1996 Ford Explorer

Introduction:

The 1996 Ford Explorer was a popular mid-size SUV known for its spacious interior, powerful engines, and off-road capabilities. It was available with various engine and transmission options, including:

• 4.0L V6 (210 hp, 240 lb-ft torque)
• 5.0L V8 (215 hp, 310 lb-ft torque)
• 4-speed automatic transmission
• 5-speed manual transmission

Engine:

4.0L V6

• Intake Manifold Gasket Failure:
  • Description/Symptoms: Coolant leaks from the intake manifold, causing overheating and performance issues.
  • Solution: Replace the intake manifold gasket.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $300 - $600+
  • Recalls: None Found
• Timing Chain Tensioner Failure:
  • Description/Symptoms: Engine noise, reduced power, or engine failure.
  • Solution: Replace the timing chain tensioner.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $500 - $1,000+
  • Recalls: None Found

5.0L V8

• No Issues Found

Transmission:

4-speed Automatic Transmission

• Transmission Slippage:
  • Description/Symptoms: Transmission fails to engage properly, causing loss of power or difficulty shifting.
  • Solution: Rebuild or replace the transmission.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $1,500 - $3,000+
  • Recalls: None Found

5-speed Manual Transmission

• No Issues Found

Suspension:

• Sway Bar Link Failure:
  • Description/Symptoms: Noises, rattling, and poor handling.
  • Solution: Replace the sway bar links.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $100 - $200+
  • Recalls: None Found
• Ball Joint Wear:
  • Description/Symptoms: Steering play, abnormal tire wear, and noise.
  • Solution: Replace the ball joints.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $300 - $600+
  • Recalls: None Found

Electrical:

• Alternator Failure:
  • Description/Symptoms: Dead battery, difficulty starting, or warning lights.
  • Solution: Replace the alternator.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $500 - $1,000+
  • Recalls: None Found
• Starter Solenoid Failure:
  • Description/Symptoms: Difficulty starting the vehicle, grinding noises.
  • Solution: Replace the starter solenoid.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $200 - $400+
  • Recalls: None Found

Exterior:

• Door Lock Actuator Failure:
  • Description/Symptoms: Doors fail to lock or unlock electronically.
  • Solution: Replace the door lock actuator.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $100 - $300+
  • Recalls: None Found
• Tailgate Window Glass Shattering:
  • Description/Symptoms: Tailgate window glass spontaneously shatters.
  • Solution: Replace the tailgate window glass.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $200 - $400+
  • Recalls: None Found

Interior:

• Instrument Cluster Gauges Failure:
  • Description/Symptoms: Gauges fail to function properly or display incorrect information.
  • Solution: Replace the instrument cluster.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $300 - $600+
  • Recalls: None Found
• Climate Control Unit Failure:
  • Description/Symptoms: Climate controls malfunction, causing incorrect temperature or airflow.
  • Solution: Replace the climate control unit.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $200 - $400+
  • Recalls: None Found

Summary:

The 1996 Ford Explorer has some known issues that can be costly to repair. The most common problems relate to the engine, transmission, and electrical components. While the Explorer is a generally reliable vehicle, it is essential to be aware of these potential issues before purchasing or owning one.