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.
Hit so hard going into reverse, I thought I hit something or someone. Some kids were walking to school and were right behind the truck, about give me a heart attack.
Truck hangs up then speeds off. No control. Hit garage door. It is totaled. Hit a 1985 Buick LTD in rear end. Insurance won't repair. Ford should be responsible for both vehicles.
Tranny failed @ 85,000 miles, Ford dealer said to replace @ $4000, Aamco in Temecula rebuilt for $2600 in mid 2014.
Wife complained about sudden lurch into reverse causing tire chirp, took back to AAMCO in Oct 2014, they kept for a day and said they fixed it. Problem was still there, didn't have time to go back, just ignored it.
In May 2015, wife unable to get car in gear, wouldn't engage. I tired every gear combination for 10 minutes and was unable to get it engage. Called tow truck, went to lunch, came back, started up and was able to engage, cancelled tow truck and drove to Aamco, they kept for two days, then said they were unable to duplicate problem. They were quite rude and argumentative. Drove home with same problem.
last of my long list of issues with this paticular explorer that was NEW when i bought it. my FIRST NEW CAR!!!!!!! with problems that started at 400 miles!!!!!!!!!!!! no warranty. and my transmission slips, lurches forward after a full stop. haven't fixed it yet so don't know how much this new problem is going to cost. can't use the lemon law because all the little annoyances don't fall under that protective law. I think I just got a car that was assembled by a bunch of idiots!!!!. since I happen to love the explorer. it is a beautiful car. just a disaster waiting to happen.!
The car jumped while my foot was on the brake, causing me to hit a pole behind me. It has also done this while I was in drive, with my foot on the brake, but fortunately I didn't hit anyone. Dealership could not find any problem
A D V E R T I S E M E N T S
Hit so hard going into reverse, I thought I hit something or someone. Some kids were walking to school and were right behind the truck, about give me a heart attack.
- Ty T., Manila, AR, US