Print this page

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.

8.0

pretty bad
Typical Repair Cost:
No data
Average Mileage:
55,000 miles
Total Complaints:
1 complaints

Most Common Solutions:

  1. recall for the front upper ball joints (1 reports)
2003 Ford Explorer suspension problems

suspension problem

Find something helpful? Spread the word.
Get notified about new defects, investigations, recalls & lawsuits for the 2003 Ford Explorer:

Unsubscribe any time. We don't sell/share your email.

2003 Ford Explorer Owner Comments

problem #1

Feb 032007

(reported on)

Explorer 4.0

  • Automatic transmission
  • 55,000 miles

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

Verify the front end suspension every week for unsafe situation until repair before using your explorer, also the rear door should be completely replaced. First crack around 12,000 miles.

- Luis P., Cayey, PR, Puerto Rico

Not what you are looking for?