The Good
The 1999 Ford Explorer offered a practical blend of spaciousness and capability, appealing to families needing a versatile hauler. Its strong V6 and optional V8 engines provided ample towing power for practical buyers, while its comfortable interior and available leather seating appealed to those seeking emotional comfort and a sense of adventure. Furthermore, its robust design and relatively affordable used market value made it an excellent value proposition for many.
The Bad
Known weaknesses of the 1999 Ford Explorer include a propensity for automatic transmission issues, particularly with erratic shifting or premature failure. Frame rust, especially in colder climates, is another significant concern. The 4.0L SOHC V6 engine can suffer from costly timing chain guide failures. Interior trim quality can also deteriorate, and some electrical gremlins are not uncommon, requiring careful inspection.
1999 Ford Explorer: Quick Overview
The 1999 Ford Explorer offered a variety of powertrain configurations to suit different needs.
- Engine Options:
- 4.0L SOHC V6: Standard on most trims, offering a good balance of power and economy. This engine had 205 horsepower.
- 5.0L (302 cu in) V8: An optional powerhouse, especially popular in higher trims like the Eddie Bauer and Limited, offering significantly more torque for towing and highway cruising.
- Horsepower:
- 4.0L SOHC V6: Approximately 205 hp
- 5.0L V8: Approximately 215 hp
- Fuel Economy (estimated EPA combined MPG):
- 4.0L V6 (2WD/4WD): Around 16-18 MPG
- 5.0L V8 (2WD/4WD): Around 14-16 MPG
- 0-60 Times:
- 4.0L SOHC V6: Roughly 9.0-10.0 seconds
- 5.0L V8: Approximately 8.0-8.5 seconds (impressive for its class at the time)
- Towing Capacity:
- Depending on engine and configuration, generally ranged from 3,500 lbs up to 5,900 lbs (with the 5.0L V8 and proper towing package).
- Trim-Level Features (highlights):
- XL: The base model, often with manual windows/locks, cloth seats, AM/FM stereo, and steel wheels. Focused on utility.
- XLT: Added power windows/locks, air conditioning, cruise control, alloy wheels, improved cloth upholstery, and sometimes a CD player.
- Eddie Bauer: A premium trim featuring unique two-tone paint, luxurious leather seating, power driver's seat, automatic climate control, an upgraded audio system, and distinctive exterior styling cues.
- Limited: The top-tier luxury offering, typically included all Eddie Bauer features plus distinct interior trim, premium audio with a subwoofer, and often a power moonroof, along with body-color exterior accents.
1999 Ford Explorer Specifications
Vehicle Information
| Year | 1999 |
| Make | Ford |
| Model | Explorer |
| Trim | - |
| Style | 2WD 5-Speed Manual |
| Type | Sport Utility Vehicle |
| Category | Standard Sport Utility Vehicle |
Manufacturing Details
| Made In | United States |
| Manufacturing City | LOUISVILLE |
Dimensions
| Doors | 2-Door |
| Curb Weight | 3712 pounds |
| Gross Vehicle Weight Rating | 4900 pounds |
| Overall Height | 67.10 inches |
| Overall Length | 180.80 inches |
| Overall Width | 70.20 inches |
| Wheelbase Length | 101.70 inches |
| Standard Seating | 4 |
Engine & Performance
| Engine | 4.0-L V-6 SOHC 12V |
| Engine Size | 4L |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 |
| Transmission | 5-Speed Manual |
| Transmission Type | Manual |
| Transmission Speeds | 5-Speed |
| Drivetrain | Rear-Wheel Drive |
Additional Features
| Anti-Brake System | 4-Wheel ABS |
| Steering Type | Rack & Pinion |
Pricing
| Manufacturer Suggested Retail Price (MSRP) | $20,065 |
| Invoice Price | $18,267 |
| Delivery Charges | - |
Vehicle History Report
Specifications
History
Events
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Listings
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Analysis
What Problems Does the 1999 Ford Explorer Have?
Another significant concern, particularly with the 4.0L SOHC V6 engine, is the timing chain guide failure. This issue typically manifests as a rattling noise from the engine and can lead to catastrophic engine damage if not addressed, often requiring extensive and expensive engine work. Owners of these V6 models should listen carefully for such noises. Frame rust, especially in regions with heavy road salt usage, is another common complaint, affecting structural integrity and safety over time. Look for rust around the frame rails, suspension mounts, and body mounts, as well as the rear quarter panels.
Electrical issues, ranging from faulty window motors and power door locks to instrument cluster malfunctions and non-functioning accessories, are also frequently reported. Less critical but annoying issues include cracking dashboards due to sun exposure, deteriorating interior plastics, and failing blend doors in the HVAC system, leading to inconsistent heating or cooling throughout the cabin.
Regarding recalls, one of the most widely known and impactful recalls for the 1990s Ford Explorer involved tire issues, specifically with certain Firestone Wilderness AT tires that were prone to tread separation, often leading to rollovers. While this was primarily a tire-related recall, it had a significant impact on the Explorer's reputation for stability. Other, less critical recalls throughout its production run typically addressed minor component failures or safety compliance issues. It's always advisable for prospective buyers to check the VIN for any outstanding recalls.
How long will the 1999 Ford Explorer last?
What Technology & Safety Features are Included?
Entertainment:
Standard entertainment typically included an AM/FM radio, often with a cassette player for base models. Higher trims like the XLT, Eddie Bauer, and Limited offered an optional single-disc CD player, and sometimes a premium audio system with more speakers and an amplifier for enhanced sound quality. Steering wheel-mounted audio controls were available on some upscale models, considered a luxury convenience feature at the time.
Driver-Assistance & Safety Features:
Driver-assistance features were minimal. The most prominent was anti-lock brakes (ABS), often standard on 4WD models and optional on 2WD versions. Traction control was not a widely available feature in this segment or on this vehicle at the time. Safety features included dual front airbags as standard for both driver and front passenger. Side airbags were not yet common or available on this generation of Explorer. Three-point seatbelts were standard for front and outer rear passengers, with a lap belt for the center rear passenger. Child safety seat anchors (LATCH system) were not yet standardized.
Optional Features (Beyond Tech/Entertainment):
Optional features that enhanced comfort and utility included power-adjustable front seats, luxurious leather upholstery, automatic climate control, a power moonroof, a universal garage door opener integrated into the sun visor, and a keypad entry system on the driver's door for keyless access.
Crash-Test Ratings:
For the 1999 Ford Explorer (and this generation generally), crash test ratings from organizations like the NHTSA (National Highway Traffic Safety Administration) are available:
- NHTSA Frontal Crash Test: Driver side typically received 4 out of 5 stars, passenger side also 4 out of 5 stars.
- NHTSA Side Impact Crash Test: Front occupants typically received 5 out of 5 stars, rear occupants 5 out of 5 stars (for models without side airbags, which were not available).
- NHTSA Rollover Rating: Rollover ratings were often a point of concern for this generation of SUVs, often receiving 3 out of 5 stars, contributing to the perception of their higher rollover risk compared to passenger cars.
What Colors Options are Available?
1999 Ford Explorer Prices and Market Value
1999 Ford Explorer Cost of Ownership
1999 Ford Explorer Fuel Efficiency
1999 Ford Explorer Safety Rating
NHTSA
IIHS
1999 Ford Explorer Recalls & Defects
Tires:tread/Belt
Power Train:automatic Transmission:control Module (Tcm/Pcm/Tecm)
Tires:tread/Belt
Electrical System:wiring:fuses and Circuit Breakers
Service Brakes, Hydraulic:foundation Components:hoses, Lines/Piping, and Fittings
Latches/Locks/Linkages:hood:latch
Vehicle Speed Control
Fuel System, Gasoline
Vehicle Speed Control:cables
Seats:front Assembly:recliner
Exterior Lighting
Vehicle Speed Control
Exterior Lighting
Exterior Lighting:headlights
Vehicle Speed Control
1999 Ford Explorer Warranty
Basic
Powertrain
Rust
1999 Ford Explorer Insurance
reasonable repair costs.
How Does the 1999 Ford Explorer Compare to Other Sport Utility Vehicle?
Performance: The Explorer's optional 5.0L V8 offered competitive power for its class, often outperforming the Blazer's 4.3L V6. The Jeep Grand Cherokee also offered potent V8 options (4.7L and 5.2L/5.9L) that could match or exceed the Explorer's performance. The Toyota 4Runner typically relied on a V6, offering excellent reliability but less raw power.
Features: The Explorer, particularly in its Eddie Bauer and Limited trims, offered a comfortable and well-appointed interior with features like leather, automatic climate control, and premium audio that were competitive with top trims of the Grand Cherokee and generally more luxurious than a typical Blazer or 4Runner.
Reliability: This is where the Explorer faced significant challenges compared to some rivals. While the Chevrolet Blazer also had its share of issues, the Explorer's well-documented transmission problems and SOHC V6 timing chain guide failures often gave it a lower long-term reliability score than the robust Toyota 4Runner, which is legendary for its durability. The Jeep Grand Cherokee (especially with the 4.0L inline-six) also generally held a reputation for better powertrain longevity, though it had its own electrical and rust issues.
Price: When new, their prices were all in a similar competitive range. On the used market today, the Explorer is generally among the cheapest to acquire due to its higher production numbers and reliability concerns. The Toyota 4Runner typically commands a significantly higher used price due to its superior reliability reputation.
Alternatives:
- Better Alternative (Reliability Focus): Toyota 4Runner (3rd Gen, 1996-2002). Offers outstanding reliability and strong resale value, though often at a higher initial purchase price on the used market.
- Similar Alternative (Value/V8 Power): Jeep Grand Cherokee (ZJ or WJ generations, 1993-2004). Can offer similar V8 power and off-road capability, but also comes with its own set of potential reliability issues that require diligence.
- Budget Alternative: Chevrolet Blazer/GMC Jimmy (2nd Gen, 1995-2005). Very affordable, but often suffers from similar or worse reliability issues than the Explorer, making it a true "buyer beware" option.