Just Bought a 2005 Explorer

[xjcamaro89]

Hi, i recently switched from a Chevy Blazer to a 2005 Ford Explorer, is there anything that I should know, or any know commons problems with these cars. Thanks Alot for your help!

[XLT03]

Congrates on your purchase. I have a 03. The only things I am aware of is the rear tailgate glass. The plastic cover that's the same color of your truck that has the Ford Oval is problematic for many. It has a tendency to crack because of the glue used to stick it on the hatch glass and it's related to the heating and cooling of the plastic and the glue. Not much you can do about it. There has been a TSB on it but that's it. Ford will not pay for it. When you close the glass don't slam it shut by putting your hand on the Ford Oval. Close it with your hand on the rear wiper base, it's stronger there. 2006 has a new tailgate design, I wonder why. The trans can be an issue from what I have read on this forum, esp for 2002 -2004. Not too sure about 2005. If you didn't buy the Ford extended warranty you may want to think about it. Sure the extended warr is expensive, but it's a lot cheaper than a new transmission and other components are also covered. Ford techs...sound out on this one.

I haven't had either one of these problems on my 03 and hope I don't.

Happy motoring!!!

[maui4me]

Originally Posted by xjcamaro89

Hi, i recently switched from a Chevy Blazer to a 2005 Ford Explorer, is there anything that I should know, or any know commons problems with these cars. Thanks Alot for your help!

I would take this vehicle to the dealer as soon as possible and have them to confirm that the automatic transmission fluid is at the proper level. I assume the '05 doesn't have a dipstick for the tranny as didn't the 2002-2004 models. Mine started shifting weird after about a week and took it in and they found out the fluid level was low from the factory and who knows if any damage was started. Mine wasn't the first one they'd seen like that. I'd definitely consider one of the Ford extended warranties and not just for the powertrain if you're going to keep it for awhile. There is lots of very expensive things that can go wrong outside of the powertrain (a/c, tons of electronics and electrical items). If you buy the factory warranty from your dealer instead of through Ford directly, you can save a very substantial amount of money. You can go online at Ford's website to get and quote that you can compare with your dealer. The cost of it is much less than a new/rebuilt transmission, and not much more than an a/c compressor. I bought the powertrain only for my 2002 Eddie Bauer and regret not getting the more inclusive one. They have to sell you an extended warranty at anytime before the standard warranty lapses. I'm having lots of electrical issues with mine as well as the cracked liftgate panel syndrome.