Three problems related to engine belts and pulleys have been reported for the 1996 Ford Explorer. The most recently reported issues are listed below.
While driving at any speed and without warning, the engine shut off, which caused the consumer to pull over. Dealer had been notified. The lower engine locked, the power steering leaked at the rack assembly, the belt tensioner was faulty and there was a whining noise from the power steering when turning left, right or at stand still.
While driving at slow speeds the serpintine belt slipped, causing loss of power steering, resulting in an accident.
Fan belt failed.