Hey guys hows it going? Im 17 years old and will be getting my license in a few months. Ive been thinking about a '98-'99 Explorer/ Mountaineer for my first car. Ive been learning how to drive on my moms 2009 Explorer, so I feel comfortable driving an SUV. I was wondering if anyone else thought one of these would be a good first car? The only thing Im worried about is gas mileage, but I guess thats something that Id have to deal with, with any SUV. And I know Explorers and Mountaineers are pretty much the same vehicle, but are there any aspects of one that would make it a better first car than the other? What do you all recommend?

Oh one more question, it seems like both of these cars are pretty reliable, but how reliable are they? My goal is to put some nice rims/wheels on the car, get a nice front bumper, upgrade the sound system, and put in subwoofers. All that will take time, and I want to make sure I get everything done before the car either dies, or I have to trade it in because its "on its last leg".
Thanks

 

we have a 96 and a 2002 EXp. older one has a 4 speed auto, new one is a 5 speed. You hear problems with trans, but i have had none. 96 has 150k and 2002 has over 100k. miles. Both have had problems with wheel bearing units. I have put fronts on the 96 and 1 F and 1R on the 2002. All in all i think they are good SUV. Cost a little more to run than a car. Dont expect no maint cost. You need to keep it serviced to get good life. Change all oils when you get it.

 

I don't think it's a horrible ride for a first one. Like Steve said, keep the service up on it and it should last you quite a while. You're obviously comfortable with an SUV driving your mom's around, so why not? Mine have served me well (I've owned 2) and the one, my current one, is on 113,000 miles and runs great.

 

Most trans problems are with the Gen I's (91-94).