Ford Explorer 2002 - 2005
| Years Produced | 2002 - 2005 |
|---|---|
| Engine | 4.0-liter V6 |
| Horsepower | 210 hp |
| Torque | 250 lb-ft |
| 0-60 Mph | 8.6 sec |
| 1/4 Mile | 16.4 sec |
| Top Speed | 120 mph |
| Fuel Economy | 16/21 mpg |
| Transmission | 5-speed automatic,5- |
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Ford Explorer 2002 - 2005
Overview
The Ford Explorer is a full-size crossover SUV manufactured by the Ford Motor Company in the United States. The third generation of the Ford Explorer was introduced in 2002 and production was ended in 2005. The third generation was completely redesigned in 2002. The similarities it shared with the Ranger in the past were now gone and now the Explorer was looking much like a Ford Expedition due to the large back lights, rounded wheel sockets and an overall rounded appearance.
The interior was also redesigned an for the first a third row was made available. With the third row option installed the Explorer was now able to house seven people but cargo space was significantly reduced. Another innovation was a fully independent rear suspension which replaced the live-axle rear suspension used on the previous model. This new suspension made the Explorer a more comfortable and stable car but also improved handling.
Variants
The third generation of the Ford Explorer was available as a two door SUV or a four door SUV. The Explorer was available in four different trim levels XLS, XLT, Eddie Bauer and Limited. The XLS and XLT model were equipped with standard features like anti-lock brakes, front driver and passenger side airbags. The Eddie Bauer and the Limited model added driver's seat memory, tilt/telescopic steering wheel, power-adjustable pedals and a rear-obstacle warning system.
Two engines were available for the third generation. The first was a 4.0-Liter V6 engine that produced 210 horsepower and 254 lb-ft of torque. Performance of this engine was decent. The V6 pushed the explorer from 0-60 in 8.6 seconds and with enough room the Explorer could have reached 120 mph. Fuel economy for this engine was very good, 16 / 20 mpg.
The second engine was a 4.6-Liter V8 engine that produced 239 horsepower and 280 lb-ft of torque. With this engine the Explorer reached 60 mph from standstill in 8 seconds flat and a maximum speed of 128 mph. Fuel economy was good, 15 / 19 mpg. Transmission choices included a five speed automatic transmission and a five speed manual transmission. Both transmissions were available for all of the models.
In 2003 the all-wheel drive platform was introduced for the Explorer. Both engines could have been bought with the all-wheel drive platform and the same transmissions were available. The Control Trac borrowed from the Mercury Mountianeer did not include low-range gearing. Optional side curtain airbags that stretched from the front to the second row seats were offered as an option. Also this year the XLT model received a chromed finished grille and a steel interior trim. A new model was introduced called the NBX. This model featured a roof mounted cargo basket, unique paint and trim and a soft lined cargo area with a storage bag.
In 2004 Ford’s antiskid system was now offered on both the V6 and the V8 models. Second row bucket seats were now made available as an option for the Eddie Bauer and the Limited Model.
In 2005 the all-wheel drive system was not available anymore and the Ford AdvanceTrac antiskid system now gained Roll Stability Control.
Additional Information
In crash test conducted by the National highway Traffic Safety Administration the four door Ford Explorer received a four star rating for driver protection in a frontal impact, a five star rating in passenger protection in a frontal impact and a five star rating for both driver and passenger protection in a side impact. The two door Explorer earned a four star rating four both driver and passenger protection in a frontal impact and a five star rating in both driver and passenger protection in a side impact.
Several recalls were made in 2002 and 2003. Most of the problems were related to the gas tank and so in 2002 Ford recalled Explorers because the SCDS may leak internally and then overheat, smoke, or burn. This problem was handled by the local dealers who installed a fused wiring harness for the SCDS. Also this year a recall was made due to tire related problems, the tire on the right side of the vehicle may have horizontal slashes on them, increasing the risk of tire failure over time.
In 2003 Ford recalled Explorers because the liftgate glass strut may disengage or hinge may fracture, allowing glass to fall and possibly break and also courtesy lights inside the running boards may overheat when exposed to excessive moisture or road salt. Dealers inspected all cars and replaced the affected parts.