just got a 03 explorer, anything i need to know??

[greentip]

just got my wife a 03 eddie bauer explorer, 4x4 ,4.0 , 76k miles, 1 owner, blue and tan, anything i should check, change or service? I want it to last!! and YES my rear hatch is CRACKED! just noticed it. thinking of adding wheels??, tag bracket for front, and emblems on doors,tinting front two windows, idk??

 

[abarkl]

I'm the original owner of an '03 EB 4x2 with 88,000 miles blue and tan. I've had good luck with mine and no major repairs needed. I did have to replace the thermostat, tires, alignment, and the cracked rear hatch cover.
I do all my own maintenance, and recommend using the owner's manual to perform the 75000 interval on yours. I typically replace all fluids, tires, plugs, wash and wax used vehicles when I purchase them.

 

[Verno]

Since it is used, first thing to do would be change ALL your fluids, and after the winter is over, get your cooling system flushed. While you're changing fluids you can do a visual inspection of belts & hoses, check brake fluid, etc.
Also take a good look at battery and cables.
Basic PREVENTATIVE maint is always the best bet, it is like getting a flu shot for the young-un - saves on down the road expenses!

Most importantly though is to ENJOY your Ex!!!

 

[thepotroast]

Since it is used, first thing to do would be change ALL your fluids, and after the winter is over, get your cooling system flushed. While you're changing fluids you can do a visual inspection of belts & hoses, check brake fluid, etc.
Also take a good look at battery and cables.
Basic PREVENTATIVE maint is always the best bet, it is like getting a flu shot for the young-un - saves on down the road expenses!

Most importantly though is to ENJOY your Ex!!!

Verno hit that right on the head. The very first thing I did with my 03 was have all the fluids changed, including the transmission and the transfer case. I eventually got around to changing my rear diff fluid when the all-too-common rear diff whine started happening.

The 03 is a good year, there are some common issues with the year, but you have a strong truck there.

 

[bex]

has the trans been repaired? New wheel bearings?

If not, save some money on the side for it.

 

[Adog]

'03 Explorer

We have an '03 we bought new and just something to keep an ear out for is a slight roar in the front. It happened to us between 100k and 125k miles. It starts out kinda low and gradually gets worse. The front bearings will usually be the culprit. The whole hub assembly comes together and some have the sensor cable and some do not. Overall its been and still is a good ride.

 

[Equnoxe]

id say change all the fluids and put in top of the line, then follow regular maintenance. that's what i did when i got mine and its peen perfect ever since

 

[CALDWELL]

just saying... might wanna consider synthetic oil since your now running a " high mileage " vehicle. it will make the engine run smoother, and it will help a little bit with mpg...

have fun fella ! you will get attached to it... mines waiting for the body shop to perform surgery or put her to sleep. i miss my X way to much lol...

 

[greentip]

thanks guys

thanks for all quick and good advice guys , i have 2000 more miles on this oil change and i will send it in for full fluid change from front to rear,and maybe fix the dreaded "CRACK" , glad i found this site, gonna be very helpfull, got the 4wd at a good time we just got 4 inches of new snow last nite here in NC. ok everyone have a good day!!!, and thanks again!!

 

[mountaineer02]

just got my wife a 03 eddie bauer explorer, 4x4 ,4.0 , 76k miles, 1 owner, blue and tan, anything i should check, change or service? I want it to last!! and YES my rear hatch is CRACKED! just noticed it. thinking of adding wheels??, tag bracket for front, and emblems on doors,tinting front two windows, idk??

For the crack, I would search the threads, theres a number you can call to push for a recall