1998 FORD EXPLORER — Problems, Recalls & Safety Data

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N/A

Safety Rating

2,374

Owner Complaints

219 Crashes 124 Fires 20 Deaths

14

Recalls

ACTIVE RECALL

48

Service Bulletins

0

Investigations

Overview of the 1998 FORD EXPLORER

The 1998 FORD EXPLORER has received a total of 2,374 safety complaints filed with the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA). There have been 14 recall campaigns affecting this vehicle, covering issues with VEHICLE SPEED CONTROL, EXTERIOR LIGHTING:HEADLIGHTS, EXTERIOR LIGHTING. 48 technical service bulletins have been issued by Ford Motor Company for this model year. The most commonly reported problems involve the Tirestreadbelt (381 complaints), Tires (340 complaints), and Vehicle Speed Control (154 complaints).

Recalls for the 1998 FORD EXPLORER

NHTSA has recorded 14 recalls for the 1998 FORD EXPLORER, potentially affecting up to 37,088,398 vehicles.

Recall 09V399000 — VEHICLE SPEED CONTROL

| 4,500,000 vehicles affected

Defect: FORD IS RECALLING MODEL YEARS 1995-2003 WINDSTAR, 2000-2003 EXCURSION DIESEL, 1993-1997 AND 1999-2003 F-250 SD THROUGH F-550 SD DIESEL, 1992-2003 E-150 THROUGH E-550, 1995-2002 EXPLORER, 1997 AND 2002 MERCURY MOUNTAINEER, 1995-1997 AND 2001-2003 RANGER, AND 1994 F53 VEHICLES EQUIPPED WITH THE TEXAS INSTRUMENTS SPEED CONTROL DEACTIVATION SWITCH (SCDS). THE SCDS MAY LEAK INTERNALLY AND THEN OVERHEAT, SMOKE, OR BURN.

Consequence: A VEHICLE FIRE COULD OCCUR WITH OR WITHOUT THE ENGINE RUNNING.

Remedy: FORD WILL NOTIFY OWNERS THAT DEALERS WILL INSTALL A FUSED WIRING HARNESS IN LINE WITH THE SCDS. ON 1999-2003 WINDSTAR VEHICLES WITH A LEAKING SCDS, DEALERS WILL ALSO INSPECT THE ABS CONTROL MODULE CONNECTOR AND REPAIR AS NECESSARY. REPAIRS WILL...

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Recall 09E025000 — EXTERIOR LIGHTING:HEADLIGHTS

| 42,540 vehicles affected

Defect: DOPE, INC. IS RECALLING 42,540 COMBINATION CORNER AND BUMPER LAMP ASSEMBLIES OF VARIOUS PART NUMBERS SOLD FOR USE AS AFTERMARKET EQUIPMENT FOR VARIOUS PASSENGER VEHICLES. THESE HEADLAMPS FAIL TO CONFORM TO THE REQUIREMENTS OF FEDERAL MOTOR VEHICLE SAFETY STANDARD NO. 108, "LAMPS, REFLECTIVE DEVICES, AND ASSOCIATED EQUIPMENT." THESE LAMPS DO NOT CONTAIN THE REQUIRED AMBER SIDE REFLECTORS.

Consequence: DECREASED LIGHTING VISIBILITY MAY RESULT IN A VEHICLE CRASH.

Remedy: DOPE, INC. WILL NOTIFY OWNERS AND OFFER A FULL REFUND FOR THE NONCOMPLIANT COMBINATION LAMPS. THE SAFETY RECALL BEGAN ON JULY 28, 2009. OWNERS MAY CONTACT DOPE, INC. AT 1-626-272-1798.

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Recall 09E012000 — EXTERIOR LIGHTING

| 16,270 vehicles affected

Defect: SABERSPORT IS RECALLING 16,270 COMBINATION CORNER AND BUMPER LAMP ASSEMBLIES OF VARIOUS PART NUMBERS SOLD FOR USE AS AFTERMARKET EQUIPMENT FOR VARIOUS PASSENGER VEHICLES. THESE HEADLAMPS FAIL TO CONFORM TO THE REQUIREMENTS OF FEDERAL MOTOR VEHICLE SAFETY STANDARD NO. 108, "LAMPS, REFLECTIVE DEVICES, AND ASSOCIATED EQUIPMENT." THESE LAMPS DO NOT CONTAIN THE REQUIRED AMBER SIDE REFLECTORS.

Consequence: DECREASED LIGHTING VISIBILITY MAY RESULT IN A VEHICLE CRASH.

Remedy: SABERSPORT WILL NOTIFY OWNERS AND OFFER A FULL REFUND FOR THE NONCOMPLIANT COMBINATION LAMPS. THE SAFETY RECALL BEGAN ON MAY 11, 2009. OWNERS MAY CONTACT SABERSPORT AT 1-909-598-7589.

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Recall 06V286000 — VEHICLE SPEED CONTROL

| 1,200,000 vehicles affected

Defect: ON CERTAIN TRUCKS EQUIPPED WITH SPEED CONTROL, GASOLINE OR NATURAL GAS ENGINES, THE SPEED CONTROL DEACTIVATION SWITCH MAY OVERHEAT.

Consequence: OVERHEATING COULD RESULT IN SMOKE OR BURN AND AN UNDERHOOD FIRE.

Remedy: DEALERS WILL INSTALL A FUSED WIRING HARNESS INTO THE SPEED CONTROL SYSTEM FREE OF CHARGE. THE RECALL BEGAN ON AUGUST 7, 2006. OWNERS MAY CONTACT FORD AT 1-866-436-7332. (NOTE: ALSO SEE RECALLS 05V017 AND 05V388)

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Recall 06E026000 — EXTERIOR LIGHTING

| 61,944 vehicles affected

Defect: CERTAIN PRO-A MOTORS CORNER LAMPS, TURN SIGNALS, AND HEADLIGHTS SOLD AS REPLACEMENT LAMPS FOR USE ON CERTAIN PASSENGER VEHICLES LISTED ABOVE. SOME COMBINATION LAMPS THAT ARE NOT EQUIPPED WITH AMBER SIDE REFLECTORS FAIL TO CONFORM TO FEDERAL MOTOR VEHICLE SAFETY STANDARD NO. 108, LAMPS, REFLECTIVE DEVICES, AND ASSOCIATED EQUIPMENT.

Consequence: WITHOUT THE AMBER REFLECTORS, THE VEHICLE WILL BE POORLY ILLUMINATED, POSSIBLY RESULTING IN A VEHICLE CRASH WITHOUT WARNING.

Remedy: PRO-A MOTORS WILL NOTIFY OWNERS AND OFFER TO REPURCHASE THE LAMPS. THE RECALL BEGAN ON APRIL 3, 2006. OWNERS MAY CONTACT PRO-A MOTORS AT 323-838-2988.

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Recall 03V281000 — SEATS:FRONT ASSEMBLY:RECLINER

| 1,552,880 vehicles affected

Defect: ON CERTAIN SPORT UTILITY VEHICLES EQUIPPED WITH HIGH BACK SEATS, THE UPPER BOLT ON THE DRIVER'S SIDE HIGH BACK SEAT, THAT ATTACHES THE SEAT RECLINER MECHANISM TO THE SEAT BACK FRAME, COULD FRACTURE. IF THE BOLT FRACTURES AND DOES NOT JAM IN THE SEAT BACK FRAME, THE SEAT BACK MAY RECLINE UNTIL IT MAKES CONTACT WITH AN OBJECT BEHIND THE...

Consequence: THE DRIVER COULD POTENTIALLY LOSE CONTACT WITH THE STEERING WHEEL OR FOOT PEDALS DURING SUCH AN EVENT, INCREASING THE RISK OF A CRASH.

Remedy: DEALERS WILL REPLACE THE DRIVER SEAT UPPER BOLT WITH A METAL SPACER AND BOLT. IN ADDITION, SEATS WITH TUBULAR BACK FRAMES WILL HAVE THE FULLY THREADED LOWER RECLINER BOLT REPLACED WITH A PARTIALLY THREADED BOLT. OWNER NOTIFICATION BEGAN ON AUGUST...

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Recall 01X001000 — TIRES:TREAD/BELT

| 13,000,000 vehicles affected

Defect: THIS IS NOT A SAFETY RECALL IN ACCORDANCE WITH THE SAFETY ACT. HOWEVER, IT IS DEEMED A SAFETY IMPROVEMENT CAMPAIGN BY THE AGENCY. EQUIPMENT DESCRIPTION: FORD IS REPLACING ALL FIRESTONE WILDERNESS AT 15, 16, AND 17 INCH TIRES MOUNTED ON FORD TRUCKS AND SUVS. FORD REPORTS TREAD SEPARATION CAN OCCUR DUE TO A COMBINATION OF THE SENSITIVITY OF THE TIRE...

Consequence: SHOULD THE TREAD SEPARATE AT HIGHWAY SPEEDS, A VEHICLE CRASH COULD OCCUR, POSSIBLY RESULTING IN PERSONAL INJURY OR DEATH.

Remedy: THE REPLACEMENT/REIMBURSEMENT PROGRAM FOR THIS CAMPAIGN EXPIRED ON MARCH 31, 2002. HOWEVER, CUSTOMERS CAN CONTACT FORD AT 1-877-917-3673 OR GO ON-LINE TO WWW.FORD.COM FOR POSSIBLE ASSISTANCE.

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Recall 00V422000 — VEHICLE SPEED CONTROL

| 220,000 vehicles affected

Defect: VEHICLE DESCRIPTION: SPORT UTILITY VEHICLES EQUIPPED WITH 4.0L SOHC ENGINES AND STILL RETAIN THE ORIGINAL THROTTLE BODY (PART NUMBERS 97JF-9E926AB OR 97JF-9E926-AC). SOME OF THE ORIGINAL THROTTLE BODIES INSTALLED ALLOWED A GAP BETWEEN THE PLATE AND BORE TO BE BUILT TOO NARROW. THIS REDUCED CLEARANCE ALLOWED THE ENGINE DEPOSITS NORMALLY PRESENT IN THE THROTTLE BODY TO CONTACT OR BRIDGE THE...

Consequence: THIS COULD RESULT IN ENGINE SURGE WHEN THE ACCELERATOR PEDAL BREAKS FREE.

Remedy: DEALERS WILL REPLACE THE ORIGINAL THROTTLE BODIES.

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Recall 00T005000 — TIRES:TREAD/BELT

| 14,400,000 vehicles affected

Defect: TIRE DESCRIPTION: FIRESTONE WILDERNESS AT, SIZE P235/75R15, PRODUCED AT THE DECATUR, ILLINOIS TIRE PLANT AND ALL FIRESTONE RADIAL ATX AND RADIAL ATX II TIRES, SIZE P235/75R15. OPERATION OF THESE TIRES AT LOW INFLATION PRESSURES, HIGH SPEED, AND IN HOT WEATHER, CAN CONTRIBUTE TO SEPARATION OF THE TIRE TREAD.

Consequence: IF THE TREAD SEPARATES FROM THE TIRE, THE DRIVER CAN LOSE CONTROL OF THE VEHICLE, POSSIBLY RESULTING IN A CRASH CAUSING INJURY OR DEATH.

Remedy: THE REPLACEMENT/REIMBURSEMENT PROGRAM FOR THIS CAMPAIGN EXPIRED ON AUGUST 29, 2001. HOWEVER, CUSTOMERS SHOULD CONTACT FIRESTONE CUSTOMER SERVICE AT 1-800-465-1904 FOR POSSIBLE ASSISTANCE.

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Recall 00V168000 — EXTERIOR LIGHTING

| 20,637 vehicles affected

Defect: VEHICLE DESCRIPTION: MINI VANS, LIGHT PICKUP TRUCKS, AND SPORT UTILITY VEHICLES. OFF LEASE CANADIAN VEHICLES EQUIPPED WITH DAYTIME RUNNING LIGHTS WHICH MEET CANADIAN REQUIREMENTS AND NOT THE PHOTOMETRIC REQUIREMENTS OF FMVSS 108, "LAMPS, REFLECTIVE DEVICES, AND ASSOCIATED EQUIPMENT." ACCORDING TO FORD, THE VEHICLES WERE IMPORTED INTO THE U.S. ERRONEOUSLY.

Consequence: THE LIGHT GIVEN OFF FROM THE DAYTIME RUNNING LIGHTS IS BRIGHTER THAN ALLOWED BY U.S. STANDARDS.

Remedy: DEALERS WILL BE ADVISED TO DEACTIVATE THE RUNNING LIGHT FUNCTION AND TO COMPLETE ANY OUTSTANDING SAFETY RECALLS ON THESE VEHICLES.

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Recall 99V164000 — LATCHES/LOCKS/LINKAGES:HOOD:LATCH

| 854,288 vehicles affected

Defect: VEHICLE DESCRIPTION: SPORT UTILITY VEHICLES. THE SECONDARY HOOD LATCH MAY CORRODE AT THE LATCH PIVOT AND STICK IN THE OPEN POSITION.

Consequence: IF THIS OCCURS AND THE PRIMARY HOOD LATCH IS EITHER NOT ENGAGED OR IS RELEASED, A HOOD FLY-UP COULD OCCUR.

Remedy: DEALERS WILL INSTALL A SECONDARY HOOD LATCH WITH COMPONENTS THAT ARE COATED PRIOR TO ASSEMBLY FOR IMPROVED LATCH PIVOT CORROSION PROTECTION.

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Recall 99V062001 — VEHICLE SPEED CONTROL

| 898,739 vehicles affected

Defect: VEHICLE DESCRIPTION: CERTAIN 1997-1999 RHD EXPLORER EQUIPPED WITH 4.0L OHV/SOHC ENGINES AND CRUISE CONTROL BUILT FROM MAY 29, 1996 THROUGH MARCH 4, 1999; 1998-1999 EXPLORER/MOUNTAINEERS EQUIPPED WITH 4.0L OHV/SOHC OR 5.0L ENGINES OR 1998-1999 RANGERS EQUIPPED WITH 2.5L, 3.0L FFV/EFI OR 4.0L ENGINES AND CRUISE CONTROL BUILT FROM JANUARY 5, 1998 THROUGH MARCH 4, 1999; 1998-1999 MUSTANGS EQUIPPED WITH 3.8L,...

Consequence: IF THE CRUISE CONTROL IS USED AND THIS CONDITION IS PRESENT, A STUCK THROTTLE COULD RESULT, WHICH COULD POTENTIALLY RESULT IN A CRASH.

Remedy: DEALERS WILL REPLACE THE CRUISE CONTROL CABLES. AT THE PRESENT TIME, THE REPLACEMENT CABLES ARE NOT AVAILABLE. CUSTOMERS ARE BEING ADVISED NOT TO USE THE CRUISE CONTROL SYSTEM UNTIL A REPLACEMENT CAN BE MADE.

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Recall 98V060000 — FUEL SYSTEM, GASOLINE:DELIVERY:HOSES, LINES/PIPING, AND FITTINGS

| 320,000 vehicles affected

Defect: VEHICLE DESCRIPTION: MULTI-PURPOSE PASSENGER VEHICLES EQUIPPED WITH 4.0L SINGLE OVERHEAD CAM ENGINES. THE ENGINE FUEL LINES CAN BE DAMAGED IF THE VEHICLE IS JUMP STARTED AND THE GROUND CABLE IS ATTACHED TO THE FUEL LINE BRACKET THAT IS LOCATED NEAR THE BATTERY. SINCE THE BRACKET IS NOT GROUNDED, THE STAINLESS STEEL FUEL LINE BRAID COULD ACT AS A GROUND POTENTIALLY...

Consequence: THE FUEL LINES CAN LEAK, AND IN THE PRESENCE OF AN IGNITION SOURCE, A FIRE COULD POTENTIALLY RESULT.

Remedy: DEALERS WILL INSTALL A WARNING LABEL ON THE FUEL LINE BRACKET ADVISING OWNERS NOT TO USE IT FOR A JUMP START GROUND. ALSO A REVISED BOLT WILL BE INSTALLED IN THE ALTERNATOR BRACKET TO PROVIDE A CONVENIENT JUMP START GROUND...

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Recall 97V215000 — ELECTRICAL SYSTEM:IGNITION:ANTI-THEFT:CONTROL MODULE

| 1,100 vehicles affected

Defect: VEHICLE DESCRIPTION: MULTI-PURPOSE PASSENGER VEHICLES, EDDIE BAUER AND LIMITED EDITIONS. THE KEY-IN-IGNITION/DOOR OPEN WARNING CHIME MAY NOT FUNCTION WHEN THE DOOR IS OPENED. THIS DOES NOT FULLY COMPLY WITH FMVSS NO. 114, "THEFT PROTECTION."

Consequence: THE STANDARD SPECIFIED THAT A WARNING TO THE DRIVER SHALL BE ACTUATED WHENEVER THE KEY HAS BEEN LEFT IN THE LOCKING SYSTEM AND THE DRIVER'S DOOR IS OPENED.

Remedy: DEALERS WILL INSTALL A JUMPER WIRE TO PROVIDE THE NECESSARY GROUND CIRCUIT IN THESE VEHICLES.

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Owner Complaints for the 1998 FORD EXPLORER

2,374 complaints have been filed with NHTSA for the 1998 FORD EXPLORER. Below is a breakdown by vehicle component.

Tirestreadbelt
Complaints: 381 36 Crashes 1 Fire 53 Injuries 5 Deaths
Tires
Complaints: 340 45 Crashes 86 Injuries 7 Deaths
Vehicle Speed Control
Complaints: 154 21 Crashes 24 Fires 6 Injuries 1 Death
Engine And Engine Coolingenginegasoline
Complaints: 100 1 Crash 3 Fires 2 Injuries
Vehicle Speed Controlaccelerator Pedal
Complaints: 87 8 Crashes 1 Injury
Engine And Engine Coolingengine
Complaints: 55 3 Fires
Service Brakes Hydraulicantilocktraction Controlelectronic Limited Slip
Complaints: 48 13 Crashes 1 Fire 6 Injuries
Seatsfront Assemblyrecliner
Complaints: 44 4 Crashes 6 Injuries
Power Trainautomatic Transmission
Complaints: 40 1 Fire
Suspensionfront
Complaints: 40 4 Crashes 2 Injuries
Unknown Or Other
Complaints: 40 1 Crash 2 Fires 3 Injuries
Suspension
Complaints: 39 7 Crashes 10 Injuries 2 Deaths
Electrical System
Complaints: 36 3 Crashes 21 Fires 6 Injuries
Latcheslockslinkagesdoorslatch
Complaints: 34
Vehicle Speed Controlcruise Control
Complaints: 33 25 Fires
Seats
Complaints: 27 3 Crashes 4 Injuries
Tiressidewall
Complaints: 25
Air Bags
Complaints: 22 13 Crashes 14 Injuries 1 Death
Engine And Engine Cooling
Complaints: 22 1 Crash 7 Fires
Visibilitywindshield Wiperwashermotor
Complaints: 21
Equipmentelectricalradiotape Deckcd Etc
Complaints: 18
Latcheslockslinkageshoodlatch
Complaints: 18 2 Injuries
Visibilitywindshield Wiperwasher
Complaints: 18
Air Bagsfrontal
Complaints: 16 16 Crashes 17 Injuries
Fuel System Gasoline
Complaints: 16 1 Fire
Electrical Systemwiringfront Underhood
Complaints: 15 12 Fires
Electrical Systemignition
Complaints: 14
Steering
Complaints: 14 3 Crashes 1 Fire
Latcheslockslinkages
Complaints: 13
Power Trainautomatic Transmissionlever And Linkagecolumn Shift
Complaints: 13
Steeringrack And Pinion
Complaints: 13 1 Crash
Structurebodydoor
Complaints: 13
Exterior Lightingheadlights
Complaints: 12
Electrical Systemwiringinteriorunder Dash
Complaints: 11 2 Fires
Equipmentapplianceair Conditioner
Complaints: 11
Fuel System Gasolinefuel Injection System
Complaints: 11 1 Fire
Service Brakes Hydraulicfoundation Componentsdiscrotor
Complaints: 11 1 Crash
Steeringhydraulic Power Assist System
Complaints: 11 2 Crashes 1 Injury
Structure
Complaints: 11 2 Crashes 3 Injuries
Vehicle Speed Controllinkages
Complaints: 11 2 Crashes
Visibilitywindshield
Complaints: 11
Electrical Systemwiring
Complaints: 10 4 Fires
Power Train
Complaints: 10
Visibilitydefrosterdefoggerhvac System
Complaints: 10 1 Fire 2 Injuries
Visibilitypower Window Devices And Controls
Complaints: 10
Wheels
Complaints: 10 2 Crashes 1 Injury
Electrical System12v24v48v Battery
Complaints: 9 1 Crash 3 Fires
Fuel System Gasolinedeliveryhoses Linespiping And Fittings
Complaints: 9
Seat Belts
Complaints: 9 1 Crash 2 Injuries
Service Brakes Hydraulic
Complaints: 9 3 Crashes 1 Fire 2 Injuries
Visibilityrear Window Wiperwasher
Complaints: 9
Steering Steering Wheelhandle Bar
Complaints: 8 1 Crash 4 Injuries 1 Death
Visibilityrear Window Wiperwashermotor
Complaints: 8
Power Traintransfer Case 4 Wheel Drive
Complaints: 7
Seat Beltsfrontanchorage
Complaints: 7 1 Crash 3 Injuries 1 Death
Seat Beltsfrontbuckle Assembly
Complaints: 7 1 Crash 1 Injury
Seat Beltsrearother
Complaints: 7
Service Brakes Hydraulicfoundation Components
Complaints: 7 1 Crash 1 Injury
Suspensionfrontwheel Bearing
Complaints: 7 1 Crash
Visibilityglass Siderear
Complaints: 7
Electrical Systemignitionmodule
Complaints: 6
Engine
Complaints: 6 4 Fires
Engine And Engine Coolingcooling Systemradiator Assembly
Complaints: 6
Fuel System Gasolinecarburetor System
Complaints: 6 1 Injury
Seat Beltsfrontretractor
Complaints: 6 1 Crash 1 Injury
Suspensionfrontcontrol Armupper Ball Joint
Complaints: 6
Visibilitydefrosterdefoggerhvac Systemwindshieldelectrical Heating Element
Complaints: 6
Engine And Engine Coolingcooling System
Complaints: 5
Engine And Engine Coolingenginegasolinebelts And Associated Pulleys
Complaints: 5
Engine And Engine Coolingexhaust System
Complaints: 5
Equipment
Complaints: 5 1 Crash 1 Fire 2 Injuries
Exterior Lightingturn Signalswitch
Complaints: 5 1 Fire
Fuel System Gasolinedelivery
Complaints: 5
Power Trainautomatic Transmissionparkneutral Start Interlock Switch
Complaints: 5 3 Crashes 1 Injury
Power Trainaxle Assembly
Complaints: 5 3 Crashes 2 Injuries
Power Trainaxle Assemblyaxle Shaftseal
Complaints: 5
Service Brakes Hydraulicfoundation Componentsdisc
Complaints: 5 2 Crashes
Steeringgear Box Other Than Rack And Pinion
Complaints: 5
Steeringlinkagestie Rod Assembly
Complaints: 5 1 Crash 1 Injury
Structurebody
Complaints: 5 1 Crash 2 Injuries
Wheelslugsnutsboltsstuds
Complaints: 5
Electrical Systemalternatorgeneratorregulator
Complaints: 4
Electrical Systemwiringfuses And Circuit Breakers
Complaints: 4
Engine And Engine Coolingexhaust Systemmanifoldheadermufflertail Pipe
Complaints: 4
Exterior Lighting
Complaints: 4
Exterior Lightingbrake Lights
Complaints: 4
Exterior Lightingheadlightsswitch
Complaints: 4
Exterior Lightingturn Signalflasher Unit
Complaints: 4
Fuel System Gasolinedeliveryfuel Pump
Complaints: 4
Fuel System Gasolinestoragetank Assembly
Complaints: 4
Latcheslockslinkageshatchbackliftgatelock
Complaints: 4
Power Trainautomatic Transmissioncooling Unit And Lines
Complaints: 4
Service Brakes Hydraulicfoundation Componentshoses Linespiping And Fittings
Complaints: 4 1 Crash
Service Brakes Hydraulicfoundation Componentsmaster Cylinder
Complaints: 4
Service Brakes Hydraulicpedals And Linkages
Complaints: 4
Structurebodyhoodhinge And Attachments
Complaints: 4 1 Fire 2 Injuries
Structureframe And Members
Complaints: 4 1 Injury
Suspensionfrontcontrol Armlower Ball Joint
Complaints: 4
Suspensionfrontstabilizer Bar
Complaints: 4
Tirestemporaryemergency Spare Tire
Complaints: 4
Wheelsrim
Complaints: 4
Electrical Systemhorn
Complaints: 3
Equipmentmechanicalcarrierrack
Complaints: 3
Exterior Lightingbrake Lightsswitch
Complaints: 3 1 Fire
Exterior Lightingfog Lights
Complaints: 3
Fuel System Gasolinestoragetank Assemblyfiller Pipe And Cap
Complaints: 3
Fuelpropulsion System
Complaints: 3 1 Crash 1 Fire
Interior Lighting
Complaints: 3
Power Trainautomatic Transmissiongear Position Indication Prndl
Complaints: 3
Power Traindriveline
Complaints: 3
Power Traindrivelinedriveshaft
Complaints: 3
Steeringcolumn Lockinganti Theft Device
Complaints: 3
Steeringhydraulic Power Assisthose Piping And Connections
Complaints: 3
Steeringhydraulic Power Assistpump
Complaints: 3
Structurebodydoorhinge And Attachments
Complaints: 3
Structurebodyhatchbackliftgate
Complaints: 3
Suspensionfrontcontrol Arm
Complaints: 3
Suspensionrear
Complaints: 3
Visibility
Complaints: 3
Visibilityrearview Mirrorsdevices
Complaints: 3
Visibilityrearview Mirrorsdevicesexterior
Complaints: 3
Visibilitysunmoon Roof Assembly
Complaints: 3
Air Bagsfrontalsensorcontrol Module
Complaints: 2
Child Seat
Complaints: 2
Electrical Systemignitionanti Theftcontrol Module
Complaints: 2
Electrical Systemignitionswitch
Complaints: 2
Electrical Systemstarter Assemblysolenoid
Complaints: 2
Engine And Engine Coolingexhaust Systememission Control
Complaints: 2
Exterior Lightingheadlightshighlow Beam Dimmer Switch
Complaints: 2
Exterior Lightingturn Signal
Complaints: 2
Fuel System Gasolinefuel Injection Systeminjectors
Complaints: 2
Fuel System Other
Complaints: 2
Fuel System Otherstoragefuel Gauge System
Complaints: 2
Parking Brakeconventionalmechanicallinkage And Cable
Complaints: 2
Power Trainautomatic Transmissiontorque Converter
Complaints: 2
Power Trainaxle Assemblyaxle Shaft
Complaints: 2
Power Traindrivelinedifferential Unit
Complaints: 2
Power Trainmanual Transmission
Complaints: 2
Service Brakes
Complaints: 2
Steeringhydraulic Power Assistpower Steering Fluid
Complaints: 2
Steeringlinkages
Complaints: 2 1 Crash
Steeringlinkagesknucklespindlearm
Complaints: 2 2 Crashes 1 Injury 1 Death
Structurebodybumpers
Complaints: 2
Structurebodyhatchbackliftgatehinge And Attachments
Complaints: 2
Suspensionfrontspringstorsion Bar
Complaints: 2
Suspensionrearspringsleaf Spring Assembly
Complaints: 2
Vehicle Speed Controlcables
Complaints: 2
Visibilityrearview Mirrorsdevicesinterior
Complaints: 2
Air Bagssidewindow
Complaints: 1
Child Seatharness Buckleconvertible
Complaints: 1
Child Seatshellinfant
Complaints: 1 1 Injury
Electrical Systemstarter Assembly
Complaints: 1
Electrical Systemwiring Rear Compartmenttrunk
Complaints: 1
Electronic Stability Control Esc
Complaints: 1
Engine And Engine Coolingcooling Systemhoseslinespipingfittings
Complaints: 1
Engine And Engine Coolingexhaust Systememission Controlcatalytic Convertor
Complaints: 1
Equipmentmechanicalaccessory Scissorscrewbottle Jacklift
Complaints: 1
Exterior Lightingtail Lights
Complaints: 1
Fuel System Gasolinefuel Injection Systemfuel Rail
Complaints: 1 1 Fire
Fuel System Otherdeliveryhoses Linespiping And Fittings
Complaints: 1
Parking Brake
Complaints: 1
Parking Brakeconventional
Complaints: 1 1 Crash
Power Trainclutch Assembly
Complaints: 1
Power Trainclutch Assemblypedalhand Levermotorcycle
Complaints: 1
Seat Beltsfront
Complaints: 1
Seat Beltsfrontwebbing
Complaints: 1 1 Crash 5 Injuries 1 Death
Service Brakes Air
Complaints: 1
Service Brakes Airantilock
Complaints: 1
Service Brakes Hydraulicantilocktraction Controlelectronic Limited Slipabs Warning Light
Complaints: 1
Service Brakes Hydraulicantilocktraction Controlelectronic Limited Slipcontrol Unitmodule
Complaints: 1
Steeringcolumn
Complaints: 1
Steeringelectric Power Assist System
Complaints: 1 1 Crash 3 Injuries
Steeringgear Boxshaft Sector
Complaints: 1
Structurebodyhatchbackliftgatesupport Devicestrut
Complaints: 1
Structurebodytailgatehinge And Attachments
Complaints: 1
Structurebodytrunk Lid
Complaints: 1
Suspensionfrontcontrol Armlower Arm
Complaints: 1
Suspensionfronthub
Complaints: 1
Suspensionfrontshock Absorber
Complaints: 1
Suspensionfrontspringsair Suspension System
Complaints: 1
Suspensionrearspringscoil Springs
Complaints: 1
Suspensionrearspringsleaf Spring Assemblyleaf
Complaints: 1
Visibilitydefrosterdefoggerhvac Systemheater Core
Complaints: 1
Visibilityrear Window Wiperwasherlinkages
Complaints: 1
Visibilityrear Window Wiperwasherswitchwiring
Complaints: 1

Most Recent Complaints

#11298074 | SEATS | | 182,000 miles
SPEED CONTROL GETS HOT TO TOUCH. ALL TOP FACING HAS MELTED OFF FROM HEAT. I WAS ON HIGHWAY AND MY STEERING WHEEL BECAME EXTREMELY HOT. MY SEAT WAS REPAIRED AFTER RECALL YEARS AGO. IT CONTINUES TO DROP LOW TO FLOOR.
#11298074 | VEHICLE SPEED CONTROL | | 182,000 miles
SPEED CONTROL GETS HOT TO TOUCH. ALL TOP FACING HAS MELTED OFF FROM HEAT. I WAS ON HIGHWAY AND MY STEERING WHEEL BECAME EXTREMELY HOT. MY SEAT WAS REPAIRED AFTER RECALL YEARS AGO. IT CONTINUES TO DROP LOW TO FLOOR.
#11287420 | AIR BAGS | | 1,850,000 miles Crash
MY SEAT BELT ON MY PASSENGER SIDE DOES NOT WORK HALF THE TIME. MY DOOR LOCKS DO NOT WORK RIGHT. I CAN'T GET MY WINDOW ON THE DRIVER SIDE TO GO UP AND DOWN. I HIT A TREE GOING 55 MILES AN HOUR IN MY AIRBAG DID NOT EVEN DEPLOY. I'M LUCKY I'M STILL ALIVE. THE FENDERS RUBBING UP AGAINST MY TIRE. SPEED CONTROL IS WRONG. WHENEVER I'M GOING 55 MILES AN HOUR IT SAYS 57 ACTUALLY I DON'T REMEMBER THE CORRECT DATE. BUT I'M SURE IT SHOWS I KNOW IT WAS 2017. SOMEBODY RAN ME OFF THE ROAD. MY TRUCK HIT THE TREE AND MY AIRBAG DID NOT DEPLOY. I'M LUCKY IT DIDN'T I GUESS BECAUSE DON'T AIRBAGS HAVE METAL SHARDS IN THEM IS WHAT I WAS TOLD
#11287420 | ELECTRICAL SYSTEM | | 1,850,000 miles Crash
MY SEAT BELT ON MY PASSENGER SIDE DOES NOT WORK HALF THE TIME. MY DOOR LOCKS DO NOT WORK RIGHT. I CAN'T GET MY WINDOW ON THE DRIVER SIDE TO GO UP AND DOWN. I HIT A TREE GOING 55 MILES AN HOUR IN MY AIRBAG DID NOT EVEN DEPLOY. I'M LUCKY I'M STILL ALIVE. THE FENDERS RUBBING UP AGAINST MY TIRE. SPEED CONTROL IS WRONG. WHENEVER I'M GOING 55 MILES AN HOUR IT SAYS 57 ACTUALLY I DON'T REMEMBER THE CORRECT DATE. BUT I'M SURE IT SHOWS I KNOW IT WAS 2017. SOMEBODY RAN ME OFF THE ROAD. MY TRUCK HIT THE TREE AND MY AIRBAG DID NOT DEPLOY. I'M LUCKY IT DIDN'T I GUESS BECAUSE DON'T AIRBAGS HAVE METAL SHARDS IN THEM IS WHAT I WAS TOLD
#11287420 | WHEELS | | 1,850,000 miles Crash
MY SEAT BELT ON MY PASSENGER SIDE DOES NOT WORK HALF THE TIME. MY DOOR LOCKS DO NOT WORK RIGHT. I CAN'T GET MY WINDOW ON THE DRIVER SIDE TO GO UP AND DOWN. I HIT A TREE GOING 55 MILES AN HOUR IN MY AIRBAG DID NOT EVEN DEPLOY. I'M LUCKY I'M STILL ALIVE. THE FENDERS RUBBING UP AGAINST MY TIRE. SPEED CONTROL IS WRONG. WHENEVER I'M GOING 55 MILES AN HOUR IT SAYS 57 ACTUALLY I DON'T REMEMBER THE CORRECT DATE. BUT I'M SURE IT SHOWS I KNOW IT WAS 2017. SOMEBODY RAN ME OFF THE ROAD. MY TRUCK HIT THE TREE AND MY AIRBAG DID NOT DEPLOY. I'M LUCKY IT DIDN'T I GUESS BECAUSE DON'T AIRBAGS HAVE METAL SHARDS IN THEM IS WHAT I WAS TOLD

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Safety Rating for the 1998 FORD EXPLORER

NHTSA has not yet tested the 1998 FORD EXPLORER in its New Car Assessment Program.

Technical Service Bulletins for the 1998 FORD EXPLORER

Ford Motor Company has issued 48 technical service bulletins (TSBs) for the 1998 FORD EXPLORER. TSBs are notices sent by manufacturers to their dealers describing a known issue and the recommended repair procedure.

03251 — ELECTRICAL SYSTEM

DRIVEABILITY-MALFUNCTION INDICATOR LAMP (MIL) ILLUMINATED-DIAGNOSTIC TROUBLE CODES (DTC'S) P0420 AND/OR P0430. *MJ

17312 — ELECTRICAL SYSTEM

MALFUNCTION INDICATOR LAMP (MIL) ON WITH DIAGNOSTIC TROUBLE CODES P0420 AND/OR P0430. *TT

0285 — EQUIPMENT:APPLIANCE:AIR CONDITIONER

ON SOME VEHICLES, THE ELECTRONIC AUTOMATIC TEMPERATURE CONTROL (EATC) BLOWS COLD AIR FROM THE FLOOR DUCTS ON VEHICLES PRODUCED BEFORE 9/30/2000 ONLY. *TT

15040 — ENGINE AND ENGINE COOLING:ENGINE:GASOLINE

SOME EXPLORER / SPORT / SPORT TRAC EQUIPPED WITH A 4.0L SOHC ENGINE MAY EXHIBIT A START-UP NOISE CONDITION FROM THE LEFT FRONT OF THE ENGINE. *TT

13154 — UNKNOWN OR OTHER

SUBJECT REGARDING 4.0L ENGINE HOTLINE PHONE NUMBERS. *TT

8008 — POWER TRAIN:AUTOMATIC TRANSMISSION

BUZZING AND GRINDING NOTCHY NOISE WHEN SHIFTING(2-3 UPSHIFT).

7468 — POWER TRAIN:AUTOMATIC TRANSMISSION

SOME VEHICLES MAY EXHIBIT A VIBRATION / GROAN ON ACCELERATION OR TAKE OFF.

13482 — POWER TRAIN:AUTOMATIC TRANSMISSION

SOME VEHICLES MAY EXHIBIT A VIBRATION / GROAN ON ACCELERATION OR TAKE-OFF DUE TO THE REAR TRANSMISSION MOUNT BEING TWISTED AND ALLOWING A GROUND OUT CONDITION TO OCCUR. *TT

13504 — POWER TRAIN:AXLE ASSEMBLY:AXLE SHAFT:SEAL

CONCERNS WITH VEHICLES EXHIBITING AN OIL LEAK FROM THE FRONT AXLE PINION SEAL. ENGINEERING IS CURRENTLY ADDRESSING THIS ISSUE THROUGH THE HIGH MILAGE / TIME-IN-SERVICE CONCERN RESOLUTION PROCESS. *TT

99211 — STEERING:HYDRAULIC POWER ASSIST SYSTEM

EXHIBITING A GRUNTING NOISE HEARD FROM THE POWER STEERING SYSTEM DURING SLOW SPEED TURNING, OR WHILE STATIONARY WHEN TURNING TO THE LEFT OR COMING OFF THE STEERING STOPS. *TT

Showing 10 of 48 technical service bulletins.

NHTSA Investigations for the 1998 FORD EXPLORER

There are no NHTSA defect investigations on record for this vehicle.

Other Model Years of the FORD EXPLORER

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Other FORD Models

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