Most common 1997 Chevrolet Explorer problems
Share of the 9 complaints; one complaint can involve more than one system. "~" is the median mileage when the problem started.
Chevrolet Explorer complaints by model year
Best Explorer years: 1995, 1998, 1999. Compare all years →
What 1997 Chevrolet Explorer owners say
Lights
My wife and I were driving on I 75 in florida going about 60mph on easter Sunday 2000(1997 Ford Explorer xlt). Without any warning the back passenger side tire blew out. The car pulled suddenly to the right, I managed to gain control of the vehical and stop it in the middle of the road. The tire did $2800($500 deductable) in damage to the vehical. The tred peeled off of the tire and bent the rear fender under the car. It also broke the rear tail light and scratched the paint. A claim was filed with nationwide ins. And with Ford motor credit.( dot number: tire size: 235/75 )
Frequently asked questions
Is the 1997 Chevrolet Explorer a good car?
Based on 9 owner complaints filed with NHTSA, the 1997 Explorer rates average: 1.6× as many complaints as a typical year of the Explorer at the same age. Complaint counts don't account for sales volume or individual maintenance, so have any used car inspected before buying.
What is the most common problem with the 1997 Chevrolet Explorer?
The lights — 3 complaints, 33% of all complaints for this model year, most often about turn signal. Next are the engine & cooling (2) and transmission & drivetrain (2).
How many recalls does the 1997 Chevrolet Explorer have?
NHTSA lists no recalls for the 1997 Chevrolet Explorer. You can still confirm with your VIN using our VIN recall check.
What are the best and worst years of the Chevrolet Explorer?
The best years by complaints, compared at the same age, are 1995, 1998 and 1999. See the full Chevrolet Explorer years comparison.
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.