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2004 Ford Explorer

2004 Ford Explorer

SUV
all wheel drive
regular unleaded
Horsepower
239 hp
MPG Combined
–
MSRP
$36,680
Torque
282 lb-ft
Reliability Score
86/ 100Excellent
Based on 1,000 NHTSA complaints

Should You Buy a 2004 Ford Explorer?

The 2004 Ford Explorer is a midsize SUV that offers a blend of power and utility, featuring a robust 4.6L V8 engine that delivers 239 horsepower and 282 lb-ft of torque. With an all-wheel-drive system, it provides enhanced traction and stability, making it suitable for various driving conditions. However, potential buyers should be aware of its fuel economy, which stands at a combined 15 MPG, reflecting the trade-off between power and efficiency. The MSRP of $36,680 positions it within the competitive SUV market, appealing to families and outdoor enthusiasts alike.

While the Explorer is designed to seat five comfortably, it has garnered a mix of feedback from owners. The vehicle has a reliability score of 86/100, indicating a generally dependable performance. However, it is important to consider the 1,000 total complaints reported to the NHTSA, particularly concerning issues with the automatic transmission and body structure, which may affect long-term ownership satisfaction.

Ideal For

The 2004 Ford Explorer is best suited for families or individuals seeking a reliable and powerful SUV for daily commuting and weekend adventures, especially those who value space and capability over fuel efficiency.

Strengths

  • +Powerful 4.6L V8 engine for robust performance
  • +All-wheel drive for enhanced traction in various conditions
  • +Spacious interior with seating for five
  • +Good reliability score of 86/100
  • +Strong towing capacity for outdoor activities

Weaknesses

  • -Low fuel economy at 15 MPG combined
  • -Reported issues with automatic transmission reliability
  • -Complaints regarding body structure and hatchback components
  • -Higher maintenance costs associated with older SUVs
  • -Limited advanced safety features compared to newer models

Known Issues (NHTSA Data)

The 2004 Ford Explorer has reported a total of 1,000 complaints to the NHTSA, with notable concerns centered around the automatic transmission, which has been cited in 277 complaints. Other issues include body structure problems, particularly with the hatchback and liftgate. While there have been 37 crash incidents and 14 fire incidents, there have been no reported deaths. Buyers should be vigilant about potential transmission issues, especially at mileage intervals of 0-20,000 miles and 40,000-60,000 miles.

Complaint Patterns by Mileage
POWER TRAIN:AUTOMATIC TRANSMISSION
0-20000 mi
86 reports
POWER TRAIN:AUTOMATIC TRANSMISSION
40000-60000 mi
43 reports
POWER TRAIN:AUTOMATIC TRANSMISSION
20000-40000 mi
40 reports
POWER TRAIN:AUTOMATIC TRANSMISSION
60000-80000 mi
32 reports
STRUCTURE:BODY
60000-80000 mi
28 reports
STRUCTURE:BODY
40000-60000 mi
26 reports
POWER TRAIN:AUTOMATIC TRANSMISSION
80000-100000 mi
18 reports
STRUCTURE
60000-80000 mi
16 reports
Top Complaint Areas
POWER TRAIN:AUTOMATIC TRANSMISSION28% of complaints
STRUCTURE:BODY10% of complaints
STRUCTURE6% of complaints
STRUCTURE:BODY:HATCHBACK/LIFTGATE:HINGE AND ATTACHMENTS4% of complaints
STRUCTURE:BODY:HATCHBACK/LIFTGATE4% of complaints

Performance

Horsepower
239 hp
Torque
282 lb-ft
Engine
4.6 L
Cylinders
V8
Transmission
5-speed manual
Drive Type
all wheel drive

Efficiency

MPG Combined
–
Fuel Type
regular unleaded

Dimensions

Length
–
Width
–
Height
–
Wheelbase
–
Curb Weight
4,463 lbs
Ground Clearance
–

Capacity

Doors
5
Seating
5
Cargo
–
Max Cargo
–
Max Towing
–
Max Payload
–

ddpc Estimated Value

$7,981
$6,783 – $9,178
78% from MSRP
Original MSRP: $36,680
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
$6,005
Per Mile
$0.50
5-Year Total
$58,724
Fuel
$2,800/yr
Maintenance
$700/yr
Insurance
$2,505/yr
Depreciation
$5,740/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 (13)

Explorer
Eddie Bauer AWD 4dr SUV (4.6L 8cyl 5A) (5-speed manual)
239 hp
all wheel drive
$36,680
Explorer
NBX 4WD 4dr SUV (4.6L 8cyl 5A) (5-speed manual)
239 hp
four wheel drive
$33,780
Explorer
XLT Sport Rwd 4dr SUV (4.0L 6cyl 5A) (5-speed manual)
210 hp
rear wheel drive
$30,755
Explorer
XLS AWD 4dr SUV (4.0L 6cyl 5A) (5-speed manual)
210 hp
all wheel drive
$29,065
Explorer
XLT AWD 4dr SUV (4.0L 6cyl 5A) (5-speed manual)
210 hp
all wheel drive
$31,805
Explorer
Limited Rwd 4dr SUV (4.6L 8cyl 5A) (5-speed manual)
239 hp
rear wheel drive
$35,330
Explorer
XLS Sport 4WD 4dr SUV (4.0L 6cyl 5A) (5-speed manual)
210 hp
four wheel drive
$30,240
Explorer 2WD
RWD
Explorer 4WD
AWD/4WD
Explorer 4WD FFV
FLEX-FUEL
AWD/4WD
Explorer 2WD FFV
FLEX-FUEL
RWD
Explorer 2WD
RWD
Explorer 4WD
AWD/4WD

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