2003 Explorer: buy or not to buy

[scaredsilly]

Hey all,

I'm thinking about getting a 2003 explorer and I've got some questions. My wife already has a '03 Escape, so I'm wondering how different the 2 vehicles really are. How reliable is the 4.6 motor? I have a 2500 lb tent trailer that I'd be pulling as well. Any problem there? What kind of after market support is there for this engine? Supercharger etc? Weak links. Thanks all for the info and I apologize becuase I'm sure some of this is stuff that has been asked many times before...

I was going to attach a link to the dealer site, but that's not working. So: it's a Black 4dr 4.6l V8 with all the trimmings (DVD player, leather, 6disk changer etc)

 

[hitman17mk]

things i would look for is smooth shifting, axle whine, and wheel bearings, i bought mine last week and i think i have to replace the wheel bearings

 

[blichy]

The problem areas I have had are the transmission solenoids needing to be replaced at 75k miles (starting to feel a clunking shift once in a while again at just over 85k miles), and a leak in the a/c associated with the rear air (this was fixed at 30k miles under warranty, but is a problem again).

What kind of mileage and price for the Ex? For an '03 Limited, shouldn't be much more than $15-16k if mileage is reasonable (under 45k).

 

[valiantski]

I have a 2003 EB V8 (4.6L) Explorer and it is a solid vehicle. I have a little over 50K miles in it and still runs like new. I like everything in it. two minor things came up last year though, first was the clockspring shorted out at about 35K miles, then the DPFE sensor around 40K miles. Both were fixed under warranty and timely manner. Those were the only issues I had and I don't think you can go wrong for buying one as long as it is in the right price.
Good Luck!

 

[fprodget]

I tow a tent camper similar to yours with no problem. I have an 03 with V6 and factory towing package. Compared to my old subaru, I do not even feel the trailer back there.