One problem related to speed sensor has been reported for the 1996 Ford Explorer. The most recently reported issues are listed below.
Safety recall 09s09 - scds (speed control deactivation switch) on Ford models made after 95 with a texas made deactivation switch that was made poorly. I purchased a 1996 Ford Explorer eddie bauer edition 4x4 truck in December of 2016, from a private party in nevada. The vehicle was purchased mainly so I could deliver as part of my job description and needed something with 4x4 since I live in snow. Did a test drive, everything seemed to work properly and drive nicely, drove it from reno, nv to portola, CA about 62 miles, everything still fine. The next day I got into the vehicle, was heading to the gas station when I realized the speedometer was not working properly, the arm went to 20mph and dropped to 0 and the vehicle began shifted bad from low to high gears on the automatic transmission. As I continued to drive, the rpm went high, little over 3rph and felt like the transmission was sticking over drive light flashes, then the check engine light. Did a code reader and said my seed sensor was no good. Replaced the vss, check engine light went off for about 15 miles, then same issue. I did a full time up, no change,did another reading, same code for speed sensor replaced again, same issue. Seen online I have a recall on the speed sensor and cruise control, made appointment with Ford after flexplate shredded, Ford sent me to a "friends" mechanic who refused to touch my truck who then sent me to another mechanic until I called Ford again who rescheduled me to come back a week later. I'm afraid to drive the car especially in and out of state due to this recall and the safety concerns that go with it. I'd like help on what I can do in this situation and be reimbursed for the time I haven't driven my vehicle or been able to perform my duties at work, and the money I've spent fixing the issue that shouldn't even exist.