not to mention the inconvenience of it all, missed work, and the safety of my children and me, I'm done! As soon as I can dump it, I'm buying a Toyota or Honda. There's a reason they don't need a government bailout! What a pity! We invented the car and we can't figure out HOW to make a transmission last? Sounds like this is a NEW problem. Why did they change the old transmission? Makes no sense! Then, to not stand by their product, is ludicrous. This is why Ford will become obsolete. My last 3 cars were Fords. NO MORE!!! I wonder how many people will have to die before something is done? Have they not learned from the Pinto fiasco? What is the value of a life? of a family??? of a honest and reputable car company? I guess, nothing...
2009Jan 16
Explorer Eddie Bauer
- Automatic transmission
- 122,000 miles
As I have read from this "complaint" page, I had the same issue as everyone else. At 122,000 miles all was well until that beautiful day in Jan when my car stop going over 40 miles an hour. I was able to roll into the mechanic that I "trusted" and said as womanless as possible...What the ---- is wrong with my EXPLORER?
Needless to say, my transmission was shot and needed some major love. They had to out source the repair, which was fine with me. I had a sense of uncertainty when I picked up the repaired vehicle, and now I know why. No more than 4 months later I am on I-4 coming home from the beach when the blasted transmission completely failed again. This time leaving me stranded on top of an overpass with my 6 year old son in the car. After being without transportation for 8 days, I was told that the damage was so bad that they had to replace my torque converter and 4x4 transfer case.
I am a single mom and live 30 minutes away from my job...so unfortunately, I no longer "trust" my Ford to get my from point A to point B and can not wait to drive it into a lake!
2009Feb 25
Explorer XLS 4.0L
- Automatic transmission
- 124,800 miles
VEHICLE VIBRATED TERRIBLY WHEN SHIFTING TO OVERDRIVE,HAD TO TURN OVERDRIVE OFF WHICH CONSUMED MORE GAS AND MORE STRAIN ON THE ENGINE UNTIL ABLE TO REPAIR
2009May 05
Explorer XLT 4.0L
- Automatic transmission
- 81,200 miles
I think that as many problems as everyone is having with there 02 tranny that ford should have to repay the people if less than 100,000 miles that is way to soon to go out. My wife drives it and she does good to get over 65 MPH she drive like she is 90yrs old. If it want last under her then it is really a piece of sh*t and we need our money back for it.
A D V E R T I S E M E N T S
2009Apr 20
Explorer Sport
- Automatic transmission
- 131,000 miles
Ok, So I've heard my yr truck is a pain. I purchased the extended warranty, every time things went wrong I had it fixed, (I had a WONDERFUL service writer that could perform wonders!) Well my warranty went out at about 100k. I always keep it serviced, e/thing up to date. The other day I'm heading home and BAM.... my transmission goes out. I knew right away what it was, I've had other cars that weren't as new. I took it in anyways and low and behold, it's my trans. Not only that my rear end is gone! Its about to fall off. GEESE! I'm now stuck with a payment on a truck that I really don't want to spend to fix, especially after reading all of these complaints and wt the rear and trans together its about 5k. (that I don't have) I owe more than that though! SOOOOOOO here I am with a truck payment and a broke truck YEAH- Thanks Ford! Appreciate it!
2009Feb 23
Explorer Eddie Baur 4.0L V8
- Automatic transmission
- 110,000 miles
Didn't expect this to happen. The transmission started slipping when shifting into 3rd gear. 1st time it took a week to get back from repair and it still slipped. 2nd time, they had it 2 days and it still slipped. 3rd time it took nearly 3 weeks and they finally fixed it. They took the transmission out 3 times! It is a piece of junk. The only thing going for me now is the fact that I have a 2 year warranty on it.
2009Jan 02
Explorer XL
- Automatic transmission
- 88,000 miles
At 86000 miles tranny overdrive started flashing and blowing tranny fluid with no previous troubles at all . Truck was serviced as it is recommended and after a trip to the shop a $3200 hit in the wallet.This was just a start to the problems I had with this truck . Will never buy a Ford again I wish I read this site before
2009Feb 03
Explorer XLT V6
- Automatic transmission
- 86,000 miles
First O/D light started to flash, about 5 miles later rpm started to race.
Took it to the dealer, the did not want to repair it because the extended warranty was not from FORD. After 2 weeks and countless phone calls it was repaired-used transmission (11,000 miles) was installed, 3 DAYS LATER, service engine light & O/D Light are on. Bottom Line-FORD products are very inferior to other auto companies.
And we (USA) wonder why US auto mfg are in trouble ($$$$$)
A D V E R T I S E M E N T S
2009Jan 28
Explorer LS 3.2L V6
- Automatic transmission
- 68,000 miles
After reading all the similar complaints about this problem, I am angry that Ford is willing to ignore the owners of this vehicle. I think the transmission should be recalled. Ford is only thinking of their own selves - if I had to vote for bail out - I would say NO WAY.
We have bought numerous Fords, but the next vehicle we are going to buy is going to be a Nissan.
Ford are you listening? We need for you to care as much about your customers as you do flying on your corporate jets!
2009Jan 22
Explorer XLT 4.0L V6
- Automatic transmission
- 79,000 miles
Tranny slipped and put itself into 4x4low and would not shift out. still at dealership a week later with another week to go at least before finished.
2008Dec 18
Explorer
- Manual transmission
- 100,000 miles
Yeah just got online and discovered this site! I too have a 2002 Ford Explorer and have also been blessed with the curse of the 100,000 mile tranny failure. In the last year I have also replaced rear wheel bearings at a cost of nearly $400.00, and not 1 but 2 motors in the windows at $350.00 a piece. So my luck with Ford this year has not been so grand. My Transmission problems started with a blinking O/D light which then led to not wanting to shift into O/D which then lead into not shifting past 3rd. Replacement at a cost of $3200.00. Who can afford this? Ford installed the most ridiculous Tranny on this model. If you cant check the transmission fluid on your own, there is a problem. I have three small children as well as many out there the seating capacity is the reason I purchased this big money pit. In saying that who, with or with out kids in this day and age can come up with $3200.00 for this kind of repair. It is ridiculous. I will be calling FORD today with this complaint and urge everybody else with this problem to do the same. Even though Ford has been my family's chosen brand for as long as I can remember I will never own another one. This IS the last FORD for me.
2008Dec 22
Explorer LT 4.0L V6
- Automatic transmission
- 100,000 miles
i HAVE HAD SOOOO MANY PROBLEMS WITH THIS POS I'VE FIXED SO MANY THING I DON'T KNOW WERE TO START. BUT RIGHT NOW MY GEM MOD. IS BAD AND THE TRAMS. IS BAD. FORD SAID IT WILL COST OVER 6K TO FIX ALL THIS IS A BUNCH OF BS.
2006Apr 05
Explorer XLT 4.0L V6
- Automatic transmission
- 42,000 miles
I purchased my 2002 Explorer from Military car sales in South Korea brand new. Needless to say at 42,000 miles just after my warranty expired my OD light started flashing and it would not shift into third gear. I take it to one of the few Ford dealers in Korea and they tell me that the transmission is totally shot due to a defective third gear band. After doing some research on the internet I realized that most of the owners of the 2002 Explorer have the same problem. I was pissed so I called Ford in the US and they basically told me to get lost. I then contacted Ford Korea and I could not believe it but they paid for 50% of the repairs. I cannot believe that Ford in another country would take better care of their customers than Ford does in the USA. I then had the rear end blow at 46,000 miles and once again Ford Korea paid for 50% of the repairs. To top it off the rear end blew again less than a year later and Ford Korea paid for 100% of the repairs.
I would never buy a Ford again and if not for Ford Korea I probably would already be figuring out a way to start a class action lawsuit.
2008Dec 05
Explorer V6
- Automatic transmission
- 61,000 miles
This is the 2nd 2002 explorer transmission I had to replace in less than a year. I can't believe that we are now going to bail them out after so many people have been ripped off. I had this vehicle in just before my warranty was up (8 months ago) and told them that I thought the transmission was slipping. They said it was fine. Now 8 months later I had to pay out $2300.00.
2008Dec 06
Explorer XLT 4.0L V6
- Automatic transmission
- 101,300 miles
Had my explorer 6 years 101,300 later.O/D light starts flashing. Took to Ford Dealer. they ran test, and told me I had no third gear.Before flashing light had a very hard time getting truck into REVERSE!. nearly $3000 later. SURE HOPE WE ALL CAN BRING THESE COMPLAINTS TO THE RIGHT PERSON'S ATTENTION!
2006May 01
Explorer XLT 4.Ol
- Automatic transmission
- 110,000 miles
I purchased the vehicle used from a ford dealer with 99,000. miles and after about two weeks my transmissions started giving me a problem with the D/D Off light coming on and that makes my Service engine soon light come on as well.
I keep going back to ford about the problem and was never able to get any thing done. I was told that they wouldn't cover it because I had no warranty.
After while my transmission did not want change.
It would haste when I push the gas petal.
So I took it to a transmission shop and had it over haul I was giving a one year. at the time I believe that the vehicle had approximately 110,000. Miles and now I am having the same problem with it,
My mile on this vehicle is approx. 158,000. miles right now.
I believe that the Ford Motor's such have a better transmission for this vehicle because it is a real nice vehicle I believe that they should replace this transmission with a better one. If I keep having this transmission problem I will fine a new company to purchase my new car and I will never buy another ford ever again and I will advise my friend and family member not to purchase a ford product.
2007Mar 26
Explorer Eddie Bauer V8
- Automatic transmission
- 102,000 miles
I had a 1993 Explorer and didn't have to replace the transmission until 193,000 miles. I was very disappointed when I had to replace a tranny at 108,000. Second and fourth gear completely came out. It cost $1300.00 to replace. I believe the traction or low traction light kept coming on. This only happened at first while I would slow and go around a turn. So I didn't think much about it til the tranny started slipping. What a joke this Explorer has been. I have always been a faithful Ford fan but this one sure has changed my mind!!!
2008Oct 23
Explorer XLT 4.0L
- Automatic transmission
- 65,690 miles
I bought this vehicle new from the dealer. I should have know there would be issues when I found out you could not check the transmission fluid. My wife was driving the car with our kids and it would not shift gears. It would not go over 10 MPH. She made it home that day and the following day I did an internet search and found out that there were many others like me with the same problem and what their fix was. I took the car to a well know transmission shop and the mechanic looked at it. At first he thought it may just be a solenoid pack and he replaced that and it did not fix the problem. I was told that the transmission needed to be completely rebuilt. $2750.00 later and I thought it was fine. Had our first snow of the season and my wife tried to get into 4 wheen drive and now it will not work. Took it back to the transmission mechanic and he said everything he did is fine and that it may be an electrical problem. Know I have to figure out what that problem is. ANyone with any ideas please let me know. I will not buy another Ford product.
2008Nov 11
Explorer XL 4.3L V6
- Automatic transmission
- 65,000 miles
Every tranny mechanic I spoke to stated that this is a common defect in Ford Explorer transmissions which usually occurs around 80 to 85k miles. The problem is very expensive and is not covered by Ford. If Ford repairs the vehicle they will attempt to rebuild rather than offer a new tranny. Ford is at fault for not standing behind their vehicles and their workmanship. Anyone with a Ford Explorer might want to think about getting rid of the vehicle ASAP.
2008Nov 26
Explorer Limited V6
- Automatic transmission
- 100,200 miles
Ford should comp for the transmission problems if this is such a problem
2008Oct 09
Explorer Eddie Bauer 4.6L V8
- Automatic transmission
- 70,950 miles
OMG, FORD can go to hell, had no idea ford stood for "fix or repair daily". Jesus. Same transmission problem everyone else is talking about, has to be rebuilt costing a minimum of $1900, then more for whatever is internally wrong with transmission. Luckily for me, I have so many other bills, that instead of fixing, I am claiming bankruptcy! Thanks FORD POS. back to CHEVY i go. had losts of chevys, loved them all.
2006Oct 05
Explorer
- Automatic transmission
- 64,000 miles
I bought a second hand Explorer from a lovely dealership that I will never go back to. Within the first two months of owning my Explorer, I was driving when all of a sudden, I wasn't. It wouldn't shift out of first gear. I rolled to a transmission place and had to leave it for two days. They had to overhaul the transmission. When I went to pick it up, I started it and heard a new horrible noise. I went right back in and had to leave it for another day because they had to fix what they just fixed. After that, I had to call the transmission place about 3 or 4 more times because it still was acting up. Finally, they fixed the transmission. Ford is not my favorite manufacturer.
2008Aug 05
Explorer XLT 4.6L V8
- Automatic transmission
- 114,954 miles
there is enough people complaining about how bad the transmission is to have ford recall and fix them properly! they obviously need to be made stronger!
2008Sep 04
Explorer XLT 4.0L
- Automatic transmission
- 110,000 miles
I am a ASE certified master truck technician, so I have workedon all kinds of automobiles. My wife's transmission started to slip a little, so I flushed the tranny and converter wich replaces fluid that usually is trapped and does not get replaced. I finished the job, took it for a ride and every thing was great. Two days later I getn the phone call to come and get her and the P.O.S. exploder. So I go and get her and the car. To my surprise when the tranny went it also caused the timing chain to break. To replace the timing chain, the easiest way I found to do it was to pull the engine out. I recommend never buying one of these, if you already made the mistake....SELL IT NOW...QUICK....GET OFF THE COMPUTER AND GO SELL IT
2007Jun 08
Explorer Eddie Bauer V8
- Automatic transmission
- 94,000 miles
After having replaced the solenoid pack, at the dealer, a month after we bought the car, it lasted 2 years when the entire tranny packed it in. Took it to a great shop, and it has behaved well since. However now the rear-end is shot, so on to the next problem...
2008Sep 01
Explorer Limited 4.7L V8
- Automatic transmission
- 80,000 miles
It really sucks that here we all are with the same problems. Ford must have known they were about to screw a whole lot of people when they came out with the 2002 Explorer.
2008Jun 14
Explorer XLT V8
- Automatic transmission
- 126,000 miles
Problem started just like everyone else - blinking O/D light, than service now light. Transmission was erratic and slipping. Torque converter liner burned up and fifth gear shot. Contacted Ford and they offered NO help and refused to acknowledge that there is a widespread problem. Based on the number of complaints already documented this is an easy-picking class action lawsuit. Any hungry lawyers out there?
Needless to say - Ford will not be on the purchase list ever again.
2008Jun 13
Explorer XLT 4.0L 6 cyl
- Automatic transmission
- 118,000 miles
i cant believe all the other complaints i seen here about the same problem, i bought my ford last year never had any problems till out of the blue yesterday driving home from work can get it to shift then finally does o/d light starts flashing at me and then service engine soon light comes on, bring it trans place and as soon as i mention what its doing,by no means was he surprised, he just looks at me and says your in the fail safe mode puts it on computer and comes back looks at me and says got extended warranty i say nope and he says your screwed 3000 to repair , i cant believe ford still wont admit problem please if there is any class action lawsuit against these assholes let me know im in...... think ill go back to Nissan or Toyota again, what asshole company would even consider putting sealed transmissions in a car,, ,my email is trladynj@aol.com please if anyone has any ideas please email me
2008May 15
Explorer XLT 4.0L
- Automatic transmission
- 67,600 miles
My 2002 Ford Explorer was a champ until a week in May when suddenly it had a problem shifting from 2nd into 3rd gear. The OD light started flickering and eventually the check engine light came on. I took it to a reputable local transmission garage and they immediately knew this Ford transmission for being very defective. After the diagnostic tests, it was confirmed that severe damage had taken place inside the transmission. Mechanic highly suggested that I just order a new re manufactured tranny from Ford and have it installed (cost around $3000 with 3 yr - 100,000 mile warranty). He said to have it rebuilt in his garage would take much more time and not worth the minor savings.
I next inquired with another Transmission garage service and they wanted to overhaul the transmission (or probably just fix the broken parts as completely over hauled). They wanted about $1800 with out seeing it and admitted more parts would drive the cost higher. They estimated about 4 to 5 days to fix and no loaner car.
Finally, I went to a Ford dealer and asked them simply order a new tranny from Ford and put it in. They said this would cost around $3000 plus another $800 for labor. I was so pissed at Ford for making such a crap transmission that I just wanted them to put a new one in and move on. The garage manager was very nice and convinced me to let them do another diagnostic test, claiming it might be a simple sensor or solenoid. Later that day he called and declared (what I already suspected), that there is some internal damage, but they could do a simple overhaul for about $1500. I told them to go ahead as it would be cheaper than $3000. In the meantime, they gave me (free of charge with a full tank of gas) a 2008 Ford Focus to drive home as a loaner. In about 3 days, they called and said that they found the broken parts and would replace them with new updated parts from Ford. A day or two later, they called and said that Ford sent the wrong parts, so they would have to reorder again. Finally after a week or so, they called for me to pick up the Explorer saying it was almost done and only needed a test drive. I drove the 30 miles to their garage only to hear an apology that the car didn't pass the test drive and something else is still wrong in the tranny. Two days ago they called and said they found the last bad part but an added expense to the tune of about $485. Today, I picked up the Explorer (two weeks after bringing it in) and it seems to run good. Total cost for the tranny rebuild was around $2,230 with only a 12month 12,000 mile warranty ( I sure hope it lasts longer than that). I can say that this Ford dealer was the nicest of all the places I took the vehicle. They even gave me a $25 credit voucher for gas at a local gas station for my Explorer. I guess to make me feel better after paying my bill.
I tried to call Ford Corporation about their junk transmission but only got a round around with automated phone service. The first thing they ask to press one for English. My Ford dealer is very nice and is going to give me a phone number where I can complain directly with a live person.
Bottom line is that I never owned a car that had a transmission go out with 66,000 miles on it. This Explorer XLT has all the options and is in perfect condition, yet a piece of sh*t transmission built by Ford. I'd say Ford now knows it has a problem but could care less since SUV and Truck sales have fallen apart. At a time with high gas prices, now the expensive Explorer is worthless and for some of us a financial burden at a time when you can't get rid of it. Then you have to repair it at the fault of Ford !!!
At least, to save Ford customers, Ford should help defray (if not cover the whole thing as a recall) the costs of this transmission problem. I really love my Explorer, but if gas continues to go up, I will have to change vehicles for better mileage (I still will need all wheel or 4 wheel drive). I've owned at least 4 other Ford vehicles in my lifetime and this might be the last. If American car companies can't make a good reliable vehicle, then maybe it's time to go to a foreign import that does. This is not very American to feel that way, but our American companies seem to give no recourse and will doom themselves out of business.
Parts that needed replaced included:
Gasket kit, trans filter, trans bands, clutch plates, 2 pistons and rods, shift solenoid among other items.
2008May 31
Explorer XLT 4.0L
- Automatic transmission
- 63,500 miles
The transmission Over drive light started flashing and then it started slipping between 2nd and 3rd gear and jerking real hard.I took it straight to a certified Ford mechanic.He recommended Cottmans transmission and I drove it straight there.The owner of Cottmans told me this was a common problem with the 2002's and he is starting to get 2003's.He says he has fixed hundreds of them and it's the same problem everytime.He says Ford knows they got a problem their just not letting it out.I had an extended warranty on the car which I bought when I got the car new.I called them and their not going to cover the bill since I didn't call them before I give cottmans the ok to fix it.Another crock of sh*t.Ford needs to do a recall and fix these transmissions and pay the rest of us back that done had ours fixed.65,000 miles and I've never pulled a boat or anything with this vehicle.absolutely pitiful.I got a 1996 S-10 that is a automatic and I have absolutely give it hell.I've pulled everything under the sun with it.225,000 miles and I have never even added a drop of transmission fluid to it.Thats a real vehicle.
2008May 20
Explorer Eddie Bauer 4.0L V6
- Automatic transmission
- 149,000 miles
In the morning, when you first start it, it makes a sound like a vacuum hose is broke or something. Then when you go down the road, it won't shift into 2nd gear. I took it to a mechanic and he said that it needed to be overhauled and that the band around 2nd gear is bad and the same with 5th gear, it was out as well. Not only that, but it wouldn't last very much longer. And sure enough, it's in the shop right now getting the transmission rebuilt. The mechanic said that it was very common in the Explorers for the same problem, the only thing is, they usually go out around 70,000 miles. So, I just wanted everyone to be aware to watch your transmissions around that mileage. It's gonna cost $2200.00, but oh well, what can I do? Let it go back and eat it on my credit? Nope.... But I won't let this happen again to me, I won't buy another Ford. I had to fix all 4 of my wheel bearings which altogether cost me 1300.00 (doing it ourselves). So the repairs cost me $3,500.00! Damn.... Fords are expensive!
2008May 28
Explorer XLT 3.2L V6
- Automatic transmission
- 95,300 miles
I haven't had many problems with this vehicle until now. Only a ruptured A/C hose. This one's a doozie. I was shocked to see how many of these cars have had transmission problems. Ford should definitely reimburse us for some or all of this cost. It's obviously a manufacturing or design error. The Ford dealer's estimate is about $3,000 for the overhaul. That's a lot when you're retired on fixed income.
This failure came on all at once. First, the O/D light started flickering and the check engine light came on. At about the same time it started having trouble going into 3rd gear. I'd have to goose the engine and then let up to get it to down shift.
2008Apr 04
Explorer Eddie Bauer 4.0L V6
- Automatic transmission
- 88,000 miles
Same issues as I've read here a thousand times. Blinking OD light 2 weeks ago. On restart, went away for a week. Next long drive in the truck, got an 'overheating transmission' error. took it in to my shop (Curry's Falls Church) and nobody was surprised. Transmission had to be rebuilt by Hi-Tech Transmissions. They said this was incredibly common in both the Explorers and Jaguars of this age.
Tidying up the truck this spring (rear passenger window assy is broken as well) and selling it ASAP!
2007Aug 14
Explorer XLT 4.6L V8
- Automatic transmission
- 103,000 miles
Well first the motor went bad, We had to replace it. Got the vehicle back one week later the tranny goes out. After just spending $3000 for a motor. Need I say I may have been a little PO,d
2008Apr 09
Explorer XLT V8
- Automatic transmission
- 115,001 miles
Bought this vehicle new at the end of 2001 and took veh into Ford for any and all servicing. Even went as far as to purchase the Ford ESP up to 100K miles. As soon as this vehicle hit the 100K mile mark it seemed to trigger a breakdown switch. Currently I noticed a small leak on the garage floor which led me to take it into dealer who adv that diagnostic code indicated the trany was over temp. The leak was coming out of the vent on top of the trany. Recommendation was full replacement for $3500.00, decided to go w/ rebuild for half of that expense. Expecting to need a seal and to have this happen was a shock. Blue Oval My A$$. No reason these transmissions are not recalled- obviously FORD is aware of the issue and does not care. I look forward to trading this veh in after repairs, and will NOT be buying another FORD anytime soon. Inexcusable why you cannot advise your loyal customers about these situations and do some damage control before the transmission goes. Congrats Ford you just lost another one to the imports, sleep well, no surprise why your sales are decreasing.
2007Feb 08
Explorer XLT 4.6L V8
- Automatic transmission
- 69,000 miles
PIECE OF JUNK, FORD SHOULD DO SOMETHING. BUT THEY WON'T, SO HERE GOES ANOTHER CUSTOMER...WHAT A SHAME, IT WAS A DECENT COUNTRY NOW IT WILL BE OWNED BY FOREIGNERS
2008Apr 01
Explorer XLT 4L V6
- Automatic transmission
- 108,000 miles
Had an appointment to have "sealed" transmission serviced next week. Leaving shopping center, transmission slipped while shifting from 2nd to 3rd. At next light, would not shift from 2nd to 3rd until I took my foot off the gas. At the next light (about 1/2 mile total), vehicle felt like it left the ground as it attempted to shift from 2nd to 3rd. Noticed OD/Off light flashing. Ironically, I was only 1 block from the dealership where I had the service scheduled. Official diagnosis - "transmission trashed". Solution: rebuild for $2900 or replace with new for $3700. I opted for the rebuild, which comes with a 12 month/12K mile warranty.
2008Feb 12
Explorer XLT V6 4.0L
- Automatic transmission
- 107,000 miles
WARNING!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!=====FORD EXPLO"D"ER======!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!We just replaced our transmission for the SECOND time in three years. We called Ford and they said that there was nothing they could do but to record our information. O/D light flashed for seconds before trany going out. Thanks for the WARNING Ford. Now I am giving you'll a WARNING!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!! DO NOT BUY A FORD Explo"D"er because it will burn you... I wish I would have had the same advise because I am out about $5000.00 in total repairs. NOT One but TWO tranys, Two wheel bearings, Power Window motors, Air Bag Light (NO REASON??), Rear end rebuild, Emission sensor (Again? NO REASON??) Reverse warning sensors OUT, Dash lights (mileage) still out, oil pressure sending unit and there is probably MORE to come?????????????
2008Feb 01
Explorer
- Automatic transmission
- 100,000 miles
Bought my exploder in August and overhauled the transmission in January. Not real happy about the whole situation. If I had known about all the negative reports on this make and model of car, I absolutely would have never purchased it! I believe this vehicle should have a total recall and the owners of this make and model should be given a refund by the Ford Motor Company!
1920Dec 14
Explorer XLT V8
- Automatic transmission
- 44,000 miles
I am a housewife who drives her POS around town. We have had problems from the start, everytime (3) we took it to a dealership they retarded the engine. A week before Christmas we spent almost 4,000 dollars for a new trans. 2 weeks later another new trans, it will be going back in the shop this week, because it still is not right. When I called ford all they ask me was what I wanted them to do(pay for it) they said if I had taken it back to a ford dealership for repair they MIGHT be able to help me. Why would I want my transmission retarded yet another time. Check your door panel, my transmission was made in FRANCE (oh by the way my husband works for a transmission plant in sharonville Ohio ( I'm so %#*& proud and so is he).
2008Feb 16
Explorer XLS 4.0L V6
- Automatic transmission
- 100,207 miles
I have always had firm solid belief in Ford quality, until,,, My 2002 explorer XLS had its transmission go belly up in a matter of minutes,, It started slipping and not upshifting only when going around left corners,, went to check fluid level,, No dipstick!!! WTF??
I found that these were a "sealed transmission",, nice,, but what if it sprung a leak or something?? Come on Ford,, Get your heads out of your asses!! I'VE ALWAYS bragged you up after seeing what happens in other domestic (and foreign) manufacturers when/while owning them all,, Now you want to sh*t on us?? The people that support you? GMAFB,, I'd be going off a hell of a lot more if i'd not been impressed with your past quality control issues,, Thank God I have a good friend with an auto service center that steered me in the right direction as far as a service person goes,,,this is the last automatic transmission i'll ever own!!,, back to the manual for me
2008Feb 11
Explorer
- Automatic transmission
- 71,000 miles
I think Ford has disgraced the American auto worker by building and selling such a piece of junk, I could of had a Chevy. I think they need to be accountable for expenses that the consumer has occurred. A $42.00 O/D SERVO is what failed causing such a great amount of damage. At this time I would strongly recommend against anyone buying FORD. It just happened that I only owed 1600.00 it, huh go figure. I got one word for the Ford Motor Company, TOYOTA!!!
2007Aug 18
Explorer Eddie Bauer V8
- Automatic transmission
- 61,000 miles
I won't even bother boring anyone with my personal -Ford Explorer Eddie Bauer 2002 - horror story. I can only thank God that I found this site. I felt I could not trust the dealership and now I know I was right. The dealership mechanic merely drove the car one block and stated that I needed a new tranny - to the tune of $3800 - not including the $400 diagnostic cost.!! I laughed at them and I asked for my truck to be returned untouched, and it has been parked for three months. Suffice it to say I experienced the very same malfunctions as all the posters.
I am going to follow through and file a complaint with all the recommended resources posted on this site. However I would like to get my truck fixed at a trustworthy transmission specialist - for less than the mortgage payment I was quoted above.
I am in the NY tristate area - prefer someplace in NYC 5 boroughs or New Jersey... Any recommendations?
2007May 19
(reported on)Explorer Eddie B
- Automatic transmission
- 62,000 miles
This is my fifth and final Ford product I will ever buy again. I have not had anything but problems with this vehicle. I have always purchased my autos new and treated them like show cars. A total transmission overhaul at 62,000 at a cost of $2,500 is totally unreasonable. Good Bye Ford...
Read the next 45 complaints »
We have partnered with JustAnswer to offer online auto repair help and advice from expert professional automotive technicians. You describe your transmission problem or ask your question and they try to help you figure it out. The fee is typically $9 to $15, but you can offer to pay more for really tough questions. You will usually receive an answer in 10 minutes or less, and you do not have to pay anything unless you accept the answer.
A D V E R T I S E M E N T S
2006Jan 01
Explorer
I have always driven a Ford, But bet your ass it will be my last.... I have had to replace the tran. 3 times now, it started when we first got it by jerking and not going into gear all the time , every time I took it to the dealer they said there is nothing wrong. One month after my warranty expired the had the nerve to say you need a new transmission for only 8000,00, There should be a lawsuit and if there is one please count me in..... I was also one of the lucky ones to have the back window explode.
Sharon W.
Lake Worth, FL, USA
SEND A COMMENT »