1999 Ford Explorer XLT review from North America
"Its not a champion Thorough Bred, but more like a reliable American Quarter horse"
What things have gone wrong with the car?
Bad Front-end alignment caused premature tire wear.
Bad Throttle Control Valve caused engine to stall when idling.
Power Sun Roof doesn't work.
Couple of lights in the Dash and all the lights on the Steering Column are out.
RDS Mach Radio doesn't light (and "the fix" didn't work).
Front window Wipers provide only 90% surface contact (no matter how you bend the arms).
Power Driver's Seat has lost some its front-back range of travel.
General comments?
Bought the 1999 AWD Explorer XLT for its overall value. I bought it 3 yrs used for $15K. I like its family-friendly features like size, comfort, power and inclement weather handling. The XLT doesn't doesn't come richly appointed, but the the options it does have are nice much appreciated like anti-lock brakes, fog lamps, self dimming rear-view mirrors, and keyless entry.
The ride is surprisingly comfortable for an 90's SUV. It handles the famous New England potholes pretty well. The "truck-like" feel is not apparent unless you are trying to get in or out of the vehicle, then it's a bit too high for most youngsters if you are not equipped with Running Boards, as I am not. Also the interior noise can be a bit loud at highway speeds especially after donning a new set of tires.
I avg about 15mpg (half city/half hwy).
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| Love/Hate Relationship |
| 1998 - Explorer XLT 4 Door 2 Wheel Drive 4.0 Overhead Valve Known for poor fuel economy and good looks |
| Would you buy another car from this manufacturer? | Yes |
| Model year | 1999 |
| Year of manufacture | 1999 |
| First year of ownership | 2003 |
| Most recent year of ownership | 2004 |
| Engine and transmission | 4.0 SOHC Automatic |
| Performance marks | 7 / 10 |
| Reliability marks | 7 / 10 |
| Comfort marks | 7 / 10 |
| Dealer Service marks | |
| Running Costs (higher is cheaper) | 5 / 10 |
| Overall marks (average of all marks) | |
| Distance when acquired | 45000 miles |
| Most recent distance | 79000 miles |
| Previous car | Chevrolet Blazer |
| Date of Entry | 21st December, 2004 |