Used 1997 Ford Explorer Consumer Reviews
Used Explorer for sale
What was Ford thinking?
NicoleN, 08/20/2008
1997 Ford Explorer Sport 2dr SUV 4WD
0 of 0 people found this review helpful
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.
I love this vehicle!!!
explorerlover, 10/11/2002
1997 Ford Explorer XLT 4dr SUV 4WD
0 of 0 people found this review helpful
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.
1997 Ford Explorer for sale near you
Showing 3 of 11 listings
- XLT 4dr SUVMSRP: $3,995377 mi away
- XL 2dr SUVMSRP: $3,966774 mi away
- XLT 4dr SUVMSRP: $4,995993 mi away
See all 11 listings
Ready To Trade
Knox's, 11/11/2002
1997 Ford Explorer XL 4dr SUV 4WD
0 of 0 people found this review helpful
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
Terry in Los Angeles, 11/12/2002
1997 Ford Explorer Eddie Bauer 4dr SUV AWD
0 of 0 people found this review helpful
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.
Most reliable Vehicle we've owned
Bill, 01/17/2010
1997 Ford Explorer XLT 4dr SUV AWD
0 of 0 people found this review helpful
My wife went to look at this SUV on 9/11/01. 5.0 V7. It has been very reliable, starting to have some repairs now but it has 147,000 miles. I have towed several Uhauls between WI and TX, plenty of power, also a 25ft Boat. It was great when we lived in WI during the winter. AWD works great, you don't have think about when you might need 4 wheel drive. Mileage not so great, but then this is an SUV. 14 around town, 18 on the highwy, best was 19. I had a 94 Explorer so this is my second and now also have a 04 Mountaineer. Smaller V8 4.6L but more power and better mileage. We now live in SC but travel back to and forth from WI. This was a great vehicle on the road.