Looking at an 02 EB

[LiftemHigh]

As the title states I'm looking at a 2002 Eddie Bauer Explorer 4.6L 4x4 w/98k miles. It looks like it was very well taken care of. I was just asking what I should be looking for before I buy it. They are only asking 6700 which is the main reason for wanting it.

Thanks.

 

[techieman33]

Make sure you don't hear any noise coming from the rear diff, and that none of the coil springs are broken. 02 was the first model year for the 3rd gen explorer and they have had a lot of problems. So unless your sure it's a really good deal I would probably move on.

 

[shadowless127]

As the title states I'm looking at a 2002 Eddie Bauer Explorer 4.6L 4x4 w/98k miles. It looks like it was very well taken care of. I was just asking what I should be looking for before I buy it. They are only asking 6700 which is the main reason for wanting it.

Thanks.

You should for an 03+ lol.

Seriously, make sure the rear coils aren't cracked, the 4wd works and there aren't any 4wd telltales illuminated, make sure the transmissions shifts nicely, and listen for any whines, groans or moans coming from the rear end.

 

[EasyRhino]

2002s are frequently shunned, at least on this board, for having many first year problems, but the experience varies. This perception may in part contribute to the low value of '02s (hence the good deal).

Mine, a fully loaded 02 Limited, bought new, now at 101K miles is like brand new with very few repairs to date.

Biggest trouble area is the transmission, very expensive to replace if not maintained by the prior owner. Some have the rear end whine that results in an eventual failure (mine has whined since new and still runs fine), and some have seen broken rear springs (not the most expensive repair, but hard to accept why this happens). Additionally, some have had funky electronics. Also, many ahve the bubbling pain on teh aluminum hood, and the cracked rear liftgate panel.

Try to get the service history on the one you are looking at. $6700 seems like a good price for a low mileage, well-maintained one. I would easily pay that for mine in its condition. Also, try to determine if it has been used for extensive tough towing duty (not great for these trannies).

 

[LiftemHigh]

Alright guys thanks for the input. I'm stopping by the dealership on my way home this afternoon and I'll try to get a carfax and anything else I can get.

 

[EasyRhino]

Alright guys thanks for the input. I'm stopping by the dealership on my way home this afternoon and I'll try to get a carfax and anything else I can get.

Also get the Ford Oasis report - you just need the VIN.

 

[retiredexplorer]

I have a 02 Explorer EB with the 4.6 cid 4x4. I bought it used with 42,000 miles. Just before I got it the transmission was replaced by Ford under factory warranty. This was a common problem I understand.

The only other problems I have had since was, I had to replace the 4x4 control modular and one of the rear wheel bearings. I now have 102,000 miles. The back up alarm has stopped working, but have not found a fix for it yet.