02 Explorer transmission problems or something else?

[escapepro]

I'm looking to buy a 2002 Explorer. It has 43k miles on it and is the XLT model. The overall car is in EXCELLENT condition. However, I've been told that this particular car has had the transmission rebuilt 3 times on it (not from the dealership either). When I took it for a test drive it drove exceptionally well. No slips in changing gears or anything of that sort.

Its a fleet vehicle and I heard through the grapevine that it all started when someone pulled up to a stoplight and when they went to push on the gas the car didn't move. So the car's transmission was rebuilt. Supposedly this has happened numerous times.

My thoughts are that if the transmission has been fixed so many times maybe its an electronic problem? Carfax shows up clean. But another source has a Lemon Law, Buy Back exception -- whatever that means.

Anyway I'm getting a really good deal on it. Around $9500. Should I buy it? If so.. why? If not... why not?

Thanks for any input!
-
Joe

[steve11]

a small number of 2001-2002 explorers had transmission problmes. i dont know the exact cause, but thisis a 5 speed electronic shift transmission. bad wiring plug or dirty oil plugging solenoid spools could cause two gear engagement at same time. If you change the oil every couple years, and make sure the plug on the side of the transmisison is connecte good and not rubbing the frame, that sure helps.--- If one truck had 3 failures in 40,000 miles i would say it has a problem and possibly not fixed. many transmissions have been rebuilt and bad soleniods reinstalled or crud left in the converter or cooler that later causes 2nd or 3rd failures. --- i would be a little leary unless i know who did the work, and what they replaced.

[magel86]

I would steer clear! We owned a 2002 Eddie Bauer Explorer and unloaded it this week after 3 transmissions in 4 months, a new front end, new brakes and rotors, and a new electrical panel. It was purchased brand new. Never in an accident. It was my haul the kids to sports practice car. Not worth the hassel this car has been in the shop more than it has been out. All work was done by the ford dealership and each time we thought we were set. Warranty or not it's a pain in the rear.

Originally Posted by escapepro

I'm looking to buy a 2002 Explorer. It has 43k miles on it and is the XLT model. The overall car is in EXCELLENT condition. However, I've been told that this particular car has had the transmission rebuilt 3 times on it (not from the dealership either). When I took it for a test drive it drove exceptionally well. No slips in changing gears or anything of that sort.

Its a fleet vehicle and I heard through the grapevine that it all started when someone pulled up to a stoplight and when they went to push on the gas the car didn't move. So the car's transmission was rebuilt. Supposedly this has happened numerous times.

My thoughts are that if the transmission has been fixed so many times maybe its an electronic problem? Carfax shows up clean. But another source has a Lemon Law, Buy Back exception -- whatever that means.

Anyway I'm getting a really good deal on it. Around $9500. Should I buy it? If so.. why? If not... why not?

Thanks for any input!
-
Joe