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.
Structure, Nov 13, 2009
TL* THE CONTACT OWNS A 2002 FORD EXPLORER. THE REAR HATCH LIFT-GATE UNDER THE FORD EMBLEM HAS DEVELOPED CRACKS. CONSEQUENTLY WATER HAS ENTERED THE DOORS AND LIGHTS. THE VEHICLE WAS TAKEN TO THE DEALERSHIP AND SHE WAS ADVISED THAT SHE WOULD HAVE TO PAY BETWEEN $600-$700 TO REPAIR THE VEHICLE. SHE NOTIFIED THE MANUFACTURER OF THE FAILURE, BUT WAS REFERRED TO NHTSA. THE CURRENT MILEAGE WAS APPROXIMATELY 120,000. THE FAILURE MILEAGE WAS APPROXIMATELY 70,000.
Power train, Nov 12, 2009
2002 FORD EXPLORER AUTOMATIC TRANSMISSION PROBLEMS. VARIOUS PROBLEMS. WHEN I FIRST GOT IT (AT 45K MILES), IT WOULD TAKE ABOUT 20-30 SECONDS TO ENGAGE INTO FIRST GEAR AFTER BEING IN REVERSE. WHEN IT DID ENGAGE, IT JUMPED FORWARD WHILE DOING IT. THAT DOES NOT HAPPEN MUCH ANYMORE. IF I HAVE TO SLAM ON THE BRAKES (DOG, KID, DEER RUNS OUT, LIGHT SUDDENLY CHANGES OR SOMEONE CUTS ME OFF, ETC...) THE TRANNY SLIPS OUT OF GEAR INTO NEUTRAL STAYS THERE FOR AN INDEFINITE AMOUNT OF TIME, THEN LURCHES FORWARD 3-4 FEET AS IT KICKS BACK INTO GEAR. THIS HAS NOT CAUSED AN ACCIDENT YET! HAVE SEEN A DEALER FOR BOTH OF THESE PROBLEMS - 3 TIMES. WAS NOT ABLE TO EVEN GET THE PROBLEM DIAGNOSED, MUCH LESS REPAIRED. AS TIME HAS PASSED, I HAVE LEARNED TO BE CAREFUL AND GINGER WITH THE VEHICLE. I SHIFT SOFTLY AND SLOWLY, I DON'T GUN IT AND DO MY BEST TO ENSURE THERE IS PLENTY OF ROOM BETWEEN ME AND THE CAR IN FRONT OF ME. NOW THE TRANSMISSION HAS BEGUN SLIPPING. I HAVE SEEN MULTIPLE ACCOUNTS ONLINE OF PEOPLE HAVING TRANSMISSION PROBLEMS WITH THE 02 EXPLORER. I FIRMLY BELIEVE FORD NEEDS TO ISSUE A RECALL. THE LURCHING FORWARD PROBLEM IS HUGE! VERY DANGEROUS! TODAY IT WAS SCARY. I WAS APPROACHING A CROSSWALK AND ONLY DOING 25. HIKERS AND BIKERS NOTORIOUSLY JUST WALK/RIDE THROUGH THE CROSSWALK WITHOUT LOOKING. THERE IS BRUSH THAT BLOCKS THE VIEW OF BIKES IN ONE DIRECTION. TODAY, A BIKE MADE NO EFFORT TO STOP TO LOOK FOR CARS AND BOLTED OUT INTO THE CROSSWALK. I DID NOT SEE HIM COMING FOR THE BRUSH. I HAD TO SLAM ON THE BRAKES. AS HE WAS IN FRONT OF ME, HE CAUGHT SOME GRAVEL AND SLID AND FELL IN FRONT OF MY CAR. MY CAR LURCHED FORWARD NEARLY HITTING HIM. I CAN'T GET THE PROBLEM FIXED IF THE DEALER CAN'T FIGURE OUT WHAT IS WRONG. SHORT OF HAVING THE TRANSMISSION COMPLETELY REBUILT...WHICH IS WHAT I AM GOING TO DO. I REALLY FEEL THAT FORD SHOULD BE RESPONSIBLE FOR THE COST OF DOING SO. *TR
Suspension, Nov 11, 2009
2002 FORD EXPLORER XLT REAR COIL SPRINGS . I HAVE BEEN IN CONTACT WITH MANY EXPLORER OWNERS AND THEY REPORT THAT THEIR REAR COIL SPRINGS ARE BREAKING AND CRACKING PREMATURELY! AS OF NOW, NO RECALL HAS BEEN ISSUED FOR THIS PROBLEM AND AS I CHECKED UNDER THE REAR END OF MY EXPLORER TODAY, BOTH REAR COILS ARE BROKEN AND WILL NEED REPLACEMENT. AS I UNDERSTAND, THIS PROBLEM DOES NOT ONLY EXIST IN 2002 MODELS, BUT OTHERS ALSO. *TR
Engine and engine cooling, Nov 11, 2009
THERE IS A KNOCKING NOISE IN THE BACK OF MY EXPLORER WHICH IS A 2002 AND MY FRIEND HAS A 2003 EXPEDITION AND HERS IS DOING THE SAME THING IT HAS SOMETHING TO DO WITH THE HEAT IN THE BACK BUT IT KNOCKS ALL THE TIME AND WHEN YOU TURN THE REAR HEAT ON IT GETS REALLY LOUD. IT KNOCKS ALL THE TIME AND IT IS ANNOYING AND LOUD I KNOW OF 3 VEHICLES THAT ARE FORD AND THEY ARE DOING THE SAME THING WHY HAS IT NOT BEEN RECALLED COULD IT NOT CATCH FIRE OR SOMETHING. *TR
Power train, Nov 11, 2009
TRANSMISSION FAILURE. *TR
Suspension, Nov 10, 2009
TL* THE CONTACT OWNS A 2002 FORD EXPLORER. HER REAR PASSENGER COIL SPRING HAS FRACTURED. THE DEALER AND THE MANUFACTURER WERE NOTIFIED OF THE FAILURE. SINCE THE WARRANTY HAD EXPIRED, SHE WAS INELIGIBLE FOR A FREE REMEDY. THE FAILURE MILEAGE 47,600.
Power train, Nov 9, 2009
2002 FORD EXPLORER TRANSMISSION PROBLEM. THE VEHICLE HAS A PROBLEM WITH THE TRANSMISSION IN THAT IT WILL NOT MOVE INTO 2ND/3RD GEAR. THE CAR DROVE OK THE PREVIOUS DAY, THEN ON MY WAY TO WORK -- IT GAVE A LURCH AND AFTER THAT WOULD NOT POWER PAST 30-35MPH. FORD SERVICE SHOP HAS QUOTED ALMOST $4K TO OPEN UP THE TRANSMISSION AND FIX A VALVE IN THE VALVE BODY.. 2ND OPINION FROM AAMCO -- MECHANIC STATED THAT HE HAS FIXED NUMEROUS FORD EXPLORER TRANSMISSIONS WITH THE SAME PROBLEM AND HE RECOMMENDS REPLACING THE TRANSMISSION ALTOGETHER, AS OPPOSED TO TRYING TO FIX CURRENT TRANSMISSION.. PLEASE INVESTIGATE FOR CLASS ACTION RECALL/DEFECT. *TR
Structure, Nov 8, 2009
FOLLOWING THE NHTSA CAMPAIGN #04V442000 RECALL REPLACEMENT OF THE HINGE ON THE REAR HATCHBACK OF MY 2002 FORD EXPLORER, CRACKS IN THE BODY HAVE APPEARED IN THE PANELING AROUND THE REAR TAILGATE WINDOW. THESE CRACKS APPEAR TO BE STRESSED INDUCED AND MAY POSE A HAZARD TO THE REAR WINDOW IF THE FRAMING AROUND THE WINDOW CONTINUES TO DEGRADE AND CRACK. *TR
Power train, Nov 6, 2009
WILL HESITATE WHEN PUT INTO DRIVE OR WILL NOT MOVE AT ALL. WILL MAKE A BIG CLUNK AND HESITATE WHEN PUT INTO REVERSE AND MAY NOT MOVE AFTER GAS PEDAL APPLIED. OD LIGHT FLASHES CONSTANTLY AND SERVICE LIGHT REMAINS ON 95% OF TIME. TRANSMISSION WILL TUG HARD WHILE TRYING TO ACCELERATE GAS PEDAL. WHILE DRIVING ON HIGHWAY TRANSMISSION WILL CONSTANTLY SLIP AND GAS PEDAL NEEDS TO BE RELEASED AND REAPPLIED MULTIPLE TIMES TO STOP AUTO FROM JOLTING/TUGGING. MUST PULL OFF ROAD AND TURN OFF ENGINE TO RESET OD LIGHT WHICH FLASHES ABOUT 15 MINUTES AFTER THE AUTO HAS BEEN ON THE ROAD. UNABLE TO USE CRUISE CONTROL DUE TO THE CONSTANT TUGGING AND JOLTING. I WILL NEED TO REPLACE AUTOMATIC TRANSMISSION/POWER TRAIN. PURCHASED 2 YEARS AGO FROM A USED DEALERSHIP. I STARTED HAVING PROBLEMS WITH TRANSMISSION ABOUT 1 YEAR AGO. THE OD LIGHTS STARTED TO APPEAR REGULARLY 9 MONTHS AGO. SERVICE LIGHT HAS BEEN ON ABOUT 2 MONTHS NOW. *TR
Power train, Nov 4, 2009
2002 FORD EXPLORER. SHORTLY AFTER I BOUGHT MY EXPLORER AFTER ABOUT 40,000 MILES ON THE ODOMETER I BEGAN TO EXPERIENCE SLIPPING OF THE TRANSMISSION EVERY TIME I DRIVE IT. THE SLIPPING OUT OF GEAR HAPPENS AT ALL TIMES WHEN I ACCELERATE AT SPEEDS UNDER 50 MPH. WHAT IS DANGEROUS ABOUT THIS IS WHEN IT HAPPENS AT A TIME THAT I WANT TO GET INTO TRAFFIC WHILE CROSSING THE ONCOMING TRAFFIC LANE AND THE TRANSMISSION WON'T GO BACK INTO GEAR TO ALLOW ME TO COMPLETE THE ROAD CROSSING WHILE CARS HAVE TO APPLY THEIR BRAKES TO STOP FOR ME. WHEN THE TRANSMISSION FINALLY GOES INTO GEAR, IT DOES SO WITH A BIG CLANK. I HAVE PERSONALLY MET A NUMBER OF PEOPLE WHO OWN THIS SAME TYPE OF VEHICLE AND EVERY SINGLE ON COMPLAINS OF THE SAME SYMPTOMS AND HAVE HAD CLOSE CALLS IN TRAFFIC DUE TO THIS TRANSMISSION FAILURE. SOME OF THESE PEOPLE HAVE HAD THE TRANSMISSION WORKED ON AND HAVE PAID ANYWHERE FROM $1700.00 TO OVER $2500.00 FOR REPAIRS AND THE PROBLEMS RETURN. I HAVE DONE SEARCHES ON THE WEB REGARDING THIS PROBLEM AND IN EVERY SITE THAT HAS BLOGS DEDICATED TO PEOPLE WHO ARE VICTIMS OF THIS PROBLEM, THERE ARE LITERALLY HUNDREDS OF COMPLAINTS. FROM WHAT I'VE HEARD THIS WAS AN EXPERIMENTAL TRANSMISSION THAT WAS BOUGHT BY FORD FROM AN OUTSIDE MANUFACTURER, IN ORDER FOR FORD TO SAVE MONEY AND NOW WE, THE CONSUMER HAVE TO PAY FOR THIS PROBLEM. I FEEL THAT IT IS NEGLIGENT AND IRRESPONSIBLE OF FORD TO ALLOW PEOPLE TO DRIVE THEIR VEHICLES WITH THIS TYPE OF DANGEROUS TRANSMISSIONS. PEOPLE CAN CAUSE ACCIDENTS AND INJURE PASSENGERS OR CAUSE PEDESTRIANS TO BE HURT OR KILLED DUE TO THIS PROBLEM. PLEASE, PLEASE LOOK INTO THIS MATTER AND CONSIDER DECLARING A RECALL OF THIS TRANSMISSION. PLEASE DON'T WAIT FOR PEOPLE TO GET HURT BEFORE DOING SOMETHING ABOUT THIS SERIOUS PROBLEM. THANK YOU FOR YOUR ATTENTION. *TR
Suspension, Nov 4, 2009
UPON INSPECTING OUR 2002 FORD EXPLORER FOR STATE INSPECTION, I DISCOVERED THE RIGHT REAR COIL SPRING TO BE BROKEN. THIS IS ONE OF TWO BROKEN ON THIS VEHICLE TO DATE, THE FIRST WAS THE LEFT REAR DISCOVERED BY THE LOCAL FORD DEALER WHEN IN FOR A ROUTINE CHECK, THEY REPLACED THAT SPRING, I REPLACED THE RIGHT SIDE & STILL HAVE THE PIECES (3 TO BE EXACT) IN MY POSSESSION. WE HAVE ALSO HAD ALL FOUR AXLE BEARINGS REPLACED. ONE OF WHICH BECAME SO HOT, THE LEFT SIDE REAR HUB CAP MELTED & FELL OFF THE WHEEL. ALL FOUR BEARINGS WERE REPLACED BY THE DEALER. NONE OF THE BEARINGS OR HUB CAP WERE UNDER WARRANTY SO WE WERE STUCK WITH THOSE & THE RR SPRING EXPENSE. KNOWING THE TYPE OF PART FAILURES ON OUR EXPLORER IT BRINGS UP A MORE CRUCIAL QUESTION OF, COULD ANY OF THEM HAVE RESULTED IN SERIOUS CONSEQUENCES. ROLLOVER,SWERVING OFF OF THE ROAD TO POSSIBLY HIT SOMETHING OR SOMEONE,ETC. WHAT COULD HAVE HAPPENED IF BOTH REAR COIL SPRINGS BROKE AROUND THE SAME TIME? I'VE ALWAYS ENJOYED FORD PRODUCTS, REPAIRED MANY,HOPE THEY WILL TAKE THIS AND APPLY IT TO TOUGHER TEST STANDARDS. VEHICLES' CURRENT MILEAGE IS OVER 120,000 I UNDERSTAND OTHER FORD MODELS HAVE HAD OTHER COIL SPRING CONCERNS ALSO, SUCH AS A NOTICE WE RECEIVED WHEN WE OWNED OUR '95 WINDSTAR. *TR
Vehicle speed control, Nov 3, 2009
TL* THE CONTACT OWNS A 2002 FORD EXPLORER SPORT TRAC. WHILE DRIVING APPROXIMATELY 40 MPH THE ANTI-LOCK BRAKE SYSTEM WARNING LIGHT INTERMITTENTLY ILLUMINATED ON THE INSTRUMENT PANEL. THE VEHICLE WAS TAKEN TO AN AUTHORIZED DEALER FOR DIAGNOSTIC TESTING. THE TECHNICIAN STATED THE MALFUNCTION WAS RELATED TO THE NHTSA CAMPAIGN ID NUMBER 07V336000 (VEHICLE SPEED CONTROL). HOWEVER, THE VIN WAS EXCLUDED FROM THE RECALL. THE FAILURE MILEAGE WAS 150,000. THE CURRENT MILEAGE WAS 166,000.
Power train, Nov 2, 2009
I AM 100% CERTAIN YOU HAVE RECEIVED THIS COMPLAINT BEFORE. MY 2002 FORD EXPLORER HAS LOCKED UP AND FAILED TO GO INTO THE REVERSE GEAR. THE NUMBER OF OWNERS WHO HAVE HAD ENDLESS TRANSMISSION PROBLEMS KEEPS GROWING. *TR
Power train, Nov 2, 2009
DEFECTIVE REAR DIFFERENTIAL ON 2002 FORD EXPLORER . *TR
Visibility, Nov 2, 2009
TL* THE CONTACT OWNS A 2002 FORD EXPLORER SPORT. WHILE STANDING BEHIND THE VEHICLE, THE REAR WINDOW EXPLODED WITHOUT ANY PRIOR WARNINGS. SHE SUSTAINED MINOR TO MODERATE INJURIES. THE VEHICLE WAS IN THE PROCESS OF BEING TOWED TO THE DEALER. THE DEALER ADVISED HER THAT THE FAILURE WAS CAUSED BY A DEFECT. HOWEVER SHE HAS TO PAY THE DEDUCTIBLE OUT OF POCKET BECAUSE THERE WAS NOT A RECALL, AND THE WARRANTY EXPIRED. THE FAILURE MILEAGE WAS 80,000. THE VEHICLE IDENTIFICATION NUMBER WAS UNAVAILABLE.
Engine and engine cooling, Nov 1, 2009, fire
AUGUST 10,2009 WHILE DRIVING NOTICE SMOKE WASN'T SURE IF IT WAS ME THEN PULL OVER TO NOTICE WHEN HOOD WAS LIFT UP THEIR WAS FIRE. I THEN CALL FIRE DEPARTMENT ALONG WITH POLICE. MY INSURANCE NATIONWIDE THEN HAD IT PLACE IN TO AUTO BODY SHOP WHICH IT COULDN'T BE FIXED. *TR
Power train, Oct 30, 2009
2002 FORD EXPLORER TRANSMISSION FAILURE. *TR
Power train, Oct 30, 2009
TRANSMISSION FAILURE WHILE TRAVELING AT HIGH SPEED ON INTERSTATE 64. THIS IS THE 2ND TRANSMISSION FAILURE FOR THIS VEHICLE, RIDICULOUS!! *TR
Suspension, Wheels, Oct 28, 2009
THIS COMPLAINT IS CONCERNING THE WHEEL BEARINGS ON ALL 2002 FORD EXPLORERS AND THE FREQUENCY IN WHICH THEY BREAK OR COME LOSE CAUSING LOSE OF CONTROL OF THE VEHICLE. THIS HAS HAPPENED ON MY VEHICLE ON 5 OCCASIONS, THE LAST OF WHICH FORD REFUSES TO REPLACE AT THEIR COST DUE TO IT BEING OUT OF WARRANTY. THE FIRST INCIDENT HAPPENED IN FEBRUARY 2007 WHEN MY RIGHT FRONT BEARING BROKE WHILE I WAS ON AN HIGHWAY OVERPASS DRIVING AT APPROXIMATELY 60 MPH AND ALMOST LOST CONTROL OF MY VEHICLE AS THE WHEEL NEARLY COMES OFF WHEN THIS HAPPENS AND THE VEHICLE JERKS. THE TRUCK WAS TOWED INTO THE DEALERSHIP FOR REPAIR. THE SECOND INCIDENT HAPPENED IN JANUARY 2008 WHEN MY LEFT FRONT WHEEL BEARING BROKE. THIS TIME I WAS THANKFULLY NOT ON THE EXPRESSWAY BUT ONCE AGAIN THE VEHICLE WAS TOWED INTO THE DEALERSHIP FOR REPAIR AS IT WAS NOT DRIVABLE. WHEN THE VEHICLE WAS IN FOR REPAIR THIS TIME I REQUESTED THAT THE REAR BEARINGS BE CHECKED AND REPLACED IF NECESSARY AND IT WAS FOUND THAT THOSE TWO BEARINGS ALSO NEEDED REPLACEMENT. NOW, IN OCTOBER 2009, ONCE AGAIN MY FRONT LEFT WHEEL BEARING IS LOSE AND NEEDS TO BE REPLACED. I CALLED FORD REGARDING THE POSSIBILITY THAT THE BEARINGS ARE FAULTY AND THAT SOMEONE IS GOING TO BE KILLED DUE TO THIS ISSUE BUT THE CUSTOMER SERVICE CENTER JUST SAYS TO MAKE A COMPLAINT. THEY ALSO WILL NOT COVER THE COST OF THE REPAIR AS IT IS OUT OF THEIR 12 MONTH OR 12,000 MILE WARRANTY PERIOD. I HAVE STARTED RESEARCHING THIS ISSUE AND HAVE FOUND 28 PAGES OF COMPLAINTS FROM PEOPLE HAVING THE SAME ISSUE AND THIS IS JUST ONE WEBSITE. THIS SEEMS TO BE A COMMON OCCURRENCE WITH THE BEARINGS ON 2002 EXPLORERS. THIS IS SUPPOSED TO BE A SEALED FACTORY PART THAT USUALLY DOES NOT REQUIRE REPAIR AND I AM ON MY FIFTH REPAIR. I AM CONCERNED FOR MY OWN SAFETY AND THE SAFETY OF OTHERS. *TR
Wheels, Oct 26, 2009
TL* THE CONTACT OWNS A 2002 FORD EXPLORER. WHILE DRIVING 15 MPH THE WHEELS LOCKED; WHICH CAUSED THE VEHICLE TO STOP WITHOUT PRIOR WARNINGS. THE VEHICLE WAS TAKEN TO THE DEALERSHIP, BUT THE TECHNICIAN COULD NOT DUPLICATE THE FAILURE. THE CURRENT AND FAILURE MILEAGES WERE 59000.
Steering, Oct 25, 2009
THERE IS A COMMON THREAD WITH GEARSHIFT SELECTOR BREAKAGE ON FORD EXPLORERS WHICH INDICATES THAT RECALL IS URGENTLY NEEDED. IN THE DRIVEWAY OF MY HOUSE, WITH CAR IN PARK, I TRIED TO SHIFT INTO REVERSE TO BACK OUT. THE GEARSHIFT SELECTOR ON THE STEERING COLUMN BROKE OFF AND JUST DANGLED. I REMOVED THE RUBBER COVER ON THE STEERING COLUMN TO HAVE A LOOK, AND I COULD SEE ROUGH METAL WHERE END OF GEARSHIFT SELECTOR ROD MEETS WITH JOINT INSIDE THE STEERING COLUMN, INDICATING THAT THE METAL SIMPLY BROKE THERE. CALLED SERVICE AT FORD DEALER IN HENDERSON NV, WAS TOLD THAT ENTIRE STEERING COLUMN NEEDS TO BE REPLACED AT PARTS + LABOR COST OF $1920. HAD I BEEN PARKED ON A HILLY STREET IN SAN FRANCISCO, E.G., A SERIOUS ACCIDENT MIGHT HAVE OCCURRED WITH THE CAR OUT OF CONTROL. RECALL IS URGENTLY NEEDED BEFORE PEOPLE ARE INJURED DUE TO THIS OBVIOUS DEFECT!!! *TR
Power train, Oct 24, 2009
2002 FORD EXPLORER V8 LIMITED EVENT LEADING TO FAILURE: LOUD GRINDING NOISE IN TRANS. AND LURCHING, SLIPPAGE OF GEARS. FAILURE: TRANSMISSION NEEDS REPLACED. PERMANENT FAILURE. COULD POTENTIAL KILL SOMEONE IF LURCHES AND HITS CAR OR PEDESTRIAN. NO ACTION DONE YET TO COSTLY. *TR
Power train, Wheels, Oct 22, 2009
2002 FORD EXPLORER(XLS)ONE BY ONE EACH WHEEL(BEARING) HUB HAD TO BE REPLACED!THE WHEELS ON MY TRUCK WERE ACTUALLY ABOUT TO FALL OFF IT WAS SCARY AND VERY DANGEROUS! IT STARTS OUT WITH A SQUEAKING SOUND LIKE THE BRAKES NEED TO BE REPLACED BUT NO IT WASN'T THE BRAKES WHICH REPAIRS AND PARTS TOGETHER RANGE FROM $60 TO $90 IT WAS THE WHEEL BEARING WHICH REPAIRS AND PARTS TOGETHER RANGE FROM $300 TO $400!I HAD TO GET EVERY WHEEL REPAIRED ONE BY ONE WITHIN 6 MONTHS SO YOU DO THE MATH.ALSO MY (OD)LIGHT FLICKERS AND MY TRANSMISSION SLIPS AND JUMPS IN TO GEAR!!! *TR
Power train, Equipment, Oct 21, 2009
2002 FORD EXPLORER XLT - TRANSMISSION FAILURE - PURCHASED NEW IN 9-02 WITH EXTENDED WARRANTY. ORIGINAL TRANSMISSION FAILED AND REPLACED AT 65K MILES BY DEALERSHIP UNDER EXTENDED WARRANTY. REPLACEMENT TRANSMISSION BEGAN SLIPPING AT 130K MILES. AT 136K MILES, TRANSMISSION SHIFTS AT RANDOM, WILL NOT ENGAGE FROM STOP. *TR
Power train, Equipment, Oct 20, 2009
I PURCHASED MY 2002 FORD EXPLORER IN AUGUST 2002. I HAVE BEEN HAVING TRANSMISSION SLIPPAGE GEAR PROBLEMS SINCE 2003. WHILE DRIVING MY 2002 FORD EXPLORER MY TRANSMISSION WILL SLIP WITHOUT PRIOR WARNING AND JUST IMMEDIATELY STOP ACCELERATING AND OFTEN COMPLETELY SHUTS DOWN. I HAVE HAD THIS HAPPEN TO ME SINCE 2003 AND HAVE BROUGHT IT BACK INTO THE DEALER MORE THAN THREE TIMES. TWO TIMES THEY SAID NOTHING WAS FOUND. IN MARCH 2004 THEY FINALLY ACKNOWLEDGED THAT SOMETHING WAS WRONG, DID A QUICK FLUSH TO THE TRANSMISSION REPLACED THE TORQUE AND SENT ME BACK OUT WITH THE PROBLEM STILL OCCURRING. ON 10/16/09 NOW THE O/D OFF LIGHT BEGAN TO BLINK AND ONCE AGAIN I BROUGHT IT BACK IN AND NOW THEY SAY I NEED A NEW TRANSMISSION. MY VEHICLE ONLY HAS 45,000 MILES AND THEY ARE TRYING TO SAY THAT THIS PROBLEM IS NOT A SAFETY OR MANUFACTURES DEFECT!! ARE YOU KIDDING ME? I HAVE NEVER DRIVEN OFF ROAD, AND WITH SUCH LOW MILEAGE, HOW COULD THIS NOT BE A DEFECT. I HAVE LUCKILY AVOIDED SEVERAL ACCIDENTS WHEN MY VEHICLE SUDDENLY SLIPS GEARS, STOPS ACCELERATING AND I HAVE TO IMMEDIATELY THROW ON MY HAZARDS, AND TRY TO PULL OFF THE ROAD IMMEDIATELY!! I RESEARCHED ONLINE AND FOUND THAT NEARLY 800 OTHERS ARE HAVING THE SAME SORT OF TRANSMISSION RELATED PROBLEMS AND HAVE POSTED THEM ON AUTO BEEF. I REALLY NEED SOMEONE TO HELP ME AND LOOK OUT FOR THE HONEST, AMERICANS WHO HAVE BROUGHT AN AMERCIAN CAR AND ARE BEING LIED TO AND TREATED WITH NO CUSTOMER SERVICE OR RESPECT. THIS IS EXACTLY WHY AMERICANS ARE BUYING FOREIGN MADE CARS!! PLEASE HELP US AND RECALL THE TRANSMISSION, AND HAVE THE CORRECT PEOPLE HELD ACCOUNTABLE...THE MAKER, NOT THE BUYER. *TR