The Good
The 1996 Ford Explorer offered a compelling package of advantages. Its roomy interior and available V8 engine provided ample power for both daily commutes and towing needs. For practical buyers, its robust body-on-frame construction and readily available parts made it a dependable workhorse. Emotionally, the Explorer's adventurous design and perceived ruggedness appealed to those seeking freedom and capability, offering a strong value proposition for a versatile family vehicle that could handle various terrains.
The Bad
While generally robust, the 1996 Ford Explorer has known weaknesses to watch out for. Common issues include automatic transmission failures, particularly with the 4R44E/4R55E. The 4.0L SOHC V6 engine is notorious for timing chain guide failures, a costly repair. Owners should also inspect for significant rust on the frame and body, worn suspension components like ball joints, and potential fuel pump issues that can lead to unexpected breakdowns.
1996 Ford Explorer: Quick Overview
Here's a bullet-point summary of the 1996 Ford Explorer's key specifications:
- Engine Options:
- 4.0L OHV (Overhead Valve) V6: Standard on most trims, known for its longevity if maintained.
- 4.0L SOHC (Single Overhead Cam) V6: Introduced as an option, offering more power but later known for timing chain issues.
- 5.0L OHV V8: Available on higher trims (Limited, Eddie Bauer), providing the most power and towing capability.
- Horsepower:
- 4.0L OHV V6: Approximately 160 hp and 225 lb-ft of torque.
- 4.0L SOHC V6: Approximately 205 hp and 250 lb-ft of torque.
- 5.0L OHV V8: Approximately 215 hp and 285 lb-ft of torque.
- Fuel Economy (EPA Estimates, varied by drivetrain 2WD/4WD):
- 4.0L V6 (OHV/SOHC): Roughly 15-17 MPG city / 19-21 MPG highway.
- 5.0L V8: Roughly 14-16 MPG city / 18-20 MPG highway.
- 0-60 MPH Times:
- 4.0L V6 (OHV/SOHC): Typically in the 9.5-11 second range.
- 5.0L V8: Approximately 8.5-9 seconds, making it quite spirited for its class.
- Towing Capacity:
- Depending on engine, drivetrain, and equipment, the towing capacity ranged from about 3,500 lbs to a maximum of approximately 5,800 lbs with the 5.0L V8 engine and proper towing package.
- Trim-Level Features:
- XL: Basic trim with manual windows and locks, cloth seats, and minimal amenities. Aimed at utilitarian buyers.
- XLT: Added power windows/locks, air conditioning, cruise control, alloy wheels, and improved interior finishes. Often included a cassette stereo, with a CD player as an option.
- Eddie Bauer: Premium trim featuring unique exterior two-tone paint, leather seating, upgraded sound system, remote keyless entry, and more refined interior appointments.
- Limited: The top-tier luxury trim, standardizing many Eddie Bauer options, often including the V8 engine, automatic climate control, and all available convenience features.
1996 Ford Explorer Specifications
Vehicle Information
| Year | 1996 |
| Make | Ford |
| Model | Explorer |
| Trim | - |
| Style | 2WD 4-Speed Automatic |
| Type | Sport Utility Vehicle |
| Category | Standard Sport Utility Vehicle |
Manufacturing Details
| Made In | United States |
| Manufacturing City | LOUISVILLE |
Dimensions
| Doors | 2-Door |
| Curb Weight | 3718 pounds |
| Gross Vehicle Weight Rating | 16000 pounds |
| Overall Height | 67.80 inches |
| Overall Length | 178.60 inches |
| Overall Width | 70.20 inches |
| Wheelbase Length | 101.70 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 | Rear-Wheel Drive |
Additional Features
| Anti-Brake System | 4-Wheel ABS |
| Steering Type | Rack & Pinion |
Pricing
| Manufacturer Suggested Retail Price (MSRP) | $20,750 |
| Invoice Price | - |
| Delivery Charges | - |
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Analysis
What Problems Does the 1996 Ford Explorer Have?
Another significant concern, specific to the 4.0L SOHC V6 engine (an option for 1996), is premature wear of the plastic timing chain guides. This leads to a distinct rattling noise, often from the rear of the engine, and if ignored, can result in catastrophic engine damage. Repairing this typically requires extensive labor, often necessitating engine removal.
Common wear-and-tear items include front suspension components like ball joints, tie rod ends, and control arm bushings, which can wear out, affecting steering and handling. Rust is also a prevalent issue, affecting rocker panels, wheel wells, tailgates, and sometimes even the frame, especially in regions with road salt.
Electrically, issues with power window motors, door lock actuators, and dashboard instrument cluster failures are not uncommon with age. Fuel pump failures also represent a known concern, leading to no-start conditions.
Regarding recalls, while the notorious Firestone tire recall primarily impacted earlier first-generation models and very early second-generation Explorers, the 1996 model did not have widespread tire-related recalls. However, some Explorers (including this generation) were subject to recalls for issues like cruise control deactivation switches potentially causing fires or ignition switch problems. Owners should always check for open recalls on specific VINs. These issues contribute to higher long-term ownership costs if not addressed proactively.
How long will the 1996 Ford Explorer last?
What Technology & Safety Features are Included?
For entertainment, the standard setup was an AM/FM radio with a cassette player. Optional upgrades included a single-disc CD player or a trunk-mounted 6-disc CD changer, often paired with a premium sound system (e.g., JBL on some Eddie Bauer/Limited models) for enhanced audio quality.
Driver-assistance features were minimal by today's standards. Cruise control was a popular option, offering a basic level of assistance for highway driving. There were no radar-based systems, lane-keeping assists, or blind-spot monitors.
Safety features included standard dual front airbags for the driver and passenger. Four-wheel anti-lock brakes (ABS) were either standard or a widely available option across various trims, enhancing braking control. The vehicle also incorporated side-impact protection beams within the doors and child safety locks for the rear doors.
Crash-test ratings from organizations like NHTSA for the 1996 Explorer generally showed acceptable performance for frontal impacts for its time. However, like many SUVs of that period, rollover risk was a more significant concern and a topic of public discussion, leading to design changes in subsequent generations. Specific detailed crash ratings for 1996 are less comprehensive than modern assessments, but the Explorer met contemporary safety standards.
What Colors Options are Available?
1996 Ford Explorer Prices and Market Value
Today, the current used market prices reflect significant depreciation, with most examples trading for a fraction of their original cost. A 1996 Explorer in average condition might fetch anywhere from $1,000 to $2,500. Exceptionally well-maintained, low-mileage examples, especially V8 models or those with perfect rust-free bodies, could command $3,000 to $5,000 or occasionally more to a collector or enthusiast. Factors severely affecting resale value include mileage, mechanical condition (particularly transmission or SOHC engine health), the presence of rust, and overall wear. Due to its age and common mechanical issues, the depreciation curve has long flattened, meaning current prices largely reflect its utility or project potential rather than a predictable market value.
1996 Ford Explorer Cost of Ownership
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1996 Ford Explorer Recalls & Defects
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How Does the 1996 Ford Explorer Compare to Other Sport Utility Vehicle?
Performance: The Explorer's optional 5.0L V8 provided robust power, competitive with the Jeep Grand Cherokee (ZJ)'s 5.2L V8 and surpassing the V6 offerings of the Chevrolet Blazer/GMC Jimmy, Toyota 4Runner, and Nissan Pathfinder. Its V6 engines (especially the SOHC) were on par with or slightly more powerful than most V6 rivals. Off-road capability was decent with 4WD, comparable to the Blazer and Grand Cherokee, but generally not as specialized as a 4Runner.
Features: The Explorer offered a strong feature set, particularly in its XLT, Eddie Bauer, and Limited trims, which boasted leather, premium audio, and automatic climate control – competing well with the upscale options of the Grand Cherokee and offering more creature comforts than the base 4Runner or Pathfinder. The Blazer was generally more utilitarian.
Reliability: This is where the Explorer often fell short, particularly when compared to its Japanese counterparts. The Toyota 4Runner (3rd Gen) and Nissan Pathfinder (R50) are widely regarded as having superior long-term mechanical reliability, especially concerning transmissions and major engine issues. The Explorer's automatic transmission woes and the 4.0L SOHC timing chain problems are significant drawbacks that the 4Runner and Pathfinder largely avoided. The Jeep Grand Cherokee, while popular, also had its share of electrical and transmission quirks.
Price: New, they were all in a similar price bracket. On the used market today, Explorers and Blazers tend to be among the cheapest in their class due to age, prevalence of issues, and the lingering public perception from the Firestone controversy. 4Runners and Pathfinders generally command higher used prices due to their reputation for reliability.
Recommended Alternatives:
- Better Reliability (but higher used price): Toyota 4Runner (3rd Gen) or Nissan Pathfinder (R50). These are often better long-term investments if you prioritize fewer mechanical headaches.
- Similar (with comparable issues): Jeep Grand Cherokee (ZJ) or Chevrolet Blazer/GMC Jimmy. These offer similar utility and sometimes more refined options but often come with their own set of age-related problems.
Final Verdict: Is the 1996 Ford Explorer a Good Sport Utility Vehicle?
It is definitely worth buying only as a used vehicle, and under very specific conditions. Buyers should prioritize examples with a meticulously documented maintenance history, preferably the 4.0L OHV V6 or 5.0L V8 engine (to avoid the SOHC timing chain issues), and a transmission that shifts smoothly without hesitation or harshness. Thoroughly inspect for rust, especially on the frame and rocker panels. This Explorer should not be considered as a primary, sole vehicle for someone who cannot afford unexpected major repairs. However, for its incredibly low entry cost, it offers substantial utility and a nostalgic driving experience, making it a capable, albeit potentially demanding, vehicle for the right owner.