2000 Ford Explorer Sport review from North America

In April of this year I purchased the 2000 Explorer Sport with 86,800 miles from a used dealer who promised it had not been in an accident. We knew the bumper cover needed to be replaced (appeared to have been broken loose on one side by snow) and got the price down to $4000. We checked it over, all clean fluids, appeared to have been well taken care of, only a few minor items broke (side mirror switch, door reflector).

We took the truck to Ford for the bumper and to have them realign the rear wiper and were informed the frame was bent and the wiper motor had to be replaced. $2500 later back on the road.

Less than 600 miles later the transmission went, another $2300.

Now at 87,450 miles it turns over, but won't start in cold weather. Took back to Ford for another repair on the wiper (this one free) and full tune up. $700 later it appears to start (hasn't been as cold again yet), but rear wiper still doesn't work.

Back again today and they are tearing apart the hatch to identify the reason for no power (it worked before they replaced the motor, just wouldn't align to the window).

Rear-Wiper did not align with window when purchased

Transmission went less than 600 miles after purchase

Would not start in cold weather

Rear-Wiper - new motor has never worked consistently.

We thought it would be a good second car. But after $9,000 and less than 700 miles I do not have a dependable automobile and gas mileage isn't anywhere near that of the Tahoe. Was hoping it would burn up before they fixed the recalled cruise control. I know this model replaced the Bronco II (one of which we had for 13 years without major incident), but I think this is my last Ford.