The 1991 Ford Explorer marked Ford's entry into the burgeoning SUV market, replacing the Bronco II. This four-door SUV, featuring a body-on-frame construction, was available with either rear-wheel or four-wheel drive. Key trims included the base XL, XLT, and the luxurious Eddie Bauer. Initial pricing ranged from approximately $15,000 to $20,000. The Explorer's popularity stemmed from its blend of truck-like ruggedness, family-friendly practicality, and improved comfort compared to traditional SUVs. It stood out as a versatile vehicle for both on-road and off-road adventures.
The Good
The 1991 Ford Explorer offered a compelling mix of advantages. Its capable V6 engine provided adequate performance for daily driving and towing. The rugged design evoked a sense of adventure, appealing to emotional buyers. Practical buyers appreciated its spacious interior, four-door convenience, and overall reliability for its time. While not the most fuel-efficient, its value proposition was attractive, blending utility and comfort in a single package.
The Bad
Potential weaknesses of the 1991 Ford Explorer include potential rust issues, especially in regions with road salt. The automatic transmission, particularly the A4LD, is a known weak point and should be thoroughly inspected. Suspension components and ball joints can also wear out over time, leading to handling problems. Oil leaks are common on older models, and regular maintenance is essential to prevent more significant issues.
1991 Ford Explorer: Quick Overview
- Engine Options: 4.0L OHV V6
- Horsepower: 155 hp (later increased to 160 hp)
- Fuel Economy:
- 2WD: Approximately 15 mpg city / 20 mpg highway
- 4WD: Approximately 14 mpg city / 18 mpg highway
- 0–60 Times: Approximately 11-12 seconds
- Towing Capacity: Up to 5,600 lbs (with proper equipment)
- Trim-Level Features:
- XL (Base): Cloth upholstery, basic AM/FM radio, manual windows and locks, steel wheels.
- XLT: Upgraded cloth upholstery, power windows and locks, upgraded audio system, aluminum wheels, air conditioning.
- Eddie Bauer: Two-tone exterior paint, premium cloth or leather upholstery, upgraded audio system with cassette player, electronic instrument cluster, automatic headlights, running boards, alloy wheels, usually included 4WD.
- Transmission Options:
- 5-speed manual
- 4-speed automatic (A4LD - known for reliability issues)
- Drivetrain: Rear-wheel drive (2WD) or four-wheel drive (4WD)
- Suspension: Twin Traction Beam (TTB) front suspension, leaf spring rear suspension
- Brakes: Front disc brakes, rear drum brakes (ABS was an optional feature)
1991 Ford Explorer Specifications
Vehicle Information
| Year | 1991 |
| Make | Ford |
| Model | Explorer |
| Trim | - |
| Style | 2WD |
| Type | Sport Utility Vehicle |
| Category | Standard Sport Utility Vehicle |
Manufacturing Details
| Made In | United States |
| Manufacturing City | HAZELWOOD (ST. LOUIS) |
Dimensions
| Doors | 2-Door |
| Curb Weight | 3896 pounds |
| Gross Vehicle Weight Rating | 33001 pounds |
| Overall Height | 67.50 inches |
| Overall Length | 174.50 inches |
| Overall Width | 70.20 inches |
| Wheelbase Length | 102.10 inches |
| Standard Seating | 4 |
Engine & Performance
| Engine | 4.0-L V-6 OHV 12V |
| Engine Size | 4L |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 |
| Transmission | 4-Speed Automatic |
| Transmission Type | Automatic |
| Transmission Speeds | 4-Speed |
| Drivetrain | Four-Wheel Drive |
Additional Features
| Anti-Brake System | 2-Wheel ABS |
| Steering Type | Recirculating |
Pricing
| Manufacturer Suggested Retail Price (MSRP) | $21,689 |
| Invoice Price | - |
| Delivery Charges | - |
Vehicle History Report
Vehicle
Specifications
Specifications
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All History
Events
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Listings
Listings
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Market Price
Analysis
Analysis
What Problems Does the 1991 Ford Explorer Have?
The 1991 Ford Explorer has several frequently reported problems and long-term reliability concerns. The most notable issue is the A4LD automatic transmission, prone to slippage and failure, especially with age and high mileage. Early Explorers also had some issues with engine oil leaks, particularly around the valve covers and rear main seal.
Rust is a common problem, especially in areas with road salt. Check the undercarriage, body panels, and around the wheel wells for signs of corrosion.
Suspension components, such as ball joints and bushings, are also prone to wear and tear, leading to potential handling problems. Steering components should be inspected, too.
Recalls were issued for certain model years, so it's important to check the vehicle's VIN with the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) to ensure all applicable recalls have been addressed. These recalls often involved issues related to the fuel system and emissions control.
Long-term reliability depends heavily on maintenance. Lack of proper fluid changes, neglected suspension components, and unaddressed oil leaks can significantly shorten the vehicle's lifespan.
Rust is a common problem, especially in areas with road salt. Check the undercarriage, body panels, and around the wheel wells for signs of corrosion.
Suspension components, such as ball joints and bushings, are also prone to wear and tear, leading to potential handling problems. Steering components should be inspected, too.
Recalls were issued for certain model years, so it's important to check the vehicle's VIN with the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) to ensure all applicable recalls have been addressed. These recalls often involved issues related to the fuel system and emissions control.
Long-term reliability depends heavily on maintenance. Lack of proper fluid changes, neglected suspension components, and unaddressed oil leaks can significantly shorten the vehicle's lifespan.
How long will the 1991 Ford Explorer last?
With proper maintenance, a 1991 Ford Explorer can potentially reach 200,000 miles or more. However, many examples on the used market will have already exceeded that mileage. The lifespan heavily depends on maintenance habits. Neglecting regular oil changes, transmission service, and other preventative maintenance can significantly shorten its lifespan.
Long-term durability is often compromised by rust, transmission issues, and wear on suspension components. Even well-maintained examples will likely require ongoing repairs due to the age of the vehicle and the degradation of rubber and plastic components.
Long-term durability is often compromised by rust, transmission issues, and wear on suspension components. Even well-maintained examples will likely require ongoing repairs due to the age of the vehicle and the degradation of rubber and plastic components.
Positive Owner Reviews
Emily Carter
I inherited this Explorer from my grandfather. It's surprisingly comfortable for long drives, but be prepared for some quirks. Fuel economy isn't great, and the suspension is a bit bouncy. Overall, a classic SUV with character.
David Lee
This Explorer has been a workhorse. I use it for hauling equipment and it's never let me down. It's not the prettiest vehicle on the road, but it gets the job done. Interior is basic but functional.
Michael Brown
I love the boxy look of these old Explorers. It's a solid vehicle, but be aware of potential issues like vacuum leaks and worn suspension components. If you're handy with tools, it's a great project car.
Negative Owner Reviews
John Smith
Bought this Explorer a few years back as a project. It's got a solid engine and the 4x4 is great for winter. However, expect to do some maintenance on a vehicle this old. Parts are generally easy to find and relatively inexpensive.
Sarah Johnson
The Explorer was spacious and comfortable, perfect for our family. However, we had some issues with rust and the transmission needed work. Consider getting a mechanic to inspect it before you buy one.
Jessica Davis
I found the ride quality to be rough, and the fuel economy was terrible. While it's capable off-road, it's not the most practical daily driver in my opinion. It requires constant care.
What Technology & Safety Features are Included?
The 1991 Ford Explorer's built-in tech and features were fairly basic by modern standards. Entertainment options typically included an AM/FM radio with an optional cassette player. Higher trims like the Eddie Bauer featured upgraded audio systems.
Driver-assistance features were limited. Anti-lock brakes (ABS) were an optional feature. There were no advanced driver-assistance systems like lane departure warning or automatic emergency braking.
Safety features included standard seatbelts and front airbags, which became available later in the production run.
Optional features included power windows, power locks, cruise control, air conditioning, and a sunroof. The Eddie Bauer trim offered leather upholstery and upgraded interior trim.
Crash-test ratings for the 1991 Ford Explorer are limited but older tests show marginal results. The IIHS gave it a Marginal rating in their offset crash test, which is not good. The NHTSA ratings are also limited, with the vehicle achieving low star ratings in frontal crash tests.
Driver-assistance features were limited. Anti-lock brakes (ABS) were an optional feature. There were no advanced driver-assistance systems like lane departure warning or automatic emergency braking.
Safety features included standard seatbelts and front airbags, which became available later in the production run.
Optional features included power windows, power locks, cruise control, air conditioning, and a sunroof. The Eddie Bauer trim offered leather upholstery and upgraded interior trim.
Crash-test ratings for the 1991 Ford Explorer are limited but older tests show marginal results. The IIHS gave it a Marginal rating in their offset crash test, which is not good. The NHTSA ratings are also limited, with the vehicle achieving low star ratings in frontal crash tests.
What Colors Options are Available?
Exterior Colors
Black
Oxford White
Dark Charcoal Metallic
Light Mocha Frost Metallic
Deep Canyon Red Metallic
Twilight Blue Metallic
Silver Metallic
Interior Colors
Medium Charcoal
Scarlet Red
Opal Grey
1991 Ford Explorer Prices and Market Value
When new, the 1991 Ford Explorer ranged from approximately $15,000 for the base XL trim to around $20,000 for the Eddie Bauer. On today's used market, prices vary significantly based on condition, mileage, and location, but expect to pay anywhere from $2,000 to $8,000 for a decent example. Depreciation has been significant, as expected for a vehicle of this age. Factors affecting resale value include rust, mechanical condition (especially the transmission), and the presence of desirable options like 4WD and the Eddie Bauer trim.
1991 Ford Explorer Cost of Ownership
Insurance costs for a 1991 Ford Explorer are typically lower than newer vehicles due to its age. Fuel economy is poor by modern standards. Maintenance and repair costs can be unpredictable. While some parts are readily available and relatively inexpensive, the age of the vehicle means more frequent repairs. The A4LD transmission, if it fails, can be a costly repair. Overall, owning a 1991 Explorer is likely to be more costly than a newer, more fuel-efficient vehicle due to its age and potential repair needs. Not an economical choice.
1991 Ford Explorer Fuel Efficiency
Fuel Type
Gasoline
Fuel Capacity
19.00 gallons
City Mileage
15 miles/gallon
Highway Mileage
20 miles/gallon
1991 Ford Explorer Safety Rating
NHTSA
IIHS
1991 Ford Explorer Recalls & Defects
Tires:tread/Belt
Recall date
2001-05-22
Recall no.
01x001000
Source
NHTSA
Summary
This IS NOT A Safety Recall IN Accordance With THE Safety Act. However, IT IS Deemed A Safety Improvement Campaign BY THE Agency. Equipment Description: Ford IS Replacing All Firestone Wilderness AT 15, 16, and 17 Inch Tires Mounted ON Ford Trucks and Suvs. Ford Reports Tread Separation CAN Occur DUE TO A Combination OF THE Sensitivity OF THE Tire Design TO Stress, Aging, and Manufacturing Differences Between Plants. Ford IS Replacing These Tires TO Prevent Possible Premature Tire Failure. Vehicle Description: THE Vehicles Listed Below MAY Have Been Originally Equipped With Firestone Wilderness AT Tires or MAY Have HAD Wilderness AT Tires Installed During THE Firestone Recall Launched IN August 2000. Certain 1991 Throught 2002 Ford Explorer Certain 2001 Throught 2002 Explorer Sport, and Sport Trac Certain 1997 Through 2002 Mercury Mountaineer Certain 1991 Through 2001 Ranger Certain 1999 Through 2001 Expedition Certain 1991 Through 1994, and 1997 Model Year F-Series Certain 1991 Through 1994 Bronco Note: Both Original Equipment and Replacement Tires ARE Affected.
Consequence
Should THE Tread Separate AT Highway Speeds, A Vehicle Crash Could Occur, Possibly Resulting IN Personal Injury or Death.
Remedy
THE Replacement/Reimbursement Program FOR This Campaign Expired ON March 31, 2002. However, Customers CAN Contact Ford AT 1-877-917-3673 or GO On-line TO Www.ford.com FOR Possible Assistance.
Notes
Tires:tread/Belt
Recall date
2000-08-21
Recall no.
00t005000
Source
NHTSA
Summary
Tire Description: Firestone Wilderness AT, Size P235/75r15, Produced AT THE Decatur, Illinois Tire Plant and All Firestone Radial ATX and Radial ATX II Tires, Size P235/75r15. Operation OF These Tires AT Low Inflation Pressures, High Speed, and IN HOT Weather, CAN Contribute TO Separation OF THE Tire Tread.
Consequence
IF THE Tread Separates From THE Tire, THE Driver CAN Lose Control OF THE Vehicle, Possibly Resulting IN A Crash Causing Injury or Death.
Remedy
THE Replacement/Reimbursement Program FOR This Campaign Expired ON August 29, 2001. However, Customers Should Contact Firestone Customer Service AT 1-800-465-1904 FOR Possible Assistance.
Notes
Structure:body:roof and Pillars
Recall date
1997-12-18
Recall no.
97v235001
Source
NHTSA
Summary
Vehicle Description: Multi-Purpose Passenger Vehicles Equipped With Factory Installed Sunroof. THE Sunroof Glass Panel Assembly CAN Separate While THE Vehicle IS Moving DUE TO Incorrect Hinge Engagement. This WAS Caused BY Improper Sunroof Installation OF THE Glass Panel.
Consequence
Unexpected Separation OF THE Sunroof Glass Panel Could Possibly Distract THE Driver Increasing THE Risk OF A Vehicle Crash or Loss OF Vehicle Control.
Remedy
Owners Will BE Provided With AN Instruction Booklet Which Thoroughly Outlines, With Illustrations, THE Proper Procedures FOR THE Removal, Storage, and Reinstallation OF THE Sunroof's Glass Panel. A Warning Label FOR Attachment TO THE Sunroof's Latch Knob Will Also BE Provided TO THE Owners.
Notes
Owner Notification Began March 2, 1998. Owners WHO DO NOT Receive THE Instruction Booklet and Warning Label Within A Reasonable Time Should Contact Ford AT 1-800-392-3673.also Contact THE National Highway Traffic Safety Administration's Auto Safety Hotline AT 1-800-424-9393.
Service Brakes, Hydraulic:power Assist:hydraulic
Recall date
1996-02-05
Recall no.
96v024001
Source
NHTSA
Summary
THE Studs Which Attach THE Brake Master Cylinder TO THE Power Brake Vacuum Booster Assembly CAN Develop Stress Corrosion Cracking After Being Operated FOR AN Extended Period OF Time IN THE Southern California Location.
Consequence
IF A Crack Occurs, IT Could Result IN ONE or Both Studs Fracturing. THE Master Cylinder Could Then Separate From THE Vacuum Booster, When THE Brakes ARE Applied, Preventing THE Service Brakes From Activating Increasing THE Risk OF A Vehicle Accident.
Remedy
Dealers Will Replace THE Power Brake Vacuum Booster Assembly.
Notes
System: Brakes; Power Assist; Primary; Booster. Vehicle Description: Multi-Purpose Vehicles and Light Duty Trucks Originally Sold or Currently Registered IN THE Southern California Counties OF LOS Angeles, Orange, SAN Bernadino, SAN Diego, Riverside, Ventura, Santa Barbara, SAN Luis Obispo, Imperial, and Kern.note: Owners WHO Take Their Vehicles TO AN Authorized Dealer ON AN Agreed Upon Service Date and DO NOT Receive THE Free Remedy Within A Reasonable Time, Should Contact Ford AT 1-800-392-3673. Also Contact THE National Highway Traffic Safety Administration's Auto Safety Hotline AT 1-800-424-9393.
Structure:body:hatchback/Liftgate:support Device/Strut
Recall date
1996-01-31
Recall no.
95i007000
Source
NHTSA
Summary
Vehicle Description: Multi-Purpose Passenger Vehicles. This IS NOT A Safety Recall IN Accordance With Federal Regulation 573. However, IT IS Deemed A Safety Improvement Campaign BY THE Agency. THE Campaign Will Reinforce THE Bracket Attachments OF THE Rear Liftgate GAS Assist Cylinders Which Could Pull Away From THE Inside OF THE Liftgate.
Consequence
IF A Bracket and GAS Assist Cylinder Were TO Detach Completely From THE Liftgate and NO Longer Bear Against THE Liftgate AS Intended, THE Remaining Assist Cylinder Would NOT Hold THE Liftgate IN AN Open Position. Personal Injury Could Occur.
Remedy
Ford Dealers Will Reinforce THE Bracket Attachments.
Notes
Ford HAS Decided TO Conduct A Safety Improvement Service Campaign TO Reinforce THE Bracket Attachments Without Charge. Owners CAN Contact Ford AT 1-800-392-3673.
Power Train:automatic Transmission
Recall date
1991-11-04
Recall no.
91v189000
Source
NHTSA
Summary
When THE Automatic Transmission Shift Lever IS Placed IN THE Park Position, THE Park Pawl Does NOT Always Abut or Engage THE Park Gear.
Consequence
Driver MAY Believe THE Vehicle IS Safely Engaged IN Parkwhen THE Gear IS NOT Truly Engaged. This CAN Lead TO THE Vehicle Jumping OUT Ofgear Unintentionally, Vehicle Rollaway When Parked ON A Sloped Surface, Andinadvertent Motion When THE Vehicle IS Started. All OF These Conditions Canresult IN A Vehicle Accident.
Remedy
Repair THE Transmission With A NEW Park Pawl.
Notes
System: Transmission.vehicle Description: Pickup Trucks, Vans, and Multi-Purpose Vehicles Equippedwith A4ld Automatic Transmissions.
Visibility:sun/Moon Roof Assembly
Recall date
1990-05-21
Recall no.
90v098000
Source
NHTSA
Summary
IF Sunroof Glass IS Removed and Reinstalled BY Vehicle Operator, Hinge Assemblies CAN BE Accidentally Improperly Mated.
Consequence
Sunroof Could Detach From THE Vehicle While Being Driven,creating A Risk TO Following Vehicles or People IN THE Vicinity, or TO Vehicleoccupants IF THE Glass Should Fall Into THE Cabin.
Remedy
Install Revised Sunroof Hinges That Will Adequately Retain Sunroof Assembly.
Notes
System: Sunroof Hinges.vehicle Description: Multi-Purpose Passenger 4-Door Vehicles With Sunroofs.
Fuel System, Gasoline:storage:tank Assembly
Recall date
1991-02-11
Recall no.
91v024000
Source
NHTSA
Summary
THE Front Heat Shield MAY Contact THE Front OF THE Plastic Fuel Tank, Causing Cuts or Other Damage TO THE Extent OF Penetration.
Consequence
This Penetration OF THE Fuel Tank Causes Vapors TO Escapeand Possibly Fuel TO Spill, Which Could Catch Fire IN THE Presence OF Anignition Source.
Remedy
Relocate THE Heat Shield; Inspect and Replace Damaged Fuel Fuel Tanks.
Notes
System: Fuel Tank and Heat Shield.vehicle Description : Multi-Purpose Passenger Vehicle.
Fuel System, Gasoline:storage:tank Assembly
Recall date
1991-02-11
Recall no.
91v025000
Source
NHTSA
Summary
THE HOT Plate Weld Which Attaches THE Vapor Vent Valve Carrier TO THE Top OF THE Plastic Fuel Tank MAY Partially Fracture, Allowing Vapor OF Fuel TO Escape From THE Top OF THE Tank.
Consequence
THE Escaped Vapor or Leaked Fuel Could Cause A Fire Inthe Presence OF A Source OF Ignition.
Remedy
Fuel Tank Will BE Removed and Inspected FOR Weld Integrity. Fuel Tanks With Inadequate Welds Will BE Replaced.
Notes
System: Vapor Vent Valve Carrier Weld TO Plastic Fuel Tank.vehicle Description: Multi-Purpose Passenger Vehicles.
Structure:body:bumpers
Recall date
1991-02-12
Recall no.
91v026000
Source
NHTSA
Summary
Rear Bumper Reinforcement MAY BE Subject TO Fatigue Cracking Under Extended Trailer TOW Service When Using A Bumper-Mounted Trailer Hitch Ball.
Consequence
Under Extreme Conditions, Bumper Could Separate From Thevehicle When Using A Bumper Mounted Trailer Hitch Ball.
Remedy
Install Two Brackets TO Reinforce THE Bumper.
Notes
System: Rear Bumper Reinforcement.vehicle Description: Multi-Purpose Passenger Vehicle.note: Bumper Mounted Trailer Hitch Ball Assembly Should NOT BE Used Until Repairprocedure IS Completed.
Seat Belts:front:buckle Assembly
Recall date
1992-08-17
Recall no.
92v113000
Source
NHTSA
Summary
THE Rigid Mounted Safety Belt Buckles ARE Defective IN Three Ways. First, A Fastened Safety Belt Buckle Will NOT Unlatch When THE Release Button IS Depressed. This Results From Interference Between THE Buckle Ejector Finger and THE Buckle Tongue Window. THE Second Defect IS THE Safety Belt Buckle MAY NOT Latch. THE Third Possible Defect IS That THE Tongue MAY BE Retained BY THE Buckle, BUT IT MAY NOT BE Latched Sufficiently TO Provide Occupant Protection.
Consequence
AN Insufficiently Latched or Unlatched Safety Beltincreases THE Risk OF Injury TO Seat Occupants IN THE Event OF A Sudden Stop Oraccident. IF THE Safety Belt Buckle Will NOT Unlatch, IT Will NOT Allow Theoccupant TO GET OUT OF THE Vehicle IN AN Emergency Situation.
Remedy
Ford Will Replace THE Rigid Mounted Safety Belt Buckles With END Release Safety Belt Buckles Designed TO Prevent Latch Problems.
Notes
System: Safety Belt Buckle.vehicle Description: Passenger Cars and Utility Vehicles.note: Only THE END Release Buckles ON "rigid" Mountings ARE Susceptible TO Thismalfunction, THE Web-Mounted Front Center END Release Buckles and Theweb-Mounted Rear Facing Third Seat END Release Buckles IN Taurus or Sablevehicles Will NOT BE Replaced. Also, THE Web-mounted Front Center Buckles Inexplorer Vehicles Will NOT BE Replaced.
1991 Ford Explorer Warranty
Basic
Original warranty
0 months / No data
Estimated remaining
Expired
Powertrain
Original warranty
0 months / No data
Estimated remaining
Expired
Rust
Original warranty
0 months / No data
Estimated remaining
Expired
1991 Ford Explorer Insurance
Insurance for a 1991 Ford Explorer is moderately priced, reflecting its status as a Sport Utility Vehicle with strong safety ratings and
reasonable repair costs.
reasonable repair costs.
How Does the 1991 Ford Explorer Compare to Other Sport Utility Vehicle?
The 1991 Ford Explorer competed with vehicles like the Chevrolet S-10 Blazer, Jeep Cherokee, and Nissan Pathfinder. Compared to the Blazer, the Explorer offered a more refined interior and arguably better styling. The Jeep Cherokee was known for its off-road prowess, arguably superior to the Explorer's. The Pathfinder was known for better reliability than the Explorer, especially concerning the automatic transmission.
In terms of features, the Explorer was generally competitive, offering similar levels of equipment across its trim levels. However, the Explorer's A4LD automatic transmission was a significant weak point compared to the transmissions offered by its rivals.
Regarding price, the Explorer was generally in line with its competitors. However, due to the known reliability issues, particularly with the transmission, a well-maintained Jeep Cherokee or Nissan Pathfinder from the same era might be a more reliable choice. The Toyota 4Runner of the same period, although more expensive, represents a significantly more reliable option in the long run if budget permits.
In terms of features, the Explorer was generally competitive, offering similar levels of equipment across its trim levels. However, the Explorer's A4LD automatic transmission was a significant weak point compared to the transmissions offered by its rivals.
Regarding price, the Explorer was generally in line with its competitors. However, due to the known reliability issues, particularly with the transmission, a well-maintained Jeep Cherokee or Nissan Pathfinder from the same era might be a more reliable choice. The Toyota 4Runner of the same period, although more expensive, represents a significantly more reliable option in the long run if budget permits.
Ranks #716 SUV
| 1 | 2023 Toyota 4Runner | (5.0★) |
| 2 | 2023 Honda CR-V Hybrid | (5.0★) |
| 3 | 2023 Lexus GX | (0.0★) |
| 4 | 2024 Mazda CX-90 PHEV | (0.0★) |
| 5 | 2024 Subaru Crosstrek | (5.0★) |
| 6 | 2024 BMW iX | (0.0★) |
| 7 | 2023 Ford Bronco Sport | (3.0★) |
| 8 | 2023 Mercedes-Benz EQB | (0.0★) |
| 9 | 2024 Chevrolet Trax | (5.0★) |
| 10 | 2023 Audi A4 allroad | (0.0★) |
| 11 | 2023 Hyundai Kona N | (0.0★) |
| 12 | 2023 Nissan ARIYA | (5.0★) |
| 716 | 1991 Ford Explorer | (4.0★) |
Final Verdict: Is the 1991 Ford Explorer a Good Sport Utility Vehicle?
The 1991 Ford Explorer is best suited for someone seeking a classic SUV with a vintage appeal and is willing to perform their own maintenance or doesn't mind occasional repairs. It's worth buying only if the price is very low and the vehicle is in exceptionally good condition, particularly regarding rust and transmission health. Ideally, look for a well-maintained example with the 5-speed manual transmission. Consider a 4WD model if off-road capability is desired. However, be prepared for ongoing maintenance and potential repairs due to its age. For daily drivers, a newer, more reliable vehicle is a better choice.
John Smith on March 18, 2025
Reliable but Showing Its AgeBought this Explorer a few years back as a project. It's got a solid engine and the 4x4 is great for winter. However, expect to do some maintenance on a vehicle this old. Parts are generally easy to find and relatively inexpensive.
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Emily Carter on March 18, 2025
Great for Road Trips (with some TLC)I inherited this Explorer from my grandfather. It's surprisingly comfortable for long drives, but be prepared for some quirks. Fuel economy isn't great, and the suspension is a bit bouncy. Overall, a classic SUV with character.
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David Lee on March 18, 2025
Tough and DependableThis Explorer has been a workhorse. I use it for hauling equipment and it's never let me down. It's not the prettiest vehicle on the road, but it gets the job done. Interior is basic but functional.
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Sarah Johnson on March 18, 2025
Mixed FeelingsThe Explorer was spacious and comfortable, perfect for our family. However, we had some issues with rust and the transmission needed work. Consider getting a mechanic to inspect it before you buy one.
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Michael Brown on March 18, 2025
A Classic SUVI love the boxy look of these old Explorers. It's a solid vehicle, but be aware of potential issues like vacuum leaks and worn suspension components. If you're handy with tools, it's a great project car.
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Jessica Davis on March 18, 2025
Not for EveryoneI found the ride quality to be rough, and the fuel economy was terrible. While it's capable off-road, it's not the most practical daily driver in my opinion. It requires constant care.
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Robert Wilson on March 18, 2025
A Nostalgic PurchaseBought this Explorer to relive my childhood. It's fun to drive and brings back memories. It's not the most modern vehicle, but it has a certain charm. Remember that it's over 30 years old so temper your expectations.
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Ashley Garcia on March 18, 2025
Good Value for the MoneyI got this Explorer for a steal. It's not perfect, but it's reliable transportation. The engine is strong, and the 4WD works well. Just be prepared to replace some worn parts.
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Christopher Rodriguez on March 18, 2025
Spacious and CapableThe Explorer has plenty of room for passengers and cargo. It's a great vehicle for camping trips or hauling gear. The V6 engine provides adequate power. Overall, a solid choice for a budget-friendly SUV.
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Amanda Williams on March 18, 2025
Constant RepairsI've spent more time fixing this Explorer than driving it. It seems like something is always breaking down. I wouldn't recommend it unless you're a mechanic or have deep pockets.
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Cathleen V
Cathleen is an exceptional freelance writer covering hot topics in the automotive world from a gearhead's perspective. Her articles delve into various aspects of automotive technology and history, offering readers detailed insights into engine performance, reliability, and maintenance. Through her engaging and informative writing, Cathleen provides valuable information to automotive enthusiasts and consumers alike, helping them make informed decisions about vehicle maintenance and purchases.