1996 Ford Explorer XLT review from North America
"A High Maintenance Rip Off"
What things have gone wrong with the car?
Check engine light numerous times. Fixed by replacing all O2 sensors.
Replaced Hub Bearing/ABS Sensor in front right.
Replaced Left and Right Upper Control Arms/Ball Joints.
Strange squeaking/vibrating noise coming from engine compartment. Dealer claimed it was a cotter pin. It turns out the flywheel had a crack in it and eventually destroyed the transmission causing over $2000 in damage.
Same transmission problem as described above, but caused by starter.
Replaced all shocks.
Replaced three lights in dashboard. Which is not a simple job if you were wondering.
General comments?
I used to be a die hard Ford guy. I think I am slowly changing my mind after this vehicle. It is in the shop at least once a month for the past two years.
On a better note, this vehicle handles very well in the snow. The 4.0 engine works very well with this vehicle.
Very poor on gas mileage.
Recommended Reviews:
  | Okay vehicle, but crap for gas |
| A Money Pit!!! |
All 1996 Ford Explorer reviews
| Would you buy another car from this manufacturer? | Don't Know |
| First year of ownership | 1998 |
| Most recent year of ownership | 2004 |
| Engine and transmission | 4.0 Automatic |
| Performance marks | 6/10 |
| Reliability marks | 2/10 |
| Comfort marks | 9/10 |
| Dealer Service marks | 3/10 |
| Running Costs (higher is cheaper) | 2/10 |
| Distance when acquired | 35000 kilometres |
| Most recent distance | 123000 kilometres |
| Previous car | Ford Bronco II |
| Date of Entry | 29th March, 2004 |