Used 1997 Ford Explorer Consumer Reviews
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1997 Ford Explorer Sport 4WD
luckylady, 05/19/2008
1997 Ford Explorer Sport 2dr SUV 4WD
1 of 1 people found this review helpful
I've had this vehicle for 11 years, bought it brand new and I haven't had any major problems with it. It still looks and runs great. It's a timeless design, I believe. It never looks out of style. But the gas mileage is horrible, but what do you expect, it's a 4WD SUV. I have had a lot of fun and I'm not ashamed to drive it even after 11 years. It still looks brand new, especially after it's washed and waxed. I'll be sad to let it go because it's been the best car I ever owned.
Go FORD!
rpsims82, 02/26/2012
1997 Ford Explorer Sport 2dr SUV
1 of 1 people found this review helpful
I've got 180k miles on my explorer and the 4.0L keeps on going! No ticks, knocks, EVERYTHING works including all power windows, locks, cruise, etc. Auto 4x4 kicks in when it needs to, 4 low and high both work outstanding. Might need a new clutch soon, but that's expected. I never liked the explorers much, but I bought this one as a back up vehicle and now it's my daily driver. Despite all of the other negative comments on gas mileage, I get from 18-20 on every fill-up. I think that's good for a big V6. Very happy with my Explorer! The 5 speed manual tranny makes it even more enjoyable! My complimants to Ford on this one.
1997 Ford Explorer for sale near you
Showing 3 of 11 listings
- XLT 4dr SUVMSRP: $4,900506 mi away
- XLT 4dr SUVMSRP: $2,490578 mi away
- Sport 2dr SUVMSRP: $3,200591 mi away
See all 11 listings
blown engine 60k miles
pete, 03/11/2009
1997 Ford Explorer XLT 4dr SUV 4WD
1 of 1 people found this review helpful
Worst care ever owned. Engine just blew due to broken timing chain and only had 60k on it. Always maintained well above average. Manifold gaskets went, fuel induction problems almost every other year. Real treat. Buy American. Original owner and treated it like a baby. Apparently it did not help.
Loved my Explorer till it Exploded
flyehj, 05/29/2003
1997 Ford Explorer Limited 4dr SUV 4WD
1 of 2 people found this review helpful
I bought our '97 Explorer used and loved the spacious interior equipped with all the bells and whistles. I especially liked how the backseat passengers aren't neglected like in most other SUV's of its class. However, while driving it last weekend, my teenage daughter noticed that it would not accelerate above 50mph. No warning light appeared, but she pulled over anyway, opened the hood, and found the engine in flames. By the time the Fire Dept. arrived (within 10 minutes) it was totally engulfed. It was a total loss. Fire Dept. believe it was caused by something electrical. I had just had the PM (oil change, etc.) only two weeks before.
LEMON
whatalemon, 07/18/2004
1997 Ford Explorer XLT 4dr SUV 4WD
1 of 2 people found this review helpful
what a lemon. will NEVER buy a ford again. Bought used and in 4 yrs head gaskets, stabilizer bar link, control arm bushings, air conditioner, rear window lock, driver door locks, driver seat,and many other things all broke. Called Ford and they DONT stand behind their product. (yes it is out of warranty but all this shouldn't be breaking). only 60,000 miles. NEVER AGAIN. BUYER BEWARE