Hello, should I keep my Explorer?

[99EBEXP]

Hello all, just found this site recently and wanted to say hello as well as ask a question.

I have a 99 Eddie Bauer 4x4, with only ~55k miles on it. This truck has the 6cyl SOHC engine, so I get around 18-21 mpg with it which isn't too bad or good.

It's run pretty well, except for some minor problems.

Here are some issues:

1. The radio display goes blank. I found a thread here as well as links on how to fix it... This is not a big deal to me at all.

2. It is a bit hard to start at times when the SUV sits idle. The engine cranks but it doesn't start at the initial try. I found a thread here that suggests the fuel line pressure may be the issue, and to crank the key to start for 2 seconds 3-4 times. I'll try this suggestion, and just see if the problem gets bad enough to take it to the dealer for diagnosis and service.

3. I also witnessed a whisp of smoke coming from the steering wheel via the emergency lights button. Google led me this place and I saw the instructions on how to replace the Multi-Function Switch/Control if I needed to. This saved me a trip to the dealer to have them open it up to diagnose. Since the MFS works well for now I'll keep an eye on it and change it myself when it starts going out...

4. Somehow the driver side visor attachment broke and is loose. The dealer says I need to replace the whole visor assembly to fix this. It's not a big deal so I'll just let it be.

Besides these minor issues, the SUV is running great, looks like new. I also had the cruise control recall fix done recently to avoid future fires on the SUV.

Based on your experience with the Explorer, would you recommend I keep the SUV for a long time, or should I look to exchange / sell it because it could develop a lot more problems with more mileage?

Thanks in advance for your advice/ tips.

 

[garminaddict]

I think selling an SUV in the current market is going to be a mistake. You probably won't get as much as you want, especially with the current problems


Really, you only have 2 serious issues, and you already know how to fix one of them.

I'd work on diagnosing the start issue. Seems like a waste to get rid of it now with such low miles.

 

[Blacksheep Josh]

The best way to get through the gas crunch right now is:
1. Own your car. Meaning no payments and no leases. Own it out right.
2. Only have basic insurance. Don't get top of the line, the chance of having an accident is small.

But to answer your question, I think you should keep it. It sounds like a great candidate for some modifications that'll get your MPG up. Do a search for Aldive's quest for 30, he also has a 99 with the SOHC engine so you can learn a lot by reading his threads. Gas'll come down eventually, it has to... the market can't sustain itself like this long term. Wait it out, it's what I'm doing.

 

[Jaywalker]

I'm keeping mine, partly as an economic issue - it's paid for and reliable - and partly as a testbed. If it does break, I have a car that isn't worth much to practice my basic wrench-turning skills. If I muck it up, I haven't lost much.

Mine's worth maybe $3000 - I can buy a lot of gas and repairs for the $20,000 difference in value between mine and a new car/truck.

 

[vanguy67]

I agree with everyone else...KEEP HER!! Here's why:

You KNOW what problems she has. You might by another vehicle with more (or more $$) problems if you buy used. If you buy NEW..., two words: payments and depreciation. You can buy a LOT of fuel for the depreciation in the first 2 years. Be smart! Keep her, fix her pains, and enjoy what you have while socking cash away. PRETEND you have a car payment and put THAT money away every month and don't touch it. Nothing feels better than buying a nearly new ride for CASH and having no payments!

 

[BrooklynBay]

Welcome to this forum! I don't see any major reason to get rid of it. It might last you longer than your previous vehicle (whatever that was).

 

[99EBEXP]

Thank you all for your feedback.

I have loved owning this SUV, and it is in like new condition. I would lose a ton of money since I didn't drive it much.

So my mind is made up I will keep her for at least several more years and drive her.

 

[99EBEXP]

Hi Everyone, I can't believe it's been over two years since I posted this thread.

It's a couple of years later, and I'm still pondering the question. I recently replaced a stuck thermostat, fuel pump, replaced fuel filter, did a coolant flush, and did a fuel and air induction system cleaning. All to the tune of $1600, at the dealer.

But my Explorer still looks brand new, and the mechanics at the dealer tell me that other than the issues I had, the car runs like new and they don't foresee any other major issues that will cause me headaches in the next few years.

So it looks like now that I've sunk this money into the Explorer, I'll keep it at least for another 2-3 or maybe 5 years, before I think about replacing it.

Here's knocking on wood the Explorer keeps on running without issues!!!

 

[eoliva]

Oh yes definitely. Especially after dumping $1600 in maintenance into it that you wouldn't get back when you go to sell it. Sounds like a nice Ex.

 

[gtyates]

I agree as well. Keep it!!! With it being paid for, every time you wash it you will think you have a "new" vehicle. One maintenance suggestion is if you have never replaced the shocks and the sway bar bushings/end links I would suggest doing that. You will be pleasantly surprised at the ride/handling improvement!!

 

[99EBEXP]

Thanks again guys. I'm hoping she'll run good for a very long time.

 

[explorerguy89]

she sounds like she wants to run so keep till she doesnt wanna anymore =p