Ford draws good sales numbers every year, but it’s still one you can buy. While low reliability doesn’t always have to be a deal breaker, it could mean you’ll pay higher annual maintenance costs for your car.
Fortunately, not all are created equal when it comes to reliability. If you’re looking for a used Ford Explorer, be careful to avoid these potential lemons.
, it seems that the latest models do not have many reported problems. However, the 2002 Ford Explorer is the worst with nearly 4,000 driver complaints. The more serious problem requires a , which typically occurs at 94,000 miles and costs $2,800.
Most drivers experienced delayed shifts and flashing O/D lights before the transmission failed altogether. CarComplaints users also say that the panel under the rear window on their 2002 Ford Explorer is guaranteed to crack eventually. It usually happens close to 80,000 miles, but luckily a new rear panel only costs about $450.
2. 2003 Ford Explorer
Just like the previous model year, CarComplaints users say the 2003 Ford Explorer is very prone to transmission problems. Although the transmission reportedly lasts about 10,000 more miles than last year, most mechanics recommend a complete rebuild eventually. The average driver pays about $2,320-$2,640 to replace the transmission.
Body and paint issues attracted the majority of complaints for this model year, most of which concerned the infamous rear panel. The paint on the hood and roof of this SUV shows noticeable peeling after 66,000 miles. The wheel bearings will likely fail before the 90,000 mile mark, and drivers are also reporting a number of strange electronic problems in the car.
3. 2004 Ford Explorer
CarComplaints says the Explorer’s problematic transmission continued to be an issue on the 2004 model, although fewer drivers needed a complete replacement. However, too many months of skidding gears and rough shifting are bound to wear down the transmission at a faster rate. One driver said his car only required a transmission solenoid replacement at $500.
Owners of this Ford Explorer still experience wheel bearing problems, cracked rear panels and peeling exterior paint. Some drivers have reported cracked door panels at 66,000 miles and severe body rust after about 80,000 miles. The 2004 Explorer is also prone to several interior problems, including a cracked sun visor and a flimsy shift lever.
4. 2005 Ford Explorer
The 2005 Ford Explorer is still as much of a clunker, according to CarComplaints. Despite hundreds of complaints, Ford still refused to recall this car’s transmission. Several drivers also experienced wobble in the transmission while the brakes were engaged and trouble shifting into reverse.
5. 2006 Ford Explorer
CarComplaints rates 2006 as the Explorer’s worst model year because so many low-mileage repairs are needed. Drivers have reported having transmission performance issues as early as 50,000 miles. Fortunately, it appears that many drivers have paid less for transmission repairs than drivers with .
You can usually avoid a drivetrain rebuild, although replacing some components can still cost an average of $1,900. Watch out for complete transmission failure around the 91,000 mile mark. Even the 2006 Ford Explorer usually needs its radiator replaced after just 64,000 miles.
The 2006 Explorer may also have some idle issues and potentially require a complete engine replacement at around 80,000 miles. You can save yourself several headaches (and thousands of dollars in repairs) by purchasing a manufactured Ford Explorer.
