1998 Chevrolet Explorer
Only 5 complaints on file — too few for a fair verdict.
This verdict reflects complaint volume compared to this model's typical year. Recalls and safety issues below apply regardless of the verdict — always check them.
Only 5 complaints on file — too few for a fair verdict. The data below is complete but unranked.
COMPLAINTS PER YEAR
View as data table
| Year | Complaints |
|---|---|
| 1995 | 5 |
| 1996 | 7 |
| 1997 | 9 |
| 1998 | 5 |
| 1999 | 5 |
| 2000 | 2 |
| 2002 | 7 |
KNOWN PROBLEM AREAS
Only 5 complaints on file for this model year -- too few to rank by share. Raw counts only, below.
1 of 5 total reports mentions: visibility.
1 of 5 total reports mentions: visibility.
Show complaint excerpts
REAR WINDOW WIPER FAILED. YH
NHTSA ODI report, 19990921
1 of 5 total reports mentions: vehicle speed control.
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EA 9900, GAS PEDAL STICKS, CONSUMER MUST SURGE THE VEHICLE TO MAKE IT MOVE FOWARD. *AK
NHTSA ODI report, 19990329
1 of 5 total reports mentions: seats.
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WHILE DRIVING/PARKING DRIVER'S SEAT RECLINED BACKWARDS. DEALERSHIP WAS NOTIFIED, BUT DID NOT RESOLVE THE PROBLEM. *AK
NHTSA ODI report, 20040622
1 of 5 total reports mentions: power train.
Show complaint excerpts
VEHICLE ROLLS FORWARDS OR BACKWARDS WITH THE SLIGHTEST DECLINE OR UPHILL SITUATION.
NHTSA ODI report, 19980918
SAFETY TIMELINE
No recalls on file for this model year.
BUY-SMART CHECKLIST
1998 Chevrolet Explorer — pre-purchase inspection
- Test/inspect for visibility issues (1 reports on file for this year).
- Test/inspect for visibility issues (1 reports on file for this year).
- Test/inspect for vehicle speed control issues (1 reports on file for this year).
FAQ
Is the 1998 Chevrolet Explorer reliable?
There isn't enough NHTSA complaint data on file yet to give this model year a verdict.
What are the most common problems with the 1998 Chevrolet Explorer?
The most-reported component is visibility:rearview mirrors/devices, accounting for 20% of complaints on file.
How many recalls does the 1998 Chevrolet Explorer have?
No recalls are on file for this model year.
Data updated 2026-07-11 · Complaints are unverified owner reports filed with NHTSA, not independently verified defects. Methodology.