2002 FORD EXPLORER — Problems, Recalls & Safety Data

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N/A

Safety Rating

4,096

Owner Complaints

178 Crashes 71 Fires 6 Deaths

10

Recalls

ACTIVE RECALL

70

Service Bulletins

2

Investigations

Overview of the 2002 FORD EXPLORER

The 2002 FORD EXPLORER has received a total of 4,096 safety complaints filed with the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA). There have been 10 recall campaigns affecting this vehicle, covering issues with VEHICLE SPEED CONTROL, EXTERIOR LIGHTING:HEADLIGHTS, EXTERIOR LIGHTING. 70 technical service bulletins have been issued by Ford Motor Company for this model year. The most commonly reported problems involve the Power Trainautomatic Transmission (887 complaints), Power Train (286 complaints), and Suspensionrear (192 complaints).

Recalls for the 2002 FORD EXPLORER

NHTSA has recorded 10 recalls for the 2002 FORD EXPLORER, potentially affecting up to 5,711,217 vehicles.

Recall 09V399000 — VEHICLE SPEED CONTROL

| 4,500,000 vehicles affected

Defect: FORD IS RECALLING MODEL YEARS 1995-2003 WINDSTAR, 2000-2003 EXCURSION DIESEL, 1993-1997 AND 1999-2003 F-250 SD THROUGH F-550 SD DIESEL, 1992-2003 E-150 THROUGH E-550, 1995-2002 EXPLORER, 1997 AND 2002 MERCURY MOUNTAINEER, 1995-1997 AND 2001-2003 RANGER, AND 1994 F53 VEHICLES EQUIPPED WITH THE TEXAS INSTRUMENTS SPEED CONTROL DEACTIVATION SWITCH (SCDS). THE SCDS MAY LEAK INTERNALLY AND THEN OVERHEAT, SMOKE, OR BURN.

Consequence: A VEHICLE FIRE COULD OCCUR WITH OR WITHOUT THE ENGINE RUNNING.

Remedy: FORD WILL NOTIFY OWNERS THAT DEALERS WILL INSTALL A FUSED WIRING HARNESS IN LINE WITH THE SCDS. ON 1999-2003 WINDSTAR VEHICLES WITH A LEAKING SCDS, DEALERS WILL ALSO INSPECT THE ABS CONTROL MODULE CONNECTOR AND REPAIR AS NECESSARY. REPAIRS WILL...

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Recall 09E025000 — EXTERIOR LIGHTING:HEADLIGHTS

| 42,540 vehicles affected

Defect: DOPE, INC. 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. 108, "LAMPS, REFLECTIVE DEVICES, AND ASSOCIATED EQUIPMENT." THESE LAMPS DO NOT CONTAIN THE REQUIRED AMBER SIDE REFLECTORS.

Consequence: DECREASED LIGHTING VISIBILITY MAY RESULT IN A VEHICLE CRASH.

Remedy: DOPE, INC. WILL NOTIFY OWNERS AND OFFER A FULL REFUND FOR THE NONCOMPLIANT COMBINATION LAMPS. THE SAFETY RECALL BEGAN ON JULY 28, 2009. OWNERS MAY CONTACT DOPE, INC. AT 1-626-272-1798.

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Recall 09E012000 — EXTERIOR LIGHTING

| 16,270 vehicles affected

Defect: SABERSPORT IS RECALLING 16,270 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. 108, "LAMPS, REFLECTIVE DEVICES, AND ASSOCIATED EQUIPMENT." THESE LAMPS DO NOT CONTAIN THE REQUIRED AMBER SIDE REFLECTORS.

Consequence: DECREASED LIGHTING VISIBILITY MAY RESULT IN A VEHICLE CRASH.

Remedy: SABERSPORT WILL NOTIFY OWNERS AND OFFER A FULL REFUND FOR THE NONCOMPLIANT COMBINATION LAMPS. THE SAFETY RECALL BEGAN ON MAY 11, 2009. OWNERS MAY CONTACT SABERSPORT AT 1-909-598-7589.

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Recall 07E104000 — VISIBILITY:GLASS, SIDE/REAR

| 1,657 vehicles affected

Defect: CERTAIN CURVED TEMPERED REPLACEMENT GLASS MANUFACTURED BY HANGZHOU SAFETY GLASS LTD AND SUPPLIED TO SAFELITE BY AUTO TEMP INC., IDENTIFIED AS DOT-430, AND SOLD FOR USE ON CERTAIN DOMESTIC AND FOREIGN VEHICLES MAY NOT BREAK INTO SMALL PIECES AS EXPECTED OF TEMPERED GLASS AND FAILS TO CONFORM TO FEDERAL MOTOR VEHICLE SAFETY STANDARD NO. 205, "GLAZING MATERIALS."

Consequence: IN THE EVENT OF A VEHICLE CRASH, THE OCCUPANT(S) MAY BE SERIOUSLY INJURED BY SHATTERED GLASS.

Remedy: SAFELITE WILL NOTIFY ITS RETAIL CUSTOMERS AND REPLACE THE GLASS FREE OF CHARGE. RETAIL CUSTOMERS CAN CONTACT SAFELITE TOLL FREE AT 1-888-843-2906. SAFELITE WILL NOTIFY ITS WHOLESALE CUSTOMERS AND REIMBURSE WHOLESALE CUSTOMERS FOR CURRENT INVENTORY AND AT A SPECIFIED RATE...

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Recall 06E049000 — EXTERIOR LIGHTING

| 27,176 vehicles affected

Defect: CERTAIN CK MOTORSPORTS COMBINATION HEADLIGHTS, CLEAR CORNER, BUMPER, AND SIDE MARKER LIGHTS SOLD AS REPLACEMENT LAMPS FOR USE ON THE PASSENGER VEHICLES LISTED ABOVE. SOME COMBINATION LAMPS THAT ARE NOT EQUIPPED WITH AMBER SIDE REFLECTORS FAIL TO CONFORM TO FEDERAL MOTOR VEHICLE SAFETY STANDARD NO. 108, LAMPS, REFLECTIVE DEVICES, AND ASSOCIATED EQUIPMENT.

Consequence: WITHOUT THE AMBER REFLECTORS, THE VEHICLE WILL BE POORLY ILLUMINATED, POSSIBLY RESULTING IN A VEHICLE CRASH WITHOUT WARNING.

Remedy: CK MOTORSPORT WILL NOTIFY OWNERS AND REPLACE THE NONCOMPLIANT LAMPS FREE OF CHARGE. THE RECALL BEGAN ON JULY 1, 2006. OWNERS MAY CONTACT CK MOTORSPORT AT 1-909-610-7211.

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Recall 06E026000 — EXTERIOR LIGHTING

| 61,944 vehicles affected

Defect: CERTAIN PRO-A MOTORS CORNER LAMPS, TURN SIGNALS, AND HEADLIGHTS SOLD AS REPLACEMENT LAMPS FOR USE ON CERTAIN PASSENGER VEHICLES LISTED ABOVE. SOME COMBINATION LAMPS THAT ARE NOT EQUIPPED WITH AMBER SIDE REFLECTORS FAIL TO CONFORM TO FEDERAL MOTOR VEHICLE SAFETY STANDARD NO. 108, LAMPS, REFLECTIVE DEVICES, AND ASSOCIATED EQUIPMENT.

Consequence: WITHOUT THE AMBER REFLECTORS, THE VEHICLE WILL BE POORLY ILLUMINATED, POSSIBLY RESULTING IN A VEHICLE CRASH WITHOUT WARNING.

Remedy: PRO-A MOTORS WILL NOTIFY OWNERS AND OFFER TO REPURCHASE THE LAMPS. THE RECALL BEGAN ON APRIL 3, 2006. OWNERS MAY CONTACT PRO-A MOTORS AT 323-838-2988.

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Recall 04V442000 — STRUCTURE:BODY:HATCHBACK/LIFTGATE:HINGE AND ATTACHMENTS

| 955,732 vehicles affected

Defect: ON CERTAIN SPORT UTILITY VEHICLES, THE LIFTGATE GLASS STRUT MAY BECOME DISENGAGED OR THE HINGE MAY FRACTURE ALLOWING THE GLASS TO FALL AND POSSIBLY BREAK.

Consequence: IF THE HINGE SHOULD FRACTURE, THERE IS A POTENTIAL FOR THE GLASS TO FALL AND ULTIMATELY BREAK AND PERSONAL INJURIES COULD OCCUR.

Remedy: DEALERS WILL HAVE THE LIFTGATE GLASS STRUT BRACKETS AND GLASS HINGES REPLACED. FOR THE VEHICLES BUILT FROM AUGUST 1, 2000 THROUGH MARCH 3, 2002, THE DEALERS WILL REPLACE THE HINGES AND LIFTGATE STRUT BRACKET. ON VEHICLES BUILT FROM MARCH 3,...

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Recall 03V094000 — STRUCTURE

| 3,674 vehicles affected

Defect: CERTAIN PICKUP TRUCK, VAN, AND MINI VAN CONVERSIONS EQUIPPED WITH SOUTHERN COMFORT BUILT RUNNING BOARDS THAT CONTAIN CERTAIN COURTESY LIGHTS MANUFACTURED BY AMERICAN TECHNOLOGY COMPONENTS, INC. THESE UNITS CONTAIN A COURTESY LIGHT OR LIGHTS THAT MIGHT OVERHEAT WHEN THE WIRE HARNESS IS EXPOSED TO EXCESSIVE MOISTURE AND ROAD SALT.

Consequence: THIS OVERHEATING CONDITION CAN CAUSE THE RUNNING BOARD TO MELT OR CAUSE A FIRE.

Remedy: DEALERS WILL REPLACE THE WIRING HARNESS ON THESE RUNNING BOARDS. OWNER NOTIFICATION BEGAN MARCH 7, 2003. OWNERS WHO TAKE THEIR VEHICLES TO AN AUTHORIZED DEALER ON AN AGREED UPON SERVICE DATE AND DO NOT RECEIVE THE FREE REMEDY WITHIN A...

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Recall 01V171000 — TIRES:SIDEWALL

| 52,000 vehicles affected

Defect: VEHICLE DESCRIPTION: SPORT UTILITY VEHICLES. THE RIGHT SIDE TIRES MAY HAVE HORIZONTAL CUTS ON THE EDGE OF THE TREAD THAT COULD HAVE OCCURRED DURING VEHICLE ASSEMBLY.

Consequence: OVER TIME, THE TIRE COULD FAIL, INCREASING THE RISK OF A CRASH.

Remedy: DEALERS WILL INSPECT THE TIRES AND, IF ANY SLICES ARE FOUND, THE CUT TIRES WILL BE REPLACED. OWNER NOTIFICATION BEGAN JUNE 7, 2001. OWNERS WHO TAKE THEIR VEHICLES TO AN AUTHORIZED DEALER ON AN AGREED UPON SERVICE DATE AND DO...

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Recall 01I010000 — VISIBILITY:GLASS, SIDE/REAR

| 50,224 vehicles affected

Defect: THIS IS NOT A SAFETY RECALL IN ACCORDANCE WITH THE SAFETY ACT. HOWEVER, IT IS DEEMED A SAFETY IMPROVEMENT CAMPAIGN BY THE AGENCY. VEHICLE DESCRIPTION: 2002 FORD EXPLORER AND MERCURY MONTAINEER SPORT UTILITY VEHICLES. THE BRACKETS CONNECTING THE LEFT CYLINDERS TO EACH SIDE OF THE LIFTGATE GLASS COULD ROTATE OUT OF POSITION IF EITHER THE URETHANE BOND OR TORQUE ARE...

Consequence: ROTATION OF THE BRACKETS COULD POTENTIALLY CAUSE THE LIFT CYLINDERS TO DETACH FROM THE GLASS OR, IN SOME CASES, COULD POTENTIALLY CAUSE THE LIFTGATE GLASS TO BREAK. EITHER CONDITION IS MOST LIKELY TO OCCUR WHEN THE GLASS IS BEING CLOSED.

Remedy: FORD DEALERS WILL INSPECT THE VEHICLES FOR THE POSITION OF BOTH THE LEFT AND RIGHT LIFTGATGE GLASS LIFT CYLINDER BRACKETS. IF THE BRACKETS ARE IN THE PROPER POSITION, THE BRACKET RETAINERS WILL BE TIGHTENED TO A HIGHER TORQUE. IN CASES...

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Owner Complaints for the 2002 FORD EXPLORER

4,096 complaints have been filed with NHTSA for the 2002 FORD EXPLORER. Below is a breakdown by vehicle component.

Power Trainautomatic Transmission
Complaints: 887 16 Crashes 2 Fires 8 Injuries
Power Train
Complaints: 286 5 Crashes 1 Fire 5 Injuries
Suspensionrear
Complaints: 192 1 Crash
Structurebodyhatchbackliftgatehinge And Attachments
Complaints: 166 42 Injuries
Power Traindrivelinedifferential Unit
Complaints: 160
Electrical System
Complaints: 115 3 Crashes 14 Fires
Suspension
Complaints: 115 1 Crash 1 Fire
Structurebodyhatchbackliftgate
Complaints: 112 9 Injuries
Steering
Complaints: 110 7 Crashes 2 Fires 2 Injuries
Structurebody
Complaints: 110 3 Crashes 2 Fires 4 Injuries
Vehicle Speed Control
Complaints: 103 24 Crashes 7 Fires 13 Injuries
Air Bags
Complaints: 96 33 Crashes 3 Fires 36 Injuries 2 Deaths
Wheels
Complaints: 58 1 Crash 1 Fire 2 Injuries
Engine And Engine Cooling
Complaints: 56 8 Fires
Suspensionfrontwheel Bearing
Complaints: 56 1 Fire
Engine And Engine Coolingengine
Complaints: 50 2 Fires
Engine
Complaints: 49 1 Crash 5 Fires 4 Injuries
Power Trainautomatic Transmissionlever And Linkagecolumn Shift
Complaints: 44 1 Crash
Unknown Or Other
Complaints: 42 2 Crashes 1 Fire 4 Injuries
Equipment
Complaints: 39 1 Crash 1 Fire 1 Injury
Power Trainaxle Assembly
Complaints: 38 1 Injury
Structure
Complaints: 38 1 Crash 5 Injuries 1 Death
Suspensionrearspringscoil Springs
Complaints: 38
Visibilityglass Siderear
Complaints: 38 12 Injuries
Service Brakes Hydraulicantilocktraction Controlelectronic Limited Slip
Complaints: 37 6 Crashes 1 Injury
Air Bagsfrontal
Complaints: 34 25 Crashes 25 Injuries
Power Traindriveline
Complaints: 31
Visibilitypower Window Devices And Controls
Complaints: 31 1 Fire 1 Injury
Tires
Complaints: 29 3 Crashes 2 Injuries 1 Death
Power Traintransfer Case 4 Wheel Drive
Complaints: 28 3 Crashes
Fuel System Gasoline
Complaints: 27 1 Fire
Steeringcolumn
Complaints: 25 1 Crash 2 Injuries
Vehicle Speed Controlaccelerator Pedal
Complaints: 25 7 Crashes 3 Injuries
Engine And Engine Coolingenginegasoline
Complaints: 24 2 Crashes 1 Fire 1 Injury
Visibility
Complaints: 23 2 Injuries
Power Trainaxle Assemblyaxle Shaftseal
Complaints: 22
Structurebodytailgate
Complaints: 22
Seat Belts
Complaints: 21 1 Crash
Latcheslockslinkages
Complaints: 19 1 Crash
Air Bagsfrontalsensorcontrol Module
Complaints: 18
Fuelpropulsion System
Complaints: 18 1 Fire
Seats
Complaints: 18 2 Crashes 2 Injuries 1 Death
Vehicle Speed Controlcruise Control
Complaints: 17 2 Fires
Parking Brake
Complaints: 16 1 Fire
Power Trainaxle Hubs
Complaints: 15
Service Brakes
Complaints: 15 3 Crashes 1 Fire 1 Injury
Service Brakes Hydraulic
Complaints: 15 1 Crash
Suspensionrearsprings
Complaints: 15
Power Trainautomatic Transmissiontorque Converter
Complaints: 14
Structurebodydoor
Complaints: 14
Suspensionfront
Complaints: 14
Air Bagssidewindow
Complaints: 13 4 Crashes 2 Fires 4 Injuries
Power Trainautomatic Transmissiongear Position Indication Prndl
Complaints: 13 1 Crash
Power Trainmanual Transmission
Complaints: 13
Equipmentapplianceair Conditioner
Complaints: 12
Latcheslockslinkagesdoorslatch
Complaints: 12 1 Crash 1 Injury
Latcheslockslinkageshatchbackliftgatelock
Complaints: 12 1 Injury
Structurebodyhatchbackliftgatesupport Devicestrut
Complaints: 12 2 Injuries
Service Brakes Hydraulicfoundation Componentsdiscrotor
Complaints: 11
Engine And Engine Coolingexhaust System
Complaints: 10
Suspensionfronthub
Complaints: 10
Visibilityrear Window Wiperwasher
Complaints: 10 1 Injury
Wheelslugsnutsboltsstuds
Complaints: 10
Exterior Lighting
Complaints: 9
Service Brakes Hydraulicantilocktraction Controlelectronic Limited Slipabs Warning Light
Complaints: 9
Visibilitywiper
Complaints: 9 1 Injury
Power Traindrivelinedriveshaft
Complaints: 8
Vehicle Speed Controlcables
Complaints: 8 1 Crash 1 Injury
Electrical Systemwiringinteriorunder Dash
Complaints: 7 2 Fires
Engine And Engine Coolingexhaust Systememission Controlcatalytic Convertor
Complaints: 7
Fuel System Otherstoragefuel Gauge System
Complaints: 7
Interior Lighting
Complaints: 7
Steeringrack And Pinion
Complaints: 7
Suspensionrearaxlespindle
Complaints: 7
Engine And Engine Coolingcooling System
Complaints: 6
Latcheslockslinkagestailgatelatch
Complaints: 6
Power Trainautomatic Transmissioncontrol Module Tcmpcmtecm
Complaints: 6
Structurebodytailgatehinge And Attachments
Complaints: 6
Wheelshub
Complaints: 6
Electrical Systemignitionswitch
Complaints: 5
Electrical Systemwiring
Complaints: 5
Exterior Lightingbrake Lightsswitch
Complaints: 5 1 Fire
Fuel System Gasolinedeliveryfuel Pump
Complaints: 5
Fuel System Other
Complaints: 5 1 Fire
Power Trainaxle Assemblyaxle Shaft
Complaints: 5
Seat Beltsfront
Complaints: 5 1 Crash 1 Injury
Seatsfront Assemblyrecliner
Complaints: 5 1 Crash 3 Injuries
Service Brakes Hydraulicfoundation Components
Complaints: 5
Structureframe And Members
Complaints: 5
Visibilitydefrosterdefoggerhvac System
Complaints: 5
Visibilitysunmoon Roof Assembly
Complaints: 5
Electrical Systemwiringfuses And Circuit Breakers
Complaints: 4
Fuel System Gasolinedeliveryhoses Linespiping And Fittings
Complaints: 4 1 Fire
Power Trainclutch Assembly
Complaints: 4
Seat Beltsfrontretractor
Complaints: 4
Service Brakes Airantilockabs Warning Light
Complaints: 4
Service Brakes Hydraulicantilocktraction Controlelectronic Limited Slipcontrol Unitmodule
Complaints: 4
Service Brakes Hydraulicfoundation Componentsdiscpads
Complaints: 4
Steeringhydraulic Power Assist System
Complaints: 4 1 Crash 1 Death
Suspensionrearaxlenon Powered Axle Assembly
Complaints: 4
Tiressidewall
Complaints: 4 1 Crash 1 Injury
Visibilitywindshield
Complaints: 4 1 Injury
Electronic Stability Control Esc
Complaints: 3 1 Crash
Engine And Engine Coolingexhaust Systememission Control
Complaints: 3
Engine And Engine Coolingexhaust Systemmanifoldheadermufflertail Pipe
Complaints: 3
Equipment Adaptivemobility
Complaints: 3 1 Crash
Equipmentmechanicalcarrierrack
Complaints: 3
Fuel System Gasolinestorage
Complaints: 3
Fuel System Gasolinestoragetank Assemblyfiller Pipe And Cap
Complaints: 3
Seatsfront Assemblyhead Restraint
Complaints: 3
Service Brakes Electric
Complaints: 3 1 Crash 1 Injury
Steering Steering Wheelhandle Bar
Complaints: 3
Steeringgear Box Other Than Rack And Pinion
Complaints: 3
Structurebodydoorhinge And Attachments
Complaints: 3
Tirestemporaryemergency Spare Tire
Complaints: 3
Vehicle Speed Controllinkages
Complaints: 3
Visibilityrearview Mirrorsdevicesexterior
Complaints: 3
Electrical System Instrument Clusterpanel
Complaints: 2
Electrical System12v24v48v Battery
Complaints: 2
Electrical Systemignition
Complaints: 2
Electrical Systemignitionanti Theftcontrol Module
Complaints: 2
Electrical Systemignitionmodule
Complaints: 2
Engine And Engine Coolingenginegasolinebelts And Associated Pulleys
Complaints: 2
Engine And Engine Coolingexhaust Systememission Controlgas Recirculation Valve Egr Valve
Complaints: 2
Equipmentelectricalradiotape Deckcd Etc
Complaints: 2
Equipmentrecreational Vehicletrailer
Complaints: 2
Exterior Lightingheadlights
Complaints: 2
Power Trainautomatic Transmissionparkneutral Start Interlock Switch
Complaints: 2
Power Traindrivelinecenter Support Bearing
Complaints: 2
Power Traindrivelineconstant Velocity Joint
Complaints: 2
Power Trainmanual Transmissionfloor Shift Assembly
Complaints: 2
Seat Beltsfrontbuckle Assembly
Complaints: 2
Seatsmidrear Assembly
Complaints: 2 1 Crash 1 Injury
Service Brakes Airantilock
Complaints: 2 2 Crashes
Service Brakes Hydraulicfoundation Componentsdisccaliper
Complaints: 2
Service Brakes Hydraulicfoundation Componentsmaster Cylinder
Complaints: 2 1 Fire
Service Brakes Hydraulicpedals And Linkages
Complaints: 2
Steeringgear Boxshaft Sector
Complaints: 2
Steeringlinkagestie Rod Assembly
Complaints: 2 1 Crash
Suspensionfrontcontrol Armupper Ball Joint
Complaints: 2
Suspensionfrontstabilizer Bar
Complaints: 2 1 Crash 1 Injury
Suspensionrearshock Absorber
Complaints: 2
Tirestreadbelt
Complaints: 2
Visibilityrear Window Wiperwashermotor
Complaints: 2
Visibilitywindshield Wiperwasher
Complaints: 2
Visibilitywindshield Wiperwashermotor
Complaints: 2
Wheelsmulti Piece
Complaints: 2
Air Bagsfrontaldriver Sideinflator Module
Complaints: 1 1 Crash
Air Bagson Off Switch Assembly
Complaints: 1
Back Over Preventionwarningsexternalpedestrian Alert
Complaints: 1
Electrical Systemalternatorgeneratorregulator
Complaints: 1 1 Fire
Electrical Systemhorn
Complaints: 1
Electrical Systemstarter Assemblysolenoid
Complaints: 1
Electrical Systemwiring Rear Compartmenttrunk
Complaints: 1 1 Fire
Electrical Systemwiringfront Underhood
Complaints: 1 1 Crash 1 Fire
Engine And Engine Coolingcooling Systemfan
Complaints: 1
Engine And Engine Coolingexhaust Systememission Controlcrankcase Pcv
Complaints: 1
Equipmentelectricalnavigational Systemglobal Positioning System
Complaints: 1
Exterior Lightingbrake Lights
Complaints: 1
Exterior Lightingheadlightsswitch
Complaints: 1
Exterior Lightingtail Lights
Complaints: 1
Fuel System Gasolinedelivery
Complaints: 1
Fuel System Gasolinestoragetank Assembly
Complaints: 1
Latcheslockslinkageshoodlatch
Complaints: 1
Parking Brakeconventionalmechanicallinkage And Cable
Complaints: 1
Power Trainautomatic Transmissioncooling Unit And Lines
Complaints: 1
Power Trainaxle Assemblybanjo Housing
Complaints: 1
Seat Belts Rearotherbuckle Assembly
Complaints: 1
Seat Beltsfrontanchorage
Complaints: 1 1 Crash 1 Injury
Seat Beltsrearother
Complaints: 1
Seatsfront Assemblypower Adjust
Complaints: 1
Seatsfront Assemblyseat Heatercooler
Complaints: 1
Service Brakes Airantilockcontrol Unitmodule
Complaints: 1
Service Brakes Airdiscpads
Complaints: 1
Service Brakes Hydraulicfoundation Componentsdifferential Proportional Valve
Complaints: 1
Service Brakes Hydraulicfoundation Componentsdrum
Complaints: 1
Steeringcolumn Lockinganti Theft Device
Complaints: 1 1 Crash
Steeringrack And Pinionpinion Shaft
Complaints: 1
Structurebodytrunk Lid
Complaints: 1
Structureframe And Membersunderbody Shields
Complaints: 1
Suspensionfrontcontrol Armlower Arm
Complaints: 1
Suspensionfrontcontrol Armlower Ball Joint
Complaints: 1
Suspensionfrontspringscoil Springs
Complaints: 1
Tiresvalve
Complaints: 1
Vehicle Speed Controlsprings
Complaints: 1
Visibilitydefrosterdefoggerhvac Systemfanmotor
Complaints: 1
Visibilitydefrosterdefoggerhvac Systemrear Window
Complaints: 1 1 Injury
Visibilitydefrosterdefoggerhvac Systemwindshieldelectrical Heating Element
Complaints: 1
Visibilityrear Window Wiperwasherlinkages
Complaints: 1 1 Injury
Visibilityrearview Mirrorsdevices
Complaints: 1
Visibilityrearview Mirrorsdevicesinterior
Complaints: 1
Visibilitywindshield Wiperwasherswitchwiring
Complaints: 1 1 Fire
Wheelshubcapcover
Complaints: 1
Wheelsrim
Complaints: 1

Most Recent Complaints

#11672158 | STRUCTURE:BODY | | N/A miles 1 Injury
September 2, 2023 at about 6 pm I pulled over to grab a couple water bottles from the rear of my 2002 Ford Explorer Sport cause my engine was overheating. I got out walked to the rear of my vehicle pushed my unlatch button on the tailgate and I lifted the glass part of the rear hatch. Both air hinges were not working correctly to keep it up so I gently rested the glass on my hair that was put up in a bun and just a little bit of the glass was resting on the very top of my head where my hair was slicked back for my bun so my hands were free to grab the bottles of water. (My hair was the softest of resting place's). As I reached in the back to grab the water bottles I heard the loudest bang and hundreds of little pieces of glass fell everywhere around me. I was in so much distrot that I actually thought someone had shot at me with a fire arm but missed me and hit the rear glass instead. The top of my head was stinging and it felt like I had just been smacked with a tree branch and the glass had went all over me causing a few minor cuts and scrapes as I fell to my knees in shock my heart racing faster than I had even imagined a heart could beat while histaraclly crying from the trauma that just occurred I fell to the ground and for a full 15 minutes i sat there surrounded by glass and tears in so much shock, dazed and confused before I stood up and looked around at everything that then I only realized I WASN'T shot at because there was no bullet or bullet hole nor did a vehicle drive by nor was there any people closer than a mile to me when I realized that the glass had shattered for some UNKNOWN reason ON ITS OWN that it scared me so bad it traumatized me. After that day I was pulled over multiple times by numerous police agency's (sheriff, Medford PD, Central Point PD and State Police) because I didn't have the money to fix it let alone have the knowledge that it had a recall so I could get it replaced. I have pictures but it will not allow me to upload them.
#11672158 | UNKNOWN OR OTHER | | N/A miles 1 Injury
September 2, 2023 at about 6 pm I pulled over to grab a couple water bottles from the rear of my 2002 Ford Explorer Sport cause my engine was overheating. I got out walked to the rear of my vehicle pushed my unlatch button on the tailgate and I lifted the glass part of the rear hatch. Both air hinges were not working correctly to keep it up so I gently rested the glass on my hair that was put up in a bun and just a little bit of the glass was resting on the very top of my head where my hair was slicked back for my bun so my hands were free to grab the bottles of water. (My hair was the softest of resting place's). As I reached in the back to grab the water bottles I heard the loudest bang and hundreds of little pieces of glass fell everywhere around me. I was in so much distrot that I actually thought someone had shot at me with a fire arm but missed me and hit the rear glass instead. The top of my head was stinging and it felt like I had just been smacked with a tree branch and the glass had went all over me causing a few minor cuts and scrapes as I fell to my knees in shock my heart racing faster than I had even imagined a heart could beat while histaraclly crying from the trauma that just occurred I fell to the ground and for a full 15 minutes i sat there surrounded by glass and tears in so much shock, dazed and confused before I stood up and looked around at everything that then I only realized I WASN'T shot at because there was no bullet or bullet hole nor did a vehicle drive by nor was there any people closer than a mile to me when I realized that the glass had shattered for some UNKNOWN reason ON ITS OWN that it scared me so bad it traumatized me. After that day I was pulled over multiple times by numerous police agency's (sheriff, Medford PD, Central Point PD and State Police) because I didn't have the money to fix it let alone have the knowledge that it had a recall so I could get it replaced. I have pictures but it will not allow me to upload them.
#11594472 | AIR BAGS | | 118,583 miles
The contact owns a 2002 Ford Explorer. The contact stated that while her fiancé was driving 45 MPH, the driver’s side and passenger’s side air bags inadvertently deployed without an impact or a crash, causing the contact’s fiancé to swerve and drive down into a ditch. No warning lights were illuminated. The front bumper, windshield, and passenger’s side taillight were cracked. No injuries were sustained. A Police report was not filed. The vehicle was not diagnosed or repaired by an independent mechanic or dealer. The manufacturer was not made aware of the failure. The failure mileage was 118,583.
#11557714 | ENGINE | | 88,000 miles
The contact owns a 2002 Ford Explorer. The contact stated while driving 45 MPH, the vehicle shut off. The contact was able to coast off the freeway. There were no warning lights illuminated. The contact called an independent mechanic, but the mechanic declined to service the vehicle. The local dealer was not contacted. The vehicle was not diagnosed or repaired. The manufacturer was notified about the failure and opened a case. The approximate failure mileage was 88,000.
#11483635 | ENGINE | | N/A miles
The contact owns a 2002 Ford Explorer. The contact stated that the steering wheel intermittently seized while driving at various speeds without warning. After finding a replacement part at a salvage yard, the contact had the steering wheel replaced by an independent mechanic; however, the failure persisted. The contact also stated that an abnormal ticking noise was coming from the engine with the ABS warning light illuminated. The vehicle was taken back to the same independent mechanic and the contact was informed that the engine needed to be replaced. Neither the dealer nor the manufacturer was notified of the failure. The vehicle was not repaired. The failure mileage was unknown.

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Safety Rating for the 2002 FORD EXPLORER

NHTSA has not yet tested the 2002 FORD EXPLORER in its New Car Assessment Program.

Technical Service Bulletins for the 2002 FORD EXPLORER

Ford Motor Company has issued 70 technical service bulletins (TSBs) for the 2002 FORD EXPLORER. TSBs are notices sent by manufacturers to their dealers describing a known issue and the recommended repair procedure.

04259 — VISIBILITY:POWER WINDOW DEVICES AND CONTROLS

REAR POWER WINDOW(S) INOPERATIVE. *TT

050618 — SUSPENSION:REAR

REAR AXLE NOISE REPAIR. *SC

03254 — POWER TRAIN:AUTOMATIC TRANSMISSION

5R55W TRANSMISSION - NO 3RD GEAR OR SLIPPING 2-3 SHIFT - DIAGNOSTIC TROUBLE CODE P0733 AND P0745 - VEHICLES BUILT PRIOR TO 3/4/2002. *TT

18121 — FUEL SYSTEM, OTHER:STORAGE:FUEL GAUGE SYSTEM

FUEL GAUGE SLOW TO UPDATE. *TT

020801 — ENGINE AND ENGINE COOLING:ENGINE

RATTLE NOISE FROM PRIMARY CHAIN DRIVE AREA 2000-3000 RPM - 4.0L SOHC ENGINE. *TT

17735 — ENGINE AND ENGINE COOLING:ENGINE:GASOLINE:BELTS AND ASSOCIATED PULLEYS

BELT SLIPPAGE. *TT

17641 — POWER TRAIN:AXLE ASSEMBLY

REAR 3.55 AXLE NOISE. CERTIFIED REAR AXLE OR IMPROVED GEAR SET AVAILABLE. *TT

17558 — ELECTRICAL SYSTEM

INTERMITTENT AIR BAG WARNING LAMP ON, MEMORY SEAT, AND/OR ADJUSTABLE PEDAL CONCERNS. *MJ

17494 — FUEL SYSTEM, OTHER

DISTANCE TO EMPTY NOT DISPLAYED. *TT

17215 — SERVICE BRAKES, AIR:ANTILOCK:ABS WARNING LIGHT

THE AMBER ANTI-LOCK BRAKE SYSTEM (ABS) WARNING LIGHT ON WITH DIAGNOSTIC TROUBLE CODES C1235, C1236/C1237 STORED IN MEMORY. *TT

Showing 10 of 70 technical service bulletins.

NHTSA Investigations for the 2002 FORD EXPLORER

NHTSA has opened 2 investigations into potential safety defects in the 2002 FORD EXPLORER.

Investigation PE05037 — VEHICLE SPEED CONTROL:ACCELERATOR PEDAL Closed

Opened:

STUCK ENGINE THROTTLE

Investigation EA02010 — AIR BAGS Closed

Opened:

MIS-ASSEMBLED AIRBAG CLOCKSPRING

Other Model Years of the FORD EXPLORER

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Other FORD Models

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