1998 Ford Explorer Research & Reviews

Overview & Reviews

Average Score

3.76/5 Average
176 Total Reviews
This Year's Model Updates:

The 1998 Ford Explorer gets a restyled tailgate.

Pros:
  • The Explorer is the best selling sport-ute on the market for a reason. A comfortable interior, three engine choices, and multiple trim levels mean that there is an Explorer for nearly any budget or lifestyle.
Cons:
  • Abysmal gas mileage. Handling is sloppy in corners.

User Reviews:

Showing 161 through 170 of 176.00
  • 98 Ford Explorer - 1998 Ford Explorer
    By -

    In a nutshell, I have been very pleased with this SUV. More spacious than Jeeps Grand Cherokee. However, it does ride rather rough. Let me just say that is is not my wifes Mercedes. Cargo room is good, and so far no quirks or bad experiences.

  • Decent SUV - 1998 Ford Explorer
    By -

    I bought this suv to use the 4 wheel drive. I ski a lot and it has been fairly reliable. I have had to replace the tires as you all know (firestone). The part on the vehicle that I have had problems with is the paint. My whole hood has little cracks in it. I probably wont buy another explorer.

  • Solid Truck - 1998 Ford Explorer
    By -

    We bought this vehicle used and it has performed well. We wanted a heavy (this one weighs in at 5,000 lb) vehicle that would be crash worthy and weight is king of physics you know. Drives expectedly. Opted for the V8 and AWD because you never know and who can pass up the rumble of Fords 302 ci engine? It has been reliable with no mechanical aggravation. Its clear why there are so many on the road. Affordable to purchase and own.

  • It has been a dream Mini-SUV - 1998 Ford Explorer
    By -

    I have loved my Ford. Only problem has been the rear wiper motor. Clean comfortable and runs great. Still do not need brakes after 50k. Problem with a few lights out on left part of dash on select controls but no biggie. Ford replaced my tires for free and it was not even in the recall. They even replaced the spare.

  • Good for a fun ride - 1998 Ford Explorer
    By -

    The Ford Explorer is a great car to own. Fuel economy isnt great, but if you are buying any SUV, you can expect the same thing. The ride is extremely comfortable and there is a feeling of security when you drive it. The big V6 also brings some pickup to the vehicle.

  • Mixed Emptions - 1998 Ford Explorer
    By -

    Always wanted an SUV and loved the look of the 2-Door Ford Explorer Sport. I purchased a 1998 program vehicle in Jan, 2000. Ive had the heating/AC "arm assembly" replaced. Ive had 3 sets of brake pads (all around) replaced this year alone. The radio LED is beginning to fade in and out. I had to replace the EGER valve...woke up one morning and the darn thing wouldnt turn over! Fog lights simply will not work for very long before having to replace. Extremely rough ride, gas mileage is horrible. Would I buy another Explorer? I dont think so.

  • Eh... - 1998 Ford Explorer
    By -

    I have about 39,000 miles on my Ford Explorer. Got it for around $22k brand new. I dont drive it often for the gas mileage reasons but when I first got it I was ecstatic. However, I wish I have the new 2002 version now. I havent hit the mileage that most of the people are experiencing problems but I know its inevitable. Supposely the "better" Explorers become Mercury Mountaineers while the crummy ones remain Ford Explorers.

  • Fun but Noisy - 1998 Ford Explorer
    By -

    Good performance, comfortable to ride, very stable but corners slopy, interior noisy at freeway speed. Have had some problems under fixed under warrenty, rear wiper (x2), Transmission, gas tank sensor. It performed well but not sure I would buy another.

  • Horrible reliability - 1998 Ford Explorer
    By -

    I loved this vehicle when I first got it. Great power, OK handling (for a truck), and the perfect blend of size and capability for me. But it has turned into a real piece of junk. Problems too numerous to list here. My last Ford.

  • FORD NEVER AGAIN - 1998 Ford Explorer
    By -

    98 ford explorer sport bought it with 22K miles after 3 years nearly $5K plus in dealer maintainence charges and 5 months after a complete tune-up at Merchants the car needs a new engine at 83K miles. Yeap never going near a FORD EVER again

Great Deals Near You
  • Loading cars...

Selected Edmunds.com visitor vehicle reviews

Edmunds.com Visitor Vehicle Ratings and Reviews are the property of Edmunds.com, and may not be reproduced or distributed without the consent of Edmunds.com. Edmunds© is a trademark of Edmunds.com, Inc. Edmunds.com, Inc. is not affiliated with this website or app.

Powered By Edmunds

× Estimated monthly payments based on 3.9% APR, 60 month financing, and 20% down payment. Tax, tags, title, administration fees, and license fees are not included in price or payment. Subject to approved buyer credit. Actual purchase terms may vary.

Payment calculations are sourced by EveryAuto.com and may not reflect actual dealer financing terms.

Send Us Feedback ×


Locating Vehicles In Your Area