Two problems related to alternator/generator/regulator have been reported for the 2004 Ford Explorer. The most recently reported issues are listed below. Please also check out the statistics and reliability analysis of the 2004 Ford Explorer based on all problems reported for the 2004 Explorer.
My vehicle burned through another alternator, everything on the vehicle is 100% factory so I don't know what is causing that. Immediately after I replaced the alternator for the second time in 6 months, the power steering has vanished. I checked all the belts made sure everything is running properly and in the correct place. The power steering pump seems to be pumping but not working.
Without warning, my 2004 Ford Explorer turns off while I am driving. The lights on the dash flash (check charging system on message center) then I lose the power steering when the engine cuts off. Each time I have been able to pull over safely and start the vehicle again. It has happened 5 times in the last 5 months. The dealership checked for codes after the fact but there were none (possibly because the battery gauge spiked during the incident). Then the dealership replaced the alternator, only for this to happen again 2 times after that. Yesterday the dealership installed a dvr recording device. Clearly, this is very dangerous.