2002 Ford Explorer
Problems, recalls and owner-reported issues
Power train is the leading concern among 3,613 owner complaints filed for this model year. This is the highest complaint count among 26 Explorer model years with reports.
Of the 2002 reports, 163 involved a crash and 71 involved a fire. 213 people were injured and 6 people died.
What owners report most often
Recalls and investigations
Vehicle speed controlOct 13, 2009
FORD IS RECALLING MODEL YEARS 1995-2003 WINDSTAR, 2000-2003 EXCURSION DIESEL, 1993-1997 AND 1999-2003 F-250 SD THROUGH F-550 SD DIESEL, 1992-2003 E-150 THROUGH E-550, 1995-2002 EXPLORER, 1997 AND 2002 MERCURY MOUNTAINEER, 1995-1997 AND 2001-2003 RANGER, AND 1994 F53 VEHICLES EQUIPPED WITH THE TEXAS INSTRUMENTS SPEED CONTROL DEACTIVATION SWITCH (SCDS). THE SCDS MAY LEAK INTERNALLY AND THEN OVERHEAT, SMOKE, OR BURN.
A VEHICLE FIRE COULD OCCUR WITH OR WITHOUT THE ENGINE RUNNING.
FORD WILL NOTIFY OWNERS THAT DEALERS WILL INSTALL A FUSED WIRING HARNESS IN LINE WITH THE SCDS. ON 1999-2003 WINDSTAR VEHICLES WITH A LEAKING SCDS, DEALERS WILL ALSO INSPECT THE ABS CONTROL MODULE CONNECTOR AND REPAIR AS NECESSARY. REPAIRS WILL BE COMPLETED FREE OF CHARGE. THE SAFETY RECALL BEGAN ON OCTOBER 27, 2009. OWNERS MAY CONTACT FORD AT 1-888-222-2751.
Campaign 09V399000 on NHTSA.gov
Exterior lighting, headlightsMay 11, 2009
DOPE, INC. IS RECALLING 42,540 COMBINATION CORNER AND BUMPER LAMP ASSEMBLIES OF VARIOUS PART NUMBERS SOLD FOR USE AS AFTERMARKET EQUIPMENT FOR VARIOUS PASSENGER VEHICLES. THESE HEADLAMPS FAIL TO CONFORM TO THE REQUIREMENTS OF FEDERAL MOTOR VEHICLE SAFETY STANDARD NO. 108, "LAMPS, REFLECTIVE DEVICES, AND ASSOCIATED EQUIPMENT." THESE LAMPS DO NOT CONTAIN THE REQUIRED AMBER SIDE REFLECTORS.
DECREASED LIGHTING VISIBILITY MAY RESULT IN A VEHICLE CRASH.
DOPE, INC. WILL NOTIFY OWNERS AND OFFER A FULL REFUND FOR THE NONCOMPLIANT COMBINATION LAMPS. THE SAFETY RECALL BEGAN ON JULY 28, 2009. OWNERS MAY CONTACT DOPE, INC. AT 1-626-272-1798.
Campaign 09E025000 on NHTSA.gov
Exterior lightingApr 7, 2009
SABERSPORT IS RECALLING 16,270 COMBINATION CORNER AND BUMPER LAMP ASSEMBLIES OF VARIOUS PART NUMBERS SOLD FOR USE AS AFTERMARKET EQUIPMENT FOR VARIOUS PASSENGER VEHICLES. THESE HEADLAMPS FAIL TO CONFORM TO THE REQUIREMENTS OF FEDERAL MOTOR VEHICLE SAFETY STANDARD NO. 108, "LAMPS, REFLECTIVE DEVICES, AND ASSOCIATED EQUIPMENT." THESE LAMPS DO NOT CONTAIN THE REQUIRED AMBER SIDE REFLECTORS.
DECREASED LIGHTING VISIBILITY MAY RESULT IN A VEHICLE CRASH.
SABERSPORT WILL NOTIFY OWNERS AND OFFER A FULL REFUND FOR THE NONCOMPLIANT COMBINATION LAMPS. THE SAFETY RECALL BEGAN ON MAY 11, 2009. OWNERS MAY CONTACT SABERSPORT AT 1-909-598-7589.
Campaign 09E012000 on NHTSA.gov
Visibility, glass, side/rearDec 11, 2007
CERTAIN CURVED TEMPERED REPLACEMENT GLASS MANUFACTURED BY HANGZHOU SAFETY GLASS LTD AND SUPPLIED TO SAFELITE BY AUTO TEMP INC., IDENTIFIED AS DOT-430, AND SOLD FOR USE ON CERTAIN DOMESTIC AND FOREIGN VEHICLES MAY NOT BREAK INTO SMALL PIECES AS EXPECTED OF TEMPERED GLASS AND FAILS TO CONFORM TO FEDERAL MOTOR VEHICLE SAFETY STANDARD NO. 205, "GLAZING MATERIALS."
IN THE EVENT OF A VEHICLE CRASH, THE OCCUPANT(S) MAY BE SERIOUSLY INJURED BY SHATTERED GLASS.
SAFELITE WILL NOTIFY ITS RETAIL CUSTOMERS AND REPLACE THE GLASS FREE OF CHARGE. RETAIL CUSTOMERS CAN CONTACT SAFELITE TOLL FREE AT 1-888-843-2906. SAFELITE WILL NOTIFY ITS WHOLESALE CUSTOMERS AND REIMBURSE WHOLESALE CUSTOMERS FOR CURRENT INVENTORY AND AT A SPECIFIED RATE FOR REPLACING THEIR CUSTOMER'S GLASS. WHOLESALE CUSTOMERS CAN CONTACT SAFELITE'S WHOLESALE DIVISION, SERVICE AUTOGLASS TOLL FREE AT 1-888-246-6298. THE RECALL BEGAN ON JANUARY 15, 2008.
Campaign 07E104000 on NHTSA.gov
Exterior lightingMay 24, 2006
CERTAIN CK MOTORSPORTS COMBINATION HEADLIGHTS, CLEAR CORNER, BUMPER, AND SIDE MARKER LIGHTS SOLD AS REPLACEMENT LAMPS FOR USE ON THE PASSENGER VEHICLES LISTED ABOVE. SOME COMBINATION LAMPS THAT ARE NOT EQUIPPED WITH AMBER SIDE REFLECTORS FAIL TO CONFORM TO FEDERAL MOTOR VEHICLE SAFETY STANDARD NO. 108, LAMPS, REFLECTIVE DEVICES, AND ASSOCIATED EQUIPMENT.
WITHOUT THE AMBER REFLECTORS, THE VEHICLE WILL BE POORLY ILLUMINATED, POSSIBLY RESULTING IN A VEHICLE CRASH WITHOUT WARNING.
CK MOTORSPORT WILL NOTIFY OWNERS AND REPLACE THE NONCOMPLIANT LAMPS FREE OF CHARGE. THE RECALL BEGAN ON JULY 1, 2006. OWNERS MAY CONTACT CK MOTORSPORT AT 1-909-610-7211.
Campaign 06E049000 on NHTSA.gov
Exterior lightingMar 23, 2006
CERTAIN PRO-A MOTORS CORNER LAMPS, TURN SIGNALS, AND HEADLIGHTS SOLD AS REPLACEMENT LAMPS FOR USE ON CERTAIN PASSENGER VEHICLES LISTED ABOVE. SOME COMBINATION LAMPS THAT ARE NOT EQUIPPED WITH AMBER SIDE REFLECTORS FAIL TO CONFORM TO FEDERAL MOTOR VEHICLE SAFETY STANDARD NO. 108, LAMPS, REFLECTIVE DEVICES, AND ASSOCIATED EQUIPMENT.
WITHOUT THE AMBER REFLECTORS, THE VEHICLE WILL BE POORLY ILLUMINATED, POSSIBLY RESULTING IN A VEHICLE CRASH WITHOUT WARNING.
PRO-A MOTORS WILL NOTIFY OWNERS AND OFFER TO REPURCHASE THE LAMPS. THE RECALL BEGAN ON APRIL 3, 2006. OWNERS MAY CONTACT PRO-A MOTORS AT 323-838-2988.
Campaign 06E026000 on NHTSA.gov
Structure, body, hatchback/liftgate, hinge and attachmentsSep 13, 2004
ON CERTAIN SPORT UTILITY VEHICLES, THE LIFTGATE GLASS STRUT MAY BECOME DISENGAGED OR THE HINGE MAY FRACTURE ALLOWING THE GLASS TO FALL AND POSSIBLY BREAK.
IF THE HINGE SHOULD FRACTURE, THERE IS A POTENTIAL FOR THE GLASS TO FALL AND ULTIMATELY BREAK AND PERSONAL INJURIES COULD OCCUR.
DEALERS WILL HAVE THE LIFTGATE GLASS STRUT BRACKETS AND GLASS HINGES REPLACED. FOR THE VEHICLES BUILT FROM AUGUST 1, 2000 THROUGH MARCH 3, 2002, THE DEALERS WILL REPLACE THE HINGES AND LIFTGATE STRUT BRACKET. ON VEHICLES BUILT FROM MARCH 3, 2002 THROUGH JUNE 23, 2003, THE DEALERS WILL ONLY REPLACE THE HINGES. THE RECALL BEGAN ON SEPTEMBER 30, 2004. A POSTCARD WAS SENT TO OWNERS ON DECEMBER 27, 2004, ADVISING THEM THAT PARTS ARE NOW AVAILABLE. OWNERS SHOULD CONTACT FORD AT 1-800-392-3673.
Campaign 04V442000 on NHTSA.gov
StructureMar 7, 2003
CERTAIN PICKUP TRUCK, VAN, AND MINI VAN CONVERSIONS EQUIPPED WITH SOUTHERN COMFORT BUILT RUNNING BOARDS THAT CONTAIN CERTAIN COURTESY LIGHTS MANUFACTURED BY AMERICAN TECHNOLOGY COMPONENTS, INC. THESE UNITS CONTAIN A COURTESY LIGHT OR LIGHTS THAT MIGHT OVERHEAT WHEN THE WIRE HARNESS IS EXPOSED TO EXCESSIVE MOISTURE AND ROAD SALT.
THIS OVERHEATING CONDITION CAN CAUSE THE RUNNING BOARD TO MELT OR CAUSE A FIRE.
DEALERS WILL REPLACE THE WIRING HARNESS ON THESE RUNNING BOARDS. OWNER NOTIFICATION BEGAN MARCH 7, 2003. OWNERS WHO TAKE THEIR VEHICLES TO AN AUTHORIZED DEALER ON AN AGREED UPON SERVICE DATE AND DO NOT RECEIVE THE FREE REMEDY WITHIN A REASONABLE TIME SHOULD CONTACT SOUTHERN COMFORT AT 1-800-745-6096.
Campaign 03V094000 on NHTSA.gov
Tires, sidewallMay 24, 2001
VEHICLE DESCRIPTION: SPORT UTILITY VEHICLES. THE RIGHT SIDE TIRES MAY HAVE HORIZONTAL CUTS ON THE EDGE OF THE TREAD THAT COULD HAVE OCCURRED DURING VEHICLE ASSEMBLY.
OVER TIME, THE TIRE COULD FAIL, INCREASING THE RISK OF A CRASH.
DEALERS WILL INSPECT THE TIRES AND, IF ANY SLICES ARE FOUND, THE CUT TIRES WILL BE REPLACED. OWNER NOTIFICATION BEGAN JUNE 7, 2001. OWNERS WHO TAKE THEIR VEHICLES TO AN AUTHORIZED DEALER ON AN AGREED UPON SERVICE DATE AND DO NOT RECEIVE THE FREE REMEDY WITHIN A REASONABLE TIME SHOULD CONTACT FORD AT 1-800-392-3673.
Campaign 01V171000 on NHTSA.gov
Visibility, glass, side/rearApr 10, 2001
THIS IS NOT A SAFETY RECALL IN ACCORDANCE WITH THE SAFETY ACT. HOWEVER, IT IS DEEMED A SAFETY IMPROVEMENT CAMPAIGN BY THE AGENCY. VEHICLE DESCRIPTION: 2002 FORD EXPLORER AND MERCURY MONTAINEER SPORT UTILITY VEHICLES. THE BRACKETS CONNECTING THE LEFT CYLINDERS TO EACH SIDE OF THE LIFTGATE GLASS COULD ROTATE OUT OF POSITION IF EITHER THE URETHANE BOND OR TORQUE ARE NOT SUFFICIENT.
ROTATION OF THE BRACKETS COULD POTENTIALLY CAUSE THE LIFT CYLINDERS TO DETACH FROM THE GLASS OR, IN SOME CASES, COULD POTENTIALLY CAUSE THE LIFTGATE GLASS TO BREAK. EITHER CONDITION IS MOST LIKELY TO OCCUR WHEN THE GLASS IS BEING CLOSED.
FORD DEALERS WILL INSPECT THE VEHICLES FOR THE POSITION OF BOTH THE LEFT AND RIGHT LIFTGATGE GLASS LIFT CYLINDER BRACKETS. IF THE BRACKETS ARE IN THE PROPER POSITION, THE BRACKET RETAINERS WILL BE TIGHTENED TO A HIGHER TORQUE. IN CASES WHERE THE BRACKET IS NOT PROPERLY POSITION, THE BRACKET MUST BE RE-ALIGNED.
Campaign 01I010000 on NHTSA.gov
Representative owner complaints
3,613 reports, newest first.
Steering, Power train, Jan 29, 2013
PULLED INTO PARK, WENT TO SHIFT VEHICLE INTO PARK (WAS FULLY STOPPED) AND GEAR SHIFTER BROKE OFF. I DID NOT APPLY ANY FORCE, JUST THE NORMAL TYPICAL ACTION OF SHIFTING THE GEAR. GOOD THING IT WAS IN NEUTRAL WHEN IT SNAPPED. TOOK RUBBER SEAL OFF OF THE GEAR LEVER ARM AND THE PART WHICH THE LEVER ARM WAS ATTACHED HAD TOTALLY BROKEN OFF. THE METAL WAS NOT STRIPPED OR TWISTED BUT BROKEN. PART #905-104: COLUMN SHIFT REPAIR. *TR
Power train, Jan 23, 2013
TRANSMISSION TOOK A CRAP, IT SEEMS TO BE A KNOW PROBLEM WITH THE 2002 & 2003 EXPLORERS. GUESS WE SHOULD HAVE LOOKED INTO THE EXPLORER BETTER. *TR
Steering, Power train, Jan 18, 2013
PULLING IN DRIVEWAY STOPPED THE VEHICLE GOING TO PUT IT IN PARK SHIFT LEVER BROKE OFF INSIDE OF STEERING COLUMN WENT ON INTERNET FOUND 146 COMPLAINTS AS THE SAME THING HAPPENED TO THEM ON FORD EXPLORER CARCOMPLAINTS.COM. *TR
Power train, Electrical system, Engine, Fuel/propulsion system, Jan 18, 2013
MY FORD EXPLORER HAS HAD SO MANY RIDICULOUS PROBLEMS. THIS ONE IS EXTREMELY INCONVENIENT. THE CAR HAS TROUBLE SHIFTING GEARS, IT SPINS FROM 1ST TO 2ND GEAR AND THEN I HAVE TO LET GO OF THE ACCELERATOR FOR IT TO SHIFT AGAIN, IT SKIPS 3RD GEAR ALTOGETHER AND JERKS INTO FOURTH AFTER PRESSING AND DEPRESSING THE ACCELERATOR A SERIES OF TIMES. ONCE IT'S IN 4TH GEAR, IT DOESN'T GO PAST 50 MPH. MY MECHANIC SAYS HIS MONITOR DETECTED A FAULTY SOLENDER AND THE ENTIRE PACK HAS TO BE REPLACED, BUT THAT MAY NOT BE THE ONLY PROBLEM. IF THAT DOESN'T DO THE TRICK (EVEN THOUGH IT NEEDS TO BE REPLACED REGARDLESS) HE WILL HAVE TO OPEN THE TRANSMISSION AND POSSIBLY REBUILD OR REPLACE SOME OF THE PARTS. I HAVE ENCOUNTERED HUNDREDS OF OTHER 2002 FORD EXPLORER OWNERS WITH THE SAME PROBLEM. ASIDE FROM THIS, I HAVE A LIST OF OTHER DANGEROUS ISSUES THAT THIS CAR HAS HAD AND THAT HAS ENDANGERED MY FAMILY'S AND MY LIFE NUMEROUS TIMES: - GEAR SHIFT BREAKING OFF THE STEERING COLUMN AS I SHIFTED FROM REVERSE TO DRIVE IN THE MIDDLE OF A BUSY INTERSECTION. - IGNITION CYLINDER/SWITCH BREAKING - POSSIBLE SPONTANEOUS EXPLOSION RECALL RELATED TO THE CRUISE CONTROL - REAR LATCH BREAKING AND INABILITY TO USE THE REAR LATCH. - ELECTRICAL SYSTEM FAILURE - DOORS NOT CLOSING PROPERLY & DRAINING THE BATTERY - FAULTY ALARM SYSTEM - FAULTY TEMPERATURE GAUGE AND RADIATOR - FORD NOT ALLOWING CUSTOMERS TO BUY JUST THE PARTS NEEDED FOR REPLACEMENT AND REPAIR AND FORCING THEIR CUSTOMERS TO PURCHASE ENTIRE PACKAGES ONLY IN ORDER TO GET THE NECESSARY PARTS AT EXTREMELY HIGH PRICES. FORD SHOULD BE INCRIMINATED FOR SELLING THESE VEHICLES KNOWING FULL WELL THAT THEY ARE FLOODED WITH LIFE THREATENING ISSUES TO THEIR CUSTOMERS. *TR
Steering, Power train, Jan 15, 2013
WHEN TRYING TO SHIFT CAR FROM DRIVE INTO PARK, THE GEAR SHIFT LEVER BROKE OFF INSIDE THE STEERING COLUMN AND FELL OF IN MY HAND. THE CAR WAS STILL IN DRIVE AND I TURNED OFF THE IGNITION. THE KEY COULD NOT BE REMOVED AND THE CAR WAS TOWED TO THE DEALERSHIP. TO REPAIR THIS LINKAGE PART, THE ENTIRE STEERING COLUMN HAD TO BE REPLACED, AT A COST OF OVER $1800. I CALLED FORD TO REPORT THE INCIDENT AND WAS TOLD THAT THEY HAVE NO RECORD OF SOMETHING LIKE THIS EVER HAPPENING BEFORE. THEY SAID THEY WOULD ADD THE INCIDENT TO THEIR DATABASE. I TOLD THEM THAT I FELT THIS WAS A SERIOUS SAFETY ISSUE AND THAT THIS NEEDS TO BE REFERRED TO ENGINEERING OR QUALITY ASSURANCE FOR INVESTIGATION BEFORE SOMEONE GETS INJURED OR KILLED. I GOT THE IMPRESSION THAT FORD WAS NOT GOING TO DO ANYTHING WITH THIS INFORMATION. *TR
Air bags, Jan 15, 2013, crash
TL* THE CONTACT OWNS A 2002 FORD EXPLORER. THE CONTACT STATED THAT THE DRIVER OF THE VEHICLE WAS FORCED OFF THE ROAD BY ANOTHER VEHICLE, CAUSING THE DRIVER TO LOSE CONTROL AND THE VEHICLE TO ROLL OVER SEVERAL TIMES. THE AIR BAGS FAILED TO DEPLOY. THE CONTACT WAS A PASSENGER IN THE VEHICLE AND SUSTAINED INJURIES TO THE HEAD, ANKLE AND RIBS. IN ADDITION, THE CONTACT SUSTAINED SEVERAL LACERATIONS AND BRUISES. THE DRIVER OF THE VEHICLE WAS KILLED AND THE VEHICLE WAS DESTROYED. THE VEHICLE WAS NOT DIAGNOSED BY A MECHANIC OR AN AUTHORIZED DEALER FOR THE AIR BAG FAILURE. THE MANUFACTURER WAS NOT CONTACTED ABOUT THE FAILURE. THE FAILURE MILEAGE WAS 38,089.
Vehicle speed control, Jan 14, 2013
CRUISE CONTROL ELECTRICAL DISENGAGE SWITCH FAILED. CRUISE CONTROL COULD ONLY BE DISENGAGED BY STEPPING ON THE BRAKE VERY HARD OR BY MANUALLY TURNING OFF THE CRUISE CONTROL ON/OFF SWITCH. *TR
Power train, Wheels, Jan 12, 2013
I WAS DRIVING MY 2002 FORD EXPLORER ABOUT 25MPH WHEN I FELT THE REAR END DROP DOWN. PULLED OVER TO THE SIDE OF THE ROAD AND ALL 5 STUDS HAD SHEARED OFF. THE SECOND TIME IT HAPPENED I WAS ONLY BACKING OUT OF MY DRIVEWAY WHEN I PUT IT INTO DRIVE & STARTED TO ACCELERATE THE OPPOSITE SIDE STUDS SHEARED OFF. THIS TIME ONLY 4 STUDS BROKE SO I LIMPED THE TRUCK BACK ONTO MY DRIVEWAY. THE THIRD TIME THIS HAPPENED I WAS DRIVING ABOUT 15MPH GOING AROUND A TURN & 4 STUDS BROKE OFF AGAIN. IF I WAS GOING ANY FASTER THE TRUCK COULD HAVE FLIPPED OVER. *TR
Power train, Jan 10, 2013
MULTIPLE ISSUES WITH THE TRANSMISSION. FROM PARK, WHEN SHIFTED INTO REVERSE THERE IS A SURGE THAT OVERCOMES THE BRAKES AND CAUSES THE VEHICLE TO MOVE ROUGHLY 4-5 FEET. ALSO, THE TRANSMISSIONS SHIFTS SO HARD THAT IT SHAKES THE ENTIRE VEHICLE. WHEN SHIFTING THROUGH THE GEARS THE TRANSMISSIONS STALLS THEN SHIFTS SO HARD IT OVERCOMES THE STEERING WHEEL AND SOMETIMES CAUSES A CHANGE OF DIRECTION. WHEN TRAVELING AT HIGHWAY SPEEDS 50MPH + IN OVERDRIVE THE TRANSMISSION WILL SURGE THE VEHICLE VIOLENTLY AS IT ATTEMPTS TO STAY IN GEAR. AFTER REGULARLY SCHEDULED SERVICE OF THE TRANSMISSION AND MULTIPLE DISCUSSIONS WITH THE FORD DEALERSHIP THEY HAVE NOT OFFERED A SOLUTION OTHER THAN SPEND THOUSANDS OF DOLLARS ON ANOTHER TRANSMISSION THAT MAY CAUSE THE SAME RESULT. THIS IS AN UNSAFE VEHICLE AND NEEDS TO BE REMEDIED BEFORE AN ACCIDENT OR DEATH OCCURS. *TR
Structure, Jan 4, 2013
TL* THE CONTACT OWNS A 2002 FORD EXPLORER. THE CONTACT STATED THAT WHILE DRIVING AT VARIOUS SPEEDS, THE DRIVER'S SIDE AND FRONT PASSENGER SIDE DOORS WOULD SWING OPEN SPORADICALLY AND WITHOUT WARNING. THE VEHICLE WAS NOT INSPECTED BY A DEALER OR AN INDEPENDENT MECHANIC. THE MANUFACTURER WAS LATER CONTACTED AND ADVISED HER TO SCHEDULE AN APPOINTMENT WITH THE DEALER FOR INSPECTION AND POSSIBLE REPAIRS. THE FAILURE MILEAGE WAS APPROXIMATELY 105,000. THE CURRENT MILEAGE WAS APPROXIMATELY 105,500.
Tires, Dec 28, 2012, crash
TL* THE CONTACT OWNS A 2002 FORD EXPLORER WITH COOPER DISCOVERY HTP TIRES, SIZE: 235 70 R16 (N/A). THE CONTACT WAS TRAVELING 65 MPH WHEN THE FRONT AND REAR DRIVER'S SIDE TIRES BLEW OUT, CAUSING THE STEERING WHEEL TO SHAKE AND THE CONTACT TO LOSE CONTROL OF THE VEHICLE. THE CONTACT CRASHED INTO A SIDE RAIL AND WAS TRANSPORTED TO THE HOSPITAL FOR TREATMENT OF SEVERE WHIPLASH INJURIES. THE VEHICLE WAS DESTROYED AND WAS NOT INSPECTED FOR THE CAUSE OF THE FAILURE. THE FAILURE MILEAGE WAS NOT AVAILABLE.
Fuel/propulsion system, Dec 26, 2012
THE FUEL GAUGE DROPPED TO EMPTY WHILE ON A TRIP LEFT US ALL STRANDED IN COLD! *TR
Wheels, Dec 25, 2012
FAILURE OF REAR WHEEL BEARINGS ON BOTH SIDES. TIME BETWEEN ONSET OF NOISE AND NEAR CATASTROPHIC FAILURE WAS APPROXIMATELY 300 MILES. FEARING A HIGH PROBABILITY THAT THE FRONT WHEEL BEARINGS MIGHT FAIL WITHOUT WARNING AND POSSIBLY CAUSE A SERIOUS ACCIDENT AND INJURIES, THE ONLY OPTION WAS TO INCUR THE HIGH COST TO REPLACE ALL FOUR WHEEL BEARINGS AND RELATED PARTS. THIS IS A COMMON PROBLEM WITH FORD EXPLORERS ACROSS A WIDE RANGE OF MODEL YEARS AND IS CLEARLY A MANUFACTURING DESIGN DEFECT. NHTSA HAS BEEN MADE AWARE OF THIS ISSUE VIA A SUFFICIENT NUMBER OF COMPLAINTS FROM OWNERS AND MUST COMPEL FORD MOTOR COMPANY TO ISSUE A RECALL OF ALL FORD EXPLORERS BEGINNING WITH MODEL YEAR 2002 OR EARLIER. THE RECALL RIGHTFULLY MUST INCLUDE FULL REIMBURSEMENT FOR REASONABLE AND CUSTOMARY REPAIR COSTS INCURRED BY OWNERS AFTER WARRANTY EXPIRATION. *TR
Power train, Dec 23, 2012
WHILE PULLING OUT FROM A STOP SIGN THE TRANSMISSION WAS SLIPPING CAUSING THE EXPLORER TO BARELY PULL OUT INTO A BUSY INTERSECTION IN THE PATH OF ONCOMING TRAFFIC WHICH HAD TO STOP TO AVOID HITTING ME. THIS WAS NOT THE ONLY TIME THIS HAS HAPPENED, AND IT HAPPENS WITH NO WARNING. *TR
Power train, Engine, Dec 18, 2012
THREE MONTHS AGO THE OVERDRIVE LIGHT BEGAN FLASHING ON MY DASHBOARD. THE AUTOMATIC TRANSMISSION MADE A LOUD NOISE WHEN CHANGING GEARS. SOMETIMES THE RPM'S WILL REV BUT THE CAR WILL NOT INCREASE IN SPEED.THE LIGHT WILL NOT TURN OFF AND THE TRANSMISSION CONTINUES TO SHIFT HARSHLY. *TR
Service brakes, Dec 17, 2012
TL* THE CONTACT OWNS A 2002 FORD EXPLORER SPORT TRAC. WHILE DRIVING APPROXIMATELY 30 MPH, THE CONTACT NOTICED THAT THE BRAKE PEDAL WAS PULSATING, ACCOMPANIED BY AN ABNORMAL GRINDING NOISE. THE VEHICLE WAS TAKEN TO THE DEALER FOR DIAGNOSTIC TESTING. THE TECHNICIAN ADVISED THE CONTACT THAT THE FRONT AND REAR BRAKES WOULD HAVE TO BE REPAIRED. AFTER THE REPAIR, THE CONTACT NOTICED THAT THE BRAKE PEDAL WOULD FEEL SPONGY WHEN DEPRESSED. THE VEHICLE WAS TAKEN TO AN INDEPENDENT MECHANIC FOR DIAGNOSTIC TESTING. THE TECHNICIAN ADVISED THAT TWO OF THE ABS SENSORS WERE FAULTY AND WERE OVERRIDING THE BRAKES. THE MECHANIC DISCONNECTED THE ABS SENSORS. THE CONTACT DID NOT EXPERIENCE ANY FAILURES AFTER THE SENSORS WERE DISCONNECTED. THE APPROXIMATE FAILURE MILEAGE WAS 76,000.
Power train, Dec 16, 2012
MERGING INTO HEAVY TRAFFIC ON US23 N. IN OHIO, TRIED TO ACCELERATE JUST AS I ALWAYS DO AND THE TRANSMISSION DECIDES IT DOESNT WANT TO SHIFT, THEN WHEN IT FINALLY DID (APPROX 5000 RPM) IT SLAMED INTO GEAR. NARROWLY AVOIDED BEING REAR-ENDED. TURNED VEHICLE AROUND, TRIED FLUID/FILTER CHANGE WITH NO SUCCESS. DID A SEARCH ON THE NET AND FOUND THOUSANDS UPON THOUSANDS OF THE SAME PROBLEM. CHECKED FOR RECALL AND TO MY SURPRISE THERE WAS NONE. *TR
Vehicle speed control, Dec 7, 2012
TL* THE CONTACT OWNS A 2002 FORD EXPLORER. THE CONTACT STATED THAT WHILE DRIVING APPROXIMATELY 15 MPH, THE ACCELERATOR PEDAL BECAME JAMMED. THE CONTACT TRIED DEPRESSING THE BRAKES BUT THE VEHICLE CONTINUED TO ACCELERATE. THE CONTACT IMMEDIATELY SHIFTED TO PARK AND SHUT THE IGNITION OFF. THE VEHICLE WAS NOT INSPECTED BY A DEALER OR AN INDEPENDENT MECHANIC. THE MANUFACTURER WAS NOT CONTACTED. THE FAILURE AND CURRENT MILEAGES WERE APPROXIMATELY 210,000. THE VIN WAS NOT AVAILABLE.
Vehicle speed control, Dec 4, 2012, crash, fire
TL* THE CONTACT OWNS A 2002 FORD EXPLORED. THE CONTACT STATED THAT WHILE DRIVING UPHILL, THE VEHICLE SUDDENLY EMITTED A BURNING ODOR. THE VEHICLE THEN STALLED WITHOUT WARNING AS THE VEHICLE PROCEEDED TO ROLL-BACKWARD AND CRASHED INTO A PHONE POLE. THE VEHICLE THEN CRASHED INTO A RESIDENTIAL HOME. THE CONTACT SUSTAINED INJURIES TO THE SHOULDER AND MOUTH. THE FRONT SEAT PASSENGER SUSTAINED LACERATIONS AND A BRUISED TAIL BONE. THE PERSON SEATED IN THE REAR PASSENGER SIDE OF THE VEHICLE SUSTAINED INJURIES TO THE BACK AND LACERATIONS TO THE FEET. THE REAR DRIVER'S SIDE PASSENGER SUSTAINED HEAD INJURIES. A POLICE REPORT WAS FILED OF THE INCIDENT. THE MANUFACTURER WAS CONTACTED AND ADVISED THAT THE VEHICLE WAS INCLUDED IN NHTSA CAMPAIGN ID NUMBER: 09V399000 (VEHICLE SPEED CONTROL) HOWEVER, THE CONTACT NEVER RECEIVED NOTIFICATION OF THE RECALL. THE VEHICLE WAS DESTROYED. THE FAILURE AND THE CURRENT MILEAGE WAS 147,000.
Power train, Dec 1, 2012
DRIVE TRAIN, BUCKS, GRINDS, IS SLIPPING. MAKES ALOT OF NOISE. HAD THE REAR END REPLACED AND IT DID NOT WORK, PAID $1000.00 OR SO AND DID NOT TAKE CARE OF THE PROBLEM. *TR
Electrical system, Dec 1, 2012
ALARM GOES OFF WHEN SET AND NO ONE IS AROUND, CRUISE CONTROL DOES NOT ALWAYS WORK, LIGHT INSIDE DO NOT TURN OFF AND SOMETIMES DO NOT TURN ON, RADIO DOES NOT TURN OFF WHEN OPENING THE FRONT DOORS, BUT WILL TURN OFF WHEN BACK DOORS ARE OPENED. *TR
Structure, Nov 30, 2012
BODY/CHASSIS MOUNTS ARE DETERIORATING AND CRUMBLING. BODY IS NOW LOOSE ON THE FRAME AND HAS SLIGHT MOVEMENT. THESE MOUNTS ARE NOT RUBBER LIKE MOST; THEY ARE SOME SORT OF URETHANE COMPOSITE. INTERNET RESEARCH AND TRUCK OWNER SITES CONFIRM THIS TO BE A COMMON PROBLEM. FORD DOES NOT SEE THIS AS A SAFETY/RECALL ISSUE AND HAS DIRECTED OWNERS OF SUSPECT VEHICLES TO YOUR DEPARTMENT. THIS PARTICULAR VEHICLE HAS NEVER BEEN IN SALT OR SNOW AND HAS ALWAYS BEEN IN NORTH CAROLINA. THE CAB SHAKING AND RATTLING IS CAUSING MOVEMENT THAT WILL UNDOUBTEDLY EFFECT THE BRAKE LINES AND STEERING COLUMN AS THEY ARE ATTACHED TO BOTH THE BODY AND THE CHASSIS. FORD IS NOW USING ANOTHER COMPOUND FOR THE MOUNTS APPARENTLY IN RESPONSE TO COMPLAINTS. *TR
Electrical system, Air bags, Nov 24, 2012
WHILE DRIVING DOWN THE ROAD MY AIRBAG LIGHT COMES ON. ON OCCASION I AM JUST THANKFUL THAT MY AIR BAG HAS NOT GONE OFF YET. ALSO WHILE DRIVING MY DOOR AJAR LIGHT & DOME LIGHTS COME ON. *TR
Latches/locks/linkages, Nov 12, 2012
I'VE BEEN HAVING AN ISSUE WITH MY TRUCK SAYING THE DOOR IS AJAR WHEN IT'S NOT. WHILE DRIVING, THE INSIDE LIGHT WILL COME ON AND LOCK/UNLOCK THE DOORS. I NOTICED IT USUALLY HAPPENS EITHER WHILE ITS RAINING OR IF IT JUST FINISHED RAINING. SOMEONE ELSE I KNOW WHO HAS THE SAME VEHICLE (YEAR/MAKE/MODEL) SAYS THE SAME THING HAPPENS TO HIS VEHICLE. I'M WONDERING IF YOU HAVE HEARD OF THIS BEFORE AND IF SO, WHAT STEPS DO THE MANUFACTURES TAKE IN DECIDING WHETHER OR NOT A VEHICLE NEEDS TO BE RECALLED FOR A SPECIFIC PROBLEM? ANY INFORMATION YOU CAN PROVIDE WILL BE GREATLY APPRECIATED! *TR
Steering, Power train, Nov 10, 2012
I JUST PURCHASED THE VEHICLE IN A PRIVATE SALE ON 11/09/12 AND ON 11/10/12 WENT TO SHIFT FROM PARK INTO REVERSE ON A FLAT SURFACE AND MY SHIFT LEVER BROKE OFF AND I AM NOT ABLE TO SHIFT MY VEHICLE. *TR