CarComplaints.com Notes: 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.
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.
Faulty parts on these liftgates never ends. Ford won't help in Canada, so purchased the kit (which is cheaper since you should replace both). Did it myself in my garage, the kit didn't include the plastic washers for the glass, or new nut/washers for the hinge. So, did it the hard way, got it done but now have to disconnect hydralic rods to straighten out the liftgate. DON'T ATTEMPT IF YOU GET ANGRY QUICKLY. This is a pain but saves money and the fact that the liftgate could just pop off on the road. Also had to find a nut and washer for the left side since 1. It fell into the top of the tailgate and was 30min. of my life to get it out 2. It started to cross thread new hinge.
A D V E R T I S E M E N T S
Faulty parts on these liftgates never ends. Ford won't help in Canada, so purchased the kit (which is cheaper since you should replace both). Did it myself in my garage, the kit didn't include the plastic washers for the glass, or new nut/washers for the hinge. So, did it the hard way, got it done but now have to disconnect hydralic rods to straighten out the liftgate. DON'T ATTEMPT IF YOU GET ANGRY QUICKLY. This is a pain but saves money and the fact that the liftgate could just pop off on the road. Also had to find a nut and washer for the left side since 1. It fell into the top of the tailgate and was 30min. of my life to get it out 2. It started to cross thread new hinge.
- firesprayer, Monkland, Ontario, Canada