I wish they had made a pickup using this explorer's body. The ranger of this time was still based off the 90s explorers. I also wish they'd dropped the 4.0 for the 4.2. The 4.2 got better mileage.
These were the last truck base body on frame two wheel drive and 4x4 true SUV, untill it was changed to a car base unibody front wheel drive crossover. Only thing Ford did is put a 3.5 liter AWD Ecoboost V6. But it can't top the 90s Steve Seleen version with the infamous supercharged V8 under the hood in the 95-00 Explorer
I think these were the best looking of the Explorers. The problem is every owner says its the best vehicle they have ever owned, then say all the problems they had with the vehicle. Anyone have a reason why?
They still used the same V6 and transmission that were both prone to issues. And they like to go through wheel bearings and hubs too. They do look nice imo.
The 4.0 suffers from chain failure, and coupled with the 5R55W, that also fails due to bushing wear, they're prone to big powertrain problems. The V8 with the 6R80 is bulletproof if properly maintained
Ironically the Japanese kept column shifters on some of their trucks and SUVs until 2008, most notably the Honda Pilot and Ridgeline, and the Toyota Sequioa and Tundra.
Yep, my grandparents ordered one in the fall of '05. I remember the first thing I did every time they came to visit us, or vice versa, was go outside to see if they got their new Explorer. It wouldn't show up until the following March.
