I'm going to look at a 2002 explorer XLT 4wd 4.0 with 100,000 miles on it tomorrow for my g/f. I have zero experience with explorers. I need some tips on what to look out for. And if the vehicle checks out,what are some problems in the long run? how dependable is the 4.0 and auto tranny that is behind it? Thanks for any tips!!

 

Asked and answered in many threads:

https://www.ford-trucks.com/forums/1...ng-advice.html

Unless you get this for a song and:

A) want a new hobby

or

B) know a qualified Ford engine and transmission man who works for free

PASS.

They are a good vehicle, but it is almost impossible to predict the remaining life in that engine/trans combo.

 

Loud wheel bearings front and rear. Ball joints. Noisy rear end full of metal shavings, timing chains, sloppy/delayed shifting, tie rods inner and outer, CV axles in rear, HVAC that won't switch from hot to cold, HVAC stuck on defrost, cracked rear hatch panel.... Too many potential issues to list. If you know how to wrench and expect to, a 3rd gen can serve you well. If you want less wrenching the 4th gen 06-10 have treated me way better in all areas.

 

I have a 2002 with 165K miles. Good little truck. I have put 5-6 wheel bearings on it, and rebuilt the rear axle at 150K miles due to bearing whine... Other than that, standard alternator replace at 140K, brakes as needed........ Change the trans oil at 30-40 K intervals and they run a long time......... no motor problems yet.

 

I should have mentioned that our 04 explorer 4.0 that we bought new has almost 300k on it. Original transmission with a new solenoid pack under warranty. Three time axle rebuilds under warranty, one set of upper control arms under warranty and needs another. Just now has timing rattle on startup but at this point it's not worth fixing. My in laws have it and will run it to failure. Keep up on oil changes and use a motorcraft filter. If the oil is dirty or neglected as seen from the filler cap, run don't walk away...my "new" 04 was a bit neglected but was cheap...to purchase.... Has 129k miles and I believe a leaking head gasket due to a previous overheat.

 

Is the v8 drivetrain any better? passed on the one I originally aasked about because it had too many problems I didn't want to fix for the price they were asking for it. Looking at a 2004 with the 4.6 tomorrow

 

4.6 does not have timing chain issues like the 4.0. Not sure it the 4.6 suffered the plug popping of the 5.4.

5 speed automatics are all trouble prone and require more maintenance than most, see post 4.

IF the transmission shifts proper at WOT and regular throttle, and the fluid looks good, you are probably safe. Flaring between gears is not a good sign. Any other goofy shifting or failure to shift down when you punch it are not good signs either.