2004 Ford Explorer

2004 Ford Explorer

The 2004 Ford Explorer is a mid-size SUV that was available with three engine options: a 4.0L V6, a 4.6L V8, and a V8. It was also available with two transmission options: a 5-speed automatic and a 6-speed automatic. The 4.0L V6 produced 210 horsepower and 254 lb-ft of torque, the 4.6L V8 produced 239 horsepower and 281 lb-ft of torque, and the V8 produced 274 horsepower and 302 lb-ft of torque.

People who like the 2004 Ford Explorer appreciate its spacious interior, powerful engine options, and off-road capabilities. However, it has also been known to have some issues, which are detailed below.

Engine

• 4.0L V6
  • Cam Phaser Failure
    • Description/Symptoms: The cam phasers are responsible for adjusting the timing of the camshafts. When they fail, it can cause the engine to run rough, lose power, and produce a rattling noise.
    • Solution: The cam phasers need to be replaced.
    • Estimated Cost to Fix: $1,000 - $2,000+
    • Recalls: None Found
• 4.6L V8
  • Intake Manifold Gasket Failure
    • Description/Symptoms: The intake manifold gasket can fail, causing coolant and oil to leak. This can lead to overheating and engine damage.
    • Solution: The intake manifold gasket needs to be replaced.
    • Estimated Cost to Fix: $500 - $1,000
    • Recalls: None Found

Transmission

• 5-speed Automatic
  • Torque Converter Shudder
    • Description/Symptoms: The torque converter can shudder when the transmission is shifting gears. This can be caused by a worn-out torque converter or a problem with the transmission fluid.
    • Solution: The torque converter or transmission fluid needs to be replaced.
    • Estimated Cost to Fix: $500 - $1,500
    • Recalls: None Found
• 6-speed Automatic
  • No Issues Found

Suspension

• Front Suspension
  • Upper Ball Joint Failure
    • Description/Symptoms: The upper ball joints can wear out and cause the front wheels to wobble or shake. This can also lead to premature tire wear.
    • Solution: The upper ball joints need to be replaced.
    • Estimated Cost to Fix: $200 - $400 per side
    • Recalls: None Found
• Rear Suspension
  • Leaf Spring Breakage
    • Description/Symptoms: The leaf springs can break, causing the rear of the vehicle to sag. This can also affect the handling and stability of the vehicle.
    • Solution: The leaf springs need to be replaced.
    • Estimated Cost to Fix: $500 - $1,000 per side
    • Recalls: None Found

Electrical

• Battery Drain
  • Description/Symptoms: The battery can drain even when the vehicle is not running. This can be caused by a faulty alternator, a parasitic draw, or a problem with the battery itself.
  • Solution: The alternator, parasitic draw, or battery needs to be replaced.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $100 - $500
    • Recalls: None Found
• Headlight Failure
  • Description/Symptoms: The headlights can fail due to a faulty bulb, a problem with the wiring, or a problem with the headlight switch.
  • Solution: The headlight bulb, wiring, or switch needs to be replaced.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $50 - $200 per headlight
    • Recalls: None Found

Exterior

• Rust
  • Description/Symptoms: The 2004 Ford Explorer is known to rust, especially on the undercarriage and around the wheel wells.
  • Solution: The rust can be prevented or slowed down by applying a rust-resistant coating to the vehicle.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: Varies depending on the extent of the rust
    • Recalls: None Found
• Paint Peeling
  • Description/Symptoms: The paint on the 2004 Ford Explorer can peel, especially on the hood and roof.
  • Solution: The paint can be repainted.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $500 - $1,000+
    • Recalls: None Found

Interior

• Dashboard Cracking
  • Description/Symptoms: The dashboard can crack, especially on the passenger side.
  • Solution: The dashboard can be replaced.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $500 - $1,000
    • Recalls: None Found
• Seat Belt Buckle Failure
  • Description/Symptoms: The seat belt buckle can fail to latch or release, which can be a safety hazard.
  • Solution: The seat belt buckle needs to be replaced.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $100 - $200 per buckle
    • Recalls: None Found

Summary

The 2004 Ford Explorer has some common issues, but most of them are relatively minor and inexpensive to fix. The most severe issues are the cam phaser failure and the intake manifold gasket failure, which can both lead to engine damage. However, these issues are not as common as some of the other issues listed above. Overall, the 2004 Ford Explorer is a reliable SUV with few major problems.