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1998-2001 Ford Explorer XLT
Ford Explorer XLT
1995-2001 (Second Generation) · SUV
Rarity Score
2/10 - Very Common; millions were produced, though many are now entering scrapyards.
Spot Difficulty
1/10; still frequently seen as affordable used cars in rural and suburban areas of the United States.
Engine & Performance
Engine: 4.0L SOHC V6, ~210 hp and 240 lb-ft torque; or 5.0L Windsor V8, ~215 hp and 288 lb-ft torque
Transmission & Drivetrain: 5-speed automatic transmission, Rear-Wheel Drive (RWD) with optional Control Trac 4WD
Performance: 0-60 mph in approx. 9-10 seconds, top speed of ~106 mph, 14-19 MPG city/highway, curb weight ~4,000-4,300 lbs.
Exterior
Dark Green or Black body, 4-door SUV, factory alloy wheels, grey plastic body cladding, roof rails, side steps, and signature horizontal bar grille.
Interior Features
Tan or Grey cloth/leather interior, bench rear seating, cassette/CD player, power windows, and analog instrument cluster.
Condition Assessment
Fair; visible oxidation on trim, potentially yellowing headlight lenses, and signs of heavy use common for its age.
Condition Issues: Faded plastic trim, potential clear coat failure on the hood/roof, aged suspension, and typical rust on undercarriage components in wetter climates.
Estimated Mileage: 180,000 - 250,000 miles
Historical Significance
Crucial model that popularized the SUV as a primary family vehicle in America; famous/infamous for the Firestone tire controversy which changed automotive safety standards.
Notable Features
Split-opening rear tailgate (glass/hatch), Control Trac four-wheel-drive system, and keypad entry system on door.
Production Numbers
Over 3 million units of the second-generation Explorer were produced between 1995 and 2001.
Valuation
Estimated Market Value: $1,500 - $3,500
Auction Estimate: $500 - $2,000 (Non-collector status)
Maintenance Recommendations
Timing chain tensioner service (4.0L SOHC), transmission fluid flushes, ball joint inspection, and cooling system overhaul.
Fun Facts
This generation served as the basis for the iconic Jurassic Park tour vehicles (though those used the 1st-gen body style, the 2nd-gen carried the legacy). It was the best-selling SUV in the US during the late 90s. The 'Eddie Bauer' edition was one of the first major fashion-brand crossovers in automotive marketing.
Identified on: 6/13/2026
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