Pre-purchase inspection checklist — 2002 Ford Explorer
The 2002 Ford Explorer has a mixed reputation as a used vehicle. It has a higher number of complaints and recalls, especially concerning the power train and vehicle structure. Notably, it has ten recall campaigns. This model year has substantial data indicating frequent issues, so careful inspection and previous owner maintenance records are critical.
NHTSA data on file today
The 2002 Ford Explorer has 10 NHTSA recall campaigns and 3,293 owner complaints on file as of . Recall data is refreshed daily from NHTSA.
Recall campaigns on file
- NHTSA #09V399000 SPEED CONTROL DEACTIVATION SWITCH/OVERHEATS NHTSA notice
- NHTSA #09E025000 FMVSS 108/REPLACEMENT HEADLAMPS/AMBER REFLECTOR NHTSA notice
- NHTSA #09E012000 FMVSS 108/AFTERMARKET COMBINATION LAMPS NHTSA notice
- NHTSA #07E104000 CURVED TEMPERED AUTOMOTIVE REPLACEMENT GLASS NHTSA notice
- NHTSA #06E049000 FMVSS 108/AMBER SIDE REFLEX REFLECTORS NHTSA notice
- NHTSA #06E026000 FMVSS 108/AMBER SIDE REFLEX REFLECTORS NHTSA notice
- NHTSA #04V442000 FORD/REAR LIFTGATE GLASS NHTSA notice
- NHTSA #03V094000 SOUTHERN COMFORT/RUNNING BOARDS NHTSA notice
- NHTSA #01V171000 FORD/TIRE NHTSA notice
- NHTSA #01I010000 FORD/LIFTGATE GLASS BRACKET NHTSA notice
Most-cited components in owner complaints
- Power Train 1,502 complaints
- Structure 485 complaints
- Suspension 421 complaints
- Air Bags 162 complaints
- Engine and Engine Cooling 162 complaints
- Steering 155 complaints
Of the 3,293 complaints on file, 144 report a crash and 57 a fire; across all 3,293 complaints, owners report 187 injuries and 5 deaths (owner-reported, not verified by NHTSA).
Known issues to inspect
Frequent transmission failure
How to check: Inspect for smooth gear shifts and any leaks.
Liftgate glass hinge failure
How to check: Check for secure liftgate hinges and alignment.
Frequent suspension issues
How to check: Listen for unusual noises during a bumpy ride.
Test-drive walkthrough
- 01
Cold start
What to check: Listen for any unusual noises on startup.
Red flag: Persistent loud knocking sounds
- 02
First minute idling
What to check: Look for stable idle RPM and no vibrations.
Red flag: Unstable RPM or stalling
- 03
City driving
What to check: Check for smooth transmission shifting.
Red flag: Jerky or delayed shifting
- 04
Braking
What to check: Brakes should feel responsive and smooth.
Red flag: Vibration or squeaking when braking
- 05
Turning
What to check: Listen for clunking sounds during turns.
Red flag: Clunking or resistance when turning
- 06
Highway acceleration
What to check: Ensure smooth acceleration and power delivery.
Red flag: Hesitation or power loss
- 07
Parking
What to check: Verify the parking brake engages securely.
Red flag: Ineffective parking brake
- 08
Final idle
What to check: Observe for any overheating signs.
Red flag: Overheating or coolant leaks
Questions for the seller
Use this exact phrasing.
- Has the transmission ever been replaced?
- Are there records of suspension repairs?
- Has the liftgate glass been repaired?
- Were any recalls addressed?
- When was the last full service?
- Are there any current electrical issues?
Documents to request
Don't sign anything until you have these.
- Complete service history
- Recall repair records
- Title and registration
- Vehicle history report
- Warranty documentation
Generated by gpt-4o on from the NHTSA recall campaigns and owner-complaint counts on file for the 2002 Ford Explorer at the time. AI output can be wrong; confirm anything you find with a mechanic.
Next step
Looking at a specific 2002 Ford Explorer? Check the actual car
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