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is 2004 ford explorer a good car

by Florian Reynolds Published 2 years ago Updated 1 year ago
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How long does a 2004 Ford Explorer last?

“A Ford Explorer can last up to 10-17 years with regular maintenance. An average Ford Explorer can easily achieve 80,000 to 200,000 miles.

What problems does a 2004 Ford Explorer have?

On average, the 2004 Ford Explorer begins having transmission issues around 73,000 miles and transmission failure occurs around 84,000. The typical cost to repair is usually between $2,000 and $3,000. There have also been numerous complaints stating that the vehicle won't go into reverse around 100,000 miles.

What year of Ford Explorer is most reliable?

Model years like 2010 and 2011 are considered to be the most reliable used Ford Explorers, while model years 2003 and 2005 may be best avoided. Since its debut in 1991, the Ford Explorer has become the best-selling SUV in America.

Do 2004 Ford Explorers have transmission problems?

2004 Ford Explorers commonly have transmission problems such as the vehicle hesitates when shifting, lunges forward when engaging and even clunking in reverse. Additional Ford Explorer transmission problems include shifting gears, gears are slipping, or the vehicle will not move.

Are there any recalls on a 2004 Ford Explorer?

2004 Ford Explorer Recalls 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.

What are the main problems with Ford Explorer?

The biggest problems seem to be related to the 2020 Explorer's body integrity, electronics, power equipment, and transmission. Each of these areas has fewer complaints for the 2021 Ford Explorer model year.

What years did the Ford Explorer have transmission problems?

2002 Ford Explorer Suffers from Transmission and Suspension Problems, and a Common Issue with Cracking Body Panels. When looking at full-size SUVs over the last 20 years, the 2002 Ford Explorer wins the trophy for the worst-rated vehicle by owners at Vehicle History.

Are old Ford Explorers reliable?

Since 1991, the Ford Explorer has remained renowned as a durable SUV, with many vehicles lasting up to 200,000 miles. However, design flaws in the third and fifth-generation may limit your ride to just 80,000 miles. Especially if it has a bad transmission or rear suspension flaw.

What year Ford Explorers are being recalled?

Ford Motor Company (Ford) is recalling certain 2020-2021 Explorer Police FHEV, Explorer Police 3.3L, and 2020-2022 Explorer 2.3L RWD, 3.0L PHEV, 3.3L FHEV, and 3.0L ST GAS vehicles. The rear axle horizontal mounting bolt may fracture and cause the driveshaft to disconnect.

What was the worst year for the Ford Explorer?

The worst model years of the Ford Explorer are 2020, 2013 to 2017, 2011, 2006, 2002, 2003, and 2004, and those that were produced between 1996 and 2000.

Which Ford Explorers have transmission problems?

Ford Explorer Transmission Problem The 2006 year model took the number one slot for the worse year model, followed by 2002 and 2004 Explorer. It's also worthy of note that the 2002 to 2005 Explorer has a well-documented history of costly transmission failures at below 100,000 miles.

Is there a recall on Ford Explorer transmission?

Recall no. Ford Motor Company (Ford) is recalling certain 2020 Explorer and Lincoln Aviator vehicles equipped with a 2.0L or 3.3L engine and a 10 Speed Automatic Transmission with the All Wheel Drive package. The drive shaft may fracture along the weld seam.

How many miles is too many for a used Ford Explorer?

How many miles does a Ford Explorer last? On average, with proper care and regular maintenance, Ford Explorers can bank up to 200,000 miles over the course of their lives. But some have been known to make it up to 300,000.

How reliable is a 2015 Ford Explorer?

How Reliable Is the 2015 Ford Explorer? The 2015 Ford Explorer has the lowest possible reliability rating of two out of five from J.D. Power.

Do 2017 Ford Explorers have transmission problems?

It's a type of car problem that's not hard to notice. 2017 Ford Explorer transmission problems could include shifting delays, grinding when accelerating, the car shaking on the road, or whistling noises and a burning smell coming from under the hood.

What problems does a 2014 Ford Explorer have?

The 2014 Ford Explorer sold over 200,000 units and earned a perfect five-star safety rating from the NHTSA. But the SUV is saddled with recalls, complaints, and investigations over suspension issues, fractured toe links, and potential carbon monoxide exhaust leaks.

Everything You Didn't Expect

We bought our Explorer new, having owned both generations prior. This is by-far our favorite, and still sits in our driveway next to our 2007 Explorer today. We use ours for a daily driver and could not ask for a better vehicle given our needs.

Ford exploder

A quick review of my 2004 Ford Explorer . Purchased used in 2011 . Comfortable ride . Once it hit 120,000 that's were things started to go down hill. Ball joints , power steering pump. Wheel bearings. Head lights . Turn signals. And most recently , a transmission. Dropped around 7 grand total in repairs to keep on road , the last 18 months.

Loved it at first, but disappointed with the poor quality

When I first got this vehicle, I really liked it. After 8 years and 85,000 miles, I am ready to move on. Too many small problems like the visors that keep breaking, the cracked plastic on the back hatch, and a couple expensive repairs that should not have been necessary. I take good care of my vehicles and do all the maintenance.

Ten years of owning

Had more issues than I should have had my mileage is now 115,000. 4 wheel repaired twice, rear wheel bearing replaced and not an easy fix due to their design and cost $600.

THESE TRUCKS SHOULD DEFF HAVE ALOT OF RECALLS

Ok So I Currently Own A 2004 ford explorer XLT All time 4 wheel drive. I Loved it when I first got it Then About A Year After Having it because it had been pre owned, the timing jumped about 100,000 miles. Now when this happened I was told go to the junk yard and find another motor.

An exceptionally reliable car

This Eddie Bauer Model has all the bells and whistles that one could want. It is a clean body - no rust - and interior. I am only selling it because my wife bought me a new car - otherwise I would keep it.

Most reliable car. Incredible visibility!

This car has been my favorite car ever. The visibility is so great, you can see all around you at all times. All seats will lay down for tons of hauling space or you can fit 7 passengers safely and comfortably with add'l storage in back of the 3rd row.

Love the truck, but has one issue I can not figure

Has some issues but 99% all repaired. One issue - a "dragging sensation" when cornering in traffic. ANY SUGGESTIONS ? I'm ready to bring it to the most reliable Ford shop in my area.... MacDonald Motors.

Really got my money's worth

This truck was bought used and I drove her up to 160,000 miles. I put a lot of money into her to keep her running, but her motor and transmission are still good and still running. The body rusted out pretty badly and all the component under the truck, but she's a runner and still going.

Worst vehicle I've ever owned

Total junk. My biggest problem has been the driveline. Had 3 wheel bearings replaced. That repair lasted less than 10k. Replacement of rear wheel bearings is a nightmare. Differential whines. Axle seals leak. Half shafts go bad. U joints replaced. The Eddie Bauer version heater sucks. Loud fan little air.

Great in snow for up coming winter

Great price for SUV on a budget. Good in snow . Third row seating or more room for tools or groceries. Nice family SUV without spending to much

Pretty good car, better than some newer ones even

Purchased it in June 2017 with around 180k. It has typical used car issues such as: small rust spots near fenders, fluid changes, wheel bearings, brakes, etc. I have heard about the transmission issue, luckily I’ve never experienced it in around 2 years of owning it. Performance is pretty good, definitely not a slouch with the v6.

Great truck

Have 215k on it and still going strong for a 15 year old car. Very reliable. Transmission was replaced at 175k, but otherwise has been very reliable with only normal maintaince and minor repairs. Very minimal rust for its age for here in new England where cars tend to rust out fast.

One of my favorite cars I?ve owned

This car is one of the best cars I?ve ever owned. Had a lot of fun and good times with this car. Great in the snow, great on the beach. While still being a comfortable ride.

I loved my truck

I loved this truck. But the only problem that this vehicle had was their alarm system. If your battery died and it won't crank over its your alarm. It tho la its being stolen.

My College Car

This car met many needs as a college student driving back and forth from campus to my hometown. Very spacious, with backseats laying down I was able to move my furniture, as well as be the person who always drove because my explorer held 5-6 passengers and plenty trunk space for luggage. Super dependable

Favorite truck!

I've had multiple SUVs in the past, an Escape, Navigator and 2 Yukons, but this is my favorite truck. I typically would change vehicles every 2-3 years, but I bought this vehicle with approximately 75k miles back in 2012 and have added just about 25k miles in 6 years. Its never let me down. Just normal maintenance and it's good to go!

The worst Explorer I've ever bought

Transmission has been nothing but trouble rebuilt twice and it's back again. The ac front and back nothing but trouble. Back hatch exterior has a cracking problem and Ford knows it and never done anything about it. Needless to say I will not buy another Explorer

Can Ford improve heat blend door?

I bought it used and after much work it has served me well. Quite roomy and seats 6-7. Ford could improve heat blend door w metal gears not easily breakable plastic. Other stuff has been regular maintenance.

Is the 2004 Ford Explorer good?

My 2004 Ford Explorer has been an excellent, lasting vehicle, with almost 230,000 miles on it. It rides the road very well; solid handling, and great in rain or snow. Comfortable, wide seats, powerful V-8 engine, roomy trunk space, and wide tires. The car always started, whether sitting outside in the winter or being garaged. Great highway driving.

What is the Ford Explorer?

Ford Explorer is the modern American station wagon. Ford sells more than 400,000 Explorers a year, making it the best-selling SUV and the sixth best-selling vehicle in America, and it's held these titles for a dozen years. Though quite capable as a tow vehicle and able to venture off the highway, most Explorers, like most SUVs, spend their entire lives shuttling people and performing the duties station wagons performed when Baby Boomers were growing up. The Explorer answers this call admirably and comfortably, which is part of the reason it's so popular.

Is the Ford Explorer the same as the 2002 Ford Taurus?

The current Ford Explorer is the same length overall as the pre-2002 models, but it rides on a longer wheelbase (by 2 inches) and a wider track. Pushing the wheels out toward the corners makes the Explorer more stable and more comfortable. Lowered frame rails keep its front and rear bumpers at about the same height as those of a Ford Taurus, improving safety for the non-SUV drivers around you.

Is the Ford Explorer smooth?

The Ford Explorer is smooth and stable on the highway and handles well on winding roads. The available V8 engine offers excellent acceleration out of corners. Ride quality and handling are quite good, greatly improved over pre-2002 models.

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Introduction

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Ford Explorer is the modern American station wagon. Ford sells more than 400,000 Explorers a year, making it the best-selling SUV and the sixth best-selling vehicle in America, and it's held these titles for a dozen years. Though quite capable as a tow vehicle and able to venture off the highway, most Explorers, like most SUVs, spen…
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Lineup

  • The four-door Ford Explorer is available in a full range of trim levels: XLS, XLT, NBX, Eddie Bauer, and Limited. (We specify 'four-door' because the two-door Explorer Sport and Explorer Sport Trac versions are built on the previous-generation platform and are not covered here. All references to the Explorer in this review refer to the four-door models.) An overhead-cam V6 engine is standar…
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Walkaround

  • The current Ford Explorer is the same length overall as the pre-2002 models, but it rides on a longer wheelbase (by 2 inches) and a wider track. Pushing the wheels out toward the corners makes the Explorer more stable and more comfortable. Lowered frame rails keep its front and rear bumpers at about the same height as those of a Ford Taurus, improving safety for the non-…
See more on autoblog.com

Interior

  • The Explorer is a comfortable vehicle, even on long trips. The Eddie Bauer seats were comfortable throughout nine-hour driving stints on a 2,700-mile cross-country trip, and its many convenience features make it pleasant while driving and when stopping. The Eddie Bauer model comes with the traditional beige steering wheel and pinhole leather seatin...
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Driving Impression

  • The Ford Explorer is smooth and stable on the highway and handles well on winding roads. The available V8 engine offers excellent acceleration out of corners. Ride quality and handling are quite good, greatly improved over pre-2002 models. The Explorer rides on a four-wheel independent suspension with coil springs all around. It's a sophisticated setup and it works very …
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Summary

  • The Ford Explorer helped usher in the era of the sport-utility as a family vehicle, and was the first SUV to break into the list of the 10 best-selling vehicles in America (in 1991). Ford Explorer rides smoothly, handles well, and the interior packaging is well thought out and executed. It's a great vehicle for long trips. Comfortable and convenient, it quickly becomes an old friend.
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Model Lineup

  • Explorer XLS 2WD ($26,285); XLS 4WD ($28,510); XLS AWD ($28,510); XLT 2WD ($29,025); XLT 4WD ($31,250); XLT AWD ($31,250); Eddie Bauer 2WD ($33,100); Eddie Bauer 4WD ($35,325); Eddie Bauer AWD ($35,325); Limited 2WD ($33,975); Limited 4WD ($36,200); Limited AWD ($36,200).
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Options as Tested

  • 4.6-liter V8 engine ($800); Safety Canopy air curtain system ($560); auxiliary air conditioning ($610); Reverse Sensing System ($255); third-row seat package ($670); Class III/IV trailer package ($395).
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1.2004 Ford Explorer Review & Ratings | Edmunds

Url:https://www.edmunds.com/ford/explorer/2004/review/

26 hours ago 2004 Ford Explorer consumer reviews $26,600–$30,240 MSRP range 4.2 (87 reviews) 81% of drivers recommend this car Rating breakdown (out of 5): Comfort 4.3 Interior design 4.2 …

2.Used 2004 Ford Explorer Consumer Reviews - 366 Car …

Url:https://www.edmunds.com/ford/explorer/2004/consumer-reviews/

35 hours ago My 2004 Ford Explorer has been an excellent, lasting vehicle, with almost 230,000 miles on it. It rides the road very well; solid handling, and great in rain or snow. Comfortable, wide seats, …

3.2004 Ford Explorer Consumer Reviews | Cars.com

Url:https://www.cars.com/research/ford-explorer-2004/consumer-reviews/

24 hours ago Yes Ford Explorer is a good car. It is a versatile and reliable SUV that is perfect for families and also a great option for off roading. It has plenty of room for passengers and cargo, and the …

4.2004 Ford Explorer Review - Autoblog

Url:https://www.autoblog.com/buy/2004-Ford-Explorer/review/

5 hours ago 2004 Ford Explorer Limited. 4WD, sunroof, leather interior, 2 row seats. Runs good and in good condition. Body and interior has some signs of wear but not bad at all. ... And those cars look …

5.2004 Ford Explorer Consumer Reviews | Cars.com

Url:https://www.cars.com/research/ford-explorer-2004/consumer-reviews/?page=2

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6.Videos of Is 2004 Ford Explorer A Good Car

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7.2004 Ford Explorer Reviews - Verified Owners

Url:https://www.surecritic.com/vehicles/reviews/ford/explorer/2004

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8.2004 Ford Explorer Values & Cars for Sale | Kelley Blue …

Url:https://www.kbb.com/ford/explorer/2004/

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9.2004 Ford Explorer Review - NewCarTestDrive

Url:https://www.newcartestdrive.com/reviews/2004-ford-explorer/

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