Overview & Reviews
For the 2003 Ford Explorer, sport versions of the XLS and XLT debut, along with a new trim level called NBX (No Boundaries Experience). The NBX includes special exterior trim, unique 17-inch alloy wheels, all-terrain tires, a Yakima roof rack, rubber floormats and a cargo area liner. All-wheel drive is newly available on all but the NBX model. XLS models come standard with an automatic transmission and a CD player for 2003, while XLT models get a chrome grille and metallic interior accents. Eddie Bauer models have satin-finish 17-inch wheels this year. Limited models get upgrades such as chromed exterior trim, chrome wheels, a leather-upholstered center console cover and new woodgrain interior trim. A tire-pressure monitoring system is available on Limited models. An Off-Road Package including underbody skid plates, suspension upgrades, front tow hooks and unique wheels debuts. Finally, a rear seat DVD-based entertainment system will be available later in the year.
- Independent rear suspension, comfortable seating for up to seven, strong powertrains, foolproof Control Trac 4WD, available rollover protection system, optional stability control system, DVD-based entertainment system.
- Low-grade interior materials, quirky ergonomics.
User Reviews:
Showing 21 through 30 of 340.00-
transmission problems--cracked REAR panel (2 cracks) - 2003 Ford Explorer
By marie517 - June 6 - 6:57 amI have replaced TWO transmissions in the past 2 years--there are 2 cracks on the rear panel door--I have seen soo many other vehicles(Ford Explorers) with the same cracks!! WHAT IS FORD DOING ABOUT THIS..I CALLED AND COMPLAINED TO FORD AND THEY SAID THEY HAVE NO RECALLS OR ISSUES ON THIS.[violative content deleted]
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Excellent Vehicle after 7 Years - 2003 Ford Explorer
By Andre - November 14 - 2:00 amAfter reading through the Cons. Reviews on this site, I felt the need to comment on my bullet proof Ford Explorer. I am at 99,900 miles and have had not one problem and the engine and smooth transmission still perform like the day I bought it. Before my daughters try outs for a local perf. arts school, her clarinet lessons were a necessity. Through major snow storms that kept most in their homes, we were able to tackle the snow and ice with ease and still make it to her lessons. The ride and handling are exemplary and the hwy ride is very quiet-my family and I feel no pressure to speak up during front-to-3rd convers. I follow the maint. guide and it will likely serve me well for many more..
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Middle of The Road - 2003 Ford Explorer
By Stephanie - October 28 - 2:00 amWe bought our Explorer with 7 years and 80k on it. I did my research before buying the truck. I knew there were problems with the transmissions along with a list of other known problems. Our truck seems to have no transmission issues. It shifts very smoothly. Of course, it could have already been replaced. The one problem that we are having is it loses coolant. Every few days I have to add water to it. Have not had it diagnosed, but will be soon. My husband worries that it is going into the engine which will cost some major bucks for an engine rebuild. At this time we are hoping that is not what it is. I love my truck. It rides good, is comfortable, and looks good.
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Very Good Truck! - 2003 Ford Explorer
By MrZeke - October 7 - 2:00 amI bought mine used with 72K miles. I fell in love with it soon as I drove it. Ive been driving it now for 2 years without any major problems(only routine maintenance). I have driven this truck everywhere and through tons of snow and it has performed like a true champ!I have pulled other trucks through snow with no problem. The 4WD is awesome. It is truly built Ford tough!
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Ford is the best - 2003 Ford Explorer
By Robert - September 7 - 10:26 pmWith all those reviews about this truck being crap, I had to write my review, I am the original owner of this truck and has had no problems at all, I put 116,000 miles on it and it runs awesome, the transmission shifts great the engine runs just like the day I got it. Also the 4x4 system works great too. This thing held up to hitting a 300 lb deer and came out with just a few things that needed to be replaced (headlight, grill) nothing major, this thing is like a tank it just wont stop I love this truck and am going to continue to drive it to the day it dies!
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Drive/transmission issues - 2003 Ford Explorer
By Greg - July 30 - 10:29 amJust returned from a trip and the O/D light started flashing. All recommendations from Ford service and independents state that a transmission change is required. Very expensive since happened at 106,000 miles. This is on top of just replacing the rear differential bearings,and wheel bearings that Ford service said were bad. All this after the extended warranty was up. The rear differential fix was done 18 months prior the first time while under warranty. Far too many problems with this drive train.
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Best SUV - 2003 Ford Explorer
By Lucky STL - July 27 - 12:06 pmHavent had it long, but was able to review repair history. Basic maintenance only. Rear plastic cracked, but happens to everyone. Extremely solid ride, just as comfortable. Love the car, although too soon to report any big problems I dont know about yet. Would suggest the car to anyone looking into one as of now. Opening up the sunroof and windows makes for a pleasant ride on a cool day. Paint looks great for its age, and the interior is totally clean. A best buy!
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Long Lasting - 2003 Ford Explorer
By Matt - July 26 - 9:29 amOur explorer has lasted about 100,000 miles with only minor things break. One of the hydraulic lifts for the glass lift gate falls out of its hole and a wood insert on the door fell out. Everything else is still very good.
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Transmission Problems - 2003 Ford Explorer
By Dee - July 14 - 12:49 pmThis vehicle within a 2 years of owning this SUV I have replaced transmission twice. Buyer beware.
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Mixed - 2003 Ford Explorer
By Bill - June 27 - 9:58 amBefore 36K ran out Ford fixed trans three times and put in a new one, finally. Replaced total rear end after Differential gears went NG twice. Ford than replaced bearings in their new rear end. Brakes are typical Ford truck and dont last. I have had Fords for 40 years. Mileage is terrible, 15 mpg. Electric sensors are typical made in China junk and have failures galore. This is my last Ford. Too bad, Ford just buys crappy parts from the lowest bidder and the consumer pays the price. I hear their new small cars are decent. Stick with Toyota or if you like Ford explorer stick with the V8 Eddie Bauer It is a better all around quality version of the other explorers but you pay or that.
