1997 Ford Explorer Review

The 1997 Ford Explorer is a midsize SUV that combines ruggedness with practicality. It was designed to offer reliable performance and versatility for both daily driving and off-road adventures.
Specifications
Vehicle Dimensions:
- Length: 176.0 inches (approximately 448 cm)
- Width: 71.6 inches (approximately 182 cm)
- Height: 70.6 inches (approximately 179 cm)
- Curb Weight: Approximately 3,700 to 4,000 pounds (approximately 1,678 – 1,814 kg)
- Wheelbase: 101.2 inches (approximately 257 cm)
- Wheel Size: 15 to 16 inches (approximately 38.1 – 40.6 cm)
Engine Options:
- 4.0-liter V6 engine (160 horsepower, 220 lb-ft torque)
- 4.0-liter SOHC V6 engine (205 horsepower, 250 lb-ft torque) – available on higher trims
Transmission Options:
- 5-speed manual transmission (on some trims)
- 4-speed automatic transmission
Fuel Efficiency:
Estimated at 14-18 miles per gallon (approximately 5.9 – 7.6 km/l) depending on engine and drive configuration
0 to 60 mph Acceleration:
Approximately 8.5-10.0 seconds depending on engine and configuration
Cargo Capacity:
34.8 cubic feet (approximately 985 liters) behind the second row, expandable to 85.2 cubic feet (approximately 2,411 liters) with the second row folded down
Tire Sizes:
- Standard Tire Size: 235/75R15
- Available Tire Size: 255/70R16 (on higher trims)
Interior Features:
- AM/FM radio with cassette player
- Available CD player
- Cloth or optional leather upholstery
- Manual air conditioning
- Power windows and locks (on some trims)
- Seating for up to five passengers
Safety Features:
- Standard safety features include anti-lock brakes and dual front airbags
- Available traction control (on some trims)
- Rearview mirror with integrated map lights
Notable Features:
Durable and versatile design suitable for a variety of conditions
Available advanced features for its time including CD player and leather upholstery
Spacious interior with significant cargo capacity
Maintenance:
- Oil Change: Recommended every 3,000-5,000 miles or 3-6 months, whichever comes first
- Brake Inspection: Recommended every 15,000-20,000 miles
- Tire Rotation: Recommended every 5,000-7,000 miles
- Air Filter Replacement: Recommended every 15,000-30,000 miles depending on driving conditions
- Transmission Fluid Change: Recommended every 30,000 miles
- Coolant Flush: Recommended every 60,000 miles or as specified in the ownerβs manual
Competitors from other manufacturers:
- Chevrolet Blazer
- Jeep Grand Cherokee
- GMC Jimmy
- Toyota 4Runner
- Nissan Pathfinder
We also have owner's manuals for other vehicle years:
- 2027 Ford Explorer
- 2026 Ford Explorer
- 2025 Ford Explorer
- 2024 Ford Explorer
- 2023 Ford Explorer
- 2022 Ford Explorer
- 2021 Ford Explorer
- 2020 Ford Explorer
- 2019 Ford Explorer
- 2018 Ford Explorer
General
| General | Details |
|---|---|
| Year | 1997 |
| Make | Ford |
| Model | Explorer |
| Language | English |
| Filetype | PDF (Download) |
| File size | MB |
Enthusiast and big cars lover!

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FAQ
Common reasons that the 1997 Ford Explorer will not start are a dead battery, a starter or alternator malfunction.
1) The simplest one can be seen on the windshield on the driver's side - at the very bottom.
2) The Vin number is also stamped in the front passenger floor under the trim.
These are the most common places where you can see the VIN code of a Ford. If you can't find the 1997 Ford Explorer VIN number, look in the owner's manual.
Every 1997 Ford Explorer requires maintenance at least once a year or approximately every 10,000 miles, you can find out exactly in the owner's manual for your car.
Your 1997 Ford Explorer should have tires replaced approximately every 4 years or approximately 30,000 miles, and it is recommended that tires be checked periodically for wear and damage.
Batteries wear out for many reasons, there is no ideal time frame, but on average, replace the battery in your 1997 Ford Explorer every 4 years.
Yes, of course you can do that! Click on the Download button in the menu above the user manual.
Yes, you can download it absolutely free in PDF format or print the necessary pages using the menu above the user manual.

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