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 really crappy part about this issue is the average Joe can't fix it without some specialized tools and the repair cost is going to be about one tenth of the vehicles current value! Way too common a problem not to be recalled
At 38000 mi had an inspection done and was told the right front wheel bearing was going bad and would need replaced. Called FORD, they stated... it ceased to be under warranty at 36000 mi and would cost me nearly $500, yikes. Instead i went to autozone and purchased one just under $300 and did myself. Now at 48000, the left front wheel bearing is whining and needs replaced. I prefer driving my 28mpg 1995 intrepid with 150,000 mi., never needed to replace any wheel bearings on it or much of anything else. This Explorer was my first....and last FORD.
- David E.,
Sherman, NY, US
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The really crappy part about this issue is the average Joe can't fix it without some specialized tools and the repair cost is going to be about one tenth of the vehicles current value! Way too common a problem not to be recalled
- Doug D., Tavares, FL, US