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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.
6.8
fairly significant- Typical Repair Cost:
- $1,250
- Average Mileage:
- 86,250 miles
- Total Complaints:
- 8 complaints
Most Common Solutions:
- not sure (6 reports)
- replace module, change transfer case fluid, buy 4 new tires (2 reports)
drivetrain problem
Helpful websites
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A D V E R T I S E M E N T S
Transfer case and wheel hubs were making a massive clunking sound and a whine from the gears or something. Felt like AWD was engaging and disengaging on its own and made a big clunk and the car lurched whenever this happened. Required that I purchase 4 new tires and had an expensive service done on the transfer case, which also involved changing the fluid and adding an additive to it.
- Howard H., Brookline, MA, US