Are Explorers Problem Prone?

I'm seriously considering buying a used truck and I have narrowed it down to 3 Explorers; 95, 97, 98: all 4 door V6 4x4's. Are they problematic or can I count on it to be resonably reliable? I'm just about to make a final decision so I need info ASAP. :confused:

Are Ford Explorers problematic? The answer is a definite YES. I have a 1999 Explorer XLS with 65,000 miles and I've experienced problems with this truck that should not be occurring for a truck that is babied such as this one. I've replaced the front bearings and a host of other little things. One day I decided to go to Google and type in the search phrase "Ford Explorer Problems" I was surprised as to the number of hit returned. One site in particular had a chronol0gical listing of the problems (sorry I can't remember the url). One reoccuring theme, windshield wipers and brakes. The only saving grace about owning a Ford Explorer is that most and I stress most of the parts are fairly inexpensive and if you are mechanically inclined you could save a bunch of money doing the work yourself. I'm extremely disappointed in the product Ford has produced and I'm just shocked that the Explorer has been the number 1 selling SUV in America for 13 years in a row. :nono:

I just sold my 96. Had it from 25k to 115k. The only real problem I had was a new tranny at 112k and a transfer case. Those repairs should be expected. Of course there was a sensor or two on the way but, other than that I miss my 96 and would love too have it back instead of my 02 POS I bought.

One day I decided to go to Google and type in the search phrase "Ford Explorer Problems" I was surprised as to the number of hit returned.

Funny thing.... I just did that too and here are the results:

"Ford Explorer Problems": 285 hits
"Dodge Dakota Problems": 353
"Chevy Blazer Problems": 276 (includes "Chevrolet" and "Trailblazer" permutations)
"Dodge Durango Problems": 196
"Ford Ranger Problems": 123
"Honda CRV Problems": 100

So, what is your point?