Used 1997 Ford Explorer Consumer Reviews
very good car
I think that the 4wd was a comfort to own, although it was not needed very often. Great for shopping sprees.
What was Ford thinking?
Bought this car used with 125k miles on it. Within a year my transfer case was shot and I needed a new one. I've replaced my brakes multiple times and have only had it 3 years. My muffler got very loud and when I had it fixed the mechanic told me that for the 97 they completely changed the muffler and then changed it back in 98 because they probably figured out it was bad news. Last but not least, my timing chain just blew and when the mechanic looked at it, he said 'What the hell was Ford thinking when they did this?' There's 4 chains that need to be replaced and you have to remove the motor to change them because they are all over. I don't wish this on anyone.
- ED BAUERMSRP: $2,789186 mi away
- XL 2dr SUVMSRP: $3,966568 mi away
- XLT 4dr SUVMSRP: $4,995686 mi away
I love this vehicle!!!
This vehicle has given me no problems other than normal wear and tear. It is a great vehicle to own. It's fun and easy to drive.
Ready To Trade
My husband and I purchased this vechicle as a second car to replace our Jeep Cherokee (shouldn't have). It has costs us about $2,400 to keep it running. From a tune up --->muffler --- >radiator flush ---> brakes--->rotars it's a money pit. Outside of that - the ENGINE light constantly comes on....If you plan to purchase a used Ford (anytype) certainly I would suggesst you research and/or reconsider. I guess the paraphrase about F.O.R.D. is true: F=Fix | O=Or | R=Repair | D=Daily!
123000 miles and still going strong
I bought my 97 Explorer to pull a 20' boat, then 6 months later bought a 23' boat that weights just at the maximum tow rating. I have had the transmission serviced twice due to the tow strain I put on it, but I have had no problems with any part of the drivetrain. At 100,000 miles I had a problem with the automatic climate control which caused the heater to not work and caused a hefty repair charge. The air conditioning works great. I have all the options and they all still work well.