Complaints by model year
| Year | Complaints | vs. typical* | Recalls | Top problem | Verdict |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 2002 | 7 | 1.3× | — | Airbag | Average |
| 1999 | 5 | −22% | — | Headlight | Average |
| 1998 | 5 | −22% | — | Window & Wiper | Average |
| 1997 | 9 | 1.6× | — | Headlight | Average |
| 1996 | 7 | 1.3× | — | Acceleration | Average |
| 1995 | 5 | −33% | — | Body | Average |
* Complaints compared with the median Explorer year at the same age, so new and old years are judged fairly. How this works.
Most common Chevrolet Explorer problems
Frequently asked questions
What years of the Chevrolet Explorer should you avoid?
None of the Chevrolet Explorer years has an unusually high number of complaints compared with the others at the same age.
What is the best year for the Chevrolet Explorer?
1995 has the fewest complaints compared with other Explorer years at the same age, followed by 1998 and 1999. Newer years can look better simply because fewer complaints have come in yet, so we compare like with like.
What are the most common Chevrolet Explorer problems?
Across all years, owners report the most problems with the speed control & acceleration (6), transmission & drivetrain (5) and wheels & tires (4). Acceleration complaints peak in the 1996 model year.
How many recalls has the Chevrolet Explorer had?
0 recalls across 1995–2002.
Source: U.S. National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) — owner complaints through October 20, 2026, recalls and defect investigations; fuel economy from the EPA. Complaints are unverified reports and are not proof of a defect. How we rate model years.