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.
A D V E R T I S E M E N T S
There is a noticeable whining noise eminating from the rear differential when at highway speeds. The whining decreases when letting off the throttle.
- legendlcox, Williamsport, PA, US