Todd - 
I bought a 97 Explorer XLT in late 97.  Brand new, 0 miles. 
The poor quality workmanship as well as poor engine performance reminded me 
why I should have stayed with GM products, but, live and learn. 

1200 miles after the warranty expired, guess what! had to replace the 
manifold gasket.  At the same time, the driver side backrest reclining lever 
broke off in my hand.  The dealer did not stand by any of these items. In 
addition, the plastic cover where the jack is concealed never stays on and 
neither do the door latch covers in the rear doors. 

Not to long ago, I had a flat tire for the first time and when I went to 
change it, found out that the jack was missing a part, (Thanks AAA)  Went to 
the dealer and they told me to but a new jack. 

To date, I have not been able to get a decent wheel alignment on the vehicle, 
(Don't know why), but I have gone through tires every 20 to 40 thousand 
miles.  Lots of vibration at high speed and tire wear is exorbitant.  Because 
of its high mileage, due to my business travels, trading the vehicle at this 
point is a losing option, so I'm sort of stuck with it until it's paid off. 

Where can I check if any of my vehicle's defects are under recall?  Thanks 

Lou