FORD EXPLORER (2002)
Running costs, common problems, and reliability data based on 33 real MOT tests in 2024.
MOT Pass Rate
73%
Total Tests (2024)
33
Avg Mileage
83,397 mi
Est. Annual Cost
£2,397
Is the 2002 FORD EXPLORER reliable?
Average reliability. Expect some repairs as it ages. That's 9 points below the national average of 82%. It falls below the FORD brand average of 85%.
At 22 years old, 73% of FORD EXPLORERs from 2002 passed their MOT first time in 2024. That's based on 33 tests across the UK. The average mileage at this age is 83,397 miles.
How does the 2002 FORD EXPLORER compare?
Mileage Analysis
The average 2002 FORD EXPLORER has 83,397 miles on the clock, which is below the expected 162,800 miles for a 22-year-old car. This suggests lighter use than average, which generally means less wear on major components.
Best year to buy a FORD EXPLORER?
The most reliable year is the 2005 model with a 89% MOT pass rate, while the 1998 model has the lowest at 66%. The 2002 sits between the two at 73%.
How much does a 2002 FORD EXPLORER cost to run?
Higher than average due to low pass rate
Based on 7,400 miles/year (UK average), current fuel prices, and repair likelihood from MOT pass rate data. Insurance not included.
FORD EXPLORER by Year
Checking a specific FORD EXPLORER?
Enter the reg plate to see its individual MOT history, mileage verification, and predicted costs.
About the 2002 FORD EXPLORER
The 2002 FORD EXPLORER is a performance with a 4600cc petrol engine. 33 of these vehicles were MOT tested in 2024, making it a rare model on UK roads. Among all cars from 2002, the average MOT pass rate is 73%, and this model falls short of that benchmark.
With an average of 83,397 miles at 22 years old, FORD EXPLORER owners tend to use this car less than the typical driver.
2002 FORD EXPLORER Fuel Costs
The 4600cc petrol engine is on the larger side, so fuel won't be this car's strong point. Expect around 30 mpg in mixed driving, which works out to roughly £1,592 per year at current petrol prices of 142p per litre (based on 7,400 miles per year).
What does it cost to own a 2002 FORD EXPLORER?
Total estimated annual running cost is £2,397 (£200/month), broken down as £1592 fuel, £250 road tax, £55 MOT, and £500 predicted repairs. Repair costs are moderate, reflecting the 73% pass rate. Keeping on top of servicing will help avoid surprises.
FORD EXPLORER Reliability Trend
Newer FORD EXPLORERs show better MOT pass rates than older ones, with an average improvement of 8 percentage points.
Buying a Used 2002 FORD EXPLORER
At 22 years old, the FORD EXPLORER is firmly in budget territory. Purchase prices are low, but check for rust, worn suspension bushes, and electrical gremlins. A full service history is especially valuable at this age. If you're flexible on year, the 2005 model has the highest pass rate at 89%. Note: with only 33 tests in our data, these figures should be treated as indicative rather than definitive.
Alternatives to the 2002 FORD EXPLORER
If reliability is your priority, there are 3 similar cars with a higher MOT pass rate. Here are comparable petrol cars with similar engines:
- MERCEDES CLK (2004) 76% pass rate (+3%) from 8,352 tests
- BMW X5 (2004) 77% pass rate (+4%) from 6,276 tests
- MERCEDES SL (2003) 86% pass rate (+13%) from 5,173 tests
- ROVER 75 (2004) 69% pass rate (-4%) from 4,012 tests