1993 Ford Explorer Sport review from North America
"Most satisfying vehicle I've ever owned"
What things have gone wrong with the car?
Transmission blew fourth gear at 140,000 miles.
Driver's seat adjustment rail broke in numerous places, and I could not order a replacement from Ford, as the part had been discontinued. Had to effect repairs with bolts and clamps. Haven't found one at a wrecking yard yet.
Right radius arm bushing failed at 200,000 miles.
Thermostat stuck closed while towing a trailer through the desert in July about three years ago. Could not find a new one in the area. Re-assembled housing without it to complete trip and never put a new one in. Runs great without one and never overheats!
General comments?
Replaced stock 'passenger car' tires with LT31x10.50s. (This was long before the infamous Firestone controversy.) They fit with no need for frame or chassis lift, though I would have liked to if it were in my budget.
Replaced stock shocks with Gabriel "Off-road" units all around.
Added Bosch platinum+4 spark plugs.
With the above modifications, this S.U.V. performs very much like a sports car. The platinum+4 plugs boosted the horsepower noticeably.
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| Would you buy another car from this manufacturer? | Yes |
| Year of manufacture | 1993 |
| First year of ownership | 1996 |
| Most recent year of ownership | 2003 |
| Engine and transmission | 4.0 Liter V6 Manual |
| Performance marks | 7 / 10 |
| Reliability marks | 7 / 10 |
| Comfort marks | 3 / 10 |
| Dealer Service marks | |
| Running Costs (higher is cheaper) | 5 / 10 |
| Overall marks (average of all marks) | |
| Distance when acquired | 58000 miles |
| Most recent distance | 246000 miles |
| Previous car | Nissan Stanza |
| Date of Entry | 10th January, 2003 |