CarComplaints.com Notes: The 2004 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 2002-2005 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.
8.7
pretty bad
Typical Repair Cost:
$230
Average Mileage:
94,650 miles
Total Complaints:
3 complaints
Most Common Solutions:
dealer must re-initialize in order for car to work (3 reports)
I have reset my security pass-code three times and this will be my forth time doing so, why can't I just disarm it? I am driving down the road and it cuts off on me almost causing a wreck. I have over four keys to this vehicle because when they reset it they have to give me a new key. I use to love Ford but after tonight I think she will be sold or traded for a Chevy! Ford tough my ass!
Thank god the people behind me were not speeding because they would have rammed my truck pretty good.
this is something that the DEALER must repair. NO ONE else can put the code in. all i needed was a new battery but had to pay over $300 for that. IT HAS TO BE A DESIGN FLAW!! My car lost the code after i had about 300 miles (only had it 6 weeks!) and dealer had to re-initialize (Ford's word) it then.
- Shirley B.,
Memphis, TN, US
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A D V E R T I S E M E N T S
Second time this issue has happened.
Ending up in an expensive tow to the not so near ford dealership.
- Alex R., Berlin, NH, US