Opinions on a 97 Explorer

We had one until we rolled it. It rolls at the drop of a hat. It crumpled the uprights between the windows which meant it was a total write-off. Firestone tires were very loud and noisy. Not very good on gas. The aluminum rims got out of balance easily causing vibration. Other than that nothing serious.

The later models have independent rear suspension....much better, '99 I think. If you keep your tires at the right pressure it will not roll any easier than any other top heavy vehicle. Just remember its not a car. If I were you I would try to get one with independent rear suspension. The explorer is a great SUV. But it IS an SUV . Geoff.

If I remember correctly, the 2002 is the first year of independant suspension in the rear. It makes a MAJOR differance.

That is a critical difference that a lot of people lose sight of.

The Explorer is an SUV, or even if you want, a truck. It is NOT a Ferrari. To me, it never did look like a Ferrari. It will not handle like a Ferrari, and if you try to make it, it may roll or respond in some other dangerous fashion.

As long as you keep tires inflated properly - per Firestone specs - it will be a very good vehicle. (Less are makes for a more car-like ride, but makes it more inclined to roll over - if you try some foolish Ferrari-Type maneuver on the road.)

Dana may not have liked the vehicle, but many, many people own them and they are not dying like flies every minute of every day. For what it is supposed to be, it is a very good vehicle. (Unfortunately, it is commercially very successful, which makes it a target to some...)

H.