Used 1991 Ford Explorer for Sale near California
2 results
Overview

The 1991 Ford Explorer was launched with great fanfare as the company's first entry into the then-new sport utility vehicle market. The Explorer took its name from a 1980s trimline of the popular Ford F-150 pickup; presumably, Ford hoped to capitalize with the F-150's popularity with the off-road set.
The Explorer's trim offerings shared names with those of the F-150 as well: the Explorer was offered in Sport, XL, XLT, and Eddie Bauer trims, with two-door and four-door setups and optional four-wheel drive. Under the hood, the Explorer boasted a 4.0 liter, 155-horsepower V-6 engine.
Alas, the first year of the Ford Explorer was cursed with some quality issues: although most of the 1991 Explorers have held up well through the year, a number of them came off the line with flaws in the transmission and/or chassis. Gas mileage is not the '91 Explorer's great selling point, either, with its 15 mpg city, 17 mpg highway.
If you need the size and durability, though, the roomy Ford Explorer may be the vehicle for you. One of the first SUVs to be broadly marketed in the US, the Explorer has a loyal following of devoted owners.
Relevant articles
The Best Used SUVs of 2026
Finding the right used SUV can be daunting, which is why we've gathered a comprehensive list featuring well-rounded, family-friendly options in several popular categories.

The Best Cars for Tall People in 2026
Searching for vehicles best suited for tall people? Keep reading to find out which cars, trucks, and SUVs best accommodate those with a higher stature, as recommended by the experts at CarGurus.

Front-Wheel Drive vs. All-Wheel Drive: Weighing the Pros and Cons
Which is best, front-wheel drive (FWD) or all-wheel drive (AWD)? Our in-depth guide runs through the pros and cons of each, to help you decide which is right for you.
4.2 Overall rating
Filter by rating
Anonymous
Reviewed a 1991 Ford 4 Dr XLT 4WD SUV on Jun 23, 2007
I've gone through several vehicles in my 35 years and the only vehicle that has proved to be reliable is my 1991 Ford Explorer XLT 4x4. No matter how abused or wrecked...it always manages to get me home. I LOVE THIS VEHICLE!!!
Anonymous
Reviewed a 1991 Ford 4 Dr XLT 4WD SUV on Dec 2, 2008
I bought this car in 1997 with just under 70,000 miles on it. I planned for it to be a 5-6 year run before buying another. After 9 years, this is still a great car. I consider replacing it every year, but it's low cost of operation and very few repairs (and minor ones at that) have been excellent. Now, with over 215,000 miles, it runs almost as well as it did at 70,000.
Dylan S
Reviewed a 1991 Ford Explorer on Sep 28, 2009
It was a fine automobile. My grandfather bought it brand new in 1990, he gave it to me when I graduated in 2001. In February of this year, I bought myself a new car and gave the old Explorer to my dad, and am happy to report to this day it is still running strong.
Anonymous
Reviewed a 1991 Ford 4 Dr XL SUV on Jun 18, 2008
I bought the 1991 Ford Explore as my first vehicle. Only paid under $1,000 for it and it runs like a dream. I was lucky to find it with less than 16,000 miles on it. Being parked for 6 years it had a few dents and needed a paint job. So far I have had no complaints. I have had no engine issues or even transmission issues.
1991 Ford Explorer Trims
| Trim type | MSRP |
|---|---|
| 4 Dr XL SUV | $15,881 |
1991 Ford Explorer Price Trends
CarGurus tracks the prices of millions of used car listings every year. See how the average price of 1991 Ford Explorer prices has changed over time.
See more price trends