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
Transmission would not shift into reverse. It finally caught on the 5th or 6th try and then nearly threw me through the windshield.
- Michelle M., Burkesville, KY, US