2003 Ford Explorer
Should You Buy a 2003 Ford Explorer?
The 2003 Ford Explorer is a rear-wheel-drive SUV that offers a balance of power and utility, featuring a 4.0L V6 engine that delivers 210 horsepower and 254 lb-ft of torque. With a combined fuel economy of 16 MPG, it may not be the most efficient option in its class, but it provides ample space for up to five passengers and a comfortable ride. The MSRP of $29,025 positions it as a mid-range choice for families or individuals seeking a versatile vehicle for daily use or weekend adventures.
However, potential buyers should be aware of the vehicle's mixed reliability history. The NHTSA has recorded 1,000 total complaints, including 55 crash incidents and 47 injuries. The most common issues are related to the automatic transmission, particularly around the 40,000 to 100,000-mile mark. Despite these concerns, the Explorer maintains a respectable reliability score of 86.5 out of 100, indicating that many owners have had positive experiences with this model.
This vehicle is best suited for families or individuals looking for a reliable, spacious SUV that can handle daily commutes and occasional road trips.
Strengths
- +Spacious interior with seating for five
- +Powerful V6 engine for confident acceleration
- +Flex-fuel capability for alternative fuel options
- +Decent reliability score of 86.5/100
- +Good for family use and weekend trips
Weaknesses
- -Lower fuel economy at 16 MPG combined
- -Common transmission issues reported
- -Some safety concerns with crash and fire incidents
- -Higher maintenance costs due to potential repairs
- -Less modern features compared to newer SUVs
Known Issues (NHTSA Data)
The 2003 Ford Explorer has some notable issues primarily centered around the automatic transmission, which has received 141 complaints. Many of these issues tend to arise between 40,000 and 100,000 miles, suggesting that potential buyers should consider the vehicle's mileage when evaluating its condition. Additionally, there have been complaints related to the body structure and hatchback components. While there are some safety concerns, including 55 crash incidents and 8 fire incidents, the overall reliability score remains decent at 86.5/100.
Performance
- Horsepower
- 210 hp
- Torque
- 254 lb-ft
- Engine
- 4 L
- Cylinders
- V6
- Transmission
- 5-speed manual
- Drive Type
- rear wheel drive
Efficiency
- MPG Combined
- –
- Fuel Type
- flex-fuel (unleaded/E85)
Dimensions
- Length
- –
- Width
- –
- Height
- –
- Wheelbase
- –
- Curb Weight
- –
- Ground Clearance
- –
Capacity
- Doors
- 5
- Seating
- 5
- Cargo
- –
- Max Cargo
- –
- Max Towing
- –
- Max Payload
- –