What to look for

[mrphiltx]

I'm looking into a 02-newer explorer. I've read that the 02 and 03 years should be avoided because of problems. Unfortunately, to get the 3rd row in my budget, I'll have to look at the 02 or 03s.
What sorts of problems do they have? Is there something to look for to tell if these are having or might get those problems?

thanks

 

[EasyRhino]

Do lots of reviews on this site. Problem areas that occur to me are rear differential whine/failure, transmission problems, and sheel bearings. Some miscellaneous electrical glitches. Probably good to be at leat somewhat handy with repairs just in case. Many different opinions. Although I liked my '97 Ex better, my 02 has been all but trouble free, bought new, Limited AWD 4.6 loaded, now w/85K miles. Not great gas mileage. Good luck.

 

[shorrockt]

Timing cartridges are a biggie from the threads that I've read. had to replace an engine because the plastic parts broke at 62000 miles.

Thinking about the engine, there was a tick and a rough idle when i purchased the car. Now that the engine has been replaced, smooth as a baby's butt.

Others here may be able to give you guidance on how to check it out. Basic rule though, timing slips, replace the engine.

 

[mrphiltx]

EasyRhino, my wife would want to know if we can come for a visit. We honeymooned on Kauai and she dreams of when we can go back.

Going to look at an 02 with ~90k on it tonight.

Thanks for answers, I'm not quite the search ninja enough to figure out how to search for that sort of overview info.

 

[JasonF]

I hate to say this, but with the numbers of problems on 02-04 explorers, you might just be better off looking at something like a Honda Pilot. I suppose if you could find an explorer that had service records showing axle seals already fixed, and maybe the rear differential already fixed, then you would be ok. Otherwise you could expect to have to do these repairs.


Jason

 

[E.B. Cornburner]

Only difference is a Honda Pilot will cost considerably more money up front than an Explorer. To the tune of over $5000 more on average than a similarly equipped Explorer of like year and miles.

I never liked anything Honda made (with the exception of some of their motorcycles). There's really no innovation in their cars and SUVs...Most everything is a copy of something that another company already had in the market. They just take someone else's design and perfect it, or so it seems.

If you like the Explorer's looks, ride, handling, etc. you'll still have a good chunk of change leftover to put aside for any possible (and I emphasize possible) mechanical problems that may occur. Or, just get a real good extended warranty such as a Wynn's Extended Care that'll cover you to 100,000 miles nearly bumper-to-bumper.

For me, I do nearly all my own mechanical work, so I just look for the best deal, regardless of whether it needs some things fixed. So far, nothing has really failed on mine, and I drive the wheels off it! I've got over 80,000 on my '04 already, and it's been great. Only thing that broke (and still hasn't gotten fixed) has been the lumbar adjuster on the driver's seat. I may even send that out to get done...I hate tearing seats apart. How sad is that...I'll have no problems putting new timing chains or a transmission in one of these, but a little cable inside the seat is too challenging that I feel I might lose my patience with it?

 

[mrphiltx]

Thanks EB and Jason.

EB, that cracks me up about the seat cable.

I looked at one the other night, and I wasn't too sure about it. Didn't quite feel right or something. The guy claimed to not know about the problems with the rear suspension.

Jason, I don't think I can afford a Pilot. They appear to be twice my budget.