2001 Ford Explorer Eddie Bauer - 2WD review from North America
"Quality is suspect and Ford Motor Company's Customer Assistance Center is useless -- don't buy it!"
What things have gone wrong with the car?
My 4.0 SOHC engine generates a metallic clatter/knock when driven up hill or upon acceleration. The problem is most prominent when the engine is cold. Ford's technical bulletin #14868 acknowledges: that "some" 4.0 SOHC engines have the problem; acknowledges the problem has existed since 1997; and acknowledges that Ford does not yet know how to fix it.
The drive shaft was replaced to eliminate a squeal.
I have had to have malformed weather strip replaced in a door, and a malformed door panel replaced to eliminate a gap.
The tires were recalled due to potential blow-outs.
General comments?
If the engine didn't knock every morning, Ford smoothed out the ride, and Ford stood behind their product better, the vehicle would actually be enjoyable. The Eddie Bauer model has comfortable seats, well placed controls, a nice stereo, and a lot of other comfort features.
Recommended Reviews:
  | 2001 - Explorer Sport Trac 4.0 SOHC A dismal lemon |
| 2000 - Explorer XLT 4.0L OHC V6 There are better choices |
All 2001 Ford Explorer reviews
| Would you buy another car from this manufacturer? | No |
| First year of ownership | 2001 |
| Most recent year of ownership | 2002 |
| Engine and transmission | 4.0 SOHC Automatic |
| Performance marks | 5/10 |
| Reliability marks | 5/10 |
| Comfort marks | 7/10 |
| Dealer Service marks | 2/10 |
| Running Costs (higher is cheaper) | 5/10 |
| Distance when acquired | 15 miles |
| Most recent distance | 10000 miles |
| Previous car | Infiniti G20 |
| Date of Entry | 13th January, 2002 |