2002 Explorer limited --- too many problems

[jonbangs]

I've been keeping my 2002 alive for almost 12 years now (bought with just under 30k, now has 150k miles) and within the past two years it has started to drop subsystems. 4wd first to go, then rear proximity sensor. My service station knew about the door sensor fix with WD40 which didn't make sense to me but it worked anyway!

I'm pretty good at mechanical things, having rebuilt several engines in the past and kept many cars running over my driving career. The DOOR-AJAR message is back and is not responsive to lube. Now the latest series of troubles has got me about to give up.

The last straw? The power windows stopped working. I've been reading in the forums about broken wires and many other things. I have the driver side door panel off but it does not appear that there are any broken wires. Pulling from the door side results in noises under the dash.

Oh, and I haven't been able to identify any fuses that would affect the power windows. What gives here ???

My wife is after me to look for a new(er) car, and I am close to giving in...

 

[Rick]

Check this thread:
2002 Explorer Power Window Problems

 

[96firephoenix]

rear windows only? have you looked at the rear-window child lockout switch? I know on my 02, it doesn't lock out the front passenger's side.

 

[LoquetusofBorg]

You will pay a lot more for a newer or different rig and know nothing about it, then you will just fixing this window problem. Don't get me I know the feeling of just getting Nicholed and dimed to death which may seem never ending, but the different rig will be most likely the same way after a while. With the economy the way it is I would just fix it other then financing another rig no matter what make or model. That's only in my opinion, others may disagree.

 

[Turdle]

If these repairs have you intimidated now, and I understand how they could, I am going to suggest bailing out now while you can. It's going to get much more challenging for you when the timing chains, ball joints or gears go south. At that point your truck will be totally worthless as a trade if it cannot be driven. At least now you have something. Clean it up the best you can and let the dealer find the problems on their own. Don't volunteer any negatives unless you are selling it yourself.

 

[jonbangs]

96firephoenix:
it's all four windows. In other threads I got an extensive education in driver-door related diagnosis. My problem turned out to be the most common one, a broken wire. I spliced in a new piece and all is well (for now). Door Ajar sensor is next, and 4WD before the winter snow. . .

Turdle:
I'm getting past my initial trepidation over taking this beast apart. The expert advice I've gotten from reading in this forum helps a lot. So I am plodding on, at least for a while. I am trying to put off the alternative as long as I can.

LoquetusofBorg:
I'm going to hang on as long as I can. I really enjoy driving this car/truck/whatchamacallit and looking for another is not going to be fun. I think I'd have to downsize. As long as I continue living where I do, I will need the traction of 4 wheels!

To all who've read this, props to every member of this board, and a million thanks for those intrepid driveway mechanics who have paved the way for me to get my hands dirty again (it's been a long time)!

Edit --
Rick:
I have gotten a lot of help from the forum to which you pointed me. Thanks for your concern and the timely comment!