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CarComplaints.com Notes: The 2003 Ford Explorer one of our worst vehicles on record. "Avoid like the plague" is putting it lightly.

The 2002-2005 Explorer has a very well-established record of expensive transmission failure at under 100k miles. The Explorer has an enclosed transmission which is typically replaced with a rebuilt transmission at a cost of almost $3,000.

Another common problem for the 2002-2003 Explorer is wheel bearing failure at around 90k miles, with a typical repair bill of $500 to $1000 depending on how many wheel bearings failed.

Adding insult to injury, the 2002-2005 Explorer also has a massive problem with the rear panel cracking. While it's a minor annoyance compared to transmission failure, ironically the crack usually goes right through the Ford logo.

Collapse Safety Ratings

NCAP 5-Star Crash Test & Rollover Safety Ratings

Driver FrontPassenger FrontDriver SidePassenger SideRollover
2003 Explorer 4-DR.**********************
2003 Explorer Sport 2-DR**
2003 Explorer Sport Trac**
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IIHS Crash Test & Rollover Safety Ratings

Good Acceptable Marginal Poor

2003 Ford Explorer 4-door SUV

Moderate Overlap FrontSmall Overlap DriverSmall Overlap PassengerSideRearRollover
G Overall
G Structure
G Head/Neck Injury
G Chest Injury
G Left Leg Injury
A Right Leg Injury
G Restraints
Full IIHS Moderate Overlap Crash Test report »
Not tested. Not tested. Not tested. Not tested. Not tested.

Ratings only apply to the model and body or seat type tested. The date of manufacture and optional safety equipment can affect results. For full details see www.iihs.org.

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