1998 Ford Explorer

1998 Ford Explorer

The 1998 Ford Explorer is a mid-size SUV that was available with a choice of two engines: a 4.0-liter V6 or a 5.0-liter V8. Both engines were paired with a 5-speed automatic transmission. The Explorer was praised for its spacious interior, comfortable ride, and powerful engines. However, it was also criticized for its poor fuel economy and safety ratings.

Engine

• 4.0-liter V6
• Intake manifold gasket failure:
  • Description/Symptoms: Coolant leaks, overheating, poor engine performance
  • Solution: Replace intake manifold gasket
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $500 - $1,000
  • Recalls: None Found
• Exhaust manifold leaking:
  • Description/Symptoms: Loud exhaust noise, decreased engine power
  • Solution: Replace exhaust manifold
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $300 - $600
  • Recalls: None Found
• 5.0-liter V8
• No Issues Found

Transmission

• 5-speed automatic transmission
• Transmission slipping:
  • Description/Symptoms: Difficulty shifting gears, loss of power
  • Solution: Replace transmission
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $2,000 - $4,000+
  • Recalls: None Found

Suspension

• Front suspension:
• Sway bar links worn:
  • Description/Symptoms: Clunking noise when turning, poor handling
  • Solution: Replace sway bar links
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $100 - $200
  • Recalls: None Found
• Ball joints worn:
  • Description/Symptoms: Loose or rattling steering, uneven tire wear
  • Solution: Replace ball joints
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $400 - $800
  • Recalls: None Found
• Rear suspension:
• Leaf springs sagging:
  • Description/Symptoms: Sagging rear end, poor handling
  • Solution: Replace leaf springs
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $500 - $1,000
  • Recalls: None Found

Electrical

• Alternator failure:
  • Description/Symptoms: Dimming headlights, battery warning light on
  • Solution: Replace alternator
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $500 - $1,000
  • Recalls: None Found
• Starter failure:
  • Description/Symptoms: Engine won’t start, clicking noise
  • Solution: Replace starter
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $300 - $600
  • Recalls: None Found

Exterior

• Door handle breakage:
  • Description/Symptoms: Inability to open door
  • Solution: Replace door handle
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $100 - $200
  • Recalls: None Found

Interior

• Dashboard cracking:
  • Description/Symptoms: Cracks appearing on dashboard
  • Solution: Replace dashboard
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $500 - $1,000
  • Recalls: None Found

Summary

The 1998 Ford Explorer has a number of potential issues, including engine problems, transmission problems, suspension problems, electrical problems, and exterior and interior issues. The severity of these issues can vary, and the cost to fix them can range from a few hundred dollars to several thousand dollars. Overall, the Explorer is a reliable vehicle, but it is important to be aware of the potential problems that can occur.