general problems of the 1997 Ford Explorer

Eight problems related to seats have been reported for the 1997 Ford Explorer. The most recently reported issues are listed below.

1 Seats problem

Failure Date: 03/01/2016

The drivers side seatbelt will not engage to the lock position.

2 Seats problem

Failure Date: 03/01/2011

The contact owns a 1997 Ford Explorer. The contact stated that the driver and passenger seat bolts fractured and caused the seats to separate from the frame. The bolts were replaced several times; however the failure was not corrected. The manufacturer advised that the vehicle was not included in NHTSA campaign id number 03v281000 (seats). The vehicle was not repaired. The failure mileage was 120,000 and the current mileage as 330,000.

3 Seats problem

Failure Date: 04/27/2002

When making a right turn driver's side seat leans from side to side. Took to Ford, and they welded driver's side seat. Consumer is asking for refund.

4 Seats problem

Failure Date: 09/25/2001

While stopped at a traffic light,vehicle was rear ended by another SUV going approximately 60mph. The back support for the drivers seat apparently broke as a result of the impact and went to a fully reclined position,providing no support. As a result, my wife sustained neck and lower back injuries (herniated disks) among other injuries. Have any other problems been reported regarding the seat failing to hold up and provide proper support during a severe rear end collision?.

5 Seats problem

Failure Date: 10/01/1998

Front seat track failed.

6 Seats problem

While driving and applying gas the driver's seat rocks back and forth. Also, when the brakes are applied the seat rocks forward. Dealer was contacted.

7 Seats problem

Flaw in seat cover.

8 Seats problem

Child got hand stuck in seat while playing with the control buttons, the child sustained injuries due to failure.


Other Seats related problems of the 1997 Ford Explorer



Safety Ratings of Explorer Cars
Fuel Economy of Explorer Vehicles
Explorer Service Bulletins
Explorer Safety Recalls
Explorer Defect Investigations