Explorer XLT 3.2L V6

• Automatic transmission
• 36,000 miles

This whole problem is sad for Ford. They don't need this. I've bought at least 5 new
Ford cars/trucks in the last few years and refuse to buy another unless they decide
to step up and fix this design problem. It's not just a cracked panel but how they honor
their customers when they have a problem. Remember Ford - without satisfied customers, failure is the result.............

Explorer

• 65,700 miles

Noticed large crack in the plastic under the rear window. Called the Ford dealership about the recall notification of the rear window crashing down on some vehicles. Asked if this crack was part of the recall. I was assured that it was part of the recall and would be no charge to fix. The mileage on my vehicle would not cover under warranty. Hopefully, the dealership does not charge me for repairs.

Explorer

• 69,000 miles

Day after "no charge" recall #04S20 was completed to replace liftgate glass hinge, I noticed a 6" crack in the tailgate molding under the liftgate glass the first time I went to open the tailgate. (one day after the repair) Service Dept. says this is just a defect the Explorers have, and they are not responsible for the crack. Cost to replace cracked panel - $500. Freedom Ford, Pueblo, Colorado Dealership.

Explorer LS V6

• Automatic transmission
• 54,000 miles

I'm glad to see that others are having the same problem. I'm going to get this fixed or start a class action suit against them. Clearly this is a design flaw.

Explorer XLT 4.0L V6

• Automatic transmission
• 80,000 miles

click to see larger images

Complaint Photos

Just noticed this on Saturday 4/12/08. I though a rock hit it while driving or something else. I'm glad to here this is a on going issue. I am going to the local Ford Dealer today to see how much its going to cost and if they will cover it. I will keep everybody informed of my results

Explorer V6

• Automatic transmission
• 84,000 miles

Seems ford has a design problem and should cover this.

Explorer Eddie Bauer 4.6L V8

• Automatic transmission
• 5,000 miles

OK, so Ford fixed it. I only had the car for less than 4 months but it took several weeks for the replacement part to come in. Was it fixed? No...it didn't crack again, but the panel won't stayed glued in place. It has been re-glued by Ford numerous times and of course as soon as the warranty was up Ford, said "too bad". This is an on-going problem that I should not have to pay for.

This car has been nothing but trouble since I bought it. I have had wheel bearings replaced numerous times. I am also on my 3rd set of brakes...my last explorer had almost 90,000 miles on it before it needed brakes. This one needed the first set at 55,000.

This is my 3rd Explorer but it will be my last.

Explorer 4.6L

• Automatic transmission
• 70,480 miles

I took my explorer back for recall on the rear window hinges being loose but they wouldn't repair the panel under the recall. But that's why the panel cracked - from having to slam the glass hatch the hinges being out of line............But what ever, that's FORD CHEAP!!!!!!!

Explorer XLT V6

• Automatic transmission
• 93,000 miles

I noticed my neighbor had the same issue and I have seen other explorers with this crack. I was doing a web browse and I saw that I am not alone at being upset about this problem. I plan to call Ford Customer Service about this and I will see what happens. This crack is just ugly and Ford should do something about it.

Explorer Eddie Bauer V6

• Automatic transmission
• 62,235 miles

Explorer has been garage kept and maintained excellent with wax. Paid for the Premium Warranty and Ford states this problem is not covered - states it is considered a piece of Molding. If Ford opts not to fix this problem - which lowers the resale value due to their design flaw - I will personally see to it that My or any of my extended family never buys a Ford Product again. I will also have my input as a fleet manager to stay clear of Ford. I have had a great report with Ford until this happened. Ford needs to step up and fix this problem and not expect the consumer to pay for their flaw.
Thomas Hickenbottom

Explorer XLT V6

• Automatic transmission
• 60,000 miles

Ok is this enough, what good does it do to vent with no results? I went to my local Ford dealer, and wants Me to pay 200$, and why I ask, he said he didn't know?????? Can we get a campaign going directly to Ford, I am sure with the state of the automobile industry, they don't need any bad press......I honestly and fortunately have not had another single problem with this car in 5 years. So why is Ford playing "See no evil, Speak no evil with us?" Anybody game?

Explorer XLT 4.0L

• Automatic transmission
• 58,000 miles

Crack runs down next to the logo. Ford needs to recall this!

Explorer XLS V6

• Automatic transmission
• 45,000 miles

We woke up one morning and found that the tailgate panel had a vertical crack that ran from top to bottom. We have never had an accident in the car and the car does not experience temperature extremes. It seems that at least 1 of every 3 Explorers of this body style that we see on the freeway have the same problem. The Ford dealer told us that it has not been recalled and that it will cost $250-300 to fix. This is clearly a widespread problem that Ford has implicitly acknowledged by changing the body style in later model years. I plan to call customer service (800-392-3673) and make them pay for at least a portion of the repair (a strategy that has worked in the past). If you have this problem you should call in and make them suffer for manufacturing a defective product!

Explorer XLT V8

• Automatic transmission
• 69,594 miles

Today I spoke with Ford of Canada Customer service (1-800-565-3673). I indicated my vehicle had a crack in the panel that contained the Ford logo, about 2 inches to the right of the logo, that extended from the top of the panel to the bottom. They indicated they had zero interest in me if I was not under the distance or time warranty. Like many others, my Explorer was parked in the garage when this happened. One evening we just came out and there it was. The representative on the phone indicated she'd never heard of this issue before, WHICH was in contrast to the Ford Repairman I spoke to in December who said every other Explorer they see has the same problem.

I asked if they cared about Ford drivers and the only answer they gave was that I was not covered by the warranty.

I love my truck but this is ridiculous.

Derrick
Waterloo, Ontario, Canada

Explorer

• Automatic transmission
• 49,500 miles

Crack occurred in March of 2007. It just appeared one day that was not particularly cold. I thought someone had tried to pry open my tailgate. Took it to Ford dealer to ask if they had heard of this problem and they said no, never. I asked the dealer if this was a defect that they would fix, and they said no.Due to this incident and other paint issues I will never buy another Ford.

Explorer LX V6

• Automatic transmission
• 50,000 miles

I NOTICED ONE DAY A CRACK GOING DOWN THE PLASTIC PANEL ON THE BACK HUTCH. I HAVE SEEN THIS SAME DEFECT ON OTHER EXPLORERS WHILE DRIVING AROUND TOWN. SAME EXACT LOCATION!!

Explorer XLT 4.0L

• Automatic transmission
• 59,590 miles

My complaint is that I have a 2003 Ford Explorer. One day I came out and saw a long crack in the panel and I researched online and went to Ford Dealers to see if
this was ever recalled. I have gotten no where with this and feel that The Ford
Company should recall this. After still calling and researching, I found that other
people are experiencing the same problem from US to the Caribbean. WIndows,
rear windows and other faulty parts falling out. This is my 4th vehicle from Ford and
this is my last.

Explorer

• Automatic transmission
• 85,000 miles

Bought the vehicle in June of last year with 73000 miles on it, but if was in real good shape. Noticed some months later (showed Jan 2, 2008) the crack in the panel from top to bottom next to the Ford symbol. I haven't gone to the dealer to get an estimate for repairs, but plan to in the future. From what I've seen on this site, it will probably stay cracked.

Explorer XLT 3.2L V6

• Automatic transmission
• 69,000 miles

Basically Ford was the hardest company to deal with, This was a defect discovered by Ford when then installed this panel. There was only 1 factory that was covered by the warranty on this issue and unless you can tell them the Factory they claim that it is not not covered. I cant tell you how many I see on the road with the same problem. I will never allow myself or family to purchase Ford again.

Explorer XLT

• Automatic transmission
• 41,000 miles

Is there any hope that Ford will "step up to the plate" and admit that they have a design flaw in this model? The plastic panel snapped today as I was loading boxes at the rear of my car. Just like all of the other complaints, it is a vertical crack running the width of the panel just below the rear window and just to the right of the FORD logo.... Dear Ford, You can expect a call from me on Monday to help me understand your meaning of selling vehicles "Built FORD Tough" -- What a joke!

Explorer XLT 4.0L

• Automatic transmission
• 62,000 miles

Panel "appliqué as Ford calls it" just below rear tailgate window just cracked. It was approximately 20 deg. F. when it happened. I was helping my wife unload groceries from the vehicle and when we closed the tailgate the crack appeared just to the left of the "Ford" emblem. Since then I've been looking at other Ford Explorers in our area and have seen this same kind of crack on approx 5-10% of the time on Explorers with the same design. Contacted my dealer (Grand Prairie Ford) and talked to the service adviser. He told me he had no knowledge of a problem with the "appliqué" and recommended I talk to the collision shop which I will do when they open on Monday.

Explorer Eddie Bauer V8

• Automatic transmission
• 86,992 miles

Our company has two 2003 Ford Explorers. Both have had the panel below the rear trunk lid window crack. Both have happened in winter during very cold temperatures. But, this is Canada and Ford knows it gets cold here. This is obviously a defect in materials and should be fixed by Ford. These are top end vehicles and we expect better materials to be put into them.

Explorer Eddie Bauer V8

• Automatic transmission
• 50,000 miles

thought it was because moved from Colorado to Arizona and the heat got to it. I notice this on almost all explorers now...

also in summer driver window squeals and there is a weird whistling noise that comes from the engine / road area... only when its hot outside though.

Explorer XLT 4.0L

• Automatic transmission
• 52,000 miles

I found this big crack right at the center of the panel below my rear window one day when I washed my ford explorer 2003 LT, Immediately blamed my wife, but believe me the truck is been parking in my garage for a few weeks.

Explorer XLT V8

• Automatic transmission
• 55,000 miles

i called ford today -800.392.3673. the representative informed me that 'ford has not issued a recall for this problem - but they have issued a 'technical service bulletin' (which confirms that this is a problem that ford knows about). she encouraged me to encourage all ford owners who are experiencing the same problem (vertical crack on the bottom panel of the top half of the lift gate) to call and log their problem with ford. they will give you a case # - hopefully if enough of us do this we can get ford to go good for the problem and reward us for having bought American Made!!! Call today! if anyone has luck in getting ford to go good for the repair costs please share! thanks.

Explorer

• Automatic transmission
• 73,000 miles

I was driving on the freeway and heard a noise. I thought I may have ran over something. Looked in my rear view mirrors and saw nothing. Later that day when I went to the store, my husband saw the crack and asked what had happen? There was no sign of vandalism or someone hitting me or me backing up.. Just a clean crack on the panel below the rear window. When I called Ford, they acted as though they had never heard of this problem. I told them about this website and proceeded to read that I was not alone with this problem. I was told to go to a dealer to get a diagnosis, and then call them back. Not sure if it will do any good, but I will do so..

Explorer XLT 4.0L V6

• Automatic transmission
• 60,000 miles

I thought maybe i was at fault, when i first saw the problem, then i stumbled upon this website. I am furious to know that this happened to everyone here that is "B.S." and this should be taken care of by FORD. I will update my situation to let everyone know what happened, please let me know if anyone didn't have to pay.

Explorer ES

• Automatic transmission
• 125,000 miles

This is the last Ford I will ever buy. Piece of junk. Problems from the start with transmission, ball bearings (all bearings have been replaced) and now the body starts fail
falling apart. Dealer says its our problem. Sent registered letter to Ford Motor Co and
new Chief Executive (can't remember his name right now) and they essentially told
me to go fly a kite. American made cars stink!

Explorer

• Automatic transmission
• 90,000 miles

The crack appeared small, but has expanded and spread. I just saw another Explorer 1 year older (2002) with the same problem and after reading other complaints feel this is an obvious defect with the materials used and Ford should repair at no charge.

Explorer XLT V6

• Automatic transmission
• 65,000 miles

The crack runs vertically the whole length of the panel separating it in 2. It also has
affected the "door ajar sensor" which is now constantly on because it senses that
the hatch window is open. Very annoying. Ford should definitely be looking into
fixing this problem.

Explorer Eddie Bauer 4.6L V8

• Automatic transmission
• 87,900 miles

The panel below the glass on my lift gate cracked this last week. I have noticed many Explorers with this problem. I figured it was a matter of time before mine would break. I will call Ford about this but I am sure they will tell me usual answer they give. Everytime I have a problem with this "Fart Exploder" they tell me no one else has had this problem. This is Fords standard answer. I have owned six Fords. I will never buy another. I bought a new Honda in April 2007. Great SUV.

Explorer XLT

• Automatic transmission
• 51,000 miles

This is just not acceptable. Clearly this is some kind of design flaw on Ford's part and they need to address it and fix it on their dime. This is the only and definitely the last American made vehicle my wife and I will ever purchase.

Explorer XLT V6

• Automatic transmission
• 85,000 miles

I went to the dealer for a oil change and mentioned the sudden appearance of a crack in the rear lift gate. There was another gentleman at the dealership with the exact same problem. We tried to appeal to the service manager for a fair remedy to what is obviously a design problem and Ford could have cared less. They told me the vehicle is out of warranty and there is no recall. The people at Malouf Ford in North Brunswick NJ said since there is no recall, it would cost ME $800 to fix this problem.

I called Ford Customer Service and they said there is nothing they can do. I asked what has to happen to get a recall and they said it's up to THE NATIONAL TRAFFIC & SAFETY ASSOCIATION. So I hope others will join me and contact this association ( I plan to google to find the contact information) and let's try to get this issue resolved. We should not have to pay for what is obviously a design flaw.

The gentleman in the dealership who has the same problem with the cracked lift gate, said he has done research and FORD DID RECALL CERTAIN EXPLORERS FOR THIS PROBLEM BUT ONLY VEHICLES WITH CERTAIN VIN NUMBERS BUILT AT A CERTAIN PLANT. Obviously the recall needs to be expanded to include more factories. Complain people

Explorer XLS V6

• Automatic transmission
• 58,500 miles

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Complaint Photos

I called Ford and they said there was no recall and no history of the problem... after looking at the complaint log, I see that they were obviously lying! I never use the rear window gate, I always use the whole door gate. I'm contacting my news action team locally to see if they can help.

Explorer

• Automatic transmission
• 52,000 miles

This crack occurred by itself and I had not even used the hatch. Now I noticed that the crack has spread below the Ford emblem as well. We have had issues with the mechanics in the dealership we purchased the car trying to advise that things needed to be fixed that did not, but had not had issues with the vehicle itself. We are planning to go to the dealership (knowing it is a waste of time) and will call the Ford Customer Service number listed. A class action suit is a good idea - I will not buy another Ford product if they do not stand behind this problem. We recently purchased a 2007 Honda because we are fed up with the American automakers complaining about not buying American. We always had in the past and look where we are with this vehicle! I think it is criminal that there is a problem out there and they are not standing behind their product.

Explorer

• Automatic transmission
• 62,000 miles

WITH ALL THE COMPLAINTS I HOPE FORD WILL FIX THIS PROBLEM

Explorer XLT 4.0L

• Automatic transmission
• 50,000 miles

Hey People,

Kimberly on this board has a address in which you can e-mail the NTSB about our problem. It only takes a couple of minutes to fill out the questions and we need all the help that we can get in order to keep Ford responsible for their defects. Take a few minutes and go to the site, it may make a difference.
I'm serious about this problem and I'm prepared to stop at 0 to make Ford fix my vehicle.

Explorer V6

• Automatic transmission
• 98,000 miles

I was aware of the problem because my brother has one with a crack and I had noticed how many of the Explorers in my area are cracked. Yesterday I found my own. I am shocked that Ford does not want to protect it's customer base by addressing this problem.

Explorer

• Automatic transmission
• 38,000 miles

Ford customer service was not helpful. The dealer said that the cracked panel is plastic applied with double sided tape! It only costs $70 for a new panel, but $200 for painting. They said it is not at all structural and the pieces will not fall off. The car has performed well until now but it only has 38,000 miles on it.
Only other problem was motors on the windows which worked only intermittently. they replaced these during the warranty period.

Explorer XLS 4.0L

• Automatic transmission
• 35,000 miles

I also have a 2003 ford explorer cracked panel to lefty of ford emblem 1 large crack then spits again into 2 half way through, really pissed about it, just bought car 7 months ago, dealer wants 500 bucks to fix, has anyone had any luck getting ford to pay for it, or are we jusu SOL, Best of luck to everyone

Explorer XLT 4.0L

• Automatic transmission
• 50,000 miles

This vehicle has 3 cracks in the back tailgate panel, 1 of which is about 4 inches long. We took it to the local Ford dealers bodyshop and the manager told us that he sees it all the time in all the Ford, Lincoln and Mercury SUV's. He said that Ford knows about the problem but will not conduct a recall. He advised going to the dealer and asking them to fix it. I did but to no prevaol because the car is out of warranty. They gave me a number to call Ford and ask for their help in getting it fixed and I did. It was a waste of time!! Ford doesn't care about fixing my car that they know is a defect from the factory and for that reason I will never own another Ford in my life!!

Explorer XLT V6

• Automatic transmission
• 30,000 miles

My 2003 also has the cracked panel. I originally went to Ford and was told that I must have hit it and caused the crack. I started noticing other Explorer with the same problem. One of my friends had a 2004 and hers cracked as well. She went to Ford and they told her that it was not under warranty and she too must have hit something. Since then I have spoken again to Ford and they have admitted that it's a problem and they will fix it, if I pay $100 deductible. What a ripe off? Why should we pay a cent for a manufacturer defect? Some one had suggested a class action. I think that's a great idea..I'm in!!

Explorer ES V6

• Automatic transmission
• 51,000 miles

Same as everyone else I have seen 6 cracked panels in one day around town, I called Ford and they said there is no re-call, the rep acted as if she never heard of this problem, what liars they are, I called the dealership and they will charge me $150 to fix what a rip off, I will never buy another Ford EVER.

Explorer Eddie Bauer 4.0L V6

• Automatic transmission
• 38,000 miles

click to see larger images

Complaint Photos

I had the same crack occur last January that 93 others have mentioned here. It happened on a day that was around 5 degrees outside. I was parked in a lot and when I came outside after two hours, the crack was there. Funny thing is that I met a guy three years earlier who was driving an '02 Explorer. I asked him how he liked the car and his only complaint was that he cracked his lift gate plastic trim panel when he slammed it too hard. I bought my Explorer soon after and made sure EVERY time I closed the glass that I didn't do it too hard. This happened all by itself. They really have to step up and replace these when they fail, for FREE. It is a bad advertisement for Ford when there is an ugly crack right next to their logo!

I called the customer service number today and registered my complaint. I'm not holding my breath...

Explorer XLT 4.0L

• Automatic transmission
• 35,999 miles

I will follow up on advice and ask Ford to fix their Quality problem.

Explorer XLT V8

• Automatic transmission
• 40,000 miles

Went to internet to see if cracked panel under rear lift window has been a problem for others. About 60 problems of the same nature were listed. Have an appointment with local dealer regarding this significant body trim / window problem tomorrow. Will add more after the dealer evaluates the problem. Will take copies of most of the reports listed for this complaint.

Explorer V8

• Automatic transmission
• 58,435 miles

I accused my husband of backing into something. I didn't know what had happened to cause the crack under the back window. Two co-workers told me this had happened to them and Ford fixed the problem. I am calling today and see what I can get done. It's worth a try!

Explorer XLS V6

• Automatic transmission
• 98,000 miles

I spoke with Ford on this issue and they told me there is nothing they can do for me without a warranty. The guy "Mike" said I would have to pay for the cost myself. You would think that for what these SUV's cost, Ford would stand behind their product. What a bunch of cowards.

Who would like to join me in a class action? I am contacting the BBB, as well as posting a sign on the back of my car. Ford should be held accountable for their workmanship, not the consumer who pays their bills.

Explorer Eddie Bauer V8

• Automatic transmission
• 52,000 miles

Just checked the web to see if anyone else had this happen to them and was shocked at how many others have the same problem (and these are the people who are taking the time to go online to gripe - I'm sure there are countless more who just haven't complained online).

Mine has been slowly cracking for quite a while. In fact, at first I thought it was just a crack that had always been there - it was just a hairline crack between the window and the Ford emblem. I'm not sure when it really started cracking. It was after my warranty expired that my dad pointed it out to me - he has a 2002 Explorer and doesn't have this crack.

In the last few weeks, the hairline crack has gone all the way down the rest of the panel and looks like the Grand Canyon on the back of my car. What a piece of junk!

I called my dealership (didn't bother stopping by because I knew the answer to my question) and they stated that it wasn't a recall item and I'd have to pay for it. I have a call into Ford Customer Care and have been told I'll hear back from someone this afternoon. Sure. I'm holding my breath.

I should add that I also have had the finish on the black trim between the windows peeling off and the recirculation door arm (shifts air between heat and A/C) broke off. Between these 3 things, I'd have to say this car is a piece of junk.

I replaced a 1994 Explorer with the 2003 Explorer. The 1994 was well-built and rarely had a problem. Gosh, I almost miss it!

I'm thinking of selling this old heap and getting a nice, well-built, foreign SUV.

Explorer EBE V8

• Automatic transmission
• 66,000 miles

I see this is a known problem, my husband said he came out and there was this huge crack under the rear glass. Haven't talked to Ford yet, this better be covered under the warranty seeing that this is a known problem.

Explorer Eddie Bauer V8

• Automatic transmission
• 66,982 miles

The back panel below the window on the liftgate cracked this August (2007). It was just sitting in the driveway. I haven't contacted anyone yet but reading all the complaints about the same problem I think Ford should consider a recall. Why should the customer have to pay for the company's defect? I have owned Ford products for years and years but seeing all the problems listed and nothing being done by the company I may consider looking elsewhere!

Explorer 4.0lV6

• Automatic transmission
• 55,000 miles

I'm the second owner and I was told the panel cracked before. Now its cracked again. Two of my friends own explorers and had the same problem. Luckily their warranty didn't expire. I called Bell Ford dealer in NJ where I live and they didn't say much to help me. I also drove a blue explorer from Loman Ford on Rte. 1 which had the same problem which they tried to sell to me. I asked them about the cracked panel and got no answer. If there is a problem or a defect we the consumers should have no problem being taken care of or maybe that's it we're just being taken. And Ford is wondering why their consumers are going elsewhere!

Explorer XLT V6

• Automatic transmission
• 50,000 miles

My explorer had the cracked liftgate as well...it had around 40-50,000 miles at the time...it did it when it was only 2 years old. my dealer fixed it, no questions asked...they said this was a common problem.

Explorer EB 4.0L V6

• Automatic transmission
• 82,000 miles

The panel broke and looks bad. I started noticing that many of the Explorer's on the road have the same problem. Some have multiple cracks. It doesn't take much research to determine this is a common problem and definitely a design problem.

Explorer XLT V6

• Automatic transmission
• 50,000 miles

the rear panel cracked, also the panels between windows paint is peeling, it is 4 years old, never seen anything like it. Ford takes no responsibility. Dealer takes no responsibility. I even bought an extended warranty when i purchased the vehicle. Not covered.

Explorer XLT

• Automatic transmission
• 80,000 miles

A few weeks ago the infamous crack appeared on my liftgate. I had already assumed that Ford would not repair it based on the information here. On 10/4/07, while waiting at a light, I hear an explosion. The window on the rear liftgate exploded/imploded. I talk to Ford and they tell me my car is not part of any recalls so I am responsible for the repairs. Now I know why foreign cars are outselling US cars...because US cars suck. Definitely won't be buying another Ford. My sister has a 2002 explorer and the rear liftgate window has shattered twice when closing.

Explorer XLT V6

• Automatic transmission
• 44,000 miles

Cracked back panel, as many others have reported. Love the car but thinking of ditching it because of this as well as the door ajar light and a broken visor. You should expect a better made vehicle for this price range at less than 50,000 miles.. When will Ford step up and make these issues right? American car manufacturers wonder why we buy foreign cars, give us our money's worth!

Explorer Eddie Bauer 3.2L V6

• Automatic transmission
• 41,250 miles

For no apparent reason the "plastic" rear panel below the window lift gate cracked. When first noticed the crack was 2" long. The next day the crack was completely through the panel. Neither the door or window lift section has never been slammed or abused. The Explorer has 41250 miles is always garaged and in immaculate condition. I also have a 2nd 2003 Eddie Bauer Explorer that I bought for my daughter. Both Explorers are "twins" with identical equipment except for the color. The "plastic" rear panel on her Explorer is OK.

Does anyone know what gives??? Is there going to be a recall???

Explorer XLS

• Automatic transmission
• 56,000 miles

Anoither cracked one here... just showed up overnight.

Explorer XLT V8

• Automatic transmission
• 57,000 miles

The dealership told me to take the car in when I called to complain about the cracked panel. Once there, I was told Ford would not pay for it because they were only paying certain VIN numbers & my car didn't qualify even though I had the extended warranty. They offered to repair the panel & I was to pay 25% of the bill. I was quoted about $100 out of pocket for the repair. When I picked up my car, I accidentally saw the bill which was a total of $327.19 & they had the nerve to charge me $216. I contested their math calculations but they told me to pay or they would not release the vehicle. After I payed, I noticed that my full size spare tire was missing! Thieves, thieves, thieves.

Explorer ES V6

• Automatic transmission
• 47,000 miles

I also have a cracked rear panel. It's right in the middle of the rear door--next to the Ford emblem. I personally know two other people who also have cracks. One of them was able to buy the part and have it fixed by a friend--she said it was $140-160 dollars just for the part. I figure that it is a faulty part and refuse to pay any more money to put in a part that could very well crack again. I will replace it when I am ready to sell the stupid car and I hope that is soon. I will never buy a Ford again.

Explorer Eddie Bauer 4.6L V8

• Automatic transmission
• 55,000 miles

It is a shame Ford cannot make a product to last more than a couple years without falling apart!!!

Explorer XLT V6

• Automatic transmission
• 80,000 miles

Panel is cracked below the glass, Brought it in to get the recall on the lift part fixed, but they wouldn't cover the panel.

Spare tire carrier broke, cable doesn't wind up, Rear differential leaked $500.00 later the differential is fixed

Other than than I have been happy with my ford, the dealer also fixed and covered other issues.

Explorer Eddie Bauer 4.6L V8

• Automatic transmission
• 48,500 miles

Same story as the others on this site.... cracked on a cold winter day while sitting in a parking lot. Didn't even have to open/close the rear window to do it. We've had this vehicle since new in 2003 and its the first vehicle my wife loved enough to actually take good care of it. She still won't let me sell it even after all of this.

In January '07, I took it to Winner Ford (Newark, DE), the dealer that sold me the Explorer when it was new. They quoted $345.75 and said since I was out of warranty and there was no recall, I would bear the cost.

I contacted the Ford Customer Relationship Center. They blew me off a day later. Then I wrote a polite letter (not email) to the CRC, to Ford's general office address in Detroit, and sent a copy of my letter to Winner Ford. I thought a three pronged stick might get someone's attention. I included pictures and printouts from this web site showing how many of us have the same problem.

Within two days of mailing the letter, Winner Ford contacted me and told me that I am a valuable customer, they appreciated the way I presented my case and they were going to cover the cost and try to get compensation from Ford.

One day after Winner called, a representative from Ford's Detroit office called inquiring about my letter and problem. I told her that Winner was stepping up and gave her Winner's contact information. She called me back again two days later to be sure I was satisfied.

At about the same time, the CRC sent me another form letter blowing me off again. They don't even mention the specific problem I complained about, just a non-specific "we reviewed your claim and feel we were correct in denying it blah, blah, blah".

In summary, I will probably be buying as many cars as I can in the future from Winner. That dealership sells several different brands, so a Toyota, Saturn, or some other brand might be in my future. I believe Ford was going to step up. It sounded to me like she was going to tell me that they were going to come through. The Ford CRC center seems terrible to me. Yes, I am probably biased because they denied my claim, but in my opinion they did not ever seriously consider my claim. I felt totally blown off. I have the mailing addresses I used if anyone is interested, but I got them right off the Ford website.

Explorer

• Automatic transmission
• 45,000 miles

This is the second time the rear panel has cracked. Will Ford ever get it right?

Explorer XLT V8

• Automatic transmission
• 26,000 miles

Same here. got the crack in the tailgate at about 10,000 mile mark. ford will not even look at it, the dealer said yes we know about it, but ford will not cover it. guess will have to wait until it falls off and hurts someone before they take to bite on this.

Explorer Eddie Bauer 4.0L V6

• Automatic transmission
• 60,000 miles

Wow, I didn't realize how much of an issue this tailgate is. What a horrendous design!

Explorer XLT 4.6L V8

• Automatic transmission
• 32,070 miles

The vehicle was not even being driven and was parked inside the garage when the cracked rear panel on the liftgate took place. My husband called to tell me what had happened and I began writing down the license plate number of several other vehicles with the identical problem. We took it to our local dealer, Dick Masheter, who told us that the problem was normal and expected. This is not normal, expected, or acceptable. My family has had many of these vehicles and this has never happened. Ford needs to redesign to resolve this issue -- in addition to paying for the repair.

Explorer Eddie Bauer V8

• Automatic transmission
• 35,000 miles

The first time this happened, the dealer replaced the part for free while they were changing the defective hinge (recalled item). Now that the base warranty has expired, they refuse to cover the cost of the second crack under the extended warranty. What are the odds that they replaced the first defective part with a second defective part? Incidentally, half the panel fell off after a trip through a TOUCH-FREE car wash!!!

Explorer XLT V6

• Automatic transmission
• 55,000 miles

I noticed this past winter, 1/4 inch wide crack running from top to bottom of panel (with another small crack near the bottom running diagonally down from the main crack). I figured it was somehow my (or someone elses) fault. My sister noticed it and then this past week wrote to me saying she was behind an Explorer on her way to work and noticed a crack in the exact place and the same shape as mine. So - did some research - here I am.

Explorer XLT 4.0 V6

• Automatic transmission
• 65,000 miles

Pretty much the same issue as everyone else, I have also observed at least 5 other explorers in my local area in the last week with the same problem. If anyone has information on how to get Ford to pay for the repair let me know.

Explorer XLT V^

• Automatic transmission
• 43,000 miles

I have 43,000 miles on my Explorer and just had the panel crack last week. I called the dealer who had me bring it in for him to look at. He said he has seen one other like it. Since I am past warranty he said he would have to get back to me in a couple of days. He called me back and referred me to the Ford customer service number: 1-800-392-3673. I called last Friday to see if they would do anything about it. The representative I spoke to said that they have been getting a lot of complaints, but have had no recall yet. She called me back today to let me know she was still looking for an answer to see if they would fix it. In the meantime, she said the more people that call and lodge a complaint, the more likely they are to issue a recall. If you have this problem, I urge you to call. I use that door a lot and expect quality from Ford. This is just one more problem, along with the passenger windows that sometimes don't roll down, that I have had with this car.
I will update this post after I hear back from Ford.

Explorer Green 3.2LV-6

• Automatic transmission
• 62,002 miles

I think that Ford should step up and pay for a problem that obviously should be recalled. I see other Explorer's driving around town with the same problem and all over the internet. Step up Ford there's a reason you've been around for so long, YOUR CUSTOMER'S!!! I will never buy a Ford again if this problem isn't fixed!!!!!

Explorer XLT V6

• Automatic transmission
• 35,000 miles

I had the same cracked panel below the rear windshield. It started right above the Ford emblem and moved all the way down the panel, and it happened shortly after my warranty period ended. I read about some of the other issues with this and I figured that going to the dealer wouldn't help the situation too much. Luckily, a friend of mind is a mechanic and he was able to get the part at cost: $70. The problem was that it only comes in primer grey. I had to buy Ford paint, and he had another friend of his paint it for me. The paint itself was $60. We just replaced it this past weekend. We had to pull the old one off with the help of a heat gun and glue the new one onto the glass/metal frame. The actual glass goes all the way down to the end of the door. This plastic panel covers the glass along with a metal support. I was worried about leaking but after seeing the interior of this panel, you don't have to worry about that. I really don't know how it cracked, since it is glued fairly solidly onto the metal frame (unless the metal frame twists and/or flexes with use). I now try to lift up the entire tailgate when I need to get access to the back instead of using the small window/liftgate. It was a pain to change, but at least now my Explorer looks decent again. The part should be made of sheetmetal. It doesn't make sense to have a plastic part which can break. I expect to have to replace it again in the future, so I'm holding onto the rest of the paint!

Explorer XLT 4.0 V6

• Automatic transmission
• 75,000 miles

I also recently noticed a crack running through the bottom of the lift gate, and after finding this website, decided to call Ford's customer care line 1-800-392-3673. After being transfered around a few times I finally spoke to a rep who advised me there are no recalls and that Ford is totally unaware of any complaints, before mine, about this issue. They finished by telling me they would definitely notify me if there ever was a recall... what a joke! I have owned 6 Ford vehicles, never again. Maybe everyone should call them, and anyone else who will listen!

Explorer Eddie Bouer V8

• Automatic transmission
• 46,000 miles

I have an Explorer and the same problem with a cracked panel most of you have. I have contacted my dealer and Ford about it and I recieved the same help most you have recieved fix it yourself or live with it . It appears Ford doesn't feel they should correct their mistakes when they are minor. What can expect if they are major? Please call Ford and complain with your voice and if that doesn't work lets complain with our wallets and a different auto maker. I bet they will listen then.

Explorer XLT V6

• Automatic transmission
• 110,000 miles

I returned back to my 2003 Explorer after being gone for a few days and discovered two cracks in the panel under the rear window. I thought that someone vandalized the car by hitting the Ford emblem on the back panel.
When I went to the Ford dealer for an estimate, ($366.00), I was told that this is a fairly common problem on Explorers and Mountaineers of this year. I would say that this should be covered by Ford as it is clearly a design flaw that prevents dissimilar materials to expand and contract at their own rate.

Explorer

• Automatic transmission
• 88,000 miles

Approx. two weeks ago I observed several cracks in the liftgate panel. I initially assumed that someone had hit the SUV with a blunt object. Please note that the night prior the temp. was approx. 27 degrees. Last week while picking up my children from school, I observed two Explorers with the same crack in the same area. My wife recommended that I check the internet for complaints. So, here I am, with the same problem.

Explorer

• Automatic transmission
• 74,437 miles

I noticed the cracked panel on Mar 5th. It might be broken between 4th and 6th. I think The cause is a wide range of temperatures. I saw many troubles on the 2002 & 2003 Ford Explorers at this web site. Lots of people said it should be paid for by Ford. I agree with them. I will try to show this web site and my problem and also pictures. My co-worker has had the same trouble which occurred about 3 weeks ago. It seems to be a common problem in Explorers.

Explorer

• 37,000 miles

This crack occurred right after my warranty ran out (of course). I called the dealer and told him my problem and he said that the Explorer sometimes had this problem but they didn't have a recall on it. Since he told me this I have noticed other Explorers with this same problem. I talked to the dealer again yesterday (I now have 41,000 miles) and he said to bring the car in and he would get his manager involved. I am going to bring copies of all the complaints listed (there are a bunch under 2002 Ford Explorer with the same problem) to see if they will cover the repair. I will let you know.

Explorer XLT V6

• Automatic transmission
• 65,000 miles

This panel cracked on a cold night (15 deg. F) with the car just sitting in the driveway. From what I have seen and read it sounds like a design flaw with the fact that a plastic part is epoxied to a metal part with a different coefficient of expansion. With the age of the car, it's out of warranty so I have to suffer to cost of repair (to bad it wasn't bolted on, I could get one at a salvage yard).

Explorer Eddie Bauer 4.0

• Automatic transmission
• 97,000 miles

If everyone would call Ford about this, maybe we could get this covered!!!!!!

Explorer XLT V6

• Automatic transmission
• 43,000 miles

My story is similar to ones listed here.

Explorer NBX V6

• Automatic transmission
• 41,000 miles

The back panel on our 2003 Explorer just cracked in the last few weeks. There was one small crack that we first noticed a few weeks ago, then last weekend, the big cracks happened. I went by a local dealer to show them the cracks. The service agent said he had only seen this problem once, and there was no recall notice. They said the panel only costs about $67, but then you have to add on the costs for paint, decal and labor. Later that day, I saw another Explorer with a crack in the same place. This is apparently a very common problem. I think Ford should cover the repair work.

Explorer XLS V6

• Automatic transmission
• 47,500 miles

Just want to fill everyone in on my dealings with this problem. On 2/9/07 the crack was discovered about 2 inches left of the Ford emblem, vertically through the entire panel, with a couple of splinters at one end. I immediately did research on the internet, and found the complaints on this website, www.autosite.com, and www.nhtsa.dot.gov. There are numerous complaints on these websites about this problem. On 2/14 I called the Ford #(1-800-392-3673), and also voiced concerns over complaints of shattered back windows that I thought might be related. I am told they are not, but I am not an engineer. I was given a case #, and told I would have to take the vehicle to the dealer, so that the Ford rep could see the damage and decide the next course of action. I also called the NHTSA and filed a complaint (1-888-327-4236) right after I was done on the phone with Ford, and voiced my same concerns over the shattered window. I received a confirmation # from the NHTSA. That afternoon I took the vehicle to the dealership to try to see the Ford rep. I'll be honest, our family has dealt with this dealership for decades, and I have personally bought 3 new vehicles from this dealership, so it would be in their interest to keep things well in our relationship, BUT I did not mention this point yet to the dealer. At the dealer, I saw a service rep because the Ford rep was not in, and is only there once a week. The service rep stated that the dealership sees this issue quite frequently, and usually if the vehicle is not under warranty, the customer is responsible. The service rep said he would have the Ford rep call me to set up an appointment. By late this afternoon, 2/15, the service rep called me to tell me that Ford was paying for the repairs completely, and that he would order the part, have it painted, and let me know when it was ready for install. My vehicle is no longer under any type of warranty. I know this is long, but I thought this info might help everyone. - dgrover2, Chesapeake, VA

Explorer V6

• Automatic transmission
• 72,000 miles

Sad that Ford will not backup there product. This is not a wear and tear part. I understand not wanting to issue a recall, it is not a safety issue, why fix something that is not broken. But if the part does break bring it in and we will fix it no charge, it is not NORMAL.
That is what Ford customer service should be saying.

Explorer

• Automatic transmission
• 120,000 miles

I am so annoyed and dissatisfied with Ford, I wake up one morning in the state of Georgia and I have a crack on the back panel underneath the window, now a few days later my door ajar light is on and will not go off. I can't even explain how angry and I am about this, and as usual Ford's customer service and customer relation department does nothing. If anyone is researching or checking into purchasing a Ford Explorer please don't do it you will regret it in the long run!!!!!

Explorer LXT V8

• Automatic transmission
• 50,000 miles

My story is very similar to ones listed here. I woke one cold morning and found that the appliqué on my back hatch just below the glass window had vertical crack. No impact on the area, just cracked. I had one non-dealer repair est. at $470 but the local dealership would do the work for $270. Well that estimate was on December 15, 2006 and I'm still waiting on a call to let me know the parts are in.

Explorer Limited V-8

• Automatic transmission
• 106,059 miles

I see I am not the only one. I have actually had this crack for about 2 years now and have asked the dealer where I have purchased my explorer if there was anything that could be done about this? All I could do was get it replaced. I did not even bother to ask how much that would cost. I am hurt by this because I have had high hopes for my explorer when I bought it because I even went through the trouble of actually ordering my explorer and waiting 2 months for it to arrive (October 2002). In general I have been pleased with my Explorer, even overlooked a couple of it's flaws but this was the last straw. I will keep my Explorer but my next car WILL BE a Honda CIVIC. The Mustang will be my only reason for coming back to FORD, but that won't happen for a while.

Explorer XLS 4.0L V6

• Automatic transmission
• 109,000 miles

I just bought this Ford Explorer and I really like the SUV, but I do not like the fact that there are two cracks in the panel just below the back window. Would like to see it replaced, but I know I can not afford it and I feel this was a big mistake by Ford.

Explorer V6

• Automatic transmission
• 78,400 miles

Along with all the other complaints, i have a non-impact crack in the rear panel of our 4 door explorer. We had taken it to Don Davis and they stated they could not do anything. I provided pictures. Just one day a crack down the back. We have been long time Ford Customers, but we are on the verge of trading all in and moving to Honda

Explorer LXT V6

• Automatic transmission
• 55,000 miles

My fiancee and I just bought a 2003 Ford Explorer XLT less than a month ago. We noticed this weekend while in TN that there was a HUGE crack on the right side of the Ford emblem and a smaller one on the left side. We had not hit anything and NO rock could make that crack. Blah...

So I got online today to look at the possibilities other people might have come across. With that, I called the Ford Customer Care line to speak to a rep. She told me that I needed to take the Explorer into the Ford dealership and work with a service manager to have the problem looked at. While I am there, they would discuss with me the options of financial ways to take care of the problem. I am pretty sure that probably means I am going to be paying out of pocket for this...

I work for a Kia dealership, and I know that if ANYTHING happens like this, we fix the problem for the customer. I just can't believe after all the complaints that we have about this vehicle and the problem at hand that there is no other solution that has been given. I don't like it.

Explorer Eddie Bauer V6

• Automatic transmission
• 67,000 miles

I woke up one morning after the Christmas holidays (after a night of frost) and my car had not been driven in 3 days nor had it been in an accident to find a 12 inch crack down the rear panel on my lift gate under the rear window and around the Ford emblem. Called the dealership and was told that this is a common problem they see but Ford will not cover it nor have they done a recall on the problem. I was told I would have to pay out of my own pocket for the repair which would be around $550. My insurance will not cover it because it's considered a factory defect. I made a formal complaint to Ford Motor Co and they are blowing me off.

Explorer LTD V8

• Automatic transmission
• 62,000 miles

In the shop again! This time, the plastic panel just under the rear window of my 2003 Ford Exploder cracked from top to bottom, about 2 inches left of the logo emblem. There are two other cracks that are less obvious, but through and through, extending from the main crack and towards the emblem. The car was outside in the cold (25 degrees F) and I noticed it when I closed the rear window (not sure if it was caused during the close of the window or by itself. The crack is nearly 1/4 in. wide at the top and about 1/8 inch wide at the bottom. The entire panel seems to have shrunk lengthwise by 1/4 inch and relieved itself of the stress by shattering.

Explorer XLT V8

• Automatic transmission
• 23,735 miles

I called Ford myself and was told to bring it to a dealership, which I had already done but they were sold to another location before getting back to me with an answer.

When I take in to another Ford location, if they will not fix it without any cost to me, I will write a letter to Ford's Board of Directors. If I still don't get any satisfaction, I will go to the Consumer Advocate at one of the local TV stations and let them broadcast my story! That's something we all should do if Ford continues to say no.

Explorer 4.0

• Automatic transmission
• 50,000 miles

Some one is taking action
THANKS

Explorer XLT 3.2L V6

• Automatic transmission
• 45,000 miles

I went to Purvis Ford body shop ( Fredericksburg V. A.) and was told that they receive three to four a week with the same problem and no recall has been issued. $390.00 to fix it. BBB complaint to follow.

Explorer Eddie Bauer V6

• Automatic transmission
• 50,400 miles

I contacted Ford customer service last week concerning a crack in the rear lift gate. I was told to take it to a dealer to have it "evaluated", then call them back. I did that this morning. The cost would be $310.00 to replace the plastic piece on the back. Ford customer service kept me on hold for over 20 minutes only to inform me that since I had no warranty left, they could not help me. The dealer told me today that they replace these things on a regular basis. They replaced 3 last week and 2 the week before, with who knows how many in total. I told customer service that we had been loyal Ford customers and we expected Ford to step up to the plate and take care of this. He just told me that my only recourse would be to save my receipt and if there was a recall later on, we could get reimbursed!! How many of these need to be fixed before they consider recalling this liftgate. I told customer service that it was really no surprise that Ford sales are down, since they treat their customers like this. I told him that I would tell anybody who would listen that Ford customer service stinks and encourage them to buy something else. So, I thought I would start telling people today.

Explorer LS 3.2L V6

• Automatic transmission
• 41,000 miles

I got up this morning after the temperature here was 16 degrees last night and noticed mine was cracked. Has anyone had problems with the rest of the rear door with not fixing it? Also does anybody know if the dealership has started taking responsibility for this problem? Probably not.... that would be too convenient for the consumers.. the people paying their salaries. If anyone knows how I can get this fixed without paying out the ass for it let me know.

Explorer XT 4.0

• Automatic transmission
• 40,000 miles

Well I dont need to write it all out again!!!!!! Same as every single one on here. I live in Canada. Are there any other Canadians with this problem, with -30 temps lately im quite worried!!!!! also has anyone had luck with their dealerships? I certainly cannot afford to keep addressing a problem like this!

Explorer LX 3.2L V6

• Automatic transmission
• 66,000 miles

Just purchased this vehicle from my company. Drove as company car since new. The crack just appeared. They had one recall to replace the hinges on the rear windows of these vehicles. They should replace the window panels, again, as it is obviously a flaw in the material or design!

Explorer Eddie Bauer

• Automatic trans