2002 Ford Explorer engine and engine cooling problems
163 owner complaints filed with NHTSA name the engine and engine cooling on the 2002 Ford Explorer — 5% of all complaints for this model year.
What owners report
“Heard a knocking noise went to mechanic. Was told I blew a two holes through timing chain cover. Went online found that it is a recurring problem for that year of ford. Very upset there is no recall. Was told it would cost at least 2000 to fix. Ford needs to do something about this. I want to go to…”
filed Oct 4, 2013
“I was driving on the freeway when I looked back in my rear view mirror and noticed smoke billowing out the back of my car. I pulled over. My husband got out of the car and looked under the front. I smelled fire and he said it's on fire. My husband saw a liquid dripping from the car that was clearly…”
filed May 30, 2012
Verbatim excerpts from complaints filed with NHTSA. Reports are not independently verified.
Related service bulletins
Some 1997-2008 vehicles equipped with a 4.6l 2v, 5.4l 2v, or 6.8l 2v engine--spark plug thread repair procedure--not covered under new vehicle limited warranty. *nj this includes f-53 motorhome chassis. Updated 2/23/10…
07212 · Service Bulletin/Repair Instructions · issued Oct 1, 2007Extended coverage program 05n04 - extended coverage for composite intake manifold. This program is being provided as a settlement to a class action lawsuit. The terms of the settlement extend the coverage of the…
05N04 · Service Bulletin/Repair Instructions · issued Dec 14, 2005Wds cop kit diagnostic tip - coil on plug (cop) ignition systems - engine misfire or rough running. *tt
041601 · Service Bulletin/Repair Instructions · issued Nov 14, 2005
Engine and Engine Cooling problems in other Explorer years
| Year | Reports | Share |
|---|---|---|
| 2023 Explorer | 1 | 1% |
| 2022 Explorer | 2 | 1% |
| 2021 Explorer | 10 | 2% |
| 2020 Explorer | 21 | 2% |
| 2019 Explorer | 6 | 2% |
| 2018 Explorer | 29 | 4% |
| 2017 Explorer | 76 | 5% |
| 2016 Explorer | 114 | 5% |
| 2015 Explorer | 66 | 4% |
| 2014 Explorer | 67 | 4% |
| 2013 Explorer | 67 | 3% |
| 2012 Explorer | 14 | 2% |
Other reported problem areas on the 2002 Ford Explorer
Counts are unique NHTSA complaints naming this component group. Complaints are unverified owner reports; mileage is computed only from complaints that included a usable odometer reading.