Found this 2004 Explorer with 155k miles. It’s a 4.0, 4x4. The body looks good, and I think it might be a decent deal, but I’ve heard mixed things about this generation. Anyone got experience with these?
At 155k, it could still have a lot of life left. I had a 98 Explorer with the 4.0 that made it to 326k before the trans gave out. I also have an 04 now with the 4.6. Bought it at 198k, and it’s at 280k now. For mine, I had to fix the trans solenoid pack early on, and I’ve done a couple of wheel bearings and regular maintenance. Heads up, though: rear wheel bearings can be a nightmare. I needed a press and a torch for mine.
@Lior
Thanks for sharing!
Vaughn said:
@Lior
Thanks for sharing!
Just a heads-up: the 4.0 has timing chains that can be an issue. If it’s quiet now, it might’ve already been done, but if it starts rattling, you’ll know. Also, the plastic thermostat housing tends to leak, so check that too.
@Quirin
I heard the timing chains on the 4.0 were designed to last up to 300k miles. That’s longer than most engines last anyway.
Nova said:
@Quirin
I heard the timing chains on the 4.0 were designed to last up to 300k miles. That’s longer than most engines last anyway.
As a former Ford tech, I’ve done a ton of those timing chains. Most of the ones I saw failed because people didn’t change their oil often enough. If you stay on top of maintenance, you might be fine.
@Quirin
Fair point. Mine has 108k, and the only issue so far is a high idle. I’ve been keeping up with maintenance, though.
Nova said:
@Quirin
I heard the timing chains on the 4.0 were designed to last up to 300k miles. That’s longer than most engines last anyway.
I’ve never seen a 4.0 SOHC make it to 300k without timing chain issues. Most fail around 100k, give or take.
@Lior
People like to joke and call them Exploders, but they can go a long way. They’re not fancy, but they’re solid and affordable transportation if you take care of them.
Davi said:
@Lior
People like to joke and call them Exploders, but they can go a long way. They’re not fancy, but they’re solid and affordable transportation if you take care of them.
Yeah, I upgraded mine a bit with a modern stereo that has Android Auto and Apple CarPlay. Made it feel way more current, and the sound quality is way better too.
I had an 04 with the 4.0, and it was one of the better vehicles I’ve owned. The engine was reliable, but the transmission started slipping around 160k miles. If yours has a newer trans, you’re in luck. Oh, and check the rear plastic panel under the window—it cracks on almost every one of these.
I have a Limited with the 4.6. It’s been the most reliable SUV I’ve ever owned. I think the 4.0 in the Explorer is the same as the one in the Ranger, and that’s supposed to be a solid engine too.
Clair said:
I have a Limited with the 4.6. It’s been the most reliable SUV I’ve ever owned. I think the 4.0 in the Explorer is the same as the one in the Ranger, and that’s supposed to be a solid engine too.
Yeah, it’s the 4.0 SOHC. I think it’s the same.
@Vaughn
It’s a good motor, but if you hear a rattle on cold starts, replace the timing chain tensioners ASAP. They’re not too hard to get to unless the guides go bad, and then you’re looking at pulling the engine.
@Lior
I’ve done it once without pulling the engine, and it’s not worth the hassle. Definitely replace the guides before it gets that bad.
Would you recommend sticking with the 4.0 or trying to find a 4.6 instead?
Jess said:
Would you recommend sticking with the 4.0 or trying to find a 4.6 instead?
Already bought it, so I’m sticking with the 4.0 for now.
I have an 04 Aviator, which is basically the same thing with the 4.6. It’s been great—250k and still going. As long as you keep up with fluids and maintenance, you should be good for a while.
I had one with the 4.0 and loved it until we hit 200k. The major downside is that any big engine work, like timing chains, requires pulling the motor. If I could do it over, I’d go for the 4.6 V8 instead.
I had one back in the day. It was a good SUV, but I went through a transmission and a wheel bearing. Those were the only big issues.