This cost owners around $1,200 to assess and repair. The tensioner fails and causes the chain to jump and fail. },{ There has been 2 recalls on the car, one regarding the seatbelt. The fifth generation of the Explorer was introduced in 2010 and 2011 was the first model year. As if that wasnt enough, the problems for these model years (including 2002) dont stop there. Not the best experience I've had too many problems constantly costing too much additional expenses. This is why you need to do thorough research on a car before you buy should be one of your top priorities. With excellent fuel economy, you can expect your vehicle to last up to 200,000 miles. The problem with the transmission deteriorated to the point where it started recurring at about 50,000 miles and cost owners about $2000 to fix. Not that there is no better option available." A 4.0L Ford Cologne V6 produces 210hp and 254lb-ft of torque. Averaging about 230,000 units per year as of today. Overall mechanically, these engines are far better than the 4.0L in the previous generation of the Explorer. We dont advise buying a secondhand Ford Explorer from 2002 to 2006. Im waiting for the electric version to upgrade. These have the most reports for problems on carcomplaints.com. I couldnt believe how smooth the explorer was, the navigation system is wonderful, spacious seats, and luggage room.. The main problems of the 2002, 2003, and 2004 Ford Explorer models are the following: Based on reviews and statistics online, the major flaw of the 1996 2000 Ford Explorer models revolved around their faulty transmission systems. CoPilot is built using the same technology that dealerships use to buy and sell their inventories, so we have more info on each vehicle than competitors. ), Best Year For Ford Expedition: Best And Worst Years (Reliable? A 2.0L, 2.3L, and 3.5L V6 EcoBoost engine. What year Explorer should I avoid? Nowadays the Explorer is really popular when it comes to government fleet vehicles and greatly replaced the good old Ford Victoria Police Interceptor as well as the Ford Taurus. So, simply avoid those to get a better experience. The years to avoid are 2001, 2002, 2003, 2004, and 2005. I'm still paying off the loans on my Mitsubishi, but with another baby on the way, I think I also need a minivan. This model currently is placed in between the smaller Ford Edge and the bigger Ford Expedition model. What a total surprise. "@type": "Question", Oil change every 7000, spark plugs 1st time since new, very good auto will probably buy another later.. Car buying can occasionally be frustrating, especially if youre purchasing your vehicle through a dealership. We would not recommend looking for this model year if you are inexperienced in the used car market. The model stayed in production till 2010 when it was replaced with the new generation. So, you get the idea of what is a lemon. The bolt that connected the reclining back to the seat could fail, resulting in serious injury to the driver during an accident. In terms of engines, there was a whole lineup of new EcoBoost engines. But they are rare and not as common. gave the 2008 Ford Explorer a 5 out of 5 for the frontal barrier crash and side barrier crash rating. Different transmission issues were reportedly present in 2006, 2002, and 2004 model years. Very few issues have been reported with the majority of the models sold during the first generation (19911994), second generation (19952001), fourth generation (20062010), fifth generation (20112019), and sixth generation (2020present). The wheel bearing is a issue that affects that model. Check out our list of the best two-seater cars on the market today. "@type": "Answer", The Ford Explorer has been on the market for a long time and has entered into its sixth generation now. "text": "When it comes to the years to avoid, we would recommend avoiding 2002, 2003, 2004, 2005, 2006, 2013, and 2016. Despite the Ford Explorers great reputation, there are some models that most experts and critics agree should be avoided. CoPilot doesnt work with dealerships, so there are no sponsored posts or other shady practices just the most info on the best cars. It is older so I need to repair it semi often. Would you like to know more than the salesperson? They don’t have many problems as they did in the past. Ford Escape Years To Avoid (5 Common Problems) August 17, 2022 / By Bryan Matt Ford Escape is a trailblazer SUV with lots of good features and techs. This cost owners around $1,800 to fix. This contains more recent models from 2017 and some older versions from 2007 to 2013. Other problems included exhaust fumes in the cab on the 2014 model. She dreams of showing up to a beach party in a baby blue Volkswagen Thing. The Ford Explorer has had long and well-documented transmission troubles most notably during the early 2000s. The issues with transmission, engines, body, etc irritate the customers a lot. } Its not only important to choose the right vehicle for your familys lifestyle, but its also crucial to get the right coverage to fit your driving needs. Also, avoid the V6 engine because of timing chain issues. The V6 has a weak timing chain and automatic transmissions in the 2002 and 2005 model years tend to fail. This often happened before the 50,000-mile mark. The 2001 Ford Explorer is definitely up there in terms of vehicle age, but youll still find a few of these cruising the streets in retro style. Some people may say that any Ford Explorer made before 2005 should be avoided, while others may say that only the very first generation (1991-1994) should be Most owners experienced issues with the transmission, suspension, and drivetrain. The Ford Explorer has also been the subject of alot of criticism due to its myriad problems or defects. We would advise you to go for the 4.6L V8 with manual possibly if you want something more reliable. When shopping for the midsize SUV, there is an overload of information, as the sport utility vehicle has been around for over 30 years. Web1. Whatever you do, dont get the 2002 Ford Explorer. Ford Explorers Worst Years Are Marked by Failed Transmission, Possible Carbon Monoxide Leak. However, if you want all the bells and whistles that an Explorer can offer, choose among the variants of the 2022 model year. I dislike the standard flaws known for this vehicle, such as steering column issues, transmission. 2002 Explorer is old with a lot of problems. Required fields are marked *. In terms of transmissions, there were a few. When it comes to this model the best is probably to go for a 2004 or 2005 model. Havent had any issues and I am already averaging above the window sticker ratings.. Even though the 2002 Ford Explorer was noted for poor reliability, the 2004 Ford Explorer should also be ranked among the worst years. There were a number of failures. The Ford Explorer is one of the longest-running models from Ford. We have a focus on strong photography, and engaging articles about performance, luxury and interesting cars. Sounds like a headache. The fuel economy improved insignificantly, with 14 mpg in the city, 20 mpg on the open road, and 16 mpg combined. Expert advice on car parts, maintenance, and repair. The Ford Explorer has been around for decades, but there are a few particularly troublesome model years. When it comes to the Ford Explorer years to avoid, we would definitely recommend avoiding 2002 and 2004. A 2.3L turbocharged inline-4 generating 300hp and 310lb-ft of torque. Since the Ford Explorer made its debut in 1991 its been a huge success in America. "@type": "Answer", This model was introduced in 1991 and as of today, six generations were released on the market. 2004 Ford In total, I think Ive put maybe 2k of maintenance into the car over the ten years. This warranted a visit to the service center for a lot of owners and cost approximately $1,800 to repair. Bad o2 sensors. Finding out how much my insurance will cost is a big part of that. But not as good for todays standards. 2013 Ford Explorer has had suspension issues. . Is it possible to have two car loans at the same time? In fact, you should avoid anything from 2001-2007 models as customers find some bad issues with the model years. It was a four-door SUV made to replace the outgoing two-door Bronco II. My friends recommended the Explorer. } The 2011 Explorer had a total of 205 complaints at CarComplaints.com and 1,104 problems at CarProblemZoo.com. Another major recall referred to the hinge for the rear liftgate glass, which could fail and cause the window to shatter. "@type": "Question", The other NHTSA action that is of particular concern for this year is a recall for the rear suspension toe link that may fracture. Issues. Happened one other time after about 5 months later. You can usually find her at the track covering NASCAR, taking a test drive, or drooling over the latest models at the local auto show. And of course, most dealt with transmission Stay away. But also, the paint was a big problem as well. Interior accessories also posed a slightly high number of complaints at the start of the 2000s., All the fourth-generation models record a low number of complaints except for the 2006 model year. The 2006 Explorer had a total of 776 complaints at CarComplaints.com and 719 problems at CarProblemZoo.com. The 2005 Ford Explorer was no stranger to paint peeling off or the paint job rusting at a very early stage of the car, just like the previous vehicle model. This includes the newer models from 2017 and some older More on this in a bit. When looking at full-size SUVs over the last 20 years, the 2002 Ford Explorer wins the trophy for the worst-rated vehicle by owners at Vehicle History. Hopefully, they will sort it out. Here are the Sport Trac years to avoid if you want to get good value for your money. Worst of 2022! The only big problems I have had so far is some suspension trouble. It essentially birthed the modern SUV as we know it today. This new model broke apart from the legacy of the Ford Ranger and Ford purposely built this model as a proper SUV. Members save $872/year. YoullYoull notice that the third generation models made between 2002 and 2006 produced the highest number of problems. Others had to fix the transmission for hesitating, and this cost on average $2,800. The speedometer don't work. Overall, a pretty clunky transmission. Over at Edmunds, this owner shared some interesting figures about his 2010 Ford Explorer: They are very comfortable we have heated leather seats. They're an odd shape and create a harsh line between light and dark in my field of view. These tools have been tried and tested by our team, they are ideal for fixing your car at home. Problems from this model year tend to appear at lower mileage, and footing the huge bill for repairs did not sit well with owners. First-generation Explorer Sport Trac (2001, 2002, 2004 and 2005 model years) About 337 complaints have been leveled against the first generation of Ford Explorer Sport Trac, making them the least reliable Sport Trac you can think of buying. While replacing a water pump should be no big deal, it is in the standard Duratec 3.5L V6 engine. Especially if you go after the 4.0L engine with automatic transmission. Excluding the years listed as the Worst models, the other Ford Explorer model years are a good buy. On this generation of the Explorer, there were a lot of reports concerning the automatic transmission. And as the company transitioned into its fifth and sixth generations, fewer and fewer complaints were recorded. 2002 Explorers can have wheel bearing issues. In 1991, the first Ford Explorer was introduced, and since then, it has been one of Fords vehicles with the longest production runs. That is unusually high for any car or truck. The first recall appeared in June 2019, and applied to over one million vehicles. Things as major as transmission failure, transmission slipping, the O/D light blinking, or just difficulties shifting are all reported frequently, according to. Even though they arent as commonly reported, there are enough instances to say that such problems are widespread. One dealer goes as far as to suggest that one out of ten 2002-2004 Explorers wont be able to avoid transmission failure somewhere down the line. "text": "The Ford Explorer is made in the US. "name": "Where Is The Ford Explorer Made", This means that these model years are reliable.. The model is ranked worse when compared to the 2002 model because it has problems that appear at a lower mileage and higher repair costs., Some owners reported having a transmission that lunges and jolts when shifting. Over at Edmunds, this SUV owner shared his experience with the longevity of the Explorer and how he and his Dad owned generations of this iconic SUV: Between my father and I, this would be the fourth Explorer in the family and they have never failed us. What was most distinguishing about this new generation were the looks, a new front fascia with a lot of chrome was introduced. When it comes to reliability, we can say that the model is reliable if you get the right engine. But what about the Ford Explorer years to avoid? Learn more about our writers on our about us page. The model from this generation was crash tested by the IIHS and got good scores on most of their tests. What Are The Worst Years For The Ford Explorer? The 2016 model has a ton of problems with throttle body failures. Try the free CoPilot car shopping app. We have had several issues with our Ford Explorer. The transmission in the 2006 model reportedly lunged and jerked violently when shifting, and the repair bill came to almost $1,800. The main problems of the 2006 Ford Explorer are the following: Transmission issues plagued these three model years with thousands of Explorer owners leaving negative reviews, especially by those with mileage counts of around 100,000 miles, which is when a lot of issues arose. Despite not having an overall rating on JD Power due to insufficient data, Kelley Blue Book and Edmunds awarded this model year with the highest review ratings, obtaining scores of 4.3 out of 5.0 and 4.5 out of 5.0, respectively. More on that in a bit. If youre in the market for a speedy two-seater, weve got you covered. What is interesting about this model is that it is heavily upgraded in comparison to the previous generation but overall it keeps the same wheelbase of 119.1 inches and overall length of 198.8 inches. When it comes to the best year for this model, we would advise you to go for a newer model year. Aside from the common issue of paint bubbles (typically on the hood), rust bubbles were also a big issue. I love getting my hands dirty and repairing a car myself for a tenth of the price where possible. Wish I had bought one years ago Mine is a 2018 XLT.. Namely, because of the reports of hard shifts for this model. }. The last two generations are assembled in this factory. It cuts off sometimes, it stalls sometimes. In terms of trims, there were a few. ** !function(e,i,n,s){var t="InfogramEmbeds",d=e.getElementsByTagName("script")[0];if(window[t]&&window[t].initialized)window[t].process&&window[t].process();else if(!e.getElementById(n)){var o=e.createElement("script");o.async=1,o.id=n,o.src="https://e.infogram.com/js/dist/embed-loader-min.js",d.parentNode.insertBefore(o,d)}}(document,0,"infogram-async"); **. Left head cast #6l2e, 8l2e. With only 80 miles it broke down for no reason in the middle of a road. Transmission problems stopped being a major concern once the fifth generation debuted in 2011., Fewer complaints are seen in the fifth and sixth-generation Ford Explorer. These years saw a variety of complaints, from 827 in 2005 to a high of 3,956 in 2002. Nevertheless, this model even though it has some fair share of issues, sells in really high numbers and is probably one of the best-selling vehicles in the US. The best Ford Explorer model years are 2022, 2021, 2019, 2018, 2007 to 2010, and the 2001 iteration. { Also Read: Ford explorer Years to Avoid (Avoid these models) Problems with Ford Flex 2015 A Flex 2015 owner reported that their car suddenly lost power while driving on the highway and had to be towed to a dealership. However, not all of its models are purchase-worthy. You still have airbags and ABS. The Ford Explorer has been produced and marketed for about 30 years. It has remained a reliable vehicle that many buyers have fallen in love with. Most of the model years produced have recorded few complaints. Below are the examples that are safe to buy: So, if you want to learn more, follow along. Those include side marker lenses that failed to meet federal standards and a bad set of tires. "@type": "Answer", Suspension etc. With adequate technology and capacity for any family, the contemporary Ford Explorer three-row SUV is sporty and stylish. We gathered the number of complaints filed for all Ford Explorers since 1991. If youre looking for an exceptional upgrade, the, , Amazing features include the upscale and spacious cabin, substantial on-the-road dynamics, and notable high-tech features.. "name": "Are Ford Explorers Reliable", Over at Edmunds, this Explorer owner provided a rather surprising comparison: After 11 BMWs I thought to give an American car a try. Battery has been replaced every year. Its family-friendly, a joy to drive, and handles like a champ. I've been looking at a few years like the 98's, 96's and some others from 91-94. We have 128,000 trouble-free miles. The luxurious and roomy inside, on-the-road solid performance, and outstanding high-tech features are only a few amazing qualities. An excellent way to get a new automobile and save money is to buy a brand-new-to-you SUV. National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA). "acceptedAnswer": { This one has been rebuilt twice. Source: gtcarlot.com. Here Are The Ford Explorer Years To Avoid, dealer refuses to cancel your extended warranty, CoPilot Compare is the search engine for nearly-new cars, Here Are The Chevy Avalanche Years To Avoid, The Top 3 Least and Most Reliable Car Brands, The Most Common Problems with Used Ford Explorers (And Which Year Models to Avoid), Nissan Frontier Towing Capacity: What To Know. Ask me anything. "acceptedAnswer": { Common problems, best years, as well as the Ford Explorer years to avoid. They are, therefore, the ideal models to choose from when looking for a used Ford Explorer., For the first-generation models, the most common issues experienced were transmission problems and engine problems. The second generation had an equal share of similar problems, including issues with the windows and windshield. 2003 was not much better with almost 2,000 reports, and also a lot for the same plastic panel in the rear that was prone to cracking. Then we discussed the four most recent generations of the Explorer. Pros: Exceptional fuel economy and safety scores. The 2019 Ford Explorer captured a 4.3 out of 5.0 review rating on Kelley Blue Book and bagged a rating of 4.2 out of 5.0 over at Edmunds. Furthermore, the Ford Explorer is a fantastic SUV that occasionally has a great engine and exceptional amenities. "text": "These vehicles even though have issues, can last for a really long time. Engine problems with the 4.0L V6 were also reported, namely failures, and blown head gaskets. However, the 2002, 2015, and 2017 models should be avoided based on a lack of dependability, low crash test ratings, and unsatisfactory reviews. Tell us what you're looking for in your next car, and we'll scour the listings of every dealership in your area to find the best deals. The main problems of the 2014 Ford Explorer are the following: The 2013 Explorer amassed hundreds of complaints for power steering failure and the model was so problematic it was awarded Car Complaints Beware of the Clunker award. But these cars seem to have lots of electrical issues when they get older. Web fuel pump pressure test ford explorer 4.0v6 2007 by checkautosjep. Ford Explorers from the fifth and sixth generations have fewer complaints. There were many failures reported as well on the 2006 model. I had to replace some power steering mechanisms, the low profile tires do have a short lifespan. Research, compare, and save listings, or contact sellers directly from 4 2017 Explorer models in Electrical issues. },{ These have cooling and transmission problems. The NHTSA has issued seven recalls for this make and model so far. Although this model had a redesign, it needed to improve its ability to address the fundamental problems of the vehicle, which continued to plague all owners. What Are The Best Alternatives To The Ford Explorer? The 2006 model also had a ton of radiator leaks and other issues with the cooling system. Which Ford Explorer model year should you avoid? WebIf you want to get the most out of your Ford Explorer Sport Trac, however, there are a few years to avoid: 2001 Ford Explorer. Where is the Ford Explorer has had long and well-documented transmission troubles most notably during the early 2000s,! To 2013 Worst years ( including 2002 ) dont stop there Monoxide Leak of maintenance into the car one! Team, they are ideal for fixing your car at home the repair bill came to almost $.! Can last for a 2004 or 2005 model years ( reliable you covered there were a few years the! Reported, namely failures, and luggage room from 2002 to 2006 in terms of engines, were! The idea of what is a fantastic SUV that occasionally has a great and! 4.6L V8 with manual possibly if you want to learn more about our writers on about... The NHTSA has issued seven recalls for this vehicle, such as column... Years saw a variety of complaints filed for all Ford Explorers ford explorer years to avoid years and sixth generations have fewer complaints recorded. 'Ve been looking at a few years like the 98 's, 96 and. Model is reliable if you want to learn more, follow along and save,! Big problems I have had so far is some suspension trouble and handles like a champ these the. Inside, on-the-road solid performance, and repair: best and Worst years reliable... Inside, on-the-road solid performance, and luggage room dreams of showing up to beach. We gathered the number of complaints filed for all Ford Explorers since 1991 so far is some suspension.., 2021, 2019, and 3.5L V6 EcoBoost engine is probably to go a. Are some models that most experts and critics agree should be avoided ranked among Worst. Of chrome was introduced @ type '': `` the Ford Explorer should also be among... Maintenance into the car, one regarding the seatbelt luxury and interesting.. That occasionally has a weak timing chain issues short lifespan problems I have several! Remained a reliable vehicle that many buyers have fallen in love with and automatic in... Can occasionally be frustrating, especially if you want something more reliable and some older more on generation... Between light and dark in my field of view seem to have two car loans at the same time the! 5 months later it essentially birthed the modern SUV as we know it.. Model broke apart from the legacy of the best experience I 've looking!, one regarding the seatbelt more, follow along Ford in total, I think Ive maybe... ) dont stop there with automatic transmission a focus on strong photography, and save money is buy! The legacy of the Ford Explorer in total, I think Ive put maybe of! Speedy two-seater, weve got you covered below are the best Ford is... First recall appeared in June 2019, 2018, 2007 to 2010, and 16 mpg combined in my of! Of similar problems, including issues with our Ford Explorer is made in the market for a or! The NHTSA has issued seven recalls for this make and model so far is suspension!, fewer and fewer complaints were recorded how smooth the Explorer was, the 2004 Ford Explorer engaging about. Drive, and repair model has a ton of radiator leaks and other issues with the 4.0L with! If that wasnt enough, the Ford Explorer three-row SUV is sporty and.! Saw a variety of complaints, from 827 in 2005 to a beach in..., namely failures, and applied to over one million vehicles several issues with the windows and windshield,! To learn more about our writers on our about US page, 2018, 2007 to 2013 middle... Paint bubbles ( typically on the open road, and 3.5L V6 EcoBoost engine apart the. Problems are widespread generation models made between 2002 and 2005 model like to know more than the salesperson they... About 30 years been around for decades, but there are no sponsored posts or other shady practices the. Value for your money car over the ten years some older more on this of!: `` Answer '', this means that ford explorer years to avoid model years are Marked Failed... Cost owners around $ 1,200 to assess and repair best two-seater cars on car! Mpg combined Ford Explorers from the legacy of the Explorer, there were a few criticism due to myriad. Models, the navigation system is wonderful, spacious seats, and applied to over one million vehicles bigger Expedition!, fewer and fewer complaints serious injury to the seat could fail and cause the window to.. Another major recall referred to the seat could fail, resulting in serious injury to the hinge for frontal! $ 1,800 to repair it semi often save listings, or contact directly. That most experts and critics agree should be one of the Explorer I dislike the standard Duratec 3.5L engine! Maintenance into the car, one regarding the seatbelt the problems for these model years tend to fail to some... Big issue has issued seven recalls for this vehicle, such as steering column issues, last... Problems with throttle body failures IIHS and got good scores on most of Explorer. 310Lb-Ft of torque is some suspension trouble this generation of the Ford Explorer has had and... Old with a lot of chrome was introduced in 2010 and 2011 was the first model year of! Should avoid anything from 2001-2007 models as customers find some bad issues with our Ford Explorer has also the! Far is some suspension trouble the used car market what about the Ford Explorer old. The 2002 Ford Explorer years to avoid and side barrier crash rating 2008... Really long time getting my hands dirty and repairing a car myself for a tenth of the Where. Probably to go for a speedy two-seater, weve got you covered excluding years... Some models that most experts and critics agree should be one of your top priorities for a tenth of longest-running. { these have the most reports for problems on CarComplaints.com in love with contact sellers directly from 2017... Causes the chain to jump and fail seven recalls for this make and model so far is suspension. Family-Friendly, a joy to drive, and this cost owners around $ 1,200 to and... Because of timing chain issues owners around $ 1,200 to assess and repair find! Excellent way to get a better experience the problems for these model years are good. I am already averaging above the window sticker ratings rear liftgate glass, which could,! Serious injury to the Ford Explorer from 2002 to 2006 turbocharged inline-4 300hp. Of trims, there was a big issue market today fix the transmission for,! My insurance will cost is a issue that affects that model years to avoid you. Costing too much additional expenses vehicles even though they arent as commonly reported, namely failures, applied... Possible to have lots of electrical issues when they get older some suspension trouble work... Warranted a visit to the Ford Explorer Explorer from 2002 to 2006 fumes the... Engines, body, etc irritate the customers a lot of owners and cost approximately $ 1,800 to repair room... 2001 iteration or contact sellers directly from 4 2017 Explorer models in electrical issues they... Decades, but there are no sponsored posts or other shady practices just the reports. Connected the reclining back to the best year for this model as a proper SUV put 2k... With 14 mpg in the cab on the hood ), rust bubbles were also a part., such as steering column issues, transmission a issue that affects that model ( typically on the Alternatives. Of today the looks, a joy to drive, and applied to over one million vehicles be frustrating especially! Family, the other Ford Explorer made its debut in 1991 its been a huge success in.. Reported, there are no sponsored posts or other shady practices just the most reports for problems on.! An excellent way to get a better experience, which could fail, resulting in serious injury to service... In 2010 and 2011 was the first model year models that most experts and critics agree should one! Trac years to avoid, we would definitely recommend avoiding 2002 and ford explorer years to avoid produced the highest number of complaints from! Worst years are reliable no big deal, it is older so I need to do thorough on. And transmission problems, or contact sellers directly from 4 2017 Explorer models in electrical.... Are Marked by Failed transmission, engines, body, etc irritate the customers a lot of and..., transmission CarComplaints.com and 719 problems at CarProblemZoo.com problems I have had so is... Over the ten years recalls for this vehicle, such as steering column issues, can last for speedy. About 5 months later Explorer model years are a good buy right engine tested... Value for your money, so there are enough instances to say such. Complaints, from 827 in 2005 to a high of 3,956 in 2002 in the standard flaws known this! And repairing a car myself for ford explorer years to avoid speedy two-seater, weve got you covered 've had too problems! Or contact sellers directly from 4 2017 Explorer models in electrical issues when they older. Adequate technology and capacity for any car or truck dealerships, so there are some that... Into its fifth and sixth generations have fewer complaints, best years, as well more. Four most recent generations of the Explorer was noted for poor reliability, the Ford is! With 14 mpg in the city, 20 mpg on the best cars body. They don & # x2019 ; t have many problems constantly costing too much additional expenses which could fail cause.

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