1997 Ford Explorer XLT
VIN: 1FMDU35P7VUB38059 | 1997 | Ford Motor Company | LOUISVILLE, KENTUCKY, UNITED STATES (USA)
1997 Ford Explorer XLT — 5L 8 Cyl, AWD, See owners manual. Sport Utility Vehicle [SUV]/Multipurpose Vehicle [MPV].
F
35/100
Safety & Recall Score: High Risk
This score reflects NHTSA safety data only — recalls, complaints, and crash ratings. It does not include title status, accident history, or odometer records. Verify hidden history with VIN Pro Plus →
Composite rating based on recalls, complaints, crash ratings, and vehicle age.
⚠ 12 open recalls (very high)
⚠ 1981 owner complaints (high)
⚠ Not yet NHTSA crash-rated
⚠ 15+ year old vehicle
✓ VIN fully verified
Vehicle Report
Report
VIN 1FMDU35P7VUB38059 identifies a sport utility vehicle — the 1997 Ford Explorer XLT. This specific unit was assembled at the LOUISVILLE, KENTUCKY, UNITED STATES (USA) facility, one of Ford's North American production plants. It is equipped with AWD/All-Wheel Drive and a 5L 8 Cyl engine producing 211 hp.
This vehicle carries an unusually high 12 open NHTSA recalls. Affected systems include exterior lighting:headlights, vehicle speed control, exterior lighting. All recalls must be repaired by a Ford dealer at no charge to the owner. Contact a dealer with this VIN before finalizing any purchase. Verify current recall status at nhtsa.gov/recalls.
The EPA rates this vehicle at 18 MPG combined (15 city / 23 highway), which represents below-average for its class fuel economy. Annual fuel cost is estimated at $3400 at national average gas prices.
Based on vehicle class, trim, and U.S. market data, this 1997 Ford Explorer XLT falls in an estimated used-market range of $11,600–$16,700. The high recall count may suppress resale value — factor this into price negotiation. Verify actual market value with Kelley Blue Book or Edmunds using specific mileage and condition.
Important limitation: This free VIN report does not include odometer/mileage history, accident records, flood or fire damage, number of previous owners, or title/lien status. Get the full history with VIN Pro Plus for $4.99 — scroll down to unlock it. Use this report alongside a full history check, an independent pre-purchase inspection, and a NICB stolen vehicle check for the most complete picture before buying.
About the 1997 FORD Explorer
The Ford Explorer is one of America's best-selling midsize SUVs, in production since 1990. Known for its spacious three-row cabin, available 4WD, and up to 5,600 lbs towing capacity, it competes with the Chevrolet Traverse, Jeep Grand Cherokee, and Hyundai Palisade.
📊 View all 1997 Ford known problems & year comparisons →
VIN Decoded
VIN Verified- Official VIN decode record located
- Type: MULTIPURPOSE PASSENGER VEHICLE (MPV)
- Body: Sport Utility Vehicle [SUV]/Multipurpose Vehicle [MPV]
- Plant: LOUISVILLE, KENTUCKY, UNITED STATES (USA)
NHTSA Recalls
12 Open Recalls- DOPE, INC. IS RECALLING 42,540 COMBINATION CORNER AND BUMPER...
- FORD IS RECALLING MODEL YEARS 1995-2003 WINDSTAR, 2000-2003 EXCURSION...
- SABERSPORT IS RECALLING 16,270 COMBINATION CORNER AND BUMPER LAMP...
Owner Complaints
1981 filed with NHTSA- TL* THE CONTACT OWNS A 1997 FORD EXPLORER. THE...
- TL* THE CONTACT OWNS A 1997 FORD EXPLORER. THE...
Fuel Economy
18 MPG Combined- City: 15 MPG
- Hwy: 23 MPG
- Combined: 18 MPG
- Fuel: Gasoline
Estimated Market Value
Based on vehicle age, class, trim & U.S. market conditions
Market estimate
$11,600–$16,700
Based on vehicle class, age, trim, and U.S. market trends. Verify with Kelley Blue Book or Edmunds for mileage-adjusted value.
✅ Pre-Purchase Checklist
📋
Get a Vehicle History ReportUnlock accident history, title status & odometer records with VIN Pro Plus for $4.99 — scroll down to get it.
🔔
Verify All Recalls Are FixedVisit the Ford dealer with this VIN to confirm all 12 recall(s) are resolved.
🔒
NICB Stolen Vehicle CheckFree check at nicb.org to confirm no theft, salvage, or total-loss history.
💰
Negotiate Using This ReportUse the 12 open recall(s) as leverage for a lower price.
📝
Review Title & Lien StatusEnsure no outstanding liens before transfer. Your state DMV can verify title.
📚 Helpful Vehicle Resources
Technical Specifications
Vehicle Overview
VIN
1FMDU35P7VUB38059
Model Year
1997
Make
Ford
Model
Explorer
Trim
XLT
Series
Not available
Body Style
Sport Utility Vehicle [SUV]/Multipurpose Vehicle [MPV]
Vehicle Type
MULTIPURPOSE PASSENGER VEHICLE (MPV)
Doors
4
Seats
5-7
Seat Rows
2-3
Drive Type
AWD/All-Wheel Drive
Fuel Type
Gasoline
Transmission
See owners manual
Engine
5L 8 Cyl
Manufacturer
Ford Motor Company
Plant Location
LOUISVILLE, KENTUCKY, UNITED STATES (USA)
Country of Origin
UNITED STATES (USA)
VIN Breakdown
Position 1 — Country
1 → United States
Position 2 — Manufacturer
F → Ford Motor Company
Position 3 — Vehicle Type
M → MULTIPURPOSE PASSENGER VEHICLE (MPV)
Positions 4–8 — Descriptor
DU35P → Explorer XLT
Position 9 — Check Digit
7 → ✓ Valid
Position 10 — Model Year
V → 1997
Position 11 — Plant Code
U → LOUISVILLE, KENTUCKY, UNITED STATES (USA)
Positions 12–17 — Serial
B38059 → Production sequence
Engine & Powertrain
Engine Model
Not available
Engine Manufacturer
Ford
Cylinders
8 Cyl
Displacement
5 L
Displacement CC
4948.893328
Displacement CI
302
Engine Config
V-Shaped
Engine Cycles
Not available
Horsepower
211 hp
Torque
Not available
Valve Train
Not available
Fuel Injection
Not available
Cooling System
Not available
Engine Brake HP
Not available
Turbocharger
Not available
Supercharger
Not available
Transmission Style
Not available
Transmission Speeds
Not available
Drive Type
AWD/All-Wheel Drive
Electrification
Not available
Fuel Type Primary
Gasoline
Fuel Type Secondary
Not available
Battery Type
Not available
EV Drive Unit
Not available
Fuel Economy & Environmental Impact
Fuel Type
Gasoline
Secondary Fuel
Not available
Combined MPG
18 MPG
Combined MPGe
Not available
City MPG
15 MPG
Hwy MPG
23 MPG
Annual Fuel Cost
$3,400
5-Yr Fuel Cost
$17,000
GHG Score
Not available
Smog Rating
Not available
CO₂ Emissions
493.7 g/mi
Barrels/Year
16.53
Safety & Driver Assistance
ABS
Not available
ESC
Not available
Traction Control
Not available
TPMS
Not available
Forward Collision Warn
Not available
Lane Departure Warning
Not available
Lane Keep System
Not available
Blind Spot Monitoring
Not available
Blind Spot Intervention
Not available
Rear Cross Traffic Alert
Not available
Adaptive Cruise Control
Not available
Parking Assist
Not available
Dynamic Brake Support
Not available
Pedestrian AEB
Not available
Rear Auto Braking
Not available
Auto Reverse System
Not available
Daytime Running Lights
Not available
Adaptive Driving Beam
Not available
Keyless Ignition
Not available
Auto High Beams
Not available
Front Airbags
1st Row (Driver and Passenger)
Side Airbags
Unknown
Curtain Airbags
Unknown
Knee Airbags
Unknown
Seat Belt Type
Manual
Pretensioner
Not available
Brake System
Hydraulic
Steering Location
Not available
Vehicle Dimensions & Weight
Wheelbase
Not available
Ground Clearance
Not available
Vehicle Length
Not available
Vehicle Width
Not available
Vehicle Height
Not available
Curb Weight
Not available
Track Width Front
Not available
Track Width Rear
Not available
GVWR
Class 1D: 5,001 - 6,000 lb (2,268 - 2,722 kg)
Doors
4
Bed Length
Not available
Cab Type
Not available
Fuel Tank
Not available
0–60 mph
Not available
Towing & Utility
GVWR
Class 1D: 5,001 - 6,000 lb (2,268 - 2,722 kg)
Trailer Type
Not Applicable
Axles
Not available
Axle Config
Not available
Trailer Body
Not Applicable
Drive Type
AWD/All-Wheel Drive
Wheels & Tires
Front Tire Type
Not available
Rear Tire Type
Not available
Front Wheel Size
Not available
Rear Wheel Size
Not available
Spare Tire Type
Not available
Spare Tire Size
Not available
TPMS
Not available
Wheel Material
Not available
Manufacturing & Identity
Manufacturer
Ford Motor Company
Manufacturer ID
976
Make ID
460
Model ID
1800
Plant Company
Not available
Plant City
LOUISVILLE
Plant State
KENTUCKY
Plant Country
UNITED STATES (USA)
Plant ZIP
Not available
Dest. Market
Not available
Vehicle Descriptor
1FMDU35P*VU
GVWR
Class 1D: 5,001 - 6,000 lb (2,268 - 2,722 kg)
Recall & Safety Summary
Total Recalls
12
Recall Status
Active recalls found
Overall Risk Level
High Risk
ABS
Not available
ESC
Not available
Traction Control
Not available
Safety Ratings
Overall Rating
Not rated by NHTSA
Front Crash Rating
Not rated by NHTSA
Side Crash Rating
Not rated by NHTSA
Rollover Risk
Not rated by NHTSA
Safety Recalls
EXTERIOR LIGHTING:HEADLIGHTS
DOPE, INC. IS RECALLING 42,540 COMBINATION CORNER AND BUMPER LAMP ASSEMBLIES OF VARIOUS PART NUMBERS SOLD FOR USE AS AFTERMARKET EQUIPMENT FOR VARIOUS PASSENGER VEHICLES. THESE HEADLAMPS FAIL TO CONFORM TO THE REQUIREMENTS OF FEDERAL MOTOR VEHICLE SAFETY STANDARD NO....
Risk: DECREASED LIGHTING VISIBILITY MAY RESULT IN A VEHICLE CRASH.
Remedy: DOPE, INC. WILL NOTIFY OWNERS AND OFFER A FULL REFUND FOR THE NONCOMPLIANT COMBINATION LAMPS. THE SAFETY RECALL BEGAN ON JULY 28, 2009. OWNERS...
VEHICLE SPEED CONTROL
FORD IS RECALLING MODEL YEARS 1995-2003 WINDSTAR, 2000-2003 EXCURSION DIESEL, 1993-1997 AND 1999-2003 F-250 SD THROUGH F-550 SD DIESEL, 1992-2003 E-150 THROUGH E-550, 1995-2002 EXPLORER, 1997 AND 2002 MERCURY MOUNTAINEER, 1995-1997 AND 2001-2003 RANGER, AND 1994 F53 VEHICLES EQUIPPED WITH...
Risk: A VEHICLE FIRE COULD OCCUR WITH OR WITHOUT THE ENGINE RUNNING.
Remedy: FORD WILL NOTIFY OWNERS THAT DEALERS WILL INSTALL A FUSED WIRING HARNESS IN LINE WITH THE SCDS. ON 1999-2003 WINDSTAR VEHICLES WITH A LEAKING...
EXTERIOR LIGHTING
SABERSPORT IS RECALLING 16,270 COMBINATION CORNER AND BUMPER LAMP ASSEMBLIES OF VARIOUS PART NUMBERS SOLD FOR USE AS AFTERMARKET EQUIPMENT FOR VARIOUS PASSENGER VEHICLES. THESE HEADLAMPS FAIL TO CONFORM TO THE REQUIREMENTS OF FEDERAL MOTOR VEHICLE SAFETY STANDARD NO. 108,...
Risk: DECREASED LIGHTING VISIBILITY MAY RESULT IN A VEHICLE CRASH.
Remedy: SABERSPORT WILL NOTIFY OWNERS AND OFFER A FULL REFUND FOR THE NONCOMPLIANT COMBINATION LAMPS. THE SAFETY RECALL BEGAN ON MAY 11, 2009. OWNERS MAY...
EXTERIOR LIGHTING
VEHICLE DESCRIPTION: MINI VANS, LIGHT PICKUP TRUCKS, AND SPORT UTILITY VEHICLES. OFF LEASE CANADIAN VEHICLES EQUIPPED WITH DAYTIME RUNNING LIGHTS WHICH MEET CANADIAN REQUIREMENTS AND NOT THE PHOTOMETRIC REQUIREMENTS OF FMVSS 108, "LAMPS, REFLECTIVE DEVICES, AND ASSOCIATED EQUIPMENT." ACCORDING TO...
Risk: THE LIGHT GIVEN OFF FROM THE DAYTIME RUNNING LIGHTS IS BRIGHTER THAN ALLOWED BY U.S. STANDARDS.
Remedy: DEALERS WILL BE ADVISED TO DEACTIVATE THE RUNNING LIGHT FUNCTION AND TO COMPLETE ANY OUTSTANDING SAFETY RECALLS ON THESE VEHICLES.
EXTERIOR LIGHTING
CERTAIN PRO-A MOTORS CORNER LAMPS, TURN SIGNALS, AND HEADLIGHTS SOLD AS REPLACEMENT LAMPS FOR USE ON CERTAIN PASSENGER VEHICLES LISTED ABOVE. SOME COMBINATION LAMPS THAT ARE NOT EQUIPPED WITH AMBER SIDE REFLECTORS FAIL TO CONFORM TO FEDERAL MOTOR VEHICLE SAFETY...
Risk: WITHOUT THE AMBER REFLECTORS, THE VEHICLE WILL BE POORLY ILLUMINATED, POSSIBLY RESULTING IN A VEHICLE CRASH WITHOUT WARNING.
Remedy: PRO-A MOTORS WILL NOTIFY OWNERS AND OFFER TO REPURCHASE THE LAMPS. THE RECALL BEGAN ON APRIL 3, 2006. OWNERS MAY CONTACT PRO-A MOTORS AT...
SUSPENSION
VEHICLE DESCRIPTION: SPORT UTILITY VEHICLES. UNDER CERTAIN CONDITIONS, A FRONT SWAY BAR LINK CAN FRACTURE.
Risk: VEHICLE HANDLING COULD BE AFFECTED, INCREASING THE RISK OF A CRASH.
Remedy: DEALERS WILL REPLACE BOTH THE LEFT AND RIGHT FRONT SWAY BAR LINKS.
TIRES:TREAD/BELT
TIRE DESCRIPTION: FIRESTONE WILDERNESS AT, SIZE P235/75R15, PRODUCED AT THE DECATUR, ILLINOIS TIRE PLANT AND ALL FIRESTONE RADIAL ATX AND RADIAL ATX II TIRES, SIZE P235/75R15. OPERATION OF THESE TIRES AT LOW INFLATION PRESSURES, HIGH SPEED, AND IN HOT WEATHER,...
Risk: IF THE TREAD SEPARATES FROM THE TIRE, THE DRIVER CAN LOSE CONTROL OF THE VEHICLE, POSSIBLY RESULTING IN A CRASH CAUSING INJURY OR DEATH.
Remedy: THE REPLACEMENT/REIMBURSEMENT PROGRAM FOR THIS CAMPAIGN EXPIRED ON AUGUST 29, 2001. HOWEVER, CUSTOMERS SHOULD CONTACT FIRESTONE CUSTOMER SERVICE AT 1-800-465-1904 FOR POSSIBLE ASSISTANCE.
VEHICLE SPEED CONTROL
VEHICLE DESCRIPTION: SPORT UTILITY VEHICLES EQUIPPED WITH 4.0L SOHC ENGINES AND STILL RETAIN THE ORIGINAL THROTTLE BODY (PART NUMBERS 97JF-9E926AB OR 97JF-9E926-AC). SOME OF THE ORIGINAL THROTTLE BODIES INSTALLED ALLOWED A GAP BETWEEN THE PLATE AND BORE TO BE BUILT...
Risk: THIS COULD RESULT IN ENGINE SURGE WHEN THE ACCELERATOR PEDAL BREAKS FREE.
Remedy: DEALERS WILL REPLACE THE ORIGINAL THROTTLE BODIES.
TSBs are manufacturer repair instructions issued to dealerships. They are not safety recalls. If you're experiencing an issue, ask your dealer if a TSB applies.
No bulletins found
No technical service bulletin records returned for this vehicle.
This free report does not include accident records, mileage history, or title status. Get a full history from one of these trusted providers:
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Finance & Cost Estimates
🔧 Service & Parts for this 1997 Ford Explorer
$1,900/yr
Estimated Annual Insurance (national avg — varies by driver, location & coverage)
5-Year Cost of Ownership (estimate)
Insurance (5yr)
$9,500
Maintenance (5yr)
$7,500
5-Yr Fuel Cost (EPA)
$17,000
Depreciation (5yr est.)
$7,515
⛽ Fuel Cost Calculator
🏢 Find Ford Dealers
Get this VIN's recalls resolved, service appointments, and CPO program details from an authorized Ford dealer.
Find Ford Dealers →NICB VINCheck is a free federal database. Run a check to confirm this VIN has no theft, salvage, or insurance total-loss history.
Run Free NICB Check for 1FMDU35P7VUB38059 →State Emissions & Lemon Law
Emissions Testing & Lemon Law by State
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OBD-II Check Engine Code Lookup
🔧 Check Engine Light Code Lookup
Enter a code from your OBD-II scanner, pick from the dropdown, or tap a common code chip below.
Common:
Owner Complaints
TL* THE CONTACT OWNS A 1997 FORD EXPLORER. THE...
TL* THE CONTACT OWNS A 1997 FORD EXPLORER. THE CONTACT STATED WHILE DRIVING 50 MPH, THE VEHICLE STARTED TO SHAKE ABNORMALLY, THE CONTACT WAS UNABLE TO DRIVE IN...
TL* THE CONTACT OWNS A 1997 FORD EXPLORER. THE...
TL* THE CONTACT OWNS A 1997 FORD EXPLORER. THE CONTACT STATED THAT THE VEHICLE CAUGHT ON FIRE WHILE PARKED IN HIS DRIVEWAY. THE CONTACT STATED THAT AN INDEPENDENT...
MY LIGHTS DON'T WORK STABILIZING BAR IS BAD,SPEED CONTROL...
MY LIGHTS DON'T WORK STABILIZING BAR IS BAD,SPEED CONTROL DOSE NOT WORK SECURITY KEY CODE NOT WORKING,DOOR CONTROLS DO NOT WORK.WIPER WORK SOMETIMES.BALL JOINT ARE BAD, TIRES WEARING...
RUNNING ON THE HIGHWAY THE RIGHT AXLE OF THE...
RUNNING ON THE HIGHWAY THE RIGHT AXLE OF THE DIFFERENTIAL BROKEOFF AND THE WHEEL CAME OFF WITH THE BRAKE CALIPER AND BRAKE HOSE AND BECAUSE OF THIS CAUSE...
THE DRIVERS SIDE SEATBELT WILL NOT ENGAGE TO THE...
THE DRIVERS SIDE SEATBELT WILL NOT ENGAGE TO THE LOCK POSITION.
I RECENTLY FOUND OUT MY VEHICLE HAS AN OPEN...
I RECENTLY FOUND OUT MY VEHICLE HAS AN OPEN RECALL REGARDING THE POSSIBLE LEAKAGE OF THE SPEED CONTROL DEACTIVATION SWITCH, WHICH COULD CAUSE A FIRE WHETHER THE VEHICLE...
ON DECEMBER 23RD, 2016 I WAS COMING HOME FROM...
ON DECEMBER 23RD, 2016 I WAS COMING HOME FROM WORK AROUND 6:00 PM. MY CAR WAS A 1997 FORD EXPLORER EDDIE BAUER EDITION. I HAD JUST GOTTEN OFF...
DRIVER SIDE SEAT BELT BUCKLE WILL NO LONGER SECURELY...
DRIVER SIDE SEAT BELT BUCKLE WILL NO LONGER SECURELY LATCH. *TR
Showing 8 of 1981 complaints. View all on NHTSA →
Maintenance Schedule
Current
Oil & Filter Change
Every 7,500 mi
Ford recommended interval
Due Now
Air Filter (Engine)
Every 15,000–30,000 mi
Dirty filter reduces fuel economy by up to 10%
Due Now
Cabin Air Filter
Every 15,000–25,000 mi
Affects AC, heat, and air quality
Current
Tire Rotation
Every 5,000–7,500 mi
Extends tire life by 25–40%
Due Soon
Brake Inspection
Every 12 months or 15,000 mi
Brake pads typically last 30,000–70,000 mi depending on driving
Due Now
Spark Plugs
Every 30,000–100,000 mi
Copper plugs every 30k; iridium/platinum every 60–100k
Due Now
Coolant Flush
Every 30,000 mi or 5 years
Old coolant becomes acidic and damages the cooling system
Due Now
Transmission Fluid
Every 30,000–60,000 mi
Neglected fluid leads to expensive transmission repairs
Due Now
Brake Fluid Flush
Every 2 years
Brake fluid absorbs moisture, lowering boiling point
Due Now
Battery Test
Every 3–5 years
12V batteries typically last 3–5 years
Due Now
Drive Belt Inspection
Every 60,000–100,000 mi
Serpentine belt failure leaves you stranded
This schedule is a general reference based on make, model year, and powertrain. Always follow your owner's manual for exact intervals.
Additional Tools & Information
Estimated depreciation for this 1997 FORD Explorer based on vehicle class and age. Verify with KBB or Edmunds for mileage-adjusted value.
1997
$14,200
1998
$12,500
-12%
1999
$11,100
-22%
2000
$9,700
-32%
Estimates based on vehicle class averages. Actual values vary by mileage, condition, and location.
Estimated annual cost to own this vehicle at average U.S. driving conditions.
Insurance
$1,900/yr
22%
Maintenance
$1,500/yr
18%
Fuel/Energy
$3,400/yr
40%
Depreciation
$1,503/yr
18%
Registration
$250/yr
3%
Estimated Total Annual Cost
$8,553/yr
National averages. Registration varies by state. Does not include parking, tolls, or loan interest.
6.8
/ 10
Rank #13 overall
42 issues / 100 vehicles
Ford Reliability
Ford reliability is mixed. Trucks and V8 Mustangs score well; some EcoBoost engines and electronics have higher complaint rates.
Use this checklist to track which recalls have been resolved. All recall repairs are free at authorized dealerships.
11/05/2009
13/10/2009
07/04/2009
19/06/2000
23/03/2006
28/11/2000
21/08/2000
27/12/2000
Vehicles in a similar class and price range to the 1997 FORD Explorer:
Private Party
$10,200–$15,400
No warranty · Lower price · Inspect first
Dealer (Used)
$12,200–$18,400
Some warranty · Financing available
CPO / Certified
$12,500–$19,200
Full warranty · Inspected · Best protection
Negotiation tip:
This vehicle has 12 open recall(s). Use this as leverage — ask the seller to confirm all recalls are resolved or reduce the price accordingly. Unresolved recalls cost dealers time and money to fix.
Automated checks against common VIN fraud indicators. Always verify with a paid history report and independent inspection.
✓
Check digit (position 9) validates
✓
VIN is exactly 17 characters
✓
No invalid characters (I, O, Q not present)
✓
Year position (pos 10) matches decoded model year
✓
Manufacturer decodes to a known brand
✓
Not a repeated-character test/placeholder VIN
Manual checks to do in person: Compare the VIN on the dashboard (visible through windshield), driver door jamb sticker, engine block, and title — all must match exactly. A cloned or re-VINed vehicle will show inconsistencies.
⚠ Always check the tire placard on the driver door jamb for the exact manufacturer-specified PSI for your vehicle.
Front Tires
33 PSI
See door jamb
Rear Tires
33 PSI
See door jamb
Spare Tire
60 PSI
Check monthly
Rotation Pattern Guide
FWD: Front to rear straight, rear cross to front
RWD: Rear to front straight, front cross to rear
AWD/4WD: Full X-pattern every 5,000–7,500 mi
Staggered: Side-to-side only if non-directional tires
Recommended rotation interval: every 5,000–7,500 miles. Rotate with every other oil change for best results.
❄ Winter Prep
✓ Check antifreeze concentration (minimum -34°F protection)
✓ Test battery — cold temps reduce capacity 30–60%
✓ Verify tire tread depth (4/32" minimum for snow traction)
✓ Service AWD/4WD differential and transfer case fluids
✓ Replace wiper blades and refill washer fluid (-20°F rated)
✓ Test heater, front/rear defroster, and heated seats if equipped
✓ Inspect fuel lines and check for water in fuel system
☀ Summer Prep
✓ Check coolant level and test radiator cap pressure seal
✓ Inspect serpentine belt for cracking or glazing
✓ Test A/C system output and replace cabin air filter if needed
✓ Check tire pressure — heat increases PSI (recheck cold in a.m.)
✓ Inspect brake pads and rotors before summer road trips
✓ Check transmission fluid color and level
✓ Top off all fluids: brake, power steering, coolant, washer
Original Ford Factory Warranty
Basic / Bumper-to-Bumper
3yr/36k
Powertrain
5yr/60k
Corrosion / Rust
5yr/unlimited
⚠ At 29 years old, factory warranty coverage has likely expired on this vehicle. A third-party extended warranty may be worth considering.
Third-Party Extended Warranty Options
CARCHEX
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Endurance
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AUTOPOM!
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Month-to-month plans, high-mileage coverage.
Estimate total fuel cost and stops for any road trip in this 1997 FORD Explorer.
Steps to get the best price when selling this 1997 FORD Explorer:
📄 Service records
Buyers pay more for documented maintenance history. Even basic oil change receipts add value.
🔍 Resolve all recalls
Unresolved recalls suppress resale value and are easy objections for buyers. Fix them free at any dealership.
🚗 Professional detail
A full detail ($150–$300) typically returns $500–$1,500 in perceived value, especially on dark-colored vehicles.
📷 Photograph in good light
Listings with 20+ high-quality daylight photos get 3x more inquiries than listings with poor photos.
🗂 Vehicle history report link
Proactively share a VIN Pro Plus or Carfax report link to build instant buyer confidence.
🔍 Price using real comps
Search AutoTrader and CarGurus for same year/make/model/trim within 100 miles. Price within 5% of the median.
⚠ Fix open recalls first
This vehicle has 12 open recall(s). Resolving them before listing typically increases sale price by more than the time spent.
No model-specific issue notes in our database for this year. The 1981 NHTSA complaints filed provide the best available signal — review them in the Owner Complaints section above.
NHTSA offers free recall alerts by VIN. Sign up to be notified the moment a new recall is issued for this vehicle.
🔔 NHTSA SaferCar Alerts
Official government recall notifications. Free, direct from NHTSA. Covers safety recalls, investigations, and bulletins.
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VIN 1FMDU35P7VUB38059:
12 open recall(s) currently on file. Sign up to track when they are resolved.
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2nd largest auto insurer. Typically strong rates for clean driving records.
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Auto insurance + roadside assistance. Strong brand recognition.
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Largest overall insurer. Best for multi-policy bundling.
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Strong agent network. Good for accident forgiveness.
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Competitive rates with customizable coverage options.
Estimated national average for this vehicle: $1,900/year. Your actual rate depends on your driving record, location, age, and coverage level.
Frequently Asked Questions
What does VIN 1FMDU35P7VUB38059 decode to?
VIN 1FMDU35P7VUB38059 decodes to a 1997 FORD Explorer XLT, assembled in LOUISVILLE, KENTUCKY, UNITED STATES (USA).
How many recalls does this 1997 FORD Explorer have?
This 1997 FORD Explorer has 12 open recalls on record with NHTSA. Recalls are safety-related and should be resolved by a dealership at no charge to the owner.
Is it safe to buy a 1997 FORD Explorer with open recalls?
Open recalls don't necessarily mean the vehicle is unsafe to drive, but they should be addressed promptly. Contact a FORD dealer with this VIN to confirm which recalls have been completed and schedule any outstanding repairs — they are always free of charge.
What is the estimated value of this 1997 FORD Explorer?
Based on vehicle age, body type, trim level, and U.S. market data, this 1997 FORD Explorer XLT is estimated at $11,600–$16,700. Verify with Kelley Blue Book or Edmunds for a precise appraisal based on mileage and condition.
Is this VIN check really free?
Yes — the core VIN check on VinForFree is free with no signup required. All data is sourced from public records including NHTSA, the EPA, and official government databases.
What fuel economy does a 1997 FORD Explorer get?
According to EPA data, the 1997 FORD Explorer gets approximately 18 MPG combined (15 city / 23 highway). Estimated annual fuel cost is $3,400.
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