I thought it was a problem on my 1998 Town & Country, but I just needed to turn the key on (don't start the car, just turn the key for power to reach the outlet.) If that is not the problem, check the fuse box under steering wheel.
Your power outlet in your 2002 Ford Explorer may have a damaged fuse. You can try replacing the fuse to see if it will start working.
The question should be why the power outlets don't work - the entertainment system (DVD just plugs into the power outlet/cig lighter. The fuses have checked.
On my 2002 T&C the fuse box is located under the hood, drivers side ,under a cover marked IPM FUSE & RELAY CENTER open the cover with your fingers. There is a diagram under the cover with location of the fuses . My power outlets have the old style , flat, push pin fuse , yours might be a different style . Also you can make the ignition outlet hot all the time by moving the fuse over one hole . Its marked
In a 2002 Ford Escape XLS, the 12V power outlet is not directly connected to the Diagnostic Link Connector (DLC). The DLC is primarily used for communication with diagnostic tools to access the vehicle's onboard computer systems. The power outlet operates independently, providing power for accessories, while the DLC focuses on diagnostics and troubleshooting.
The 2002 Ford Focus is 5 ft. 6.9 in. (66.9 in.)12V front power outlet(s) wide.
The 2002 Chevrolet Express is 6 ft. 7.4 in. (79.4 in.)12V front power outlet(s) wide.
The 2002 Volvo S60 is 5 ft. 11 in. (71 in.)12V front power outlet(s) wide.
The 2002 Toyota Tacoma is 5 ft. 6.5 in. (66.5 in.)12V front power outlet(s) wide.
The 2002 Chevrolet Malibu is 5 ft. 9.4 in. (69.4 in.)12V front power outlet(s) wide.
The 2002 Toyota Corolla is 5 ft. 6.7 in. (66.7 in.)12V front power outlet(s) wide.
The 2002 Chevrolet Camaro is 6 ft. 2.1 in. (74.1 in.)12V front power outlet(s) wide.
The 2002 Hyundai Accent is 5 ft. 5.7 in. (65.7 in.)12V front power outlet(s) wide.