Used 1996 Ford Explorer SUV Consumer Reviews
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Guess I Got One Of The Good Ones
greenmamba, 04/11/2015
1996 Ford Explorer Eddie Bauer 4dr SUV
19 of 19 people found this review helpful
Bought mine with 135K back in '01. It now has over 300K and has been the perfect vehicle. Still looks fantastic, interior has a small 1 1/2 inch tear on the driver seat's side. Has never left us walking. Same transmission, water pump, rear end. The only big things replaced are a/c and radiator. Both done by me and all maintenance also.
1996 Ford Explorer XLT 5.0L V8
HeZ777, 03/06/2010
1996 Ford Explorer XLT 4dr SUV
23 of 24 people found this review helpful
I've owned this car since October 1997, buying it with about 11,000 miles. It now has over 203,000 miles and still running strong. The 302 V8 is a strong and efficient runner, with a strong and durable transmission. Pre-Ethanol highway economy 22 MPG. Post-Ethanol highway economy 18 MPG. Very practical car, tows 5500 lb loads with ease, plenty of ramp torque, and horsepower to run up hills with ease. Recurring issues: this car eats up upper/lower ball joints, water pumps, radiators. Subwoofer not a standard size. On the plus side: 190,000 miles on a fuel pump, 170,000 miles on the air conditioning system. Engine, tranny, fuel system, computer top notch reliable on this car.
Im never giving up this car!
Julian Novoa, 01/15/2018
updated 03/16/2020
1996 Ford Explorer Limited 4dr SUV AWD
13 of 13 people found this review helpful
I own a 1996 ford explorer limited with the 5.0 302 v8. We owned it since 2001 with 37,000miles now it has 166,000 miles we take it on road trips all the time and never has left us walking. The limited trim is absolutely luxurious and the alloy limited wheels are just pure style. I recommend this car to anyone who wants a v8 and a luxurious inexpensive SUV.
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Great SUV
Michael J, 07/24/2010
1996 Ford Explorer XLT 4dr SUV
10 of 10 people found this review helpful
I bought my Explorer XLT with 59k miles on it and 3 years old. It is now 14 years old with 280k miles on it. The only major repair I have had was replacing the AC 2 years ago. I think it was about 1000 to replace it. I am searching for something else now because I am worried it might be on its last leg. Who knows, it may last another 100k miles Definitely recommend an Explorer!
Can't complain one bit
roller_k, 05/21/2011
1996 Ford Explorer XLT 4dr SUV AWD
14 of 16 people found this review helpful
I bought my 96 in 98 with 14000 miles on it. 12 years and 160,000 miles later and it never had a breakdown. The transmission never gave me problems. Only problem after many years was the link to the auto transmission and the back door lock had problems that I never took it in for. I did most of the scheduled maintenance myself and I'm no real mechanic. Great vehicle from Ford.
Almost 300,000 and Still Going
philzleads, 04/12/2008
1996 Ford Explorer XLT 4dr SUV 4WD
6 of 6 people found this review helpful
Bought the vehicle new in 1996. Mileage is now at 291,942. Just had the transmission rebuilt. The vehicle miles are mostly hiway miles. I have had the alternator replaced as well as the transfer case. Original exhaust, which needs some work as the bolt-on joints are rusted. Compressor for AC is not working, but I only use the vehicle for truck like duties, I dont mind. Use it mostly in winter/Fall for hunting trips. The temp gauge on the dash no longer works so either full heat or no heat. I have had to replace the bulbs in the dash behind the intrument panel numerous times. The engine, incredibly does not use oil as I have maintained it diligently. 6th set of tires.
Wolf in Sheeps clothing
Bruce, 03/17/2018
updated 10/03/2018
1996 Ford Explorer Limited 4dr SUV AWD
6 of 6 people found this review helpful
Bought the ‘96 Explorer Limited just to get me back and forth to work. It’s size and the 5.0 power actually makes the drive to work fun. Going to replace the shocks, feel a little mushy, already replaced the front sway bar links and will probably replace brake pads soon. 4 wheel disc is great. Speedometer works but, odometer gave up at 180K. Fuel gauge doesn’t work, I fill it up every couple of days just to be safe. Will fix that in time, not worried. Previous owner put on custom exhaust, love the sound! Gets a lot of looks when I pull up and everyone hears that deep rumble. Acceleration is awesome, smokes everybody at the lights! Car is still fun. Fixed the odometer but my fuel gauge is stuck on half full. Need to get the front end aligned, a little knock kneed right now but drives fine.
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1996 2 dr 4x4 explorer sport
steve, 11/18/2010
1996 Ford Explorer Sport 2dr SUV 4WD
6 of 6 people found this review helpful
I have 200,100 miles on my SUV. I purchased my 1996 with 108,000 miles for $3200.00. I have put 92,000 miles on it. I have had to replace upper ball joints, tires and routine oil changes, battery, alternator. Other than that I got more than my money's worth still running strong. I purchased 70,000 tires thinking they would outlive the truck. Now I need new tires.
Amazingly Tough!!!
glenniz, 03/11/2014
1996 Ford Explorer XLT 4dr SUV AWD
5 of 5 people found this review helpful
Bought this 1996 XLT as a first car for my daughter to learn how to drive and then I was going to sell it. Well guess what....I'm going to do some maintenance on it and keep it for myself. The 5.0L motor is amazing and the transmission shifts like it was new (this vehicle has 185,000 miles on it). It still gets 18 mpg in the city and about 23 mpg on the Hwy. and has absolutely NO oil leaks!!! I'm Impressed!!!!!
Very Dependable SUV
Starsky64, 10/28/2010
1996 Ford Explorer XLT 4dr SUV 4WD
4 of 4 people found this review helpful
Purchased my Explorer XLT used 7 years ago with 69k miles. It now has over 125k miles and still going strong. Very comfortable interior with durable cloth seats. I have never had any major maintenance issues with this truck. The only items that needed replacement were the two front upper control arm/ball joint assemblies. The body is still relatively rust-free considering it is now 14 years old. Very well made vehicle.
Best Car EVER!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!
Dickkyle, 12/31/2002
1996 Ford Explorer XL 4dr SUV
4 of 4 people found this review helpful
This car is such an outstanding car. It is more reliable than my wife.
1996 Ford explorer 4DR XLT
Anthony Arpino, 09/22/2008
1996 Ford Explorer XLT 4dr SUV
3 of 3 people found this review helpful
At present 145000 miles. Replaced lower ball joints 2X under warranty. Replaced with the ball joints that can be lubricated. Gas mileage has improved since increasing tire preasure to 32 to 35 lbs. (18 to 23 miles per gal highway). I wish it was better. Also use a good fuel injector cleaner every 3000 miles. I have serviced the transmission every 12 to 15000 miles & so far no problems. I find it a comfortable & fun vechile to drive. Excellent handling in snow. One other problem was the thermostate. I had to replace it 4 times. If yours needs to be replaced ask for a heavy duty one that is made in the USA. The automatic choke in the winter kills your gas mileage, since it is temperature sensative
Very dependable vehicle
configsys, 10/09/2006
1996 Ford Explorer XLT 4dr SUV 4WD
3 of 3 people found this review helpful
We bought our 96 Explorer XLT used with approx. 65K miles. Shipped it overseas where we drove it ALL OVER Europe and put over 70K trouble-free miles during the 3 years we were there. Just regular maintenance. My 18 year old daughter now drives it and it has almost 140K miles. Still young with lots of long miles left. This has been the most dependable vehicle we have owned.
Almost 200K Miles Later...
dr.girlfriend, 06/29/2006
1996 Ford Explorer XLT 4dr SUV 4WD
3 of 3 people found this review helpful
The 1996 Ford Explorer XLT (V6) has definitely been the finest car I've ever owned, and I've owned quite a few. (My dad says "I can't believe that car has been so good to you!" He's jealous). I bought it used with a little less than 75K miles on it, and now it has over 180K, and still running strong. No major mechanical problems, and has never went one morning without starting right up. I've been all around the country with it. The value on paper is soooooo far below what it's REALLY worth! I would recommend this fantastically-performing car to anyone who wants something reliable, roomy, nice-looking, and lovable.
WHAT I EXPECT FROM AN EXPLORER
Kevin B, 12/17/2015
updated 06/21/2018
1996 Ford Explorer XLT 4dr SUV AWD
3 of 3 people found this review helpful
I have owned a lot of Ford Explorers over the years from a 76 Ford Explorer Truck to a Camper Special to even owning a 92 Ford Explorer SUV with all them having accept for the camper special having V6 or inline 6 cylinder engines, but my latest is the AWD V8 which is a work of art to me. This truck in dependable and reliable. Of course I know it is not used to go rock climbing and is for normal to mid off road use, unlike most try to think it should be. In my opinion this SUV is what it should do an average to above average SUV
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216,000 Work horse
Karrie, 04/05/2016
1996 Ford Explorer XLT 4dr SUV AWD
4 of 5 people found this review helpful
We bought this 3 years ago with only 174,000 miles on her and now 216,000 miles and still runs great. Only put radiator, water pump, tires and oil changes might need a rack and pinion soon but runs strong. Going to try and keep her running for another 216,000 miles...
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They don't build 'em like this anymore..
NMR, 04/15/2009
1996 Ford Explorer XLT 4dr SUV 4WD
4 of 5 people found this review helpful
I bought this SUV with 150,000 miles. I now have almost 180,000. The only 'major' repair I have had is with the transmission...a solenoid that cost $200. Other than that, I have experienced only typical maintenance issues: exhaust, brakes/rotors, O2 sensor, plugs/wires...which most can be done by the average DIYer. To the poster with 240k+ miles: if you have that MANY miles on a (American) suv and you aren't happy, then you will never be happy with any vehicle. I have been looking to buy a new vehicle for the past year and based upon reviews, I will be sure to keep this one as a backup. I cannot say much bad about this SUV...IMO the Explorer is an A+ concept that ended when Ford redesigned.
My Explorer
wild, 05/24/2002
1996 Ford Explorer XLT 4dr SUV
2 of 2 people found this review helpful
I purchased my explorer used several years back. It seemed to be in good condition. I only had it for a couple of months when I had to replace the head gaskets and timing chain gasket. Awhile later the another sensor went bad. Now I have a whirling noise coming from the front driver side at lower speeds. My mechanic can not find the problem. Overall I really like the truck. It's fun to drive and hany when hauling kids and stuff. Gas milage even with the six is poor.
Still Working
slinsk, 11/09/2012
1996 Ford Explorer Limited 4dr SUV 4WD
2 of 2 people found this review helpful
Bought my 4.0L, 4dr, 4wd, auto XLT as a new loss leader from the Sunday newspaper auto section in 1996 for $23k. Had to replace a blown head gasket twice. First time was my fault because thermostat was bad and temp gage wasn't working so engine overheated & blew the head gasket. 2nd time was just from age & I was able to save a few thousand by doing the labor myself (~$700 in parts & machine shop work on the valves/heads). Now has 157k on it. Transmission is starting to slip but I understand that's normal wear & tear with this many miles. Other than that, just had the usual, tires, alternator, brakes stuff. The truck has been a workhorse.
Sure footed ride
Anonymous, 12/07/2010
1996 Ford Explorer XLT 4dr SUV AWD
3 of 4 people found this review helpful
92,000 miles on 5.0 L and it still looks and runs almost like new. Terrible gas mileage(16)and some engine noise. I've pulled a 16 ft box trailer all over, it has plenty of power and suspension, just doesn't have the long wheel base for stability.Love the short turning radius, tight suspension, and awd traction. No significant repairs other than the heater controls are shot, can't turn it off - damper? On the second set of brake pads and have just recently started noticing rotor warp on original set. Still uses zero oil between changes. On the second set of tires. Original muffler and suspension!! No rust. This vehicle has been babied, but it is still runs and looks great at 14.
1996 1 owner Ford Explorer 4wd 4 dr
drbobe, 11/20/2011
1996 Ford Explorer Eddie Bauer 4dr SUV 4WD
5 of 8 people found this review helpful
When I purchased the 96 Explorer it was my 2nd one. I had a 91 2dr 4wd and sold it to my Dad. My 96 was fine till 55,000 miles when the odometer broke. It was already out of warranty and cost $1000 to fix due to it being one of a cluster . I had to repair the a/c twice costing $1000 each time. I replaced the radiator at $800. I've replaced the transfer case at $3500 and the Transmission at $2000. This vehicle is only used to go to and from work and school 5-10 miles away. Recently, my daughter was driving it on I-95 coing home from college and the engine failed costing me $400 to tow it home 71 miles. It appears it is only worth $2000 when running.
Never let me down
Ted Sz, 05/12/2009
1996 Ford Explorer XLT 4dr SUV 4WD
2 of 3 people found this review helpful
I bought my Explorer XLT 4WD new 13 years ago. I've maintained it myself for 151,000 miles. I've changed the AT fluid and filter every 30,000 miles and have had no transmission issues. It does chatter when dropping out of OD, but only when another transmission fluid change is due. I've always used Mobil One ATF. I recently did a lot of work on it because, although it's worth less than $2K on the books, it runs like new. I replaced the upper and lower ball joints last fall. I also found an A/C leak and fixed it myself. My brother the HVAC pro pressure tested, evacuated and charged it. Blows ice cold again! Heater blend door is a common failure, $9 part and about eight hours labor!
Had it since new stil like new
sealerdave, 08/01/2007
1996 Ford Explorer XLT 4dr SUV 4WD
1 of 1 people found this review helpful
We bought our 1996 Explorer new in 1996 we have had no trouble at all except the panel on the drivers side electronic buttons broke I bought the mount and fixed it. Really my wife will not drive the 2005 I bought last year. She likes "Her Baby" with 55,000 miles on it. After 11 years in CA, I guess it's just about "Run In". Great SUV's very dependable. Not a bit of rust and never a scratch.
Drives
whoswho, 03/25/2007
1996 Ford Explorer XLT 4dr SUV
1 of 1 people found this review helpful
I had this car for a little over a year. I had little to no complaints until recently. This car is great for day to day however it is dangerous in a accident. The narrow wheel base on this year is prone to rollover and leaves you with no options to really avoid an accident.
Awesome - except for the transmission
Exploder, 07/13/2008
1996 Ford Explorer XLT 4dr SUV 4WD
1 of 1 people found this review helpful
We have 240,000 miles so far and the only complaint is the transmission. It cost $1800 to rebuild and it appears to be a common problem on 1995 - 2001 Explorers with over 100k miles. If you're looking at a used Explorer with 100k+ miles, pay attention to the transmission! Other than that we love this truck. It is great in snow, very comfortable, and extremely reliable (except when transmission left my wife stranded). Even with 240k miles I would not hesitate to drive it on a cross country trip. The fuel economy is around 14/18, which is about average for this type of vehicle. The vinyl on the center console cover will crack too. I have never seen one that wasn't cracked.
Ford Explorer 96
Larry Scott, 09/06/2002
1996 Ford Explorer XLT 4dr SUV
1 of 1 people found this review helpful
Car has been flawless. No problems at all. One of the best cars I have ever owned mechanically.
Love my Explorer
hiyall, 03/05/2007
1996 Ford Explorer XLT 4dr SUV
1 of 1 people found this review helpful
Bought my Explorer new and have loved it for almost 11 years. It has performed like a champ on LA roads and in mountain and snow conditions. Recently, had to have radiator replaced 3x. It seems the new replacement Ford radiators are no good. They have each still been under warranty but the last one was only one day from being out of warranty. Sadly, I now plan to replace my Explorer because I don't want to chance having to replace the radiator again on my dime. This truck has really hauled everything for me and rides especially well when the back is loaded. If you are thinking of a '96 Explorer I say go for it. Mine still performs well & looks great inside and out.
1996 Ford Explorer XLT V-8
s.kaldes, 04/30/2002
1996 Ford Explorer XLT 4dr SUV
1 of 1 people found this review helpful
my boss got this vehicle with 12000 miles on it. i got to use it occasionally so when he decided to sellit i bought it with 65000 miles on it.I love the performance and torque this 5.0 litre has.Exterior still looks new.Gray leather still looks great.Only complaints are electrical, replacing hi brake light, fog lights, dash lite and steering wheel lite.
No problems!
califbucfan32, 09/20/2002
1996 Ford Explorer XL 4dr SUV
1 of 1 people found this review helpful
Has been a great car for my family!
Great Vehicle
Dan Giesen, 09/27/2007
1996 Ford Explorer XLT 4dr SUV 4WD
1 of 1 people found this review helpful
I drive this to work all week. Pull our boat all summer and haul my hockey player all over Wisconsin in the winter. The Ford Explorer is by far the best SUV out there.
One long time owner
TS, 01/12/2008
1996 Ford Explorer XLT 4dr SUV 4WD
1 of 1 people found this review helpful
I've owned my Explorer for almost 12 years now, since new. It has nearly 150,000 miles on it. It's been very reliable, requiring less than the normal amount of maintenance of other vehicles I've owned. It's now my extra third vehicle, and I use it often for truck like duties such as trailer hauling and moving my daughter to and from college. If and when I need a new SUV, it'll be another Explorer, a true truck SUV.
Surprised
BigEasy, 11/16/2002
1996 Ford Explorer XLT 4dr SUV
1 of 1 people found this review helpful
I purchased my XLT with 89000 miles and it drove like it was right out of the factory. Gas milage is horrific but in a SUV what can you ask for. I love the step up cruise control (dont have to hold the Coast or Accel button)and when I hit the gas I get what I ask for "POWER". Could use a better Stereo System and the tailgate needs a release switch in the cockpit (if its there I have no Idea where it is)
Great vechile
JB_ok, 09/17/2002
1996 Ford Explorer XLT 4dr SUV
1 of 1 people found this review helpful
Very reliable, currently has 82000 miles. Only problem is blend door had to be replaced at 70K.
Unparalleled reliability
molllibbburg, 01/13/2004
1996 Ford Explorer XLT 4dr SUV
1 of 1 people found this review helpful
Traded SUV with in-laws in 7/03, so I know the history. After 130,000 miles, it just had its first repair (excluding maintenance) - a water pump. V8 runs great and starts every time. Drove from Miami to Chicago in July and then to S. Carolina in December. Would buy another (with V8 only). Mileage is acceptable and some interior components are cheap and deteriorate from sun rays.
Green Explorer That Wouldn't
Blue from VB, 04/05/2005
1996 Ford Explorer XLT 4dr SUV
1 of 1 people found this review helpful
It is a roomy midsize SUV and the ride was car-like. It had a lot of nifty features as one would expect from a Ford that was not entry level, including a compass, temperature gauge, reclining front and rear seats, etc. The downside to it is when it goes it goes! In a twelve month period I spent almost $2,000 in maintenance ($900 for a heater core, $600 for a water pump 6 months later, then $500 for brakes and front tires). The vehicle left me stranded on two seperate occassions and I do my regularly scheduled maintenance on all of my vehicles. Ford's service was subpar and it was the last Ford that I will buy!
Reliable and powerful
cssharkey, 04/01/2004
1996 Ford Explorer XLT 4dr SUV
1 of 1 people found this review helpful
Bought this '96 Explorer used in '98. Only problem with it was a sticky gas pedal ($80 fix) and "Check Engine" light refused to go off until fixed by dealer. Other than that, for the past six years it's been just regular maintenance. My V8's got plenty of power - but not having 4x4 has hurt me a few times. It's a bit too light in the back in the snow/ice. But for decent conditions, this cars done been what's been asked of it.
Great daily driver...
6spdGTO, 08/23/2009
1996 Ford Explorer XLT 4dr SUV 4WD
1 of 1 people found this review helpful
I have owned my Explorer for a year and a half now, with no major problems. I bought it to take my GTO off the road. It needed some work at the time of purchase: Front wheel bearings, a starter, thermostat, IAC motor, brakes and BF Goodrich All- Terrain tires. Recently, the transmission began acting up, but it is most likely an issue with a shift solenoid and separator plate gasket which is common in these models. Should be an easy fix. Due to it's short wheelbase, it also offroads great and is fun to drive in the snow or snotty mud. Over all, a great truck. After I drive the wheels off of this one, I will certainly buy another.
Common yet reliable
Lukas, 01/16/2006
1996 Ford Explorer XLT 4dr SUV AWD
1 of 1 people found this review helpful
My first truck. Big, bulky, gas consuming auto yet I can finally fit all along with my family. Mechanically sound and solid, I love the 5-speed manual transmission with hydraulic clutch - no problems there, good pick up yet sluggish if you do not know how to handle it. Clean and powerful engine. Explorer is extremely popular truck around and I was afraid Ford builds quantity and not quality - I guess I was wrong, absolutely no mechanical problems. The gas prices are the main concern as this truck likes to consume. I get better mileage with manual transmission but fill up costs me a bundle
Very reliable & comfortable 4X4
jia1, 06/12/2002
1996 Ford Explorer Limited 4dr SUV 4WD
1 of 1 people found this review helpful
This is my first American car, it is supurisingly reliable, exceeded my expectations. During three years of ownership, I had only two repairs, Heater control valve and idle air control valve went bad, both were easy fixes. The rest of running cost were just gas, maintenance and insurance. I am very happy with it will continue to buy American.
Saved my moms life
MBailey, 10/17/2002
1996 Ford Explorer XLT 4dr SUV
1 of 1 people found this review helpful
Bought used in 2001, Rides, and handles great, could be beter on gas, but hey what can you expect out of an SUV. A week ago was totaled due to an almost fatal accident. The Explorer is actually my moms... she was on her way to work when a Dodge Dakota cliped her on her passenger side, the Explorer immediately turned sideways, and flipped 4-5 times on a paved road. My mom had on her seat belt (Thank God) and had minor injurys considering the servierness of the accident everyone talks about how well the truck held up, although she will never buy an exlorer again the frame, and the safety design saved her life. Thanks Ford!!!!!
My ford sucks
Fordsucks, 10/03/2002
1996 Ford Explorer Limited 4dr SUV 4WD
1 of 1 people found this review helpful
I have had nothing but trouble with my "exploder". Thats it's new nickname. I have it in the shop again for a new transmission. Second time in 2 years. Not only have I been fixing transmissions I think every other mechanical part has been replaced as well.
96 Explorer 174k and still running great
mdmadv@hotmail.com, 11/25/2004
1996 Ford Explorer XLT 4dr SUV
1 of 1 people found this review helpful
Purchased used off a lease w/ 17k miles. Has had strict maintenance program, synthetic oil every 4k, transmission service every 20k, flush coolant system annually. Normal driving 16-17, highway 20-21 mpg. Original transmission overdrive just failed after 174k. In shop now. Will repair and give to my son. I would buy another Explorer or Escape; If you service the vehicle it has a better chance of lasting.
WOW
allenone973, 10/20/2004
1996 Ford Explorer XLT 4dr SUV
1 of 1 people found this review helpful
I never in a million years thought i would be writing a glowing review of a Ford but here I am! My V8 currently has 189000 on the clock and it has been almost completely trouble free for over 60K miles. Regular tranny service and oil changes, upper and lower ball joints, an idler pulley, brake pads, one rotor, fuel pump (may not have even been bad) and a new set of Continental tires. I have read the 6cyl is crap but the V8 has a great engine/tranny setup. gas mileage is HORRIBLE, i average 14MPG. Avoid the 6, get the 8, you will pass everything but gas stations! Ride is good on smooth roads but if there are bumps in the road you will know it.
"til the wheels fall off"
MacDaddy, 12/19/2009
1996 Ford Explorer XLT 4dr SUV
1 of 1 people found this review helpful
Bought new. XLT w/Leather, moonroof, JBL, etc. Routine maint w/oil changes every 3.5K mi. V-8 is powerful enough, but times have changed. Still can drive 100 MPH all day & stays cool. New CD changer. Wore out armrest & had it re-covered, then the coolant leaked out the very same day, but temp gauge never went up. Suspension is a little rocky when empty.Cost to repair etc., is about the present wholesale value (174K mi), so put in a crate motor for $5K rather than buy a new SUV. Beats a car payment. Sunroof rattle on bumpy roads that I fix with matchbook. Great stereo & acoustics, comfy (I'm 6'5"), AC blows ice cubes,tows 2 jetskis so effortlessly, you barely notice them. Keepin' it!
I truly plan to keep my Explorer
jltacy, 10/29/2005
1996 Ford Explorer Limited 4dr SUV 4WD
1 of 1 people found this review helpful
I plan to keep my Explorer until the most expensive thing that can go wrong, goes wrong. I have only had 1 small part replaced since I bought it in 2002. I cannot imagine driving a car again. I am spoiled. It has over 110,000 miles on it and I have had no major repairs, only wear and tear items. Yes it gets 15 - 16 miles per gallon, but when you are not making payments that quite a savings.
good deal
mary cabral, 12/29/2005
1996 Ford Explorer XLT 4dr SUV 4WD
1 of 1 people found this review helpful
Have had this car for nine years. Has had very very few repairs on it. I did replace the battery three times and I replaced the tires once. It has 28,000 miles and still looks pretty new and the motor is in excellent condition. I drive this car on long trips and it has never stopped on me for any reason. I did treat it well, with oil changes every 3 to 4 thousand miles. I strongly recommend it. I had ever had a Ford before because I like foreign cars but this Explorer proved me wrong!
explorer review
dan`, 11/15/2002
1996 Ford Explorer XLT 4dr SUV
1 of 1 people found this review helpful
at 100K miles, needed some work, otherwise, not major work required except problem with paint during first 6 mmonths, but ford tool care of it n o problems
WORST GAS MILEAGE I'VE EVER SEEN!
7774u, 05/23/2003
1996 Ford Explorer XLT 4dr SUV
1 of 1 people found this review helpful
We have the V-8 XLT in 2WD and it seems to only get 8-12mpg (if we are lucky). The ride is stiff and unpleasant for long trips. Over taking a car on the California freeways becomes a chore with this SUV, it makes more noise than it speeds up. Most of the plastic trim on the interior seems to look cheap as the dash seems to not fit together after a while. I will admit I like the trunk. It does give you more than enough space with out folding down the rear seats. The rear heat, air, and stereo controls are perfect. Head room is also a plus. The feeling of the brake pedal becomes one with you giving you a sense of great stopping power.
What a great vehicle!
Great Vehicle, 01/30/2008
1996 Ford Explorer XLT 4dr SUV 4WD
1 of 1 people found this review helpful
I have owned many automobiles over the years and this one is by far the most reliable. It now has about 170,000 miles on it and has never needed anything outside of the typical routine maintenance schedule. The 4.0L is not the greatest on gas (although I have seen as high as 19-20 MPG on long trips) it shows no signs of tiring anytime soon. Still has the original exhaust sytem! Amazing. While the vehicle has just started to rust a bit, I cannot let go yet to buy a new vehicle. It is nearly worthless on the books as a trade. I will probably drive this until the body falls off! Sure home my next purchase treats me as well. Great job Ford!
Never Had One Problem
mayday, 07/01/2003
1996 Ford Explorer XLT 4dr SUV
1 of 1 people found this review helpful
When we bought our Explorer, it was already 5 years old with 80K miles. Through a title check, we discovered that it had been a rental vehicle. I'm not sure if it was the rental company's regular maitenance or the quality of this vehicle, but we have never had one mechanical problem with it. It is currently 109K miles and 7 years old, so that's pretty good! The only downside to this vehicle for me is the leg space in the rear. We are a family of four, & it gets crowded.
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