1997 Ford Explorer XLT review from North America
"Very fast depreciation for a mediocre SUV."
What things have gone wrong with the car?
Dual side oxygen sensor failure.
Timing chain tensioner broke.
Transfer case failure.
Exhaust bracket weld failure.
Warped rotors.
Check engine light w/o codes.
General comments?
Generally this vehicle is powerful, nimble and full of features. It has been best on winding mountain roads in moderately bad weather (heavy rain, wind and light snow/slush). It's highway manners are mediocre and generally not comfortable over long distance driving.
Severely affected by highway crosswinds in excess of 70 mph. Prone to over-steer and dramatic response to sudden steering input. Don't swerve!
Sudden failures without prior indication of trouble have made it untrustworthy and very inconvenient.
Recommended Reviews:
  | 1997 - Explorer 4wh Sport 4.0 SOHC V6 Good vehicle for good price |
| 1996 - Explorer Eddie Bauer AWD 5.0 V8 Excellent truck, comfortable, quick and reliable |
All 1997 Ford Explorer reviews
| Would you buy another car from this manufacturer? | No |
| First year of ownership | 2001 |
| Most recent year of ownership | 2003 |
| Engine and transmission | 4.0 SOHC Automatic |
| Performance marks | 7/10 |
| Reliability marks | 4/10 |
| Comfort marks | 5/10 |
| Dealer Service marks | 5/10 |
| Running Costs (higher is cheaper) | 2/10 |
| Distance when acquired | 64000 miles |
| Most recent distance | 83000 miles |
| Previous car | Chevrolet not listed |
| Date of Entry | 15th July, 2003 |