One problem related to engine burning oil has been reported for the 2002 Ford Explorer. The most recently reported issues are listed below. Please also check out the statistics and reliability analysis of the 2002 Ford Explorer based on all problems reported for the 2002 Explorer.
I own a 2002 Ford Explorer with the towing package and 4. 6l v-8 motor. I have 181,457 miles on it and have maintained it well. The motor does not burn any oil and has not given me any trouble until this morning, when I started my car. This morning when I started my car, I heard a loud bang and my car engine was loud and running very rough. Upon inspection, I noticed that one of the spark plugs had been blown out of the right side cylinder head, breaking the mounting harness off of the coil for this cylinder. I tried to screw the spark plug back into the cylinder, but the threads were stripped out. After looking this up on-line, I learned that this is a common problem with Ford v-8 motors used in f-150's, expeditions, Explorers, etc. I have heard mechanics call Explorers "exploders" before, and now I know why. I have never had a spark plug blown out of a cylinder head before and after reading all of the information on-line, speaking to the auto repair manager where I have my cars serviced, this is a common problem that they have seen frequently with Ford v-8 motors. When I mentioned this to the tow truck driver today, he said that he has towed alot of Fords that had the same issue. I feel that this is a maufacturing defect and the Ford motor company should stand behind their product and do what is right. Issue a recall and/or offer assistance with vehicle repairs of this nature.