2004 Ford Explorer Review: Not the Best Used SUV, but Maybe the Best at This Price

Gilbert Smith
Jan 27, 2023

The 2004 Ford Explorer can be costly to maintain and refuel, and, unless the previous owner never missed an oil change, it probably won’t make 250,000 miles. But you’re going to have a hard time finding an SUV this good for under $3,500.

Front angle view.
likeFilled The Good
The powerful V8 engine is fun to drive, there’s plenty of space inside, and the SUV is priced to move, typically listing at well under four grand.
dislikeFilled The Bad
Early transmission failure is pretty common, the interior feels pretty cheap, and the SUV can be expensive to keep running.

Is the 2004 Ford Explorer a Good Used Car?

  • Overall Rating 7/10 – The 2004 Explorer is pretty mediocre overall, but the truck-like towing and low price earn it an extra point.
  • Interior, Comfort & Cargo 7/10 – Interior materials feel cheap, but the ride is still smooth and you’ve got more space than you’re likely to need.
  • Reliability 6/10 – The 2004 Explorer is a bit of a crapshoot. If the previous owner did their job, you could fly right past 250,000 miles. If not, you might be lucky to pass 200,000.
  • Safety 7/10 – Decent crash test scores, dated technology.
  • Gas Mileage 6/10 – 16/21 miles to the gallon, city/highway, wasn’t great for a mid-size SUV even back in 2004.
  • Value 7/10 – When you consider the low price tag, it’s easy to forgive a lot of the Explorer’s glaring issues. If you just need a beater to get you through the year, you could do a lot worse.

Positive Owner Reviews

accountCircle Dale L
Low mileage in excellent condition. V8, at, ac, cruise control.
Mid size SUV with all options. Great mpg and excellent handling. Roomy, comfortable, good in all kinds of weather. Looks great. All the bells and whistles with DVD, compact disc 6 disc capacity. Ac, adjustable pedals, v8 engine, excellent power, at, cruise control overdrive transmission. 4wd.
accountCircle Jake P
It has a totally amazing sound system.
I love the speakers in my car! And my grandpa used to work for Ford, so this car literally runs in my family. I love it so much!
accountCircle Carla L
It has a 3rd row seat, which means that it seats 7 comfortably.
I love the size of the windows, the size of the storage. It has a 3rd row seat. Great horsepower. The engine still runs quietly. I love the way that I can see clearly out of all the windows. It's very safe for the family. I like the way I sit in the driver's seat.
accountCircle Ann B
Never had a car with auto headlights before. Love that feature the most.
It is a comfortable ride. Good on gas. Easy to handle. Love the CD player. Lots of extras. Love the auto start and headlights.
accountCircle Maggie R
Spacious, safe and reliable!
I love how spacious my car is; however, with gas prices and it is age (repairs) it is getting harder to keep up with.
accountCircle Vanessa S
Great everyday family SUV.
It makes great power and is a smooth and comfortable ride. It has some awesome features like the heated seats which is great in the winter and sun roof that makes the summers great. The only issue I have found is that I had to replace the transmission but it is 15 years old.
accountCircle Robert K
Reliability and Quality. The vehicle starts on the first turn of the key, and when shutting the doors, they still sound as solid as they did brand new.
This is a fantastic vehicle to own. It is the best of both worlds in regards to automobiles. It is small like a car, but has the versatility of a truck. My Ford Explorer Sports Trac came with a lockable cover over the bed of the truck. This allows me to place large items in the back and make sure they are secure. Since the cover is completely removable, I also have the ability to carry large items. The four doors make getting in an out of the vehicle comfortable for all occupants. I am over 6 feet tall and have sat comfortably in the back. It also is the four-wheel drive model, with auto locking hubs. A great feature so that if you are needing more traction, you do not need to exit the vehicle to do that. The v-6 engine is powerful enough to get to speed on the highway very quickly and the 4-wheel disc brakes, has a great stopping power. It only has one draw back, the miles per gallon. It's a little on the low side at about 20 hwy and 17 city. Apart from that I would recommend this car to anyone looking to buy a quality vehicle.
accountCircle Julie M
Its safe to drive short & long distances.
It's been a great vehicle. Dislike the peeling paint & rust. I like that I can travel, shop, carry many people or items. Always have felt safe.

Negative Owner Reviews

accountCircle Jeff G
It's a rust bucket. What more do you need to know. ALL Fords rust
It's a rust bucket. It rusts a lot. It's a rust bucket.
accountCircle Dan
Timing belt tensioners
I have a 2004 explorer with 117000 miles and it's went through 3 engine's and a transmission. Timing belt tensioners keep going bad and timing chain is slapping. This is the third motor and same thing every time. In good shape body wise, but it's going to the junk yard this time.
accountCircle Cody S
Great vehicle if you can find one of the very rare great explorers but most of them are the stereotypical exploder
If you can get the right one you will love it but many like mine will have 100s of problems my transmission went out 2 times in one year multiple wheel bearings and sensors went out emergency brake went out and many others
accountCircle Antonio M
Ford Exploder: The never ending transmission issue
This model has known transmission issues. It is perfect for a family with all the seating, but it burns through fuel. When functional it comes with 4x4 which is great in areas that it snows in. Even at its old age the a/c is still strong and cold, and the motor has plenty of life with 160000 miles. The body rusts around the door frame pretty easily.
accountCircle John C
It just needs a lot done to it.
It sucks it needs brakes and all kind of other issues that need to be worked out such as the oil it needs to be washed and detail it needs to be a new car or get a over hail.
accountCircle Jessica G
It is been a very reliable & comfortable car plus has a newer engine in it.
Car has check engine light on. Transmission is going out, struts are also out and needs to be registered but cannot pass smog. Some damage to front right side and window motor out. Back window will not roll up & that door will not lock. Been a good car but it is been driven to nothing.
accountCircle Destiny A
My vehicle is very unreliable, it has a lot of damage from hurricane Harvey.
It is a very old vehicle that was given to me with over 200, 000 miles! It shakes and makes tons of noises when I drive it, also the headlight internal wiring is messed up. Also it has water damage from hurricane Harvey. I can barely use it! I am in need of a new vehicle!
accountCircle Molly
DO NOT RECOMMEND THIS VEHICLE Transmission replaced
Too many major problems Bought Eddie Bauer edition 2004 Explorer 193000 miles April 2019. Body was decent crack in rear plastic hatch found to be normal for this vehicle. Engine and undercarriage looked clean no rust. Drove really nice felt clean and tight in steering like new car. After the first week need new starter motor, month after, new belt tensioner, 4 months 2 new tires, 2 monts after radiator and heater coil rreplaced. After a year of purchase, a whole transmission rebuild. Now, a year and 1/2 later, I am taking in for radiator leak, possible oil or transmission leak, serpentine belt replacement or pulleys, and Heater circuit sensor repair or replacement!! Bought car for a shopping rip off $4500 as is from a s**t dealership ArkoAuto Sales vine st eastlake! I have already spent over $4000 in repairs and have no idea what this next bunch or repairs is going to cost!! All because I DID NOT DO RESEARCH ON THIS VEHICLE AND DEALERSHIP. I am stuck with this PIECE OF s**t

What Do Critics Say About the 2004 Ford Explorer?

Consumer Reports found the 2004 Explorer to be adequate, but unimpressive in a year with way too much competition, suggesting that Ford hadn’t done enough to improve the V6 or off-road performance.

Kelley Blue Book users have found the 2004 Explorer to be fairly reliable overall, and fun to drive, with decent engine power, but many drivers point out that the transmission only lasts so long if you are very, very attentive.

Edmunds liked the ride and the handling, recommending the V8 for peak performance. They found the cabin design a bit bland and cheap-feeling, and note that the fuel economy is pretty bad even for a 2004 SUV.

What Common Problems Does the 2004 Ford Explorer Have?

At 477 reports, transmission issues make up about a third of the 2004 Explorer’s 1,403 driver complaints on file with the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration. Problems range from stiff shifting to lurching and jumping, with one driver reporting that shifting into reverse takes up to seven seconds.

With 445 on file, there are nearly as many structural complaints on file as there are transmission complaints, with drivers reporting that the roof tends to rust prematurely around the rivets, and that interior parts like sun visors may simply melt or become brittle and snap right off.

Drivers have reported a flimsy build quality throughout, beyond just the interior accessories. Windows are known to pop off the rack and fall into the door, and rear lift gate windows may explode right out of the frame.

The 2004 Explorer has 5 recalls on file with the NHTSA, which sounds like a promisingly low number, but with so many complaints on file you may wonder why there aren’t a few more recalls in effect.

How Long Will the 2004 Ford Explorer Last?

You should expect to hit at least 200,000 miles in a 2004 Ford Explorer, with plenty of drivers reporting 250,000 and up. But you’ll find just as many drivers reporting that they didn’t even reach 100,000 miles. With excellent care the transmission might just go the distance, but you can’t be sure how well the previous owner kept the vehicle, and the Explorer seems especially sensitive to skipped transmission fluid changes.

RepairPal report an average annual maintenance cost of $732, with new rack and pinion systems being the most expensive common fix, starting at around $1,358.

accountCircle Janet B

I have really not experienced any maintenance issues outside of normal wear and tear and preventative type mechanic work. It has been a very reliable truck especially considering it's age

accountCircle Kevin M

It’s had the transmission replaced once and then a few other small replacements; but so far pretty reliable

accountCircle Tiffany R

It seems to be pretty reliable. I haven't had too many issues with it. Well all the power windows are wonky, three of them don't work of the four.

accountCircle Marissa L

This vehicle doesn't have many major problems. It does vibrate a little once you get to 70 mph but apart from that, no major issues.

accountCircle Shannon W

Yes. My truck is reliable. I haven't had many problems with it since I bought it. I purchased my car a year ago

accountCircle Robyn H

The 2004 Ford Explorer is reliable but does have some cosmetic problems. The panel below the liftgate window cracked on the outside from top to bottom. Also the roof console fell off, dangling by the wires inside infrastructure was totally broken in many pieces

accountCircle Allison P

This car is very reliable, I have never had any issues with it. The one time I did have an issue the Ford team was able to fix it right away.

How Is the Technology?

Entertainment technology is pretty good for a 2004 SUV. Entry level models come with a CD player, and the high-end Limited includes a six-disc CD changer.

Safety technology is adequate given the SUV’s age. You have dual-stage airbags and full anti-lock brakes, but this was 2004, so the BeltMinder ding is about as high-tech as it gets here.

Is the 2004 Ford Explorer a Good Value?

The 2004 Explorer is a pretty good value, even with the maintenance concerns. A mid-range XLT typically lists at around $3,463, which is a couple thousand bucks cheaper than a comparable CR-V, and less than half the cost of a 2004 Toyota 4Runner.

That said, the cost evens out a bit after a few years of maintenance and refueling, and the Explorer is the least likely of the bunch to cross 250,000 miles. But if you just need something affordable right now for commuting and grocery shopping, the Explorer’s price is hard to beat.

What are the Different Models of the 2004 Ford Explorer?

The 2004 Explorer is offered in five basic trims, from the entry level XLS to the high-end Limited.

The base XLS features:

  • CD player
  • Manual air conditioning
  • Remote keyless entry
  • Power windows and door locks

Next up is the XLT, which adds:

  • Fog lights
  • Lumbar support in the front seats
  • Cruise control
  • Leather wrapped steering wheel

With the mid-range NBX you’re adding:

  • 6-way power driver seat
  • Black leather wrapped steering wheel
  • Black exterior styling with roof rails and side step bars

Lower trim levels have access to power adjust seating with the Premium package.

In addition to the specialized branding, the Eddie Bauer edition features:

  • Leather seat trim
  • Heated mirrors
  • Dual zone automatic air conditioning
  • Heated front seats

The top-tier Limited adds:

  • Audiophile sound system with 6-disc CD changer
  • Power adjustable pedals with memory
  • More leather throughout the trim
car
XLS Sport
205 HP 18-18 MPG
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XLT Sport
205 HP 18-18 MPG
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XLT Premium Sport
205 HP 18-18 MPG
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XLT Premium
205 HP 18-18 MPG
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Adrenalin Sport
205 HP 18-18 MPG
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Adrenalin
205 HP 18-18 MPG
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What Engines Come In the 2004 Ford Explorer?

  • Ford starts you off with a respectable 4.0 V6 engine producing 210 horsepower and 254 lb.-ft. of torque. This will tow around 5,400 pounds, depending on your options. This is configured in rear wheel drive and paired to a 5-speed automatic transmission.
  • Next up is a 4.6L V8 delivering 239 horsepower and 254 lb.-ft. of torque. Flex fuel capable, all wheel drive, and paired to a 5-speed automatic, the V8 can tow up to 7,160 pounds, which gets us close to full-size truck territory.

What Colors Does the 2004 Ford Explorer Come In?

How Comfortable Is the 2004 Ford Explorer?

The 2004 Ford Explorer is very comfortable with 54.2 inches of hip room in the back. The suspension earned favorable reviews on release, and has generated few complaints since then, so the ride should still be as smooth today as it was twenty years ago.

Cheap-feeling interior materials are the only real concern you’re likely to have here. Chipping plastic and torn cloth upholstery have the interior feeling more like a cozy dorm room than a luxury apartment.

How Much Storage Space Does the 2004 Ford Explorer Have?

With the seats up you’ve got 48.6 cubic feet of cargo space. Seats down, 86.2. That’s more than you’re likely going to need in a mid-size SUV anytime soon. If you want it any bigger than that you might as well buy yourself a moving van.

Centered wide dash shot

What Are the Differences Between Years?

The 2004 Ford Explorer was the third model year of the 3rd Generation, running from 2002 to 2005.

2002: The 3rd Gen Explorer debuted as a five-door exclusive for 2002, owing to declining sales in three-door SUVs.

2003: Optional side-curtain airbags and rear wheel disc brakes were new for 2003, and the wheelbase was lengthened to 125.9 inches.

2004: New emission standards meant retuned engines for 2004, and the Explorer got a slick new grille, to boot.

2005: The stability control system got an overhaul for 2005, designed specifically to prevent rollover.

How Does the 2004 Ford Explorer Compare to the Competition?

The 2004 Toyota 4Runner outclasses the Explorer on longevity, being far more likely to pass a quarter million miles. It’s also more fuel efficient, and offers a 4.7L engine that outclasses the Explorer’s 4.6L. And it costs more than twice as much, on average.

It’s basically the same story with that year’s Nissan Pathfinder: It’s more fuel efficient, it delivers comparable performance, it’s more likely to pass 250,000 miles. And it typically lists at two thousand dollars more than a similar Explorer.

The 2004 Explorer has some issues with longevity, cheap feeling interior materials, and lousy fuel economy. But it’s hard to beat at this price.

Ranks #8 Full Size SUV by Owners

1
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4.61
2
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4.5
8
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4

Do Owners Recommend the 2004 Ford Explorer?

accountCircle Savanna B

Yes. I have owned it for 15 years and it is still a work horse. It has been very reliable with only minor maintenance issues

accountCircle Marlon B

Yes; has a salvaged title and a lot miles, but it’s been a good vehicle. It has very good accident ratings in my opinion, and has been reasonably reliable thus far.

accountCircle Thomas S

Yes, it's a pretty good vehicle except it's heavy and doesn't have four wheel drive. I almost got it stuck on the side of the road once.

accountCircle Alex S

The 2004 Ford explorer is a great vehicle. After all these years it still runs well and it is reliable.

accountCircle Tera L

Yes. My truck is very well driven. It's good on gas as well. It has lots of room. It's good on mileage.

accountCircle Mara J

I have enjoyed this 2004 Ford Explorer for over 3 years to my satisfaction with a couple of problems, one being the roof console fell off and the outside panel on the liftgate where the back glass shuts cracked.

accountCircle Amber H

Yes, I believe that it is a great vehicle. It is safe, reliable, and always gets me to where I'm going without any issues. I have had this car for years and have never had any major issues. I would buy this car again.

Owner Reviews

accountCircle williwm c on April 4, 2021
How durable it is and the traction it has to get you thru
I like ford and have no complaints. I would take a ford over any American made vehicle it goes where others will not
accountCircle Kyle H on April 4, 2021
Gas pedal makes car go fast
Low gas mileage is really the only issue I have with the vehicle. Other than that I have had nearly zero other problems with it that I did not cause myself. The trunk won't open because something got stuck in the latch and the liftgate always says it's open when it is clearly closed.
accountCircle Justin N on April 3, 2021
It can take abuse very well.
It does what I want it too. It breaks down when a lot after 100,000 miles. The parts are more expensive and it is more difficult to work on.
accountCircle Barbie H on April 2, 2021
My black Ford explorer is the best.
I have a 2004 black 2004 Ford Explorer. I gave owned it now for 4yrs. It's not the greatest it gets me from point A to point B. Currently it is in the shop due to a wreck I was in a few weeks ago. Hopefully i'll get it back soon. My son and I won't have to walk everywhere. We walk to visit NY parent's and his grandparents where as my expire would take us there. I really miss it.
accountCircle Jacob G on March 30, 2021
2004 Ford Explorer: description and review.
This is a very comfortable vehicle. It is reliable and has over 200,000 miles on it, therefore it will last you a long time with proper maintenance. There is a television in the back of the car that does not work and it does use quite a bit of gas but it is a great vehicle for the price.
accountCircle David B on March 30, 2021
The years 2002-2005 had the best looking Explorers of all the years made!
I bought my 04 Ford Explorer s. U. V. 4 door used from a 1 owner person 175,000 miles on it sure runs great and drives good too I like it a little more than my 2016 Ford fiesta car to this day it still looks great for its age I have done routine maintenance when scheduled.
accountCircle Di M on March 30, 2021
That it is very dependable and has a lot of room for storage and passengers
I love that it is roomy and is easy to drive. I hate that it is rusting in place because of defects that I have to keep fixing
accountCircle Andre P on March 29, 2021
It's been in good shape since I purchased I'm 2004
Powerful engine Reliable for not breaking easy Spacious because fits the family
accountCircle Ashley C on March 27, 2021
The vehicle is annoying to drive but will get you to your destination
The car is old and a bit out of shape. The muffler is knocked out of place so it's really loud when driving that is over powers the sound of the radio. It is not at all safe to drive in the highway because it stalls when braking and doesn't accelerate when needed to. Very sensitive while turning. Cruise control works only sometimes but that's ok. The air conditioning and heat only work on full blast and it needs a lot of gas
accountCircle raymond B on March 27, 2021
The Ford Explorer is very reliable.
This SUV is comfortable to ride in on long trips. This SUV has a large storage space. The suv ALSO HANDLES well in winter driving conditions and is very reliable .
accountCircle Annie C on March 22, 2021
She is built Ford tough even for an Explorer. Treat her right and she will run forever.
She is old but she is reliable and cheap and easy for my husband to fix, third row seating is nice... Not easy to access with two car seats but useful. I with the car was about a foot wider to fit the car seats better in the back seat. But all in all Ford makes good cars
accountCircle Amber M on March 21, 2021
I like how sporty and big it looks on the inside and out.
I love my Ford explorer let 4dr. It rides nice and fits all my kids and me and my husband. It is also durable. The seats could be a little more comfortable though.
accountCircle Catherine F on March 20, 2021
It gets me were I need to go.
Great size and for the most part reliable. Sometimes parts break down because of age. Does not do well in cold weather/ice.
accountCircle Lorena B on March 16, 2021
Easy to drive just needs more space.
Like it works good. Reliable, I dislike it does not have a good size space in the trunk unless you put down the sits.
accountCircle Angela F on March 15, 2021
Transmission
I've had 2, a 2001 and my 2004 that I love.. I have had transmission problems with both, but 2004 completely gone...was told "that's what those years do".. Expensive but I love my truck...pop
accountCircle Heather H on March 13, 2021
The most important thing about this car is that it is very reliable!.
I like everything about my vehicle. It's 4x4, so I can go mudding or pull things. The only thing I would dislike is it's older and has a lot of miles.
accountCircle Virginia F on March 5, 2021
It is a good family car. It is great for a big family. It is also great when you need to move large items.
My ford has been a good car. I like the room it has. How comfortable it is to drive. Gas is pretty good for being an SUV. It has good storage space.
accountCircle Carol B on March 4, 2021
There's plenty of room, and the vehicle is not huge.
I own a 2004 Ford Explorer, and I love the 4 wheel drive, I like that it's roomy enough for about five passengers, also that I am able to haul items, like small furniture, shopping items, etc. At the same time. Most of all, I suppose I like that there's a lot of room, and at the same time it's not a huge vehicle.
accountCircle Kathy h on March 1, 2021
Fords are dependable, so you won't be stranded anywhere.
Our Explorer is very versatile. It can tow a trailer and carry cargo. Being a 4 wheel drive, it keeps on going. It does drink gas, but that's normal for this type of vehicle.
accountCircle Robert E on February 28, 2021
2004 Sport Trac - Great condition
Great as my run around town truck . Gets only average mileage (17). Has minor problems with aging of interior but exterior and bed are in great condition, even though it is kept outdoors. It is not used for long trips, but is comfortable. It is a Sport Trac.
accountCircle Danielle C on February 24, 2021
The window and battery quiz working due to bad wiring.
Problems: one window do not work, the battery often quits because of wiring. It is a very reliable car very comfortable and has lots of space. It has 4x4 driving that can be turned on by the push of a button. Lots of space in the trunk for groceries and other big items.
accountCircle Lisa V on February 22, 2021
Seats 7. Wide seats. Smooth ride.
Always dependable, roomy, smooth ride, gas foot pedal adjusts! Seat belts fit well and comfortable. Gas mileage on this 2004 vehicle never caused much concern. Do not like back rear door cracked as it is known to do in many Ford Explorers. After 120, 000 miles steering column broke.
accountCircle Brianna M on February 20, 2021
It gets good gas mileage and is great for fitting family and friends or a lot of other people inside
I love the body of my vehicle bc it is in very good shape. I love that my vehicle has low mileage. I don't like how expensive it is to fix some things when they go wrong with my vehicle.
accountCircle Dee T on February 19, 2021
The radio heating and air works.
I like how it has 4 doors and has the horse power. I. Do not like how much it takes to fill it with gas and that sometimes it's hard to maneuver in small parking lots.
accountCircle Remington S on February 15, 2021
One of the best features in my opinion is the stock sound system.
It is a fairly reliable car but it has 150k miles and I have had to replace the transmission. Overall, a good cheap car.
accountCircle Tiffany S on February 10, 2021
Gas mileage or how many miles are currently on your car.
The overall structure of the car has deteriorated quickly from owning it. I am not rough on my car, the previous owners may have been, but it has not gone down hill quickly.
accountCircle Kip N on February 7, 2021
Very great car to have. It is very reliable and has good performance.
The only problems I have had with my car is my black wire for my car battery is messing up to where it will not let me crank the car. Also my tire has a nail in it but other then that it is a great car. It is performance is wonderful. The reliability is great very reliable car. Very comfortable.
accountCircle Tasha C on February 6, 2021
Car Code
I just wanted to say to owners of the Ford Explorer if you do not know the code to your vehicle you can easily find it on the side panel in the back where you open the hatch door.
accountCircle Patricia W on February 3, 2021
Well built very little problems.
It is a sport track and it is a great little truck. The inside has lots of room like a car but I still have a bed to haul things. I also have a bed extender.
accountCircle Jesse M on January 29, 2021
Seven seats and fold away for space to haul things.
Large, but ok gas mileage. Has had random issues. Drives smoothe.
accountCircle Margarita R on January 27, 2021
One important thing is that for an old car it still looks like we just got it
It's really old and has a lot of things wrong with the car like a bad transmission. The good thing about the car is that after 14 years with it it still runs and does its main duty of getting to places.
accountCircle Molly on January 19, 2021
DO NOT RECOMMEND THIS VEHICLE Transmission replaced
Too many major problems Bought Eddie Bauer edition 2004 Explorer 193000 miles April 2019. Body was decent crack in rear plastic hatch found to be normal for this vehicle. Engine and undercarriage looked clean no rust. Drove really nice felt clean and tight in steering like new car. After the first week need new starter motor, month after, new belt tensioner, 4 months 2 new tires, 2 monts after radiator and heater coil rreplaced. After a year of purchase, a whole transmission rebuild. Now, a year and 1/2 later, I am taking in for radiator leak, possible oil or transmission leak, serpentine belt replacement or pulleys, and Heater circuit sensor repair or replacement!! Bought car for a shopping rip off $4500 as is from a s**t dealership ArkoAuto Sales vine st eastlake! I have already spent over $4000 in repairs and have no idea what this next bunch or repairs is going to cost!! All because I DID NOT DO RESEARCH ON THIS VEHICLE AND DEALERSHIP. I am stuck with this PIECE OF s**t
accountCircle Samantha P on January 17, 2021
Ford Explorer is reliable and safe. Ideal for families.
The Explorer is reliable and easy to drive. It is such a nice vehicle and drives well. I enjoy the features it has as well as the interior design.
accountCircle Amanda D on January 17, 2021
Ball joints and wheel bearings are not cheap or easy to replace.
Rust easily. Wheel bearings and ball joints go out regularly. Not good gas mileage. Seats 7 - plenty of room.
accountCircle Erin G on January 12, 2021
It is a sturdy car and dependable.
I like the size and the way it can navigate in all terrain and weather. I dislike the low gas mileage.
accountCircle Sheri T on January 12, 2021
There is plenty of space and lots of legroom for tall people.
No problems. I mean all vehicles have issues so I can not complain. I like the way it drives, smooth on cruise control.
accountCircle Christopher L on January 10, 2021
The handling creates a nice transition for those whom have never driven a truck.
I have only faced one mechanical problem with my 2004 Ford Explorer which is related to the heating control. There is a relay which stopped engaging and needed repair twice. The ac has always worked; but every few years you can hear a clicking sound when you try to turn on the heat. It does not work because the relay wears away quickly. I love having two rows of seats behind me, that fold down making it possible to carry a great deal of furniture, supplies or whatever else is in need of transport. This truck is a very comfortable ride for its size, and responsive enough to make maneuvering on the road a breeze. Weather conditions are not a problem since this truck engages four wheel drive automatically when the tires begin to slip ever so slightly due to rain or snow. While the average car is stuck or spinning out, this truck simply keeps moving along to great satisfaction.
accountCircle georgia B on January 9, 2021
It's a POS ford. Would rather own almost anything but a ford but It's all i got or can afford right now
Not a fan of fords , but it was a good deal. Cars are too d**n expensive these days. Would like something comparable if not smaller
accountCircle Tiffany L on January 6, 2021
It has a lot of miles on it. It is kinda noisy. Its nice
It hasnt broke down on me yet. It has been dependable. No dislikes yet
accountCircle Carla L on January 5, 2021
It has a 3rd row seat, which means that it seats 7 comfortably.
I love the size of the windows, the size of the storage. It has a 3rd row seat. Great horsepower. The engine still runs quietly. I love the way that I can see clearly out of all the windows. It's very safe for the family. I like the way I sit in the driver's seat.
accountCircle Rebecca F on December 29, 2020
2004 ford explorer-perfect vehicle.
My ford explorer is everything that I could want. It has plenty of power and plenty of room. The four wheel drive is excellent for winter weather. The only thing that I dislike about the vehicle is the radio. It has no auxiliary port so I cannot hook my phone to it. Other than that, I love everything about my 2004 ford explorer.
accountCircle Amy A on December 29, 2020
Even after 100K miles it still runs and drives like a new car.
It's actually an Explorer Sport Trac but that wasn't on the list. It's the best of both worlds, 4 door to take my family places, and a truck bed for hauling. It's run great, it's comfortable to drive, and I'm really disappointed that they quit making them.
accountCircle Cody B on December 23, 2020
Old reliable, always gets us home.
My vehicle is high on miles, its getting old and it uses a lot of gas. The body is straight and the paint looks good. Has a crack in the front windshield and my axle is going out. The seats and interior are stained also. I would love to fix it.
accountCircle Kayla L on December 19, 2020
It only takes about $35 to fill it up. Nice size truck. Not too much money will be lost in it. If you take care of the car it'll last a while
My 2004 Ford Explorer is capable of transporting me where I need to go. Things wrong with it is the wheel need to be aligned, brakes need to be fixed, and passenger doors doesn't open in the back or in the front but I love it this truck it's amazing! I always go out of town in it, it holds 5 people, big truck, and once I get things fixed and then my Cardinal will be back to normal
accountCircle Daphne D on December 18, 2020
I like the electric seats and foot pedals. The 4x4 is really good. Having a full 3rd row is very nice for family outings.
Rattle when shifting gears. I don't like the outlet plugs. Headlights get fogged up easily and are hard to clean
accountCircle Jessica G on December 15, 2020
It is been a very reliable & comfortable car plus has a newer engine in it.
Car has check engine light on. Transmission is going out, struts are also out and needs to be registered but cannot pass smog. Some damage to front right side and window motor out. Back window will not roll up & that door will not lock. Been a good car but it is been driven to nothing.
accountCircle Christina W on December 13, 2020
Reliability and solid comfort
I haven't had any problems and enjoy the reliability. It is a good, solid ride. I need the space of an SUV, but I wish it had better gas mileage.
accountCircle Helen Y on December 9, 2020
Love the style, comfort, and hardly ever any problems
I love everything about it. It handles nicely. I have a good view in all directions. Sound system is excellent. Seats are comfortable. Lots of room for people and stuff
accountCircle Terry S on December 4, 2020
2004 Ford Explorer Touring Edition
Runs and drives great, well maintained by Ford certified technicians. Smooth handling, great on gas. Very reliable vehicle daily driver 30 miles daily for work 5 days a week, then additional miles for household needs or mini vacations. Ac runs cold, no additional problems for a vehicle in this condition.
accountCircle Laura P on November 29, 2020
Has TRUE Four Wheel Drive capabilities, unlike the newer models.
I like the overall style and comfort of my vehicle and It's 4 wheel drive capabilities. I don't like that the transmission is slipping, but it has been a good car.
avatar Gilbert Smith
Gilbert Smith is a New Mexico-based automotive journalist who enjoys writing about cars, trucks, and SUVs. He is a longtime contributor to Vehicle History and a member of the site's original content team when it launched.