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CarComplaints.com Notes: The 2002 Ford Explorer is hands-down our worst vehicle 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:
50,000 miles
Total Complaints:
2 complaints

Most Common Solutions:

  1. not sure (2 reports)
2002 Ford Explorer windows / windshield problems

windows / windshield problem

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2002 Ford Explorer Owner Comments

problem #2

Oct 172008

Explorer EX 4.6L V8

  • Automatic transmission
  • 50,000 miles

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

After Ford recall on rear lift gate window was done, a leak appeared. A call to local Ford dealer said he has not heard of a case.

- J W., Federal Way, WA, US

problem #1

Nov 192007

Explorer XLT

  • Automatic transmission
  • 50,000 miles

Got the rear liftgate hinge recall repair done. Now a leak has developed at the top of the liftgate which drips into my cargo liner. The rear wiper and defrost have quit working, possibly caused by the leak.

- forensicoo7, Wyandotte, MI, US

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