How many miles can a 1998 Ford Explorer last?
A well-maintained 1998 Ford Explorer can commonly reach about 200,000 miles, with some examples surpassing 300,000 miles. The actual figure depends on upkeep, driving conditions, and part replacements over the vehicle’s life.
What determines its longevity
Several factors determine how far a 1998 Explorer can go. The following list highlights the most influential elements that affect lifespan.
- Maintenance history and service records
- Engine and transmission wear, including timely repairs
- Rust and structural integrity, especially on the frame and undercarriage
- Climate and driving conditions (long highway trips vs. short city runs, salt exposure)
- Quality and compatibility of replacement parts
- Owner driving habits and frequency of major repairs
In summary, longevity hinges on a combination of care, parts quality, and how the truck has been used over its life.
Typical mileage benchmarks for the 1998 Explorer
Owners and repair data generally place the Explorer’s durable threshold around certain mileages, though individual results vary widely.
- 200,000 miles is a common milestone for a well-maintained example.
- 250,000–300,000 miles is achievable with diligent maintenance and timely repairs.
- Lifetime mileage can be lower for units with inconsistent maintenance, severe rust, or catastrophic failures in critical systems.
Overall, reaching high mileage is feasible, but depends on ongoing preventative care and addressing issues promptly as they arise.
Maintenance practices to maximize longevity
Adhering to a rigorous maintenance routine can significantly improve a 1998 Explorer’s chances of lasting longer than average.
- Follow the factory service schedule for oil changes, typically every 3,000–5,000 miles depending on oil type and driving conditions
- Keep the cooling system in good shape to prevent overheating (coolant flushes, hoses, radiator, thermostat)
- Maintain transmission and differential fluids, and address shifting issues promptly
- Address rust early; treat undercarriage and frame areas prone to corrosion
- Repair or replace worn ignition, fuel, and exhaust components to maintain engine health
With disciplined maintenance, the odds of reaching higher mileage improve substantially.
What to check when buying a used 1998 Explorer
For buyers aiming for a long-lasting vehicle, careful evaluation before purchase matters as much as maintenance after purchase.
- Inspect for rust on the frame, underbody, and rocker panels
- Review maintenance records for consistent service intervals
- Test the transmission for smooth shifting and absence of slipping
- Check the cooling system for leaks and proper operation of the radiator and water pump
- Assess engine health with compression tests if possible and look for signs of oil leaks
A thorough inspection can help identify a unit with the potential for a longer, trouble-free life.
Common wear and aging considerations
As the Explorer ages, certain components are more likely to show wear. Being aware of these can help manage expectations and maintenance planning.
- Transmission wear and potential servicing needs at higher mileages
- Rust and corrosion on bodywork and undercarriage
- Suspension components, bushings, and bearings that may require replacement
- Electrical gremlins in dashboards, lights, or sensors
- Cooling system wear, including potential head gasket concerns in older engines
Despite these common issues, proactive maintenance can delay or mitigate many aging-related problems.
Summary
In short: a 1998 Ford Explorer can last a long time with proper care. A solid rule of thumb is that 200,000 miles is a realistic expectation for a well-maintained unit, with many reaching 250,000–300,000 miles or more. The key to maximizing longevity lies in consistent maintenance, attention to rust prevention, and timely replacement of worn parts. When shopping for a used model, prioritize documented service history and signs of durable upkeep to gauge the vehicle’s long-term potential.
How long does a 1998 Ford Explorer last?
With proper maintenance and care, a Ford Explorer can last up to 200,000 miles or more, with many owners reporting exceptional durability.
Is a 1998 Ford Explorer a good car?
A 1998 Ford Explorer can be a good car if properly maintained, with many owners praising its comfort, reliability, and 4WD system. However, its poor fuel economy, average handling, and potential for some electrical and mechanical issues, such as timing chain problems with certain V6 engines, are significant drawbacks. It is generally considered a decent vehicle with average repair costs, but its age means its condition will heavily depend on its maintenance history.
Pros
- Reliability: Many owners report above-average reliability, especially with the 5.0L V8 engine.
- Comfort: It is considered a comfortable vehicle with a roomy and well-padded interior.
- 4WD: The 4WD system is highly praised for its performance in snow and off-roading.
- Value: The Explorer has historically retained its value well.
Cons
- Fuel Economy: The vehicle has poor gas mileage.
- Handling: Handling can be sloppy, especially in corners.
- Engine/Transmission Issues: Certain V6 engines may have expensive timing chain problems, and some owners have reported issues with transmissions.
- Electrical Components: Some users mention that the quality of electrical components is poor.
What to look for
- V6 SOHC vs. DOHC: Avoid the DOHC V6 engine due to potential timing chain problems; the SOHC V6 is generally more reliable.
- Maintenance History: A well-maintained vehicle will be much more dependable than one that has been neglected.
- Rust: Inspect for rust, especially if the vehicle has been driven in areas with harsh winters.
- Common Repairs: Be prepared for potential repairs such as the power steering pump, brakes, and A/C compressor, which are common issues reported by owners.
What is high mileage for a Ford Explorer?
between 200,000 and 250,000 miles
High Mileage for a Ford Explorer
For a Ford Explorer, high mileage is typically considered to be between 200,000 and 250,000 miles. However, with proper care, many Explorers can surpass this range. Key factors include driving habits and regular maintenance.
Can a Ford last 300,000 miles?
With proper care, a Ford truck can last 200,000 to 300,000 miles or more. That's equal to 15 to 20 years of regular use. Some high-mileage Ford trucks have even passed the 400,000-mile mark, especially those with consistent maintenance and responsible driving.
