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2002 Ford Explorer

2002 Ford Explorer

SUV
AWD/4WD
Regular Gasoline
Horsepower
–
MPG Combined
14 mpg
MSRP
–
Torque
–
Reliability Score
87/ 100Excellent
Based on 1,000 NHTSA complaints

Should You Buy a 2002 Ford Explorer?

The 2002 Ford Explorer is a rear-wheel-drive SUV that offers a blend of power and versatility, featuring a 4.0L V6 engine that produces 210 horsepower and 254 lb-ft of torque. With a combined fuel efficiency of 16 MPG, it caters to families and individuals seeking a reliable vehicle for daily commutes and weekend adventures. However, potential buyers should be aware of the vehicle's history, as it has received a total of 1,000 complaints to the NHTSA, with notable issues primarily related to the automatic transmission and hatchback components. Despite these concerns, the Explorer boasts a solid reliability score of 86.8 out of 100, indicating a generally dependable vehicle for its class.

Ideal For

The 2002 Ford Explorer is best suited for families or individuals seeking a reliable and spacious SUV for daily use and occasional road trips, who are aware of its potential mechanical issues.

Strengths

  • +Strong V6 engine performance with 210 hp
  • +Spacious interior with seating for five
  • +Good reliability score of 86.8/100
  • +Flex-fuel capability for cost-effective fuel options
  • +Versatile SUV suitable for various driving conditions

Weaknesses

  • -Frequent complaints about automatic transmission issues
  • -Lower fuel efficiency at 16 MPG combined
  • -Reported structural issues with hatchback components
  • -Limited safety features compared to modern SUVs
  • -Higher incidence of crash and fire complaints

Known Issues (NHTSA Data)

The 2002 Ford Explorer has reported several issues, particularly with the automatic transmission, which has been a common complaint among owners, especially between 20,000 to 60,000 miles. Additionally, there have been complaints regarding the hatchback and its attachments. While there have been 69 crash incidents and 16 fire incidents, it's important to note that the overall reliability score remains relatively high. Buyers should consider these factors when evaluating the vehicle.

Complaint Patterns by Mileage
POWER TRAIN:AUTOMATIC TRANSMISSION
40000-60000 mi
29 reports
POWER TRAIN:AUTOMATIC TRANSMISSION
20000-40000 mi
28 reports
STRUCTURE:BODY:HATCHBACK/LIFTGATE:HINGE AND ATTACHMENTS
20000-40000 mi
24 reports
POWER TRAIN:AUTOMATIC TRANSMISSION
0-20000 mi
16 reports
POWER TRAIN:AUTOMATIC TRANSMISSION
60000-80000 mi
16 reports
POWER TRAIN:DRIVELINE:DIFFERENTIAL UNIT
40000-60000 mi
16 reports
STRUCTURE:BODY:HATCHBACK/LIFTGATE:HINGE AND ATTACHMENTS
40000-60000 mi
15 reports
STRUCTURE:BODY:HATCHBACK/LIFTGATE:HINGE AND ATTACHMENTS
0-20000 mi
10 reports
Top Complaint Areas
POWER TRAIN:AUTOMATIC TRANSMISSION13% of complaints
STRUCTURE:BODY:HATCHBACK/LIFTGATE:HINGE AND ATTACHMENTS12% of complaints
POWER TRAIN:DRIVELINE:DIFFERENTIAL UNIT4% of complaints
VEHICLE SPEED CONTROL3% of complaints
STRUCTURE:BODY:HATCHBACK/LIFTGATE3% of complaints

Performance

Horsepower
–
Torque
–
Engine
4.6 L
Cylinders
V8
Transmission
Automatic 5-spd
Drive Type
AWD/4WD

Efficiency

MPG Combined
14
Fuel Type
Regular Gasoline

Dimensions

Length
180.3 in
Width
70.1 in
Height
67.7 in
Wheelbase
101.6 in
Curb Weight
3,962 lbs
Ground Clearance
–

Capacity

Doors
2
Seating
–
Cargo
–
Max Cargo
–
Max Towing
–
Max Payload
–

ddpc Estimated Value

$6,506
$5,530 – $7,482
Depreciation Over Time
New
5yr
10yr
15yr
ddpc Estimate based on original MSRP, standard depreciation curves, vehicle class, and NHTSA reliability data. Not a substitute for professional appraisal. Actual value depends on condition, mileage, location, and market conditions.

Estimated Cost of Ownership

Estimated Annual Cost
$5,632
Per Mile
$0.47
5-Year Total
$54,199
Fuel
$2,625/yr
Maintenance
$700/yr
Insurance
$2,307/yr
Depreciation
$5,208/yr
Based on industry-standard estimates for this vehicle class. Fuel cost assumes 12,000 mi/yr at national average gas prices. Maintenance uses class-based intervals, not manufacturer-specific schedules. Actual costs vary by location, driving habits, and vehicle condition.

Available Trims (12)

Explorer 4WD
AWD
AWD/4WD
Explorer 2WD
RWD
Explorer 2WD
SOHC
RWD
Explorer 2WD
SOHC
RWD
Explorer Sport 2WD
RWD
Explorer Sport 2WD
RWD
Explorer 4WD
AWD/4WD
Explorer 4WD
SOHC
AWD/4WD
Explorer Sport 4WD
AWD/4WD
Explorer Sport 4WD
SOHC
AWD/4WD
Explorer 4WD FFV
FLEX-FUEL
AWD/4WD
Explorer 2WD FFV
FLEX-FUEL
RWD

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