Print this page

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.

6.7

fairly significant
Typical Repair Cost:
No data
Average Mileage:
113,350 miles
Total Complaints:
3 complaints

Most Common Solutions:

  1. not sure (3 reports)
2002 Ford Explorer lights problems

lights problem

Find something helpful? Spread the word.
Get notified about new defects, investigations, recalls & lawsuits for the 2002 Ford Explorer:

Unsubscribe any time. We don't sell/share your email.

2002 Ford Explorer Owner Comments

problem #3

Oct 212010

Explorer XLT V6

  • Automatic transmission
  • 150,000 miles

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

My brake lights won't turn off and I'm at work and can not leave. So I had to disconnect the battery to avoid a dead battery and will try to fix it tonight. UGH!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!

- Michelle M., San Diego, CA, US

problem #2

Jan 012006

Explorer LX

  • Automatic transmission
  • 60,000 miles

my lights are like a circus show they wont go off and i drive down the road te interior lights wont turn off when it rains or when its humid is this electrical problem?

- bidlerangela, Macomb, MI, US

problem #1

May 122010

Explorer

  • Automatic transmission
  • 130,000 miles

would just like some help to try to find a solution to this...can definately see going through batteries and lights if not corrected. Not to mention the sh*t if it won't start when you need to go to work in the morning

- Chuck N., Chicopee, MA, US

Not what you are looking for?