2002 Ford Explorer Reviews, Pricing & Specs
Overview
The 2002 Ford Explorer saw a complete redesign for the flagship SUV. The lines became sleeker even as the body grew in size, and interiors...
The 2002 Ford Explorer saw a complete redesign for the flagship SUV. The lines became sleeker even as the body grew in size, and interiors became more luxurious at all trim levels. Engines were upgraded to match; buyers could choose between a 4.0 liter single overhead cam V-6 with a 210-horsepower output, or a 4.6 liter V-8 that delivered a big 239 horsepower.
Trim choices for the 2002 Explorer were XLS, XLT, Eddie Bauer, and Limited, all four-door models. Rear-wheel, four-wheel, and all-wheel drive were available.
A new option on the '02 Explorer was a third-row seat, which took advantage of the sport-utility vehicle's big interior to create passenger space for 7. Safety continued to be a big selling point for the '02 Ford Explorer, with features like side-curtain airbags and anti-lock brakes standard at all trim levels.
Fuel efficiency continued to be unexciting, with the Explorer rated from 14 to 17 mpg city, 19-22 highway, depending on model. This didn't stop buyers from flocking to this roomy, rugged vehicle, though; off-road enthusiasts especially appreciated its 4x4 and real-all-wheel drive capabilities, even though most of the Explorers sold never made their way off the beaten path.
What owners say
"Overall, owners of the 2002 Ford Explorer find it to be a reliable and spacious SUV, ideal for families and travel. They appreciate its power, good handling, and interior comfort. However, many reviewers dislike its gas mileage and report mechanical issues, especially with the tailgate and sound system."
Great car. This is my second explorer. My first was a 1995 EB Explorer. I decided to get this 2002 because I was in need of cargo space and reliability. This car has been a joy to drive over the last 8 years.
October 5, 2010Very solid SUV that has stood the test of time. I mostly use this vehicle for family travel and for hauling trash and yard clippings to the dump and the recycling area. Good Cargo area, solid build, you can really get down and get brown with this vehicle, then wash it down, and head out on the town and you will arrive in style.
March 3, 2013Goes through the snow like hot knife through butter even without the 4-wheel drive!! This is my second Explorer, and I bought it on the reputation of the first one, which, with 210,000 miles, is still going strong! (I still own the first one, a '92, and will keep it until it begs for mercy.) A few cons - the soft plug is very expensive to replace on the 4.0 liter engine. It looks like an 89-cent part, but due to its location, cost $270 in labor charges to get to it. I'm not happy with the cloth interior as everything sticks to it like velcro. And the posts between the rear side windows and back window are getting dull, a problem that has been happening since 1992 apparently. I will most likely always drive an Explorer. They're roomy, comfortable, dependable and easy for everyone to get in and out of.
February 18, 2010What owners say
Great car. This is my second explorer. My first was a 1995 EB Explorer. I decided to get this 2002 because I was in need of cargo space and reliability. This car has been a joy to drive over the last 8 years.
October 5, 2010Very solid SUV that has stood the test of time. I mostly use this vehicle for family travel and for hauling trash and yard clippings to the dump and the recycling area. Good Cargo area, solid build, you can really get down and get brown with this vehicle, then wash it down, and head out on the town and you will arrive in style.
March 3, 2013Goes through the snow like hot knife through butter even without the 4-wheel drive!! This is my second Explorer, and I bought it on the reputation of the first one, which, with 210,000 miles, is still going strong! (I still own the first one, a '92, and will keep it until it begs for mercy.) A few cons - the soft plug is very expensive to replace on the 4.0 liter engine. It looks like an 89-cent part, but due to its location, cost $270 in labor charges to get to it. I'm not happy with the cloth interior as everything sticks to it like velcro. And the posts between the rear side windows and back window are getting dull, a problem that has been happening since 1992 apparently. I will most likely always drive an Explorer. They're roomy, comfortable, dependable and easy for everyone to get in and out of.
February 18, 2010Great ride, tight steering, independent suspension w/little body roll, hauls good, great in snow & mud, comfortable, V-8 good power, great high & low 4x4 system, shift 4x4 on the fly, brakes are great even with a load behind you, solid feel on the road, smooth shifting even under load, good sight from drivers seat, seat adjust great with memory, seats fold up for hauling bigger items, in and out of it is nice better than my car. "Great Vehicle".
December 24, 2012This vehicle is extremely dependable in all types of weather. A foot of snow is not a match for this vehicle. Over the years, maintenance has been a snap. It's been 12 years and it still cleans up so well. It has served us extremely well over the years whether it's going to work or moving furniture.
May 10, 2014Pretty much amazing. Lots of power, very good acceleration for a 2 ton SUV able to tow a huge trailer without any problem. 114K miles and still going strong Hasnt required any major repairs in the last 25K miles. Overall a great car to drive.
October 15, 2010I like everything about this suv has lots of power ,comfort, storage ,looks, good 4x4 easy to get in and out tows well good daily driver excellent a/c and not to big yes I would buy another one thanks
February 24, 2015Ford has the ultimate SUV in the Ford Explorer. That is why year in and year out... It is one of the best selling cars in the world. I highly recommend it to everyone I know. Hoping Ford keeps up the good work.
July 12, 2014Over all i love this body style of explorer it is a great car to drive and i believe it was built well. It is reliable, roomy, and it is a go with the flow type of car. I work for a delivery service and at Christmas time i used it to deliver packages, it was amazing how much i could fit in it.
June 11, 2013A very large car, with many large blind spaces. Can fit an entire car in the side blind spots. Wide turning radius. But has 4x4, lots of storage space, and sturdy build. Less inclined to flip then the 90s models.
April 12, 2008Trims & specs
Base MSRP $31,125 | Seating 7 |
Engine 4.0L 210 hp V6 | Cargo Capacity 0.0 cu ft |
Combined MPG 15 | Drivetrain 4WD |
Base MSRP $23,190 | Seating 4 |
Engine 4.0L 203 hp V6 | Cargo Capacity 35.5 cu ft |
Combined MPG 19 | Drivetrain RWD |
Base MSRP $33,170 | Seating 7 |
Engine 4.0L 210 hp V6 | Cargo Capacity 0.0 cu ft |
Combined MPG 16 | Drivetrain RWD |
Base MSRP $26,210 | Seating 4 |
Engine 4.0L 203 hp V6 | Cargo Capacity 35.5 cu ft |
Combined MPG 17 | Drivetrain 4WD |
Base MSRP $35,135 | Seating 7 |
Engine 4.0L 210 hp V6 | Cargo Capacity 0.0 cu ft |
Combined MPG 15 | Drivetrain 4WD |
Base MSRP $33,170 | Seating 7 |
Engine 4.0L 210 hp V6 | Cargo Capacity 0.0 cu ft |
Combined MPG 16 | Drivetrain RWD |
Base MSRP $29,160 | Seating 7 |
Engine 4.0L 210 hp V6 | Cargo Capacity 0.0 cu ft |
Combined MPG 16 | Drivetrain RWD |
Base MSRP $27,090 | Seating 5 |
Engine 4.0L 210 hp V6 | Cargo Capacity 0.0 cu ft |
Combined MPG 16 | Drivetrain 4WD |
Base MSRP $25,210 | Seating 5 |
Engine 4.0L 210 hp V6 | Cargo Capacity 0.0 cu ft |
Combined MPG 17 | Drivetrain RWD |
Base MSRP $35,135 | Seating 7 |
Engine 4.0L 210 hp V6 | Cargo Capacity 0.0 cu ft |
Combined MPG 15 | Drivetrain 4WD |
