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Used 1996 Ford Explorer Consumer Reviews

4.2 out of 5 stars
137 reviews

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4.38 out of 5 stars

I will buy another one in few years

nickzmm, 02/27/2004
1996 Ford Explorer Eddie Bauer 4dr SUV 4WD
0 of 0 people found this review helpful

Bought vehicle with 23k miles, now has 143k. Other than front hub failure at 64k ($400) and premature front brake/rotor wear out (my fault for not taking to Ford dealer)($700 total) car has been very reliable. Changed fluids, etc. at recommended intervals at Jiffy Lube. Has not used a drop of oil. Tuned up at 80k. Runs great and expect to keep for another couple of years. V6 engine has enough power for my use and not too bad on milage (15.92 m/g over the last 1100 miles).

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4.25 out of 5 stars

Still going strong at 217k

Brenrher, 09/27/2002
1996 Ford Explorer XLT 4dr SUV AWD
0 of 0 people found this review helpful

Bought this vehicle new. To date about $4k in other than routine maintenance, replaced a fuel pump, replaced front end components a couple of times, replaced the alternator and battery recently. Same plugs, etc., did have a new belt put on at 150k. The handling and comfort is great with Michelin tires - replaced the Goodyears at 75k. The 5.0L engine is fantastic. All in all, I have been fortunate with this vehicle, and hope to get to 300k without a catastrophic and/or expensive failure. Love this one so much I bought a used 1999 Explorer XLT.

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3.38 out of 5 stars

SUV has lasted despite recalls

C. Bright, 02/28/2004
1996 Ford Explorer Eddie Bauer 4dr SUV 4WD
0 of 0 people found this review helpful

My '96 Explorer still looks good & drives well. It hasn't been driven hard - it's spent more days at the airport than off-roading. I get an oil change every 5,000 miles or so and I haven't spent much time at all at the repair shop (new brake pads and a new thermostat). It's been recalled twice: once because of the infamous Firestone tires, and once for for something having to do a weak front stabilzer bar link (granted, both pretty serious). I have to say I wasn't too impressed with the way it drove until after I replaced the Firestone tires with 4 brand new Michelins. They made a huge difference in stability and handling.

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4.75 out of 5 stars

Love the Explorer

D35C35, 10/09/2002
1996 Ford Explorer XLT 4dr SUV AWD
0 of 0 people found this review helpful

I love my Explorer. Have had no problems, and will buy a new one when I drive this one into the ground.

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2.63 out of 5 stars

Run Away Fast

buy another car, 04/25/2004
1996 Ford Explorer Sport 2dr SUV
0 of 0 people found this review helpful

Nothing but problems.Oil leak under chain cover ($525) Transmission ($2500) Steering column broke ($310.00) + 2 recalls, & many little things. Disappointing vehicle. Never buy Ford again. Will buy Toyota to get a real car. Mechanic who fixed steering wheel said Ford told him that the Fords have alot of problems with this steering wheel problem. I went to turn off my car and my key just flipped around & then it would not turn off my accessories. It was not my starter it is Actuators and Assy Bracket. My suggestion is buy another car.There are many more out there that are better than the Ford Explorer and Ford all together. Gas mileage stinks to.

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