2002 Ford Explorer recalls and problems
The 2002 Ford Explorer has 4 safety recalls and 3,295 owner complaints filed with NHTSA. Recall repairs are free at any Ford dealer.
Recalls may cover only some 2002 Ford Explorer vehicles. Check your VIN at NHTSA ↗ to see open recalls for your exact car.
2002 Ford Explorer recalls
Recall 09V-399: Vehicle Speed Control
Problem: 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.
Risk: A vehicle fire could occur with or without the engine running.
Fix: 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 be completed free of charge. The safety recall began on october 27, 2009. Owners may contact ford at 1-888-222-2751.
Recall 04V-442: Structure
Problem: 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.
Risk: If the hinge should fracture, there is a potential for the glass to fall and ultimately break and personal injuries could occur.
Fix: 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, 2002 through june 23, 2003, the dealers will only replace the hinges. The recall began on september 30, 2004. A postcard was sent to owners on december 27, 2004, advising them that parts are now available. Owners should contact ford at 1-800-392-3673.
Recall 03V-094: Structure
Problem: 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.
Risk: This overheating condition can cause the running board to melt or cause a fire.
Fix: 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 reasonable time should contact southern comfort at 1-800-745-6096.
Recall 01V-171: Tires
Problem: 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.
Risk: Over time, the tire could fail, increasing the risk of a crash.
Fix: 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 not receive the free remedy within a reasonable time should contact ford at 1-800-392-3673.
2002 Ford Explorer problems reported by owners
| Problem area | Reports | |
|---|---|---|
| Power Train | 1,584 | |
| Structure | 490 | |
| Suspension | 461 | |
| Engine and Engine Cooling | 165 | |
| Air Bags | 164 | |
| Steering | 158 | |
| Vehicle Speed Control | 157 | |
| Electrical System | 151 | |
| Visibility | 132 | |
| Service Brakes, Hydraulic | 93 | |
| Wheels | 79 | |
| Equipment | 59 |
Most reported parts
- Power Train › Automatic Transmission — 887
- Suspension › Rear — 192
- Structure › Body › Hatchback/Liftgate › Hinge and Attachments — 166
- Power Train › Driveline › Differential Unit — 160
- Structure › Body › Hatchback/Liftgate — 112
- Structure › Body — 110
- Suspension › Front › Wheel Bearing — 56
- Engine and Engine Cooling › Engine — 50
Typical mileage at the time of the problem: 79,000 miles (median of owner reports).
Problems that are not covered by a recall are paid repairs; labor rates follow local mechanic pay — see what auto mechanics earn in each state.
Recent 2002 Ford Explorer complaints
Owner reports filed with NHTSA, as written (personal details removed). Complaints are not verified by NHTSA.
Other Ford Explorer years
Frequently asked questions
Does the 2002 Ford Explorer have any recalls?
Yes — NHTSA lists 4 recalls for the 2002 Ford Explorer: 09V-399 (vehicle speed control), 04V-442 (structure), 03V-094 (structure), 01V-171 (tires). Not every vehicle is affected, so check your VIN at nhtsa.gov/recalls.
What is the most common problem with the 2002 Ford Explorer?
Owners report power train problems most often (1,584 reports), followed by structure (490). The typical mileage when problems were reported is about 79,000 miles.
Are Ford recall repairs free?
Yes. Safety recall repairs are free at authorized Ford dealers, whether you are the first owner or bought the car used.