Overview & Reviews

The 1997 Ford Explorer receives a few appreciated improvements this year. A new SOHC V6 engine is now available, providing nearly as much power as the 5.0-liter V8. Also new is a five-speed automatic transmission, the first ever offered by an American auto manufacturer, which is standard on V6 models equipped with automatic.

• Great cargo space, multiple engine options, and attractive exterior styling make this the best selling SUV on the market. The fact that the Explorer has dual airbags sure helps too.

• The base V-6 engine is a asthmatic when trying to pass at freeway speeds. The Explorer feels top-heavy in tight corners.

User Reviews:

Showing 11 through 20 of 100.00

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  As a pleasure car - 1997 Ford Explorer
  By Local Driver - November 15 - 2:00 am

  This car is used for local driving. Its fun to drive, but MPG is poor. In the 6 years I have had it, it has many recalls and mechanical problems. Also, it started rusting on the tailgate, bumpers and side steps after only a couple of years. I would not buy another one.

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  Automatic Transmission Problems - 1997 Ford Explorer
  By ootpa - September 23 - 2:00 am

  My family members have bought approximately 10 Ford vehicles since we purchased a 1988 Aerostar. All have been exceptional vehicles except for our recent experience with our 1997 Explorer. The transmission began having shifting problems at 62K. When I returned it to the dealer, I was told we needed a remanufactured transmission which cost $2400. Quite a shock and no explanation from the dealer except "it happens." Appealing to Ford directly.

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  Good Power, but..... - 1997 Ford Explorer
  By revgod - September 4 - 2:00 am

  I bought this to pull my 19 Robalo fishing boat here and there, which it does SURPRISINGLY well. Took it 585 miles to Lake Powell, no problem) Worked a little hard on the grades, but maintained 60mph most of the time, AND managed about 12mpg. I added an air lift airbag suspension system which is a MUST. It was 100 degrees, and the temp. guage never budged! That 5.0 V8 is pretty outstanding. BUT....man, this thing rides HARSH.... even after new, softer shocks, it beats ya up a bit. But hey, its a truck. The check engine light comes on frequently, indicating a faulty gas cap. One of the o2 sensors needed replacing at about 55,000 miles.

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  Dont buy it - 1997 Ford Explorer
  By sprig10 - August 28 - 2:00 am

  All good until about 80K miles lots of problems: heating system, starting problems with electronics biggest yet is poor to non-existent acceleration when pushing excelerator pedal down! Bogs down, much resistence - like trying to pull a train car. This happens at all speeds, especially noticed when moving from stopped position. RPMs wind up to near 6K with pedal to the floor before tranny shifts. Sluggish accelration occurs only when the car is warmed up/hot - runs great in morning for about 3 minutes, then the problem starts. Cats replaced to no effect. O2 sensor replaced to no effect. Dealership mechanics cannot figure out what is wrong.