Four problems related to front suspension wheel bearing have been reported for the 1998 Ford Explorer. The most recently reported issues are listed below.
Failure of front wheel bearing hub assembly. Wheel broke loose leaving vehicle undrivable. Wheel bearing hub assembly had to be replaced.
While driving on a dirt road right front tire got sucked into car. Vehicle swerved, and hit a tree and exploded. Vehicle occupants were able to exit from vehicle.
Wheel bearing failure.
While driving the front wheels make an high pitch noise that gets louder the faster consumer drives the vehicle. The dealer has been contacted.