Overview & Reviews

The 2005 Ford Explorer receives minor interior and exterior trim changes, and the AdvanceTrac stability control system is upgraded with roll stability control for better protection against rollover accidents.

• Excellent ride and handling characteristics for a truck-based SUV, strong optional V8, comfortable cabin with user-friendly layout and seating for up to seven, good crash test scores.

• Dull cabin design with some low-grade materials, low resale value, confusing controls on high-line models, lousy fuel economy.

User Reviews:

Showing 81 through 90 of 146.00

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  An Awesome SUV! - 2005 Ford Explorer
  By Marcus Auerelius - November 28 - 12:27 am

  My family has had many SUVs, Lexus RX300 (and we now have an Rx330), Toyota 4Runner, Chevy Tahoe, Jeep Grand Cherokee, just to name a few. But I cannot believe just how good the Explorer drives. I wasnt quite sure about buying a Ford, but I was completely blown away when I test drove it. It is so comfortable, the refinement of the engine, transmission, the ride is all wonderful. Ford did a great job on the Explorer and Ii now know why I have seen so many on the road.

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  Fxi Or Repair Daily - 2005 Ford Explorer
  By Phil Garnett - November 13 - 7:30 pm

  Mine is an 02 that has had a vibration problem that turned out to be a crankshaft that let loose at 40,000 miles. The 6 disc changer has been changed out and needs it again. The 4x4 unit went out early and ABS was at the same time as the rearend that was said to need a ring and pinion and then to find out it was rear bearings. Other small things like seat belts not retracting and the material on the door sides delaminating were only minor nuisances. Like the look.

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  Ford Explorer - 2005 Ford Explorer
  By Geoff - November 11 - 8:28 pm

  Just a very cool car to drive.

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  Broken Gas Gauge - 2005 Ford Explorer
  By 4work - November 4 - 5:18 pm

  This car was provided by my employer for work. We have had it in the shop 3 times and going on 4 due to the gas gauge not working. Dealer says Ford knows about the problem and hasnt been able to find a permanent fix and also there are not enough cars with the problem to issue a recall. We were told to try different gas and a fuel additive (said it sometimes works on other ones), problem is employer provides gas via their own gas station which results in us having to pay more for gas, just for the chance that that will correct the problem. Since it is unreliable, I use my own car so I dont get stranded. I would not recommend a Ford product due to them not willing to correct the issue.

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  My Explorer - 2005 Ford Explorer
  By Jennifer - November 4 - 3:36 pm

  I was driving a minivan, but since I am a younger mom, I wanted something more "my age". I finally talked my husband into an Explorer. I love it. I have a mineral gray one and got the DVD system installed. My kids LOVE it. They call it Dora the Explorer. I love how it handles and the view from the drivers seat.

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  Ford Believer - 2005 Ford Explorer
  By mingo333 - October 20 - 2:30 pm

  Previous vehicle was a Jeep Grand Cherokee Limited. Thought I would get another one (05), but changed mind after driving and comparing Jeep and Explorer. (Doesnt hurt that both my husband and son are "Ford men"). Am so happy with 05 that Ive already gone to dealership to check into getting an 06. Got good price on Explorer after negotiation, but sure wish I had waited and cashed in on all the incentives that have been occurring lately -- but who knew, right? Also test drove and considered an Acura MDX, Mercedes SUV, Chevy Tahoe, Honda Pilot, Toyota 4-Runner, Cadillac Escalade (in addition to Jeep Grand Cherokee) but the Explorer ultimately won out.

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  Disappointment! - 2005 Ford Explorer
  By ebyers - October 1 - 1:18 am

  Ford has made 5 attempts at fixing my rear end and 3 attempts at fixing my transmission. This problem has existed for years in many models. Why cant Ford be honest and either fix the problem & stop making substandard vehicles.

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  Fun to Drive - 2005 Ford Explorer
  By Hauler - September 23 - 2:04 pm

  Enjoy the car. Plenty of storage room and a feeling of confidence when driving. Felt good this winter driving through the snow. Car handles well and am impressed with the engine and transmission.

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  Sun Roof Problem - 2005 Ford Explorer
  By Kevin - September 23 - 2:00 pm

  Since I purchased the vehicle Ive had a rattle in the sun roof. I had it to the dealer and they added some parts that Ford suggested in a bulletin. After the repair the rattle is gone but now it occasionally creaks as I go over bumps in the road. The dealer is going to contact Ford to see if they have any other suggestions.

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  What a great SUV! - 2005 Ford Explorer
  By Best Car Ive owned - September 15 - 6:56 pm

  This is by far the best SUV I have owned. I am so in love with the way it drives, the fact that I dont feel like I am going to get blown off the road due to it being "too light" and the room for my children is great! My husband is 64" and he has plenty of room in any seat.