2002 model year changes?

[dadominate]

Thinking about getting a used 2002 explorer due in large part to a lot of the changes (safety, smoother ride, etc.) I've read about in this new generation of explorers. They sound nice on paper, but I don't know anyone who has one and am limited as far as first-hand opinions go. I could obviously save a lot of money getting an earlier model, and I was wondering how big a difference all these changes they made really make?

In particular, I was wondering if anyone noticed that the tendency to rollover has been noticeably reduced (ider, shorter dimensions) as is reflected in the test scores (increased from 2 stars to 3). I know most rollovers are due to driver error, but I was wondering whether the changes they made gave the new explorers a more stable feel. Also, any opinions on the reliability (transmission in particular) of the 2002+ models? Thanks!

 

[RedXplr]

The independent rear has made it much more car like on the road, better ride and handling...

I do not have experience with the new model but I have heard positive things about the new independent rear. However not as good off road, if that is something you would be considering.

 

[Interstate]

My '02 sport (oct '01) has a real heavy SUV feeling to it. I drove one of the new '04 X's and they are really smooth, and less SUV like.

Feel free to ask away about it.

 

[Robb]

The '02 Sport continued to be solid axle in the rear end (and remained that way until its death).

 

[IAmTodd]

The '02 has improved alot from its earlier generations. The ride is more carlike, but not overly soft like you see Trailblazers going down the road bobbing all over the place. I've driven my parents quite a bit and its nice for back roads and handles very well at speed. We have the 4.6L which is an awsome motor. Our last trip we got 17mpg which is 3 more than I get with my 5.0. If you look into one, definetly get the ones with the headrests on the front seats. They seem to give it more headroom. Atleast that was true comparing my parent's '02 to my sister's '02. Had much more headroom with my sis's who has the head rests. Of course you probably wouldn't have this problem if you're not 6' 2". The new one is just as recall plauged as the old ones. Ours has been in for numerous little things. The biggest was the tranny rebuild. Look into getting an extended warranty too. It may seem like alot when signing the papers, but when the problems start rolling in, you'll be glad you did. As in any car, go over it carefully and use common sense.

Good luck with your purchase, your choosing the best Explorer yet!

 

[kfkodiak]

I have a '98 XLT, and drive my parents' '03 Limited fairly often. The independent rear suspension does make a difference in ride quality, and while it seems a little more sluggish when it comes to handling, it is definitely more stable on the road. I honestly prefer to drive mine because the '03 feels much bigger and heavier to me, but it's all about what you're used to. I'd drive both the newer and older models, and see what feels best to you.

 

[Electrohacker]

if the IRS is anything like the ford IFS watch out for sand and dirt... sand builds up in the seals and causes leaks in the Diff...

I've never liked the independant susspension desigen... it lowers parts down that if struck could cause damage

 

[NusenseSD]

well I like mine..

When I test drove a 01 vrs the 02.. The 02 is wider, and the IRS makes it feel more planted when going around corners. Also since it is all strut style suspension it doesn't lean as much as with the coils and leafs..

Put it this way .. My mother liked mine so much my step father went out and got a 02 XLT..

 

[nevrsumr22]

I just got my 02 a couple weeks ago. It rides real nice but still has the truck feel to it. The only thing that I can compare it to is my buddies 1st gen that I rode in a lot back in high school. The 3rd row seat is the ****. I have had 6 in there 3 or 4 times and no complaints from any passenger. They loved it. I rode back there and it had good room. So I can say it does well on the road but as far as off road.........