Do 2004s have a lot of problems?

[jd92887]

Just wanting to know your opinion on 2004s. I know 2002s have a lot of problems.
I am looking at a 04 Xlt with all options. It has 155000 miles. And they are asking 5500 cash

 

[Teejay4490]

I'd say less than the 2002 explorer, im basing this off of the fact that 2002 was the first year of the 3rd gen body style, therefore kinks had to be worked out. My 05 has had a couple of issues but they can all be attributed to me driving with a lead foot and having oversize tires.

 

[Wills05xlt4x4]

My mom has a 04 4.0 4x4 and its held up great even with her lead foot...

 

[HiImBrian]

As long as you take care of your ride you shouldn't have any problems...

 

[2002GreyHD150]

like any vehicle, especially any with a forum, you are going to hear all the horrific stories and then the heart warming personal attachment stories...

Its all relative. First 1-2 model years of a new platform = growing pains. However in '04-'05 you had "evolution" with Drive-by-Wire 4.6L engines, changes in transmission, transfer case and other items... none of this is bad, just DIFFERENT...

the 3r Gen in general all years included, regardless of engine:

* Transmissions: gotta service them like an **** retentive accountant. Period... if a used 3rd Gen doesn't have transmission service or rebuild/replace info I would be concerned.

* Ball Joints: the entire run 02-07(?) were horrible about chewing up, especially upper, ball joint boots = failures from water, grime, etc.. fairly easy to replace, relatively modest cost. Also be aware that O'reilly and autozone offer NEW control arms for less than the cost of the bushings and ball joints... your LABOR is expensive.

* 02-03 for sure some very early '04s Broken Coil springs. The aftermarket just pooped on us in general as there is ONE decent "performance" minded strut replacement, the KYB GR2 which is not performance minded at all. LOTS of "quick-strut" options. Be aware and do research... Struteck & others actually "raise" the truck...

*Brakes: My wife's '04 Monty had warped front rotors in the first 17,000 miles. I have the same replacement dimpled/slotted rotors and on my 4th set of pads now... 183K on the clock. The Ford OE rotors were sub-standard in material spec. Front rotors warp EASILY. Look for proof of brake work.

* All 3rd gens: Class action law suit over rear lift gate cracks. If the rear lift gate is virgin, its been replaced and painted by now.

* Paint peeling: roofs between the roof racks, especially 02-early '04.

Those are the MAJOR thoughts... and honestly they are all minor with a decent tool selection and a good weekend of dirty knuckles and celebratory beers.

Rob

 

[Teejay4490]

Yeah what he said^^

 

[jd92887]

i went to look at it today, and it looks very clean in and out, it has the v6.
there are a couple spots like a crack in the bumper cover and small crack in paint, and the passenger window doesnt roll down or up with either switch.
it will need new tires for winter. I couldnt test drive it today, because they didnt have the dealer plate there, but i will test drive it tomorrow, and if it goes good, make an offer on it.