Two problems related to engine failure have been reported for the 1997 Ford Explorer. The most recently reported issues are listed below.
30 mph, camshaft breaks. Dealer says new engine required, $4500 est. Ford contacted and offers $2000 assistance. This should be a safety recall and Ford should be forced to pay for all damages b/c the forceful stop caused by engine failure could have caused serious injury to passengers or other vehicle due to skidding. This is not normal wear on a vehicle, is obviosly a Ford defect.
Ford acknowldges problems in their service bulletins relating to this particular part. The service alerts warn of catastrophic engine failure which is what happened to my vehicle. This "defect" cost me $2178. 68. Ford refuses to cover any of these costs.