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.
I believe the transmission downshifts too easily, just a slight upgrade causes an increase of 1000 rpm from 2000 rpm. The dealer's service manager says it is normal.
A D V E R T I S E M E N T S
I believe the transmission downshifts too easily, just a slight upgrade causes an increase of 1000 rpm from 2000 rpm. The dealer's service manager says it is normal.
- george h, Wellington, NV, US