2002 Ford Explorer Recalls
NHTSA lists 4 recall campaigns for the 2002 Ford Explorer. A recall applies only to vehicles built within the affected range, so check your own VIN at nhtsa.gov/recalls. Repairs for recalls are free at a franchised dealer.
- Vehicle speed controlCovers: Ford Explorer 1995–2002, E-150 1992–2003, E-350 1992–2003 +12 more
Reported issue: Ford is recalling model years 1995-2003 windstar, 2000-2003 excursion diesel, 1993-1997 and 1999-2003 f-250 sd through f-550 sd diesel, 1992-2003 e-150 through e-550, 1995-2002 explorer, 1997 and 2002 mercury mountaineer, 1995-1997 and 2001-2003 ranger, and 1994 f53 vehicles equipped with the texas instruments speed control deactivation switch (scds). The scds may leak internally and then overheat, smoke, or burn.
Possible consequence: A vehicle fire could occur with or without the engine running.
Remedy: Ford will notify owners that dealers will install a fused wiring harness in line with the scds. On 1999-2003 windstar vehicles with a leaking scds, dealers will also inspect the abs control module connector and repair as necessary. Repairs will be completed free of charge. The safety recall began on october 27, 2009…
- Structure › Body › Hatchback/liftgate › Hinge and attachmentsCovers: Ford Explorer 2002–2003, Mountaineer 2002–2003
Reported issue: On certain sport utility vehicles, the liftgate glass strut may become disengaged or the hinge may fracture allowing the glass to fall and possibly break.
Possible consequence: If the hinge should fracture, there is a potential for the glass to fall and ultimately break and personal injuries could occur.
Remedy: Dealers will have the liftgate glass strut brackets and glass hinges replaced. For the vehicles built from august 1, 2000 through march 3, 2002, the dealers will replace the hinges and liftgate strut bracket. On vehicles built from march 3, 2002 through june 23, 2003, the dealers will only replace the hinges. The…
- Body and structureCovers: Ford Explorer 2000–2003, Dodge Grand Caravan 2000–2003, Ford Expedition 2000–2003 +9 more
Reported issue: Certain pickup truck, van, and mini van conversions equipped with southern comfort built running boards that contain certain courtesy lights manufactured by american technology components, inc. These units contain a courtesy light or lights that might overheat when the wire harness is exposed to excessive moisture and road salt.
Possible consequence: This overheating condition can cause the running board to melt or cause a fire.
Remedy: Dealers will replace the wiring harness on these running boards. Owner notification began march 7, 2003. Owners who take their vehicles to an authorized dealer on an agreed upon service date and do not receive the free remedy within a reasonable time should contact southern comfort at 1-800-745-6096.
- Tires › SidewallCovers: Ford Explorer 2002, Mercury Mountaineer 2002
Reported issue: Vehicle description: sport utility vehicles. The right side tires may have horizontal cuts on the edge of the tread that could have occurred during vehicle assembly.
Possible consequence: Over time, the tire could fail, increasing the risk of a crash.
Remedy: Dealers will inspect the tires and, if any slices are found, the cut tires will be replaced. Owner notification began june 7, 2001. Owners who take their vehicles to an authorized dealer on an agreed upon service date and do not receive the free remedy within a reasonable time should contact ford at 1-800-392-3673.
NHTSA investigations
- EA09013Vehicle Rollaway AllegationsClosed · Aug 18, 2009
- PE09020Vehicle rollaway allegationsClosed · Apr 21, 2009
- PE05037Stuck engine throttleClosed · Jul 7, 2005
- PE04045Rear liftgate glass assemblyClosed · Jun 2, 2004
- PE03020Front seat back recliner attachmentClosed · May 21, 2003
- EA02010Mis-assembled airbag clockspringClosed · Jul 2, 2002
- SQ01015Inoperative air bag systemClosed · Dec 12, 2001
← All problems reported for the 2002 Ford Explorer
About this data. Data from NHTSA (ODI) complaints, recalls, TSBs and investigations, updated Oct 28, 2026. Complaints are unverified consumer reports and may be duplicated or inaccurate.