Faults:

Transmission fluid recall @ 3,000k.

Power steering pump replaced @ 8,000k.

Friction stabilizer added to rear end @ 28,000 to correct a 'grabbing' in the rear end. I asked dealer what happens when I have more rear end problems 20k or so out of factory warranty, they assured me it would be covered because the previous repair would be in the computer. Well guess what, they lied!!

So I have contacted Ford about this problem and have learned there are NUMEROUS vehicles with this same problem! It is obviously a manufacture problem, so why isn't there a recall?! I was told by my dealer it's not a safety issue!! OK so if my rear end locks up & I'm hit from behind, at highway speed, it's not a safety issue? Yeah right!!! I travel with my 3 children to boot!!

I have to contact Ford again and see if they are willing to cover this problem, or at the very least help with the cost of the $1200 repair!!! UGH!!! Ford has came up with a 'special rear axle repair kit' because they have so many of these repairs being done!!! Get this, while on the phone with Ford, the rep mentioned that they have $2500 rebate on Mercury products right now!!! Can you believe that crap?!

General Comments:

I will never buy another Ford product!!!

Faults:

Transmission hesitates before engaging from Park to Reverse, and Park to Drive, with a loud bang. When it does engage in Drive, the vehicle jerks forward throwing your head into the head rests. The dealership replaced the solenoid assembly, which solved the problem, however, many internet forums contain Explorer/Mountaineer owners experiencing same problem soon after repairs where made.

Check out: hhttp://www.carcomplaints.com/Ford/Explorer/2004/transmission/transmission_slipping_shifts_hard.shtml

For class action lawsuit go-to:

http://www.ford-problems.com/explorer-transmission-problems.htm

General Comments:

Besides the transmission problem (which is a BIG deal), we love the vehicle.

Faults:

Rear end had to be completely rebuilt at 1,000 miles - factory assembly defect. Checked just before warranty expired at 36,000 miles - rear end fluid was dirty and was replaced, but dealer would do nothing further. Fluid dirty and replaced again at 40,000 miles.

Persistent rattle in rear door. Repaired by adjustment every few months until warranty expired.

Strange intermittent low whistle from rear - unable to determine source. Living with it.

General Comments:

For the most part, it's a good running truck, especially on long road trips. The ride is comfortable and it handles well. But I have lost confidence in the rear end and it seems like just a matter of time before it will need major (expensive) work again. My mechanic (not a dealer) says he's seen it before on this make.

Faults:

Nothing. Only small thing is that Low Tire Pressure Signal comes on often. Dealer said no big deal as long as it goes out. Weather/Climate is the cause. Also neighbor had a 2004 Explorer and he alos told me that it happens often and it's nothing to worry about, but I will take to a tire shop to have the pressure checked. Also gas mileage is ridiculous. I am getting 11 miles per gallon. But that's to be expected. After all, it's not a Toyota Echo or a Ford Focus.

General Comments:

This truck is so smooth on the road. I do not feel like I am driving a SUV at all. I love all the features. People stare at this truck when I get out of it. In my opinion, this looks so much better than it's counterpart, Ford Explorer. I am hoping to enjoy it for many years to come.

Faults:

One failure, the A/C blew a seal which was repaired under warranty. No other issues.

General Comments:

This vehicle is the best in class and very comfortable. In the rocky mountains this vehicle shines in winter slogging through ice and snow without a hiccup, always in full control.

During the summer it pulls our 5200 lb boat with ease. Never fails to pull out of a steep slippery boat ramp without wheel spin. The truck has a very tight turning radius which helps in tight spaces.

I could not ask for a better performing 7 passenger SUV. If only for a few more cubic feet of storage, but that means stepping up to a full size SUV.

Best purchase of the past 8 vehicles owned, foreign or domestic.