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Used 1996 Ford Explorer Consumer Reviews

4.2 out of 5 stars
137 reviews

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4.25 out of 5 stars

Will buy another - in a Few years.

Matt F, 04/11/2002
1996 Ford Explorer XLT 4dr SUV 4WD
0 of 0 people found this review helpful

Bought new in 1996. I was initially skeptical about buying a Ford after having owned Acura's and VW's and reading reviews on line. You have to treat these reviews the same way you would a movie critic panning your favorite movie. Almost 6 years later and close to 80,000 miles, I still enjoy this SUV. Besides the routine oil changes, brake replacement and Firestone tire changes, I had to replace the thermostat. $100.00 repair. While under warranty, the 02 sensor was replaced. That's it. The leather interior has held up well, even with two golden retrievers riding in the back. The V6 and transmission have performed well in the hilly San Francisco terrain.

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3.25 out of 5 stars

Don't buy Fords!

Tiffany, 04/23/2002
1996 Ford Explorer Eddie Bauer 4dr SUV 4WD
0 of 0 people found this review helpful

You don't wanna know. Any repairs are very expensive.

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3 out of 5 stars

Worst Vehicle I've Ever Owned

Fed Up With Ford, 03/19/2003
1996 Ford Explorer Sport 2dr SUV
0 of 0 people found this review helpful

If anyone is looking for a pre-owned SUV, avoid this one at all costs. With 73,000 miles, I've had axle and steering problems, replaced the water pump, thermostat, ball joints and now need a head gasket. I'm probably forgetting a bunch of things. The transmission fluid is burnt and probably close to going. Time to dump this one and go foreign.

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3.88 out of 5 stars

Like It!

kw, 03/18/2003
1996 Ford Explorer XLT 4dr SUV 4WD
0 of 0 people found this review helpful

I like it and have had no major problems but i always buy the extended warranty so the (just in case) happens i am prepared for it with as little cost as possible.

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4 out of 5 stars

A Pretty Good SUV

Wildbill, 02/19/2005
1996 Ford Explorer XLT 4dr SUV 4WD
0 of 0 people found this review helpful

I bought the Explorer used. At first I had to replace the head gaskets due to oil and antifreeze leaks. That took about $1000 which really bumed me out on it. Since then it has been a good vehicle.

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