Are 1999 Ford Explorers reliable?

Not particularly by modern standards: reliability is mixed and depends heavily on maintenance; with careful upkeep it can be a dependable daily driver, but expect age-related repairs and higher ownership costs.

The 1999 Ford Explorer sits in Ford’s late-1990s generation of body-on-frame SUVs. These vehicles are known for rugged capability and simple mechanical layouts, but they are now aging machines with wear patterns that vary widely based on how they were used and maintained. This article examines what reliability looks like for a 1999 Explorer today, highlights common failure points, suggests maintenance that can extend life, and offers buying guidance for prospective buyers or current owners.

Common problems and aging components

Below are the most commonly reported issues for 1999 Explorers, based on owner histories, reliability surveys, and maintenance data.

Powertrain and transmission

• Automatic transmission wear and occasional failures, especially with high mileage or heavy use.


• Rough shifting, slipping, or harsh engagement when transmission fluid is degraded or leaks occur.


• Cooling system strain that can contribute to overheating if not maintained.

Powertrain reliability on these older SUVs tends to hinge on regular fluid maintenance and timely component replacement. A well-maintained drivetrain can still perform reliably, but neglect accelerates wear.

Frame, suspension, and electrical systems

• Rust on frame rails or underbody, particularly in climates using road salt or with prior water intrusion.


• Worn suspension components (ball joints, tie rods, control arm bushings) leading to clunky ride or misalignment.


• Electrical gremlins such as failing window regulators, corroded connectors, or aging sensors.

These issues reflect the age of the platform. The severity depends on climate exposure, maintenance history, and how much the vehicle has carried heavy loads or off-road use.

In aggregate, these reliability signals point to an aging SUV whose condition is strongly dependent on history and upkeep. Modern expectations for reliability aren’t matched, but with careful care some examples remain serviceable for daily driving or light-duty use.

Maintenance that helps reliability

Proactive maintenance can meaningfully improve the reliability and lifespan of a 1999 Explorer. The following steps are commonly recommended by independent mechanics and owners alike.

1. Follow the owner's manual maintenance schedule for oil changes, coolant flushes, and transmission service; use quality fluids and parts.


2. Inspect and address the cooling system regularly (radiator, hoses, water pump, thermostat) to reduce overheating risk.


3. Guard against rust: treat underbody and frame areas, repair rust spots promptly, and protect components in salted or humid environments.


4. Monitor and replace worn suspension components (ball joints, tie rods, bushings) and perform wheel alignments after major work.


5. Keep the braking system in top condition (pads, rotors, calipers, fluid) and check 4WD drivetrain components if equipped (driveshaft U-joints, differential fluids).


6. Regularly inspect the electrical system (battery, alternator, wiring, and sensors) to prevent unexpected failures.


7. Maintain thorough service records and use a trusted shop familiar with older Ford SUVs to diagnose intermittent issues early.

These maintenance practices won’t erase age-related wear, but they can reduce unexpected breakdowns and help preserve resale value.

Buying a used 1999 Explorer: reliability checks

If you’re considering a 1999 Explorer, targeted checks can help you gauge reliability and future maintenance costs before purchase.

• Obtain a full vehicle history report for accidents, title status, and prior repairs; look for consistent maintenance records.


• Have a trusted mechanic perform a thorough inspection focusing on the transmission, cooling system, rust-prone underbody areas, and suspension.


• Test drive to assess shifting quality, alignment, braking responsiveness, and 4WD operation if present.


• Check for signs of frame or underbody rust, prior repairs, and the condition of hoses, belts, and cooling system components.


• Assess interior electricals: power windows, lights, and dashboard gauges for reliability.


• Be prepared for higher ownership costs relative to newer compact SUVs, especially for major components that wear with age.

With careful inspection and realistic maintenance expectations, a 1999 Explorer can serve as a low-cost used SUV for basic transport, though reliability will not match newer vehicles.

Summary

In short, the 1999 Ford Explorer’s reliability is variable and heavily dependent on how well it has been maintained and in what climate it has lived. Common age-related issues include transmission wear, rust, suspension wear, and electrical quirks. Regular, proactive maintenance can extend service life and reduce surprise breakdowns, but buyers and owners should budget for repairs and expect higher maintenance costs compared to modern SUVs. For those who prioritize rugged capability over cutting-edge reliability, a well-kept 1999 Explorer can still be a practical choice; for others, it may be wiser to consider newer used SUVs with longer manufacturer-backed reliability records.

Which years of Ford Explorer are most reliable?

The most reliable Ford Explorer years include the 2007–2009, 2010–2012, 2019, and 2023 models. These years are considered reliable due to significant engineering improvements and their performance over time. In contrast, the 2002–2006 model years are generally considered the least reliable due to frequent transmission, engine, and electrical problems. 
Recommended reliable years

• 2007–2009: Frequently cited as the most reliable, particularly the 2007 and 2009 models. 
• 2010–2012: These models saw significant redesigns and improvements in reliability, with the 2010 model year being a redesign year. 
• 2019: This year represents the end of a generation and is often praised for its reliability. 
• 2023: A strong choice in the current generation, known for its modern features. 

Years to avoid

• 2002–2006: These models are widely considered the least reliable due to common issues with the transmission, engine, and electrical systems. 
• Models from before the third generation: Prior to 2003, reliability and owner satisfaction scores were often mediocre, with a high number of recalls. 

How long will a 1999 Ford Explorer last?

80,000 miles to 200,000 miles
According to MotorBiscuit.com, the average Ford Explorer can last anywhere from 80,000 miles to 200,000 miles.

How much is a 1999 Ford Explorer worth today?

A 1999 Ford Explorer is worth anywhere from $500 to $7,000 or more, depending on its condition, mileage, and specific trim level. On average, a 1999 Ford Explorer can be valued around $1,400 for trade-in or resale, but this can vary significantly. 
Value-based on condition and mileage

• Trade-in value: Approximately $500-$1,000. 
• Resale value: Varies widely based on condition, with a current average resale value of about $1,400. 
• For sale listings: Prices range from under $1,000 for vehicles with high mileage and issues to nearly $7,000 or more for models in excellent condition. 

Factors that affect the value

• Condition: A clean title and a vehicle that has been well-maintained will be worth more. 
• Mileage: Lower mileage is always better for value. 
• Trim level: Different trims, such as XLT, Eddie Bauer, or Limited, can have different values. 
• History: Accidents, salvage titles, and the number of previous owners will impact the value negatively. 
• Location: Prices can vary depending on the local market and what buyers are willing to pay.

What year to stay away from Ford Explorer?

You should generally stay away from 2002–2006 Ford Explorers due to widespread transmission failures and other issues like engine and suspension problems. Other years with significant problems include 2016, with a large recall involving faulty fuel tanks and suspension components, and 2020, which had many recalls and customer complaints.
 
2002–2006 models 

• These models are widely considered the least reliable, with a major reputation for transmission failures that can be very expensive to fix. 
• Owners also reported engine problems (like timing chain and head gasket issues), suspension wear, and electrical malfunctions. 

Other years to approach with caution

• 2016: This year had a recall involving faulty suspension components and a fuel tank. 
• 2020: This model year had a high number of recalls and complaints, including issues with the transmission, power loss, and a potential rollaway defect. 
• 2008: This model year is also listed by some sources as a year to avoid due to low owner satisfaction scores and recalls.