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.
We'll, on the 3rd alternator now since I bought it in 2008.. I know parts wear out and things need replacing, but this is just ridiculous! I had to buy two within the same year of each other.. Another issue Ford knows about and won't fix
Wife was coming down to welcome me back from a deployment when the charging system light and warning came on. She was able to get it to Ford when she got off the freeway. They didn't have a new alternator on hand, had us buy a used one for $500! They also charged her for diagnostics at $100. This is the second alternator within the year!
On a road trip with the wife, charging system light and HUD display messages started coming on then off. Stayed off then the vehicle electronics all turned off suddenly. Looked like the car shut off, but the motor was still running. All gauges were zeroed out. Drove it to the next exit. And it died as we pulled into a repair shop. They offered to check it out, then found a new alternator to install.
I've had to replace the alternator on this 2005 Explorer 3 times already only had it for 6 years. First year was 2007 then 2009 and now I just had to replace it again on Friday Jan. 6, 2012. I am so sick of this truck it is ridiculous. I had to replace 2 front wheel bearings on the vehicle. I am going to trade it in for a foreign vehicle. I tried to do domestic for 10 years and they just don't cut it anymore. My next vehicle will definitely be a Nissan or Toyota vehicle..
As i said before its a pain in the ass when you buy something brand new and you have major problems. within the last year 1/2 i have replaced the brakes front and rear,4 new tires,an alternator, a battery and now the newest problem the whole heating system. Money dont grow on trees when you have a car payment now warrenty and you are paying out of pocket to fix these things. I think i have a lemon
A D V E R T I S E M E N T S
Alternator failed for second time, but was able to be exchanged for another rebuilt alternator. Required only labor charges to replace.
- Adam S., El Cajon, CA, US