2000 Ford Explorer Research & Reviews

Overview & Reviews

Average Score

3.83/5 Average
145 Total Reviews
This Year's Model Updates:

For the 2000 Ford Explorer, a color-keyed, two-spoke leather-wrapped steering wheel (with auxiliary audio, climate and speed control) is now standard on Eddie Bauer models. XLT Sport/Eddie Bauer/Limited models with 5.0-liter V8s receive a trailer-towing package as standard equipment. The XL is available only for fleet sales, and the XLS replaces the XL Appearance as the base retail model.

Pros:
  • A commanding view of the road, multiple engine choices, one of the most comfortable and commodious cabins in its class.
Cons:
  • Trucklike ride, poor gas mileage with V8 engine.

User Reviews:

Showing 71 through 80 of 145.00
  • An Owners Opinion - 2000 Ford Explorer
    By -

    I am 63, 250 lbs., for me the seating is comfortable but snug. The headroom is there, thats #1. I pull an 18 ft. runabout boat with ease. We load up for our trips to Mexico and the roof rack is a must. The car drives well and my fuel milage is 17.5 in town, 21 on the road, 6 cyl SOHC. This SUV fits well in the garage and is easy to park. If I wanted more out of this vehicle, I would have bought an Expidition. Im happy.

  • It fits in the garage - 2000 Ford Explorer
    By -

    Over all, it’s OK. The ride is choppy and rough and it averages 18mpg even with the best riding tires I can find. I would not recommend this vehicle for long cross country drives. The spark plug wires have been replaced every 30,000 miles due to heat damage. The brakes lasted 50,000 miles, the A/C lasted to 100,000 (4 YEARS). The engine drive seal failed and now leaks oil on to the manifold, leaving a wonderful smoke trail. The radio lights fade on and off at will and the front driver’s side door lock won’t unlock with the remote. Most of my driving is dry smooth Arizona highways with no rattling problems and a never used AWD and tow package.

  • Reliable inexpensive Ford Explorer XLT 4wd SUV - 2000 Ford Explorer
    By -

    I bought this Explorer in 2008 with 88,000 miles on the 4.0 motor. I bought it from a friend so I know the service was regularly done. I had a full 90,000 mile service to include replacing the coolant, transfer boxes and transmission oil/filter, brake pads, etc. Cost over $1,200 but it was obviously well worth it. I now have 188,000 miles and other than oil changes/tire rotations I have replaced the battery and a fuel pump. Thats it. The motor burns no oil, the AC works great, the 4WD and all the electronics still work great. The gas consumption leaves something to be desired but as this is my surf fishing and Lab riding vehicle I plan on keeping it a good while. I originally bought it because of the good price on it and to hold me over until I could afford a newer 4 Runner, of which Ive had two. It has been such a good value Im going to see just how far it will go. Im personally very pleased with this vehicle.

  • Not great pretty good though - 2000 Ford Explorer
    By -

    We are at the end of our lease. This truck has been as advertised, both good and bad. Its been reliable, its AWD has gotten me through a couple of snowstorms, and has ample space for our family of 4 plus dog. Were moving up to a minivan mainly for the extra passenger capacity. Although I cant complain about the Explorer in any specific area, if I could go back 5 years, I would NOT buy this vehicle again. Again, theres nothing really wrong with it, but there are many other vehicles that would have fit our lifestyle better at a much lower price. I think a car based SUV like the Escape would have been a better choice.

  • Satisfied - 2000 Ford Explorer
    By -

    This is my second Explorer. They have both been reliable. However, Ford dealerships havent provided good service. Not very good gas mileage for a relatively small SUV with a six cylinder engine.

  • Opinion of a Ford Explorer - 2000 Ford Explorer
    By -

    This Explorer has been one mechanical problem after another. I would never buy another one, the gas mileage is terrible. It rides like a tractor on a dirt road.

  • 2000 XLS after dealer helped with 99 - 2000 Ford Explorer
    By -

    I got this 2000 XLS after my almost loaded 99 XLT turned out that is almost needed a bright yellow paint coat (hint, hint). To save me a few bucks on an assisted buyback, I got a 2000 XLS rather than XLT. The only things I miss from the XLT are the cushier seats, overhead console, and the power of the SOHC engine (certainly not the problems that come with it). This ride has been pretty OK. Tranny needed to be replaced at 21000 miles, replaced rear wiper motor (who hasnt?). Also with a rattle in the door for 4 months now, dealer cant hear it (go figure?). Definitely buying an ESP as the first 2 years of ownership and the 99 did not inspire confidence.

  • Not great, but good. - 2000 Ford Explorer
    By -

    Has more of the redesigned 2001 features. Its basically a 2001 without the newer body style. The only thing it doesnt have is the SOHC 4.0l engine, it has the OHV 4.0l engine. The OHV is not bad for acceleration from a standstill, but at highway speeds you barely move. If you buy this year make sure it has a SOHC engine because some do and some dont, and most dealerships will sell both engines at the same price and thats a difference of 160 hp and 210 hp. No MAJOR problems but a lot of nuisances. The rear wiper works intermittently you have to get the slip yokes lubed ($50) or else it feels like the tranny drops. Not a bad SUV though...at least mine.

  • Ford Tough? - 2000 Ford Explorer
    By -

    This is a highway car not and off road one and both the front and rear end are bad, both front hub assembly, ball joints, transmission slipping between 1st and 2nd, the V6 engine is noisy, the O2 sensors had to be replaced as well as the intake gaskets for sucking air. Interior - The seats have no lower back support and the rear seat belt latches in the back seat keep anyone but a small child from seating in the center. Arm rest broke. Exterior - trim bad from factory and shows spots where it is snapped on.

  • Happy with My Eddie Bauer! - 2000 Ford Explorer
    By -

    I have owned this vehicle for 4 years and have had NO problems with it whatsoever. Despite the bad press, it holds the road well and it an excellent vehicle.

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