Used 1997 Ford Explorer Consumer Reviews
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97 Ford Explorer EB AWD
alg115, 09/04/2011
1997 Ford Explorer Eddie Bauer 4dr SUV AWD
20 of 20 people found this review helpful
Truck is a beast. Yea it does suck gas but if you drive like a normal person, you'll be fine. Pushing 265000k; truck is still on the road. No leaks little rust, but very reliable. SAfe for the kids and easy to drive. This is one of my favorite style of trucks; has alot of room inside while disguising it on the outside. doing little cosmetics to eventually sell, already have 3 buyers...lol...at 265K..Love this Truck. AG
Ford Explorer XLT V8 AWD
matchgrade, 07/29/2013
1997 Ford Explorer XLT 4dr SUV AWD
10 of 10 people found this review helpful
I bought my explorer for $1000 for my first car in august of 2012 with 154,000 on it. Let me tell you this is a badass truck with a lot of power. I drove it pretty hard, commuting back and forth to school every day for a semester doin about 70 miles a day offroading some weekends and going up to the mountains in west virginia, and using it as a utility vehicle this spring for my landscaping business. Not the most reliable but it was 15 years old, replaced camshaft position sensor, cat flange gasket, alternator, radiator blew and overheated engine and made #4 cylinder thereafter but hell engines made today would be toast after overheating. Recommend getting owner records before buying
Our Best Vehicle Ever
rlc1997, 10/29/2009
1997 Ford Explorer XLT 4dr SUV AWD
10 of 10 people found this review helpful
We have had our '97 Explorer XLT AWD V8 since new and it's now 12 years old and has 169,000 miles. This is by far the longest we ever have kept a car both in terms of time as well as miles driven. This truck just keeps on going. We use it every day from mundane things like commuting to/from work to bigger things like camping vacations, driving trips and trailering loads. No major repairs in its history - just the usual things like battery, brakes, and tires.
21 years and still running but for how long?
Kevin, 01/12/2019
1997 Ford Explorer Sport 2dr SUV
7 of 7 people found this review helpful
My father bought his 1997 ford explorer sport 2wd (automatic sorry no tab for it) a few month after I was born( new kid new car). He bought it as a family vehicle for weekend outings but it ended up being a daily until about 3 years ago. This explorer currently has 279,138 miles on the clock with original engine and transmission. This vehicle has never left my father in a hard spot and now in my hands it's still more reliable than my bmw. However, like every car, it has its fair share of problems. The suspension in the from was replaced, water pump replaced, sunroof is leaking currently, sunroof has gotten stuck open, the engine currently has piston slap but still runs well when warmed up, and with old age is starting to develop some rust on the roof. All in all, if the owner is willing to put the proper maintenance and be a little patient with a vechile pushing 20 years it can be a dependable vehicle.
- Safety
- Technology
- Performance
- Interior
- Comfort
- Reliability
- Value
Great value for the price
Jeff, 04/22/2008
1997 Ford Explorer Eddie Bauer 4dr SUV AWD
7 of 7 people found this review helpful
I'm amazed at other reviewers complaining because they bought a used vehicle and it had maintenance problems. If the hood won't stay up, replace the supports for $20. After a decade or so they might have worn out. Overall, other than the radio, this is a well designed vehicle which when properly maintained will last and last. The V6 has almost as much horsepower as the V8, but gets almost the same milage as well, so you might as well get the V8 and its increased towing capability. Mileage will depend on how you drive it, I'm getting 20 MPG combined, and I know of one man who's getting 30 MPG (mostly highway).
Best Vehicle I've ever had
Chris, 07/31/2009
1997 Ford Explorer Sport 2dr SUV 4WD
2 of 2 people found this review helpful
I'm hitting 180,000 miles on my SUV. I haven't had any major problems, a few minor ones but haven't really spent a lot of money on any repairs. It still looks new and still runs great. It turns on a dime in the smallest space possible but it also is not the smoothest ride.
Excellent vehicle for trailer towing et
Dennis Miller, 12/15/2008
1997 Ford Explorer Eddie Bauer 4dr SUV
2 of 2 people found this review helpful
I have found this to be an excellent vehicle. Interior is as new. Very limited repairs aside from a couple of brake jobs. Michelin tires put on by Ford for free are still serving me. Tows a 4,000 lb. trailer no problem..in the mountains. AWD has proven to be terrific. Have passed stalled/stuck buses, cars, SUV's many times in the mountains. Everything works! 11 years old.
Rock Hard
explorersaurus, 12/07/2012
1997 Ford Explorer XLT 4dr SUV AWD
2 of 2 people found this review helpful
My dad bought me a 1997 Ford explorer about 6 months ago. Pretty much my only gripe with it is the poor fuel economy. Other than that, it's fantastic. I have an XLT with the V8 and AWD. I am yet to have used the AWD in the snow, but the V8 has supple power and (for a truck) smooth power delivery. The driver and passenger seat is comfy. Overall, a great purchase.
Great SUV
encycloman, 06/12/2002
1997 Ford Explorer XLT 4dr SUV 4WD
2 of 2 people found this review helpful
Very reliable, excellent handling. Like a sports car but a little bigger.
My beloved Green Machine!
Mike, 12/08/2017
1997 Ford Explorer XLT 4dr SUV 4WD
2 of 2 people found this review helpful
Let me first just start off by saying this is one of the most tough and reliable vehicle you will ever get your hands on.I am the original owner, and it's still rolling on at 248,000 miles as the family car! It does it all, tows a ski boat, hauls ass up to Mt Hood over 20 times a year "never had to chain it up with winter tires", and has even seen numerous off-road trails. Just recently my son rear ended someone at a stop light. Just barely dented the bumper while completely totalling the poor Nissan Versa in front of it. These things are steel bricks not some Mexico aluminum or whatever the hell they make them with now. Yes it gets terrible gas mileage averaging around 12 in the city and 15 in the highway, but that's not really a problem for me when repairs have been absolutely minimal and cheap.They truly don't build fords like they used to and these were made back in the day when SUVs were actually TRUCKS and made in the US of A. If you are considering buying one of these as a first car DO IT! And try to get the 4.0 SOCH with 4x4 for the best reliability and power.
- Safety
- Technology
- Performance
- Interior
- Comfort
- Reliability
- Value
disappointed
sanjdip, 02/01/2003
1997 Ford Explorer Eddie Bauer 4dr SUV AWD
2 of 3 people found this review helpful
I was disappointed with the drive when I compare it to the 4runner. It drives like a truck and it has no pick up even though I have an 8 cylinder. The rear door doesn't unlock automatically and we need to jiggle the outside handle to allow the passenger to get out. And worst, the heating system went out and cost us $1200 and apparently they improved the unit but their is no recall on it. I don't want to buy a ford again.
200,000 and still strong
Jeeper, 12/19/2009
1997 Ford Explorer Eddie Bauer 4dr SUV AWD
2 of 3 people found this review helpful
I've got about 209,000 miles on the 5.0 liter V8, and still running strong. I had to replace the transfer case at about 150,0000, but I was pulling a trailer a lot, often pushing the limits of what the vehicle is rated to pull. It's still my daily driver, and couldn't be happier with the longevity, and what I've gotten for my money. No, it doesn't get great gas mileage, but it's a 4500 lb vehicle with a V8 engine, what do you expect?
1997 Eddie Bauer Explorer
mseinfeld, 06/30/2002
1997 Ford Explorer Eddie Bauer 4dr SUV AWD
5 of 12 people found this review helpful
This has been the worst purchase I have ever made. The quality on this truck is terrible! I have averaged $200-$300 per month in repairs not including normal wear and tear items tires and brakes. Nothing has ever been cover and both Ford and the dealership have refused to help in any way. I cannot stress enough how poor the quality is of this vehicle. I cannot wait to get rid of it and I will never buy a Ford product again.
American built and I love it
Jeff, 06/29/2005
1997 Ford Explorer Eddie Bauer 4dr SUV AWD
1 of 1 people found this review helpful
Well pleased with the speed and response of the V8. Looks great after 8 years. Fuel economy is poor, however these things are big and built for fun and work not fuel economy.
Great Explorer
B. Glenn, 05/11/2009
1997 Ford Explorer XLT 4dr SUV 4WD
1 of 1 people found this review helpful
OK here goes for all of you with bad reviews. I've had this car for 7 years and currently drive it every day. It now has 328,000 miles on it and continues to start and run each day. Yes, Ive had problems, transfer case, sensors, intake gaskets, but this vehicle has been used and used hard. I pull a boat 20 weekends/year and still use this one as my primary traveling vehicle for vacations. Ice cold A/C, pushrod V6 has been great, interior is comfortable (back seat could be better), very few electrical problems; I'm thinking about replacing it but having trouble parting with it. Compared to a similar GM suv owned by another family member, this suv handles more like a sports car.
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.
My Favorite Truck
Vanz73, 06/30/2003
1997 Ford Explorer XLT 4dr SUV AWD
1 of 1 people found this review helpful
I have had this truck for six years and plan to keep it for at least four more. It's a lot of fun to drive-- gotta love the 5.0 liter V-8 engine. I think a few folks are surprized when I leave them in the dust. Overall this is an excellent vehicle. It drives exceptionally well for a truck (on Michelin tires). It can carry a heavy load with ease.
my explorer gets more love than any girl
AYA chu CO, 12/15/2003
1997 Ford Explorer Sport 2dr SUV 4WD
1 of 1 people found this review helpful
i had moved to buffalo, ny, so i traded in my 93 infiniti for this truck. i had to replace the intake gaskets literally a few miles before the warranty was up, so i was lucky with that. i have had no other problems whatsoever with the truck, the cd changer i installed skips a lot, but that might be my fault. the sohc engine is awesome, i have raced and beat many accords and camrys, as well as triton v8 f150s, and other explorers.
Lasted a long time
Chauncey, 03/26/2010
1997 Ford Explorer Eddie Bauer 4dr SUV AWD
1 of 1 people found this review helpful
I bought my explorer from carmax with about 36k miles in 98. Initially I had a lot of minor problems going back and forth to carmax and then 1 big problem that never got fully resolved. I had a problem with heating and a/c system switching from heat to air conditioning. After that no major problems with this vehicle lasted a long time 226k before it died on me. The body and interior held up very good still in very good condition. Had a lot of class for an SUV and fun to drive and take on long trips. Overall I was very satisfied with my explorer got my money out of it.
love my explorer,206,000 miles
Cathy, 05/18/2018
1997 Ford Explorer Eddie Bauer 4dr SUV AWD
1 of 2 people found this review helpful
Great vehicle
- Safety
- Technology
- Performance
- Interior
- Comfort
- Reliability
- Value
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.
Explorer's Rule the SUV World
lankieone, 04/17/2003
1997 Ford Explorer XLT 4dr SUV AWD
1 of 2 people found this review helpful
We have had the vehicle for six years in September 2003. We have enjoyed the security and comfort of this vehicle. I was involved in a head on collision and literally walked away with minimal injury. I was travelling approx. 45-50mph at the time of the incident. I am grateful that I was driving my SUV at the time. My vehicle was repaired and drives great. Except for the poor mileage (it is a AWD AND and 8cyl) and the somewhat bumpy drive, I highly recommend this vehicle. I brag about it to family and friends and am looking at purchasing another soon.
1997 Ford Exploder
Tim Hopper, 10/31/2003
1997 Ford Explorer XLT 4dr SUV 4WD
1 of 2 people found this review helpful
This truck had lots of recalls. It was fairly relibale until the plastic timing chain guides broke at 70,000 miles. We had to replace the engine. I would not recommend this vehicle with it's unreliable v6 engine. This was a known defect by Ford and they would not help us in resolving the problem. We have a friend you also has '97 Explorer and he had to replace his engine as well. THUMBS DOWN!
Terrible Automobile
bad ford, 02/28/2006
1997 Ford Explorer XLT 4dr SUV
2 of 7 people found this review helpful
This is the worst vehicle I've ever owned. I was a life long Ford man. Not now. This was the most expensive vehicle I've ever bought and the worst. It was poorly designed, poorly engineered, and poorly constructed. I've had nothing but problems and the dealer is no help. The list of problems, just to name a few: A "Plastic", yes you read it right, timing chain tensioner that cost me $1730.00; yes you read that right too. Blend door broke ($400.00), intake manifold seals ($600.00), O2 sensors (numerous). Fan clutch ($300.00). Numerous others. This thing had problems from front to back. It is a terrible vehicle and I wouldn't wish it on my worst enemy.
A Classic
GORDON CORCORAN, 06/03/2010
1997 Ford Explorer Limited 4dr SUV AWD
1 of 3 people found this review helpful
I bought this 1997 limited Explorer from a private party ONE OWNER with 97,000 miles. with no body damage at all, Excellent interior. With many extras. Like a pone in the center console. Heated seats. Mirrors. Computer display. 10 CD player. Cassette, New Tires. No oil leas, and the V8 5.0 engine. Navigational system. I got it for $3.500. and much more, When I got stationed here at FT Sam Houston, San Antonio TX. So far So Good. $3.800. I am very pleased.
Piece of junk!
Matt, 09/25/2009
1997 Ford Explorer Sport 2dr SUV 4WD
1 of 11 people found this review helpful
Well if your looking for a gas sucker this is your kinda car! Iv'e had it for almost a year myself. My father knew the ppl who bought it brand new. They took good care of it but no matter how well you treat a Ford, they always fail on you. It sucks gas, looks ugly and is louder then a mack truck! And make sure your ready for the expressway because if you want to speed up to pass your going to have to floor it otherwise the tranny stays in the same gear and you don't go anywhere! Whatever you do don't buy this thing, and i thought my sebring was bad!
Loved the car first, Now on the Fense
mercuryfordlover715, 03/29/2010
1997 Ford Explorer XLT 4dr SUV AWD
0 of 0 people found this review helpful
When my parents bought this Ford Explorer, I was in love with it. Plenty of get up and go from the 5.0 liter V8. Awesome comfort for me and 4 of my friends. But about 3 weeks after I purchased the car, I began to have problems. Needed a new EGR Valve,$300. Front End Alignment, $80. Sway Bar $200. And lastly, a Wheel Bearing, $150. After that though it seems to run like a top. But I do experience some rough idling from time to time. Even though I have experienced these problems, my other family members have been very lucky with their Fords. Uncle, 1997 Ford Expedition 187,000 miles before he traded it in, No Problems. Sister 1996 Ford Explorer V6, 167,000, traded in, No Problems.
Death of Black Beauty
JaDane, 05/05/2002
1997 Ford Explorer Sport 2dr SUV 4WD
0 of 0 people found this review helpful
I began looking for an Explorer in 10. It took me 6mo to find one with everything; Black ,leaher, sunroof, 6Disc CD, less than 75K. I had the Explorer thirteen days and I was rear- ended at 65 miles per hour. At first glance I was amazed, the damage was minimal, however upon further inspection the frame was badly bent. I feel this is no fault of the manufacturer, considering the rate of speed I was hit while at a complete stop. I do feel I owe my life as I know it to the Explorer. I had a neck injury do to whip lash, nothing rehab won't fix. However if I was in my Camaro I would say I would be paralized, and I would have hit the car in front of me.
Got a Good One!
mv, 04/26/2009
1997 Ford Explorer XLT 4dr SUV
0 of 0 people found this review helpful
I purchased my SUV new and have been relatively happy with it. I got a good one! I've owned my Explorer for almost 12 years, have more than 224,000 miles on it (original engine and transmission) and it's held up pretty well. Only persistent problem seems to be a roaring in my wheel bearings, which I've had serviced a few times. Other than that this was a good purchase that has paid for itself over the years. Standard service intervals were always stretched (e.g. oil changes every 4,000 to 6,000 miles) - perhaps that is the secret to this longevity. I've owned three Fords before this one, and I hope I can make my next purchase a Ford also.
Explorer
sleepchin, 04/11/2002
1997 Ford Explorer XLT 4dr SUV 4WD
0 of 0 people found this review helpful
We've got over 110k on this beast and it keeps on going. Been hit (real hard) in the back, once or twice by road debris in the front and still no problems! Can't remember how many times it's been recalled (quite a few), but everything was fixed at no cost, so I don't mind. Point is, despite my predictions to the contrary, this has proven to be a very reliable American vehicle! Averages about 18 MPG with the high-output 6cyl and 5sp auto tranny. Some slight problems with suspension gremlins, but nothing that's kept it off the road or anything you wouldn't expect from a car with 100k+ miles on it.
Ford Explorer
d smith, 04/15/2002
1997 Ford Explorer XLT 4dr SUV 4WD
0 of 0 people found this review helpful
Truck is in very good shape
Strong Like Bull
blackhaus50, 06/03/2010
1997 Ford Explorer Sport 2dr SUV 4WD
0 of 0 people found this review helpful
I got this truck used of craigslist back in 07 for $1800. it had 160k. ran great till the day i sold it with 235k on it(may 2010), never had to dump much money into it ( oil changes, new tires and some other reg maint.) much better than my 99 blazer i had. BTW i sold if for 900 to a buddy of mine, no leaks & never burned any fluids.I drove this thing 60 miles a day to boot
Keeps going and going ...
Terry Maresh, 05/17/2009
1997 Ford Explorer XLT 4dr SUV
0 of 0 people found this review helpful
Am the original owner and have 122,000 mi on my Explorer. Have never had a problem that needed repairing. It runs very quiet; is comfortable (cloth seats); hauled sand, stone, U-hauls w/no issues. Only had 2 issues: the lumbar support airbag must have a slow leak and the on-off radio button doesn't want to stay off. The ride is smoother than my Ford Five Hundred! I'm exceptionally pleased with the quality and comfort. Very quiet inside, too.
King suv
ra, 08/13/2010
1997 Ford Explorer XLT 4dr SUV AWD
0 of 0 people found this review helpful
Bought it with 60,000 mi. Drove like new! Luv American cars never had one less than 100,000 on it with very little trouble. Now has over 200,000 and still going strong, looks great, runs great, everything still works. Understand why no. 1 seller.
2Dr 4WD Explorer Sport
Steve R, 05/05/2002
1997 Ford Explorer Sport 2dr SUV 4WD
0 of 0 people found this review helpful
Very comfortable seats (captain's seats). Engine (V6 SOHC) and 5 speed automatic transmission still going strong after 105000 miles. ABS system went "kaput" right after warranty period ran out. Dealer wanted $1000 to fix forget it! Numerous other problems like windshield wiper problems, intake manifold gasket blown, brake problems, heater fan quit, air conditioner condenser leaks, and numerous squeeks and noises.
Love this SUV
veryhappy, 10/15/2010
1997 Ford Explorer XLT 4dr SUV 4WD
0 of 0 people found this review helpful
I bought my Explorer 2 years used and have had it for 11 years. It has been extremely reliable with only the expected maintenance issues of a vehicle over time. If I had a child of driving age I would definitely consider this vehicle as a great option!
Built Ford Tough
fanglemeister, 07/15/2002
1997 Ford Explorer XLT 4dr SUV 4WD
0 of 0 people found this review helpful
Model: XLT AWD V8. If contemplating the purchase of an Explorer, don't even consider the pathetic 6 cylinder versions! A real truck has a V8 engine, period end of it. This truck has been a reliable cruiser, nothing to write home about but sometimes no news is good news.
Built Ford Tough
alessing, 06/23/2013
1997 Ford Explorer Sport 2dr SUV 4WD
0 of 0 people found this review helpful
My Explorer is a 1997 Automatic 4x4 coming up on 180k miles, and it has honestly never failed me. I know that every time I turn the key it will start, and any time I need it to perform it does. Just 2 days ago an older couple got their Kia stuck in a steep ditch and dug their tires in the wet mud, I towed them out just fine. I tow my 3 ton boat without issues, and the high torque V6 never fails me next to a ricer at a red light. The 4x4 is great out on the beach, and even the backwoods trails. I agree with the other reviews, the gas mileage is just horrible, but other than that, I can't complain. I've had no mechanical issues, the ride is decent, and for the money, this truck is priceless.
Worth every penny
Drives American, 11/26/2010
1997 Ford Explorer XLT 4dr SUV
0 of 0 people found this review helpful
I have 304,000 miles on my Explorer. Replaced the transmission at 290,000. Replaces heads (cracked) a year ago. Dealer told me that there was no "gunk" in the heads which meant the motor runs clean. This car has raised two children and has been phenomenal! Plan on trading it in on the Ford Edge in a few days. Hard to see it go but I'm ready to get better gas mileage.
Good truck to own.
keibie2, 07/25/2002
1997 Ford Explorer XLT 4dr SUV AWD
0 of 0 people found this review helpful
Purchased this SUV used in April of 2000, with 40k on the odometer. We're only the second owners of this vehicle. Other than some costly front-end repairs shortly after purchase (covered under warranty thankfully), my wife and I really love this vehicle. The 5.0 V8 is a gas hog only if you frequently have a heavy foot. Under normal/moderate driving conditions the fuel consumption is average for having full-time AWD and a V8. Great in Chicagoland heavy snow and rainy weather conditions. No chore has been too big for this truck. Great for a family of four.
Good SUV
LB, 08/12/2009
1997 Ford Explorer XLT 4dr SUV
0 of 0 people found this review helpful
Bought car new $27K with towing packing. Overall very pleased with it. 20 mpg without fail. Great power seat but the seat back lever broke off at 100K, poor design. Loved the double driver side sun visor. Very reliable, traded it in at 143477 with only one roadside break down in 12 years due to the radiator. Good pick up. AC needed $400 repair at 140K, radio going out as well. CD changer broke at ~100K. Kept very good track of repairs. $8275 total for 143K miles.
Great vehicle!!
Bill G., 08/09/2002
1997 Ford Explorer Sport 2dr SUV 4WD
0 of 0 people found this review helpful
I bought my Explorer Sport 4x4 new in 1997, and have had excellent experience with it so far. It's very roomy and comfortable, the engine and transmission perform very well, and the all-wheel-drive has saved me on more than one occasion! With the exception of minor inconveniences caused by the several recalls, I've been very happy with it. Ford, known to stand by its products, replaced my tires at 45000 miles free of charge, no questions asked.
Fair price
Thomas10, 08/10/2002
1997 Ford Explorer XL 4dr SUV
0 of 0 people found this review helpful
A fair price for this SUV. No major repairs. Rear wiper motor failed (of course). Sits well and easy to get around. Never had it off road. Electrical short in the radio system that makes the some speakers go out. A bump sometimes makes them all come back on which may blow you out of the vehical!
Great Fun SUV
Sam Truesdale, 08/20/2002
1997 Ford Explorer XLT 4dr SUV 4WD
0 of 0 people found this review helpful
I love my Ford Explorer! The inside design is very comfortable and luxurious (doesn’t look cheap). The outside is just as nice again it doesn’t look like a cheap SUV. The A/C had a leak, which was the only problem so far. It has a nice amount of pickup, the V6 SOHC has all the power of a V8 around 210hp but gets the same gas mileage as a normal V6. The gas mileage could be better but it certainly is bigger and can tow more than a small mini suv that gets better mileage. (and I use the word SUV loosely) I would recommend getting one used because they lose a lot of their value within the first few years.
Great Truck
tvi, 10/25/2002
1997 Ford Explorer XL 4dr SUV 4WD
0 of 0 people found this review helpful
My Explorer has been a great ride for the past five years. No problems of any kind. There were a couple of recalls, but nothing worrisome. (Mine came with GoodYears). I got a sunroof, a nice cloth interior, the expected ammenities, and everything worked well together. The engine and transmission are smooth. It's been to Florida and back twice, and was trouble-free. I actually felt safe driving this vehicle in all conditions. Good in the snow up north too, and 4WD has been perfect.
The tank
blackhaus50, 08/02/2008
1997 Ford Explorer Sport 2dr SUV 4WD
0 of 0 people found this review helpful
This truck is an animal. Starts everyday and won't die after 20k in 1 year. So far so good. No major repairs yet and my Explorer has 188k on it. AC don't work, that's about it.
69,000 and no problems
Dave Miller, 08/28/2002
1997 Ford Explorer XLT 4dr SUV 4WD
0 of 0 people found this review helpful
Unlike those reviewers who have panned the 1997 Explorer, I have found with Mobil 1 and had regular maintenance by Explorer has performed extremely well. There has been only one problem which cost about $100 in repairs. It has been an excellent truck. The gas mileage is about my only complaint but after all, it is a fairly large truck that with only average aerodynamics. I feel my Explorer has met my expectations and am totally satisfied with its performance and value.
My Explorer Experience
jculp, 09/21/2002
1997 Ford Explorer XL 2dr SUV 4WD
0 of 0 people found this review helpful
My Explorer Sport has been reliable in the sense that it always starts. The flashing warning lights on the dash and incessant recalls -- that's a different story. I've owned it 3 years and have endured the tire recall and two other engine parts. Also, the mounting bolt had to be replaced. The ride is rough -- comparable to covered wagon. I still prefer the exterior to the new model. And while I love my Explorer, I never plan to purchase another. The price seems great at first -- until you have to pay for the car and the repairs. Definitely get an extended warranty.
First & last time
Scrnrat, 09/27/2002
1997 Ford Explorer Sport 2dr SUV 4WD
0 of 0 people found this review helpful
Bought used with 60k miles and purchased extended warrenty. Good thing. Front drive problems withing 6 mo. All went well until warrenty ended. Now experiencing 4wd problems with front and back axle sensors & shift motor. Plus need all five front tie rods replaced. Approx $1200 that will be better spent on another vehicle. Never will buy Ford product again. Numerous recalls on the Explorer excluding the Firestone problem..which looking at suspension/drive train problems just may not be the tires after all.
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