ford explorer

They definately have a bad reputation.....nicknamed the Exploder due to tyre failures and roll overs in the US. Lots of safety recalls. Very thirsty. They don't cost much though and they are ok looking. It seems you get to spend most of your money after you buy them :-) Actual owners may tell a different story..... I am only speaking from what I have heard.

I bought a cheap vehicle once and lived to regret the decision, I suggest you Look for a quality vehicle with low K's even if it's a bit older.

The term "exploder" was put forth due to the original 96 model being factory fitted with a batch of faulty Firestone tyres in the USA/Canada ,, the major problem in Australia is /was that the 4.0lt motor coupled to the automatic gearbox used 4 cam chains , 2 at the front easy enough to replace when needed but the 2 at the rear required a splitting of motor from g/box ,, an expensive proposition round the 250,000klm mark ,,,, the Explorer was at one stage the biggest selling 4x4 outselling Toyota/Nissan in ALL markets bar Australia ,, Exploding TYRES NOT Engines aka early 80series tojo or 3lt Nissans.

Ricky Jackaroos are similar in price to explorers and have a very good reputation for reliabilty. But the petrol v6s are the pick.
Cheers Pete