1999 Ford Explorer XLT review from North America

There have been a few problems worthy of mention.

The accelerator pedal began to stick at around 65000 miles; so in other words, the car is very jumpy from a standstill. I am beginning to wonder if it has rusted.

The speedometer needle has some trouble moving when accelerating and decelerating, but for the most part does run smoothly.

The ignition takes many cranks to start in all types of weather. This started at about 66000 miles.

There has been a weird banging feeling when driving it at a fairly modest speed on city streets.

Fixed the brakes at about 35000 miles due to some squeaking. It no longer does that.

Otherwise, it runs great and is an attractive SUV. But, it requires a lot of work to maintain. Keep in mind that the SUV is only five years old.

I like this SUV--despite some of the problems.

I really like the interior--it's simple and to the point while still being accommodating to me and my passengers.

I really like the off-road capabilities of the Explorer. I am not wary of driving it in any weather at any place. (I've taken it into the Rocky Mountains on dirt roads during a torrential thunderstorm, for example). I think it is somewhat reliable under these conditions.

I think the interior should be silenced a bit more; it is fairly noisy when cruising at 75 mph.

Big size comes at a price. Burns a considerable amount of fuel--only 15 mpg tops on the Interstate.

However, I do not like the ride very much. I understand it is an SUV, but it jitters over every bump and throws me around when turning onto an elevated driveway.

But, all around, it is a very nice SUV. My family has been one for the Explorer and Bronco SUV over the past 25 years--and we've always been repeat customers of America's Best Selling Sport Utility. We currently own two Explorers, this one and a brand new Eddie Bauer with a 250 hp engine.