1999 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
- 5
- Recalls
- 0
- Investigations
- 0
- Top problem
- —
Too few to rank
None on file
None on file
Not enough data
Complaints per year
1999: 5 complaints
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.
Steering
1 of 5 total reports mentions: steering.
Show complaint excerpts
While driving, smoke started to emit from the steering wheel area.
NHTSA ODI report, 2003-08-08
Service brakes
1 of 5 total reports mentions: service brakes, most commonly citing hydraulic.
Exterior lighting
1 of 5 total reports mentions: exterior lighting, most commonly citing headlights.
Show complaint excerpts
In general, headlights are aimed too high. I aim mine lower to illuminate the roadway but not the trees. The standard for headlight aim needs to be revised to lower substantially. In addition, the advent of fog lamps is a dissappointment.
NHTSA ODI report, 2001-01-17
Electrical system
1 of 5 total reports mentions: electrical system, most commonly citing fuses and circuit breakers.
Show complaint excerpts
At 5MPH put on turn signal and steering column started smoking. This could have cause a fire. Cause unknown. Dealer notified.
NHTSA ODI report, 2002-07-11
Air bags
1 of 5 total reports mentions: air bags, most commonly citing on-off switch assembly.
Show complaint excerpts
Consumer states; while driving the vehicle, air bag light intermittently flash on and off. Dealer was notified, and fixed couple time an the problem still reocccuring. Feel free to provide any further information.
NHTSA ODI report, 2002-09-24
Safety timeline
No recalls on file for this model year.
0 recalls · 0 investigations · oldest first
To check one car, enter its VIN on the NHTSA recall page. Check a VIN →
Buy-smart checklist
1999 Chevrolet Explorer — pre-purchase inspection
Inspect
- Steering: 1 report on file for this year.
- Service brakes: 1 report on file for this year.
- Exterior lighting: 1 report on file for this year.
FAQ
- Is the 1999 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 1999 Chevrolet Explorer?
- The most-reported component is steering, accounting for 20% of complaints on file.
- How many recalls does the 1999 Chevrolet Explorer have?
- No recalls are on file for this model year.
Data updated 2026-11-01 · Complaints are unverified owner reports filed with NHTSA, not independently verified defects. Methodology.