1989 Ford Explorer problems

Common 1989 Ford Explorer problems

The Ford Explorer, first introduced in 1989, has been a popular choice for those seeking a sport utility vehicle that combines the maneuverability of a small car with the size and versatility of an SUV. However, some models, particularly the 1989 Ford Explorer, have been associated with certain common problems that have affected the driving experience for some owners.

• Parking Brake May Not Fully Engage: A faulty parking brake can be a significant safety concern, as it may not effectively prevent the vehicle from rolling away. If the parking brake does not fully engage, the car could move unexpectedly, potentially causing accidents or injuries.

• Hub Unit Bearing May Allow Wheel Detachment: This problem can lead to a detached wheel, which could quickly cause an accident. The hub unit bearing is responsible for securing the wheel to the vehicle, and if it fails, the wheel may become dislodged, posing a severe risk to the driver and other road users.

• Driver Seat Back Frame May Fail: The driver seat back frame is crucial for passenger safety, as it helps to restrain passengers during a crash. If the back of the seat fails to properly restrain passengers, it could increase the risk of injury in the event of an accident.

• Engine Block Heater May Overheat: An overheating engine block heater can increase the risk of a fire, which is a significant safety concern. This issue may be more prevalent in colder climates, where engine block heaters are commonly used to aid in engine starting and warmth during winter months.

• Fuel Tank Mounting Bolts May Be Loose: Loose fuel tank mounting bolts can increase the risk of a fire, as they may allow the fuel tank to move excessively, potentially causing it to contact other vehicle components or the ground. This issue is particularly concerning, as a fire in a vehicle can be a severe safety hazard.

• Loss of Power Assisted Steering: A lack of power assisted steering can make it difficult to control the vehicle, especially at low speeds or during parking maneuvers. This issue can lead to driver fatigue and increase the risk of accidents, particularly in heavy traffic or tight spaces.

• Shift Interlock Solenoid Problems: The shift interlock solenoid is responsible for ensuring that the vehicle cannot be shifted out of park unless the brakes are applied. If the shift interlock solenoid is not working properly, it may prevent the vehicle from being shifted out of park, or cause it to become stuck in neutral, which can be a significant inconvenience and safety concern.

• Transmission Slipping: Transmission slipping can occur due to various reasons, including a failed solenoid, difficulty with the torque converter, faulty clutch, low or burned transmission fluid, or worn-out transmission bands or gears. This issue can lead to interruptions in acceleration, difficulty shifting gears, failure or delay in reversing, high RPMs, a check engine light, and strange sounds during shifting. In some cases, transmission slipping can cause the vehicle to enter a limp mode, which significantly limits its performance and speed.

If you have experienced any of these problems with your Ford Explorer, it is essential to address them promptly to ensure the safety and reliability of your vehicle. Consulting with a qualified mechanic or automotive expert can help you diagnose and resolve these issues, ensuring that your Ford Explorer remains a safe and enjoyable vehicle to drive.

1989 Ford Explorer car problems categorized by type of issue

After analyzing all complaints sent to the NHTSA and researching popular Ford Explorer problems, we found that the most common problems with these 2023 model year vehicles are:

• Fuel system problems
• Gasoline problems

The graph below shows statistics for all 1989 Ford Explorer vehicle components and the number of complaints received.