Ask MetaFilter questions tagged with fordexplorer

Adding aux input to 2004 Ford Explorer OEM stereo.

jroybal — Thu, 28 Feb 2008 12:11:53 -0800

I have a 2004 Ford Explorer with the OEM stereo (I think it's called the Audiophile; it's the one with the 6-disc in-dash changer), and I'd like to use the aux input with the headphone jack on my iPod and iPhone. I envision using the aux input on the back (which I believe exists) to connect some sort of input converter or cable to provide an RCA (red/white) input. From there, I would run an RCA/minijack cable through the glove or center console or somewhere to plug in a device using the minijack end. I'm not interested in controlling the iPod from the headunit (except the volume, natch), putting in a new deck, or using some sort of FM modulator. So, to make a long story short (too late), I'm looking for recommendations and advice on the right type of converter/adapter/cable/connection to use. Googling has confused me. Anyone have luck doing this? Specific stores/website (PIE.net?)? Thanks in advance!

Ford Explorer engine woes

Static Vagabond — Wed, 27 Feb 2008 16:22:17 -0800

CarFilter: identify this part from my car (highlighted in red) -- It started smoking on the way home, and I'm wondering how scared my wallet is feeling. It doesn't seem to have any operational effect on the car-- starts fine, runs fine, so I'm thinking it might be related to the A/C which died somewhat recently.

So if you're a motor-mefite, name that part and put my wallet out of it's misery.

Thanks!

how can a newbie fix his power window?

edmcbride — Sun, 23 Sep 2007 09:19:09 -0800

Help with a 1995 Ford Explorer. I have power windows and the back passenger side window will go down but not up. Is it possible to pop the door frame off, and "roll" it up manually and have it stay up? I'm not interested in opening it again till next spring when I can get it looked at. I just don't want it open incase it rains, theft, and all that stuff.

Is my poor truck worth anything to anyone?

sarahmelah — Tue, 22 May 2007 08:45:26 -0800

Is my mechanically troubled '97 Ford Explorer completely worthless? I'm the unfortunate owner of a 1997 Ford Explorer Sport with over 100k miles on it. Earlier this year I had been thinking of trading it in, as I don’t particularly enjoy it anymore, and it’s a beast on gas. Kelley Blue Book estimated its trade in value at about $2,500, assuming “good” condition.

In the past month or so it’s gone from “good” to really, really bad. The alternator and battery went, which I had replaced for about $500. While fixing that, the mechanic alerted me that the rear brakes were worn. They quoted me about $800 or so to fix this as well as some bushings that could use replacing. I didn’t have it fixed thinking (maybe incorrectly) that I could still trade it in and at least get the KBB “fair” estimate of $1900 or so.

Within a week of getting it back from the shop the check engine light came on (code P0430). The diagnosis was that the catalytic converter was clogged. The mechanic quoted me $1100 for parts and labor. In addition they noted that the belt pulley system / tensioner needed work too, to the tune of $300. Total cost of repairs including the breaks: $2200. That’s more than what it’s worth to me, not including the $500 I’ve already spent. Also, this doesn’t touch the other minor issues with the thing (a/c runs hot, rear wiper doesn’t work).

I’ve made the decision that it’s not worth fixing. These are just the latest in some rather expensive repairs over the past two years, including other emissions issues and the transmission. I really can’t see fixing it up just to trade it in, I'd much rather put the money towards something a bit newer, more fuel efficient, sensible, etc. So, my question is what to do with it now?

I hate to send it to the junk yard; it still runs fine and the exterior and interior are in great shape. I don’t know that selling to private party would work, as the thing definitely isn’t going to pass inspection. I’m not opposed to trying to sell it to a dealership or trade it in, but I’m afraid I’ll get laughed off of the lot. I’ve never traded anything in, so I’m not sure how much they’re going to care about its issues. I can see them ignoring the chirpy belts and occasional rattle; it's the bright yellow check engine light that worries me.

Am I missing any other options? Am I crazy for thinking I deserve any money for an aging, troubled truck?

Thanks in advance for any advice!

Locked my keys in a Ford Explorer

chrisWhite — Fri, 28 Jul 2006 21:14:28 -0800

I'm currently barrowing a car from my aunt and uncle and I just managed to lock the keys into the car. They are on vacation and I can't find a spare key. I'd really rather not pay a locksmith right now (college budget) and I don't have AAA. Does any one have any tips? Is there anything I should know before contacting a locksmith, any way to keep the prices low? I'm open to any suggestions, if it were my car I'd just go in with a coat hanger, but the doors are sealed up pretty tight and I don't want hurt the car. While it's not in a bad part of town, I'm also a little nervous about leaving it for more than a night with keys laying right there (as well as my PDA and my external hard-drive, which I'd really hate to lose). Thanks in advance!