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.
The gas pedal on this explorer is a big concern. We never let someone borrow the car without explaining this to them. You can NEVER get the car to move forward slowly. The gas pedal is so sensitive. We think the problem is this: you depress the gas pedal a little, it doesn't respond immediately, you naturally press a little harder, and suddenly you are burning rubber. We have three drivers in our family and even knowing about this problem, we often lurch forward and peel out from a stop sign. It's ridiculous!
A D V E R T I S E M E N T S
The gas pedal on this explorer is a big concern. We never let someone borrow the car without explaining this to them. You can NEVER get the car to move forward slowly. The gas pedal is so sensitive. We think the problem is this: you depress the gas pedal a little, it doesn't respond immediately, you naturally press a little harder, and suddenly you are burning rubber. We have three drivers in our family and even knowing about this problem, we often lurch forward and peel out from a stop sign. It's ridiculous!
- Deb K., Caldwell, ID, US