Seven problems related to headlights have been reported for the 1997 Ford Explorer. The most recently reported issues are listed below.
The 1997 Ford Explorer 4d eddie bauer edition has a computer controlled message center. The message center controls among other things the vehicle headlights and fog lamps. The light out module (lom) also known as the indicator warning system control is located inside the message center console and runs "hot" in temperature because of a flawed design. The current design leads to internal electrical system failures that result in a loss of the low beam headlights. The system is designed to notify the driver of a headlight or lamp failure, etc, however, the failure of the notification system causes the low beam headlights (and fog lamps as they are on the same circuit) to fail. On June 25, 2014, the second failure of the system occurred (we are the original owners and have previously replaced the indicator warning system control or light out module (lom) at great expense). Ford motor company must recall the 1997 Ford Explorer eddie bauer edition and any other like designed Ford product with a light out module (lom) that fails leaving the driver without low beams and no means of fixing the said defect without an authorized Ford dealer's repair (at great expense) that is life threatening in the interim. Such repairs are not possible if on an extended trip in rural settings. The absence of low beam headlights after sunset and before sunrise is life threatening and unacceptable to the occupants of a 1997 Ford Explorer as well as to pedestrians and other vehicles who cannot see the Ford Explorer operating without headlights. The corrective solution needs a venting system such that the message center does not continually melt the indicator warning system control or light out module (lom). Thank you for your service and for your prompt attention to this defect requiring a corrective recall.
The headlights/turn signal failsedto work intermittently. Dealership was notified, but did not resolve the problem.
The headlights went out while I was passing another vehicle on an icy road at night between driggs, idaho and victor, idaho. I clicked the dimmer when they went out, and tried to put the dimmer lever into any other position and the lights would not come on. I held the dimmer switch up against the steering wheel in the "bright" flasher position and they came on, but blinding oncoming traffic so that they flashed their lights at me. I drove this way to my home about seven more miles. This is very dangerous! broadway Ford (66 mi from our home) charged us $134. 41 to replace the multi-function switch which they think caused the problem, and I understand Ford rangers have been recalled for this problem.
On the first occasion, the headlights would go out when the turn signal was turned on. The vehicle was out of warranty(over 36,000 miles) so we had our regular mechanic repair, but we asked to keep the replaced part. The most recent problem (only 11/2 years& approx 8000 miles later)was that the windshield wipers would not work. This time we took it to a Ford dealer. The service manager mentioned that there had been a problem with this part and that Ford had made an upgrade, but no recall had been enacted. Again we asked to keep the replaced part (both are Ford parts#13k359). If there are any questions regarding this claim, please leave message on home phone, or contact diane rutt between the hours of 9-5 at 717 336-7534.
Consumer stated while traveling without any indication vehicle head light went out. Dealer has been contacted. Please provide further information. Ts.
Driver believes that the headlights are aimed too high on all Ford trucks causing blindness problems for other drivers.
Design of headlights causing irritation and poor visibility to other driver's, required adjustment down.