Make sure you inspect the underside. It’s 20 years old, and Ontario road salt isn’t kind to vehicles.
Good call. The current owner says it’s been oil sprayed, so I’m hopeful, but I’ll still check carefully.
I had an 04 that lasted about 3 years. Keep up on oil changes, air filters, spark plugs, and you’ll be fine. The timing chains can rattle, and the transmissions are weak, so stay on top of maintenance. Mine cost me $1100, so $1000 seems fair.
High mileage isn’t a deal-breaker for $1000, but older Explorers have known issues with timing chains, wheel bearings, and transmissions. If you can fix things yourself, it’s not a bad deal. Just check it out thoroughly first.
My mom has driven Explorers since 1997 and swears by them. Just keep up with maintenance, and they’ll last. Watch out for rust, though, especially on older ones.
I had one with 268k miles. No major problems and only sold it because I wanted something newer. The 4.0L engine is solid.
Great vehicles, but the timing chain and guide issues can be a pain. Hopefully, the owner kept up with maintenance.
That V6 engine is garbage.
Stay far away!