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.
Built Ford tough my butt. The interior is weak as hell. The plastic covering where the recline lever is broke off a little so when i get in and out the truck the handle and lumber support knob snaps off on the ground. It got so annoying i just left them off and keep the in the door panel when i need them. i figured Locktite or strong super glue will solve the problem but i havent even bothered. Other than that love the truck.
The 2005 Ford Explorer XLT 3rd row is accessible by lowering the 2nd row seat, yet the handle to 2nd row seat on the right side where you should be able to get out plastic handle is cracked in several areas.
Now I am letting kids out on the street side because this broke, would not mind replacing the handle but $68.99 that is ridiculous and trying find a universal part is out the question.
Why why would such a very vital piece of safety be made of plastic on a metal rotating lever.
levers to recline seats broke..First the passenger then about 2 months later the drivers side broke..They are plastic and just snap on so i installed them myself..I think the cost was about $20 each. passenger one breaks again in less than a week and drivers side soon after that..Levers dont actually break though..They strip the plastic splines and lever just hangs there loosley..I removed them and filled the stripped splines with epoxy and slipped them back on befre the epoxy set up and I have had no more problem with them..
- Jeff M.,
Duluth, GA, US
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Another broken part on this Explorer. If you enjoy working on cars and learning how to fix things then this is the car for you.
- Dan M., Hanover Park, IL, US