
Ask a Question About This Product
Our in-house experts typically reply within one business day.
Our in-house experts typically reply within one business day.
ARIES
Verify Fitment
Select your vehicle to confirm this part fits.
2001 - 2003 Ford Explorer Sport
Confirmed to Fit
2001 - 2005 Ford Explorer Sport Trac
Confirmed to Fit









Always the correct part
We know our products
Quality Products
Free Shipping!









Always the correct part
We know our products
Quality Products
Free Shipping!
Includes grille guard and mounting hardware
Grille guard may interfere with forward-facing cameras or sensors
Warranty: Limited Lifetime Warranty (Three-Year Finish, One-Year Parts)
Finish: SEMI-GLOSS BLACK POWDER COAT
Material: Blank
Color: Black
For the conqueror in every truck, Jeep or SUV owner, the ARIES grille guard offers the tough, trail-ready look you demand. It begins with a one-piece frame of 1/4" thick welded plates and 1-1/2" mandrel-bent tubing for a solid build. Each one is made with a vehicle-specific design for a better fit, easier install and more secure mounting. The side brush guards are custom-bent to contour to the profile of your vehicle, while the mounting brackets are positioned for a no-drill application. This means pre-existing factory holes are used to ensure optimum fitment and less vibration. This particular custom grille guard fits specific years of the Ford Explorer and Explorer Sport Trac (see application info to verify). The ARIES grille guard also makes it easy to customize the look of your vehicle. Not only does the crossbar have two pre-drilled holes for mounting aftermarket LED lights, but many of our grille guards are also available in two finish options -- polished stainless steel or semi-gloss black steel. The stainless steel grille guard is made with 304 stainless, being high in nickel content and truly resistant to rust and corrosion. This option comes with a mirror-like polished finish for a definitive shine. The semi-gloss black grille guard is made with high-strength carbon steel for added strength. It features a tough, dual-layer E-coat and black powder coat finish to protect against rust, scratches and the elements. All ARIES grille guards also come with rubber stripping along the risers to protect the frame against scuffs and scratches.

Explore ARIES products at TowUniverse for top-tier grille guards, side bars, nerf bars, headache racks, and more. Upgrade your vehicle with ARIES today!
ARIES is a fast-paced marketer and innovator of truck, Jeep, SUV and CUV accessories. From automotive enthusiasts to professional builders, our products are built for the champions of individualism, innovation and attitude.
We offer the perfect combination of unique style and durable construction, specializing in custom-fit grille guards, bull bars, side bars and running boards, as well as Jeep Wrangler and Jeep Gladiator accessories.
ARIES products are made vehicle-specific for a custom fit, and they are available for a wide variety of makes and models sold in North America.
Experts available to answer your questions
Call 888-634-9494Limited Lifetime Warranty (Three-Year Finish, One-Year Parts)
2 compatible vehicles
| Year | Make & Model | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| 2001 - 2003 | Ford Explorer Sport | — |
| 2001 - 2005 | Ford Explorer Sport Trac | — |
Yes, the ARIES Black Steel Grille Guard, Select Ford Explorer, Sport Trac Grille Guard (Part #BBDR3048) is designed to fit the 2001-2003 Ford Explorer Sport.
The ARIES Black Steel Grille Guard, Select Ford Explorer, Sport Trac Grille Guard (Part #BBDR3048) fits 2001-2003 Ford Explorer Sport models. The 2005 model year is the last year covered by this part number. For newer models, check for an updated version.
The ARIES Black Steel Grille Guard, Select Ford Explorer, Sport Trac Grille Guard (Part #BBDR3048) fits the following vehicles: 2001-2003 Ford Explorer Sport; 2001-2005 Ford Explorer Sport Trac. Always verify your specific year, make, and model before ordering.
The ARIES Black Steel Grille Guard, Select Ford Explorer, Sport Trac Grille Guard (Part #BBDR3048) Refer to the included instructions for installation details. Basic hand tools are typically all you need.
Yes, Curt part number 3048 is designed for 2001–05 Ford Sport Trac and Explorer Sport models. The installation instructions confirm fitment for these vehicles.
The kit includes: 1 front bar, 2 frame mounting brackets, 6 hex bolts (7/16 x 1¼), 6 hex nuts (7/16), and 12 flat washers (7/16).
Yes. The first step is to remove the tow hooks from the front section of the vehicle. The manual instructs you to loosen the back bolts only on the tow hooks to remove them. The bolts that held the tow hooks in place are then used to attach the mounting frame brackets.
After removing the tow hooks, use the bolts that held them in place to attach the mounting frame brackets. Position the brackets facing outward and slide them between the frame and bracket. Hand-tighten the bolts initially because you may need to move the brackets slightly to align the front bar correctly.
Yes. The manual states 'With the help of another person, align the front bar to the mounting frame brackets.' A second person is required to properly align the front bar during installation.
Use the 7/16 x 1¼ hex bolts, 7/16 hex nuts, and 7/16 flat washers included in the kit. The manual specifies 6 bolts, 6 nuts, and 12 washers total.
1. Remove the factory tow hooks (loosen back bolts only). 2. Attach the frame mounting brackets using the tow hook bolts, facing outward, and hand-tighten. 3. With a second person, align the front bar to the mounting brackets and fasten using the 7/16 x 1¼ hex bolts, nuts, and washers. 4. Align the front bar to the bumper and tighten all fasteners.
Yes. The manual advises re-checking all fasteners for tightness periodically, every month. This ensures the installation remains secure over time.
Yes, the Curt 3048 is designed for 2001–05 Ford Sport Trac and Explorer Sport models.
The kit includes 6 hex bolts (7/16 x 1¼), 6 hex nuts (7/16), and 12 flat washers (7/16).
Yes, the factory tow hooks must be removed. The bolts that held them are reused to attach the mounting brackets.
Yes, the manual requires a second person to help align the front bar to the mounting brackets.
Re-check all fasteners for tightness every month to ensure the installation remains secure.
On Sale Today
Original price was $874.95. Current price is $526.00.




Quick Ship
In stock and ready to ship — order now!
Shipping from Lancaster, TXFREE SHIPPING
Estimated delivery Fri, Sep 18 - Sun, Sep 20
Order before 2 PM EST Monday–Friday for same-day processing
Guaranteed safe & secure checkout
No reviews have been added for this product.