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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.

10.0

really awful
Typical Repair Cost:
$600
Average Mileage:
96,000 miles
Total Complaints:
1 complaints

Most Common Solutions:

  1. replace radiator (1 reports)
2003 Ford Explorer cooling system problems

cooling system problem

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2003 Ford Explorer Owner Comments

problem #1

May 012012

Explorer LT V6

  • Automatic transmission
  • 96,000 miles

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

I had two related problems at the same time so it was difficult to diagnose properly. The thermostat broke and there was leak in the radiator. Did one cause the other?

- Thanda P., Seal Beach, CA, US

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