This Mounty has been amazing since we got it. Bought it with 70k miles using a $2,500 relocation budget when we moved to the U.S. about two years ago. We skipped car payments for a while and got this instead—best decision ever! It’s been super reliable, and I wouldn’t trade it for anything. It’s got all its original receipts, window stickers, books, and manuals. Looks newer than most cars in a parking lot. Honestly, if SHTF, this would be my go-to. Anyone else have a ride they’d never give up?
I had one just like this! It ran up to 240k miles before I upgraded to a newer Explorer. Amazing vehicles.
Shannon said:
I had one just like this! It ran up to 240k miles before I upgraded to a newer Explorer. Amazing vehicles.
There’s probably 100k miles left in this one before anything major needs to be done. Our first winter without heated seats was rough, though—hoodies and gloves just to get to work! Luckily, I’ve got the space to keep it for now. Not sure how easy that’ll be if we move to a bigger city…
@Hollis
Heated seats are easy to install. Also, the stock radio is perfect for upgrading to a 7" touchscreen.
Cael said:
@Hollis
Heated seats are easy to install. Also, the stock radio is perfect for upgrading to a 7" touchscreen.
Ooooh, you’re tempting me now! Heated seats and maybe even a remote starter sound like a dream. Got an $80 eBay touchscreen ready to go, too. Might be time to upgrade!
@Hollis
Mine didn’t have AC, but it had cloth seats, so winter wasn’t too bad. Can’t live without heated seats now though! Also, backup sensors are a must for me, lol.
Shannon said:
@Hollis
Mine didn’t have AC, but it had cloth seats, so winter wasn’t too bad. Can’t live without heated seats now though! Also, backup sensors are a must for me, lol.
Totally get that. My first winter here in NC had me wearing gloves in the car. Back in Australia, I thought heated steering wheels were such a luxury, but after experiencing Korean winters, I completely get it. Heated wheels are a lifesaver!
@Sam
Love those rims!
This thing will probably outlast a 2024 Explorer. With good maintenance, that V8 can hit 300-400k miles easily.
Cael said:
This thing will probably outlast a 2024 Explorer. With good maintenance, that V8 can hit 300-400k miles easily.
Totally agree. I’ve heard horror stories about fuel or water pumps on newer models costing thousands. This one’s simple enough to avoid that mess—just enough modern features without all the finicky sensors.
@Hollis
Exactly. Plus, these are solidly built if you drive responsibly. Only downside is the gas mileage, though.
My current Explorer’s at 230k miles. I’d kill for one with just 80k.
Rin said:
My current Explorer’s at 230k miles. I’d kill for one with just 80k.
Got super lucky finding this one with only 70k miles on it. It’s practically brand new!
Beautiful Merc!
Absolutely gorgeous. Keep it clean! Someday, I’d love to own a Mounty too. 
Gorgeous.
I’ve always wanted a Gen 1 Mountaineer. I’ve had a Gen 1 Explorer and Sport Trac before. A Mounty and Aviator would complete the set. Unfortunately, I don’t have the Trac anymore.
Nice ride. What size and type of tires are you running?