Ford Explorer sport trac problems
The Ford Explorer Sport Trac (also shortened to Ford Sport Trac) is a pickup truck that was manufactured and marketed by Ford Motor Company for the North American market. The first mid-sized pickup truck produced by Ford, the Sport Trac was marketed from the 2001 to the 2010 model years (skipping the 2006 model year). Sized between the Ranger (whose crew cab variants were sold outside of North America) and the F-150, the Sport Trac largely competed against crew-cab variants of the midsize Chevrolet Colorado/GMC Canyon, Dodge Dakota, Nissan Frontier, and Toyota Tacoma.
Produced over two generations, the Ford Explorer Sport Trac shared its chassis and much of its body from the Ford Explorer SUV (with the pickup truck bed designed specifically for the model line). All production was sourced from the Louisville Assembly Plant in Louisville, Kentucky (taking the place of the Ford Ranger).
As Ford developed the fifth-generation Ford Explorer as a unibody crossover for the 2011 model year, the Sport Trac was phased out of the model line, with production ending in October 2010. Closely matching the Sport Trac in size, the fourth-generation Ford Ranger serves the same market function in its SuperCrew four-door crew cab configuration.
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Ford Explorer sport trac model years
Common Ford Explorer sport trac problems
The Ford Explorer Sport Trac is a popular pickup truck that has been on the market for many years. However, like any vehicle, it has its fair share of common problems that have been reported by owners.
One of the most common issues with the Ford Explorer Sport Trac is engine troubles. These problems were most prevalent in the 2001, 2005, and 2007 models. Specific engine problems include broken timing chain adjusters, a constant check engine light on, and chirping/rubber belt noise. These issues can be dangerous and costly to repair, so it is best to avoid these models if you want a reliable used car.
Another common problem with the Ford Explorer Sport Trac is transmission failure. This issue was most commonly reported in the 2002 and 2007 models. Transmission failure can be a significant inconvenience and can lead to expensive bills. Some of the symptoms of transmission failure include difficult shifting, transmission failure, and slipping transmission. If you want to avoid transmission issues, it is best to steer clear of the 2002 and 2007 models.
Electrical troubles are also a common problem with the Ford Explorer Sport Trac. These issues were most prevalent in the 2004 model. Some of the most common electrical troubles include haywire gauges, inaccurate fuel gauges, and a car that dies while driving. While these issues are not as expensive to repair as engine or transmission problems, they can still be an inconvenience.
In addition to these common problems, there are a few other potential issues with the Explorer Sport Trac that are worth knowing about. For example, some owners have reported that the head restraints were moving backward during a crash. This is a safety issue that can be addressed by fully adjusting the head restraint before operating the vehicle and ensuring that it is as high as the driver's head. The 2001 to 2005 models were most riddled with a leaking coolant problem due to the thermostat housing. Drivers reported that the coolant leaked into the ground, giving off a sweet smell. If you are buying a Sport Trac equipped with a 4.0-liter engine, you have to be on your guard as they are also prone to having coolant leaks.
Based on complaints and reports, the worst Ford Explorer Sport Trac years are 2001 and 2007. These models had the most complaints and were rated the least reliable. The 2001 model had 337 complaints, most of which were centered on engine and transmission issues. The 2007 model had 205 complaints and issues with coolant leakage, overheating caused by a radiator leak, a broken heater blend door, wheel bearing failure, rough idling, stalling, and a cracked intake manifold, among others.
In conclusion, if you are considering purchasing a Ford Explorer Sport Trac, it is essential to be aware of these common problems. While the vehicle has many positive attributes, it is crucial to choose a good model year to ensure that you get the most value for your money. Avoiding the 2001 and 2007 models, as well as being aware of potential engine, transmission, and electrical issues, can help you make an informed decision and avoid costly repairs down the line.
What are the issues with Ford Sport Trac?
Engine problems came to life most often with the 2001 model, 2005 model, and 2007 Ford Explorer Sport Trac model. Consumers found the average cost for the vehicle repairs involving the engine to be far above the overall cost of the used model. Some of the specific engine problems include: Broken timing chain adjusters.
How many miles can a Ford Explorer Sport Trac last?
According to MotorBiscuit.com, the average Ford Explorer can last anywhere from 80,000 miles to 200,000 miles. SUV owners looking to surpass 200,000 miles will need to provide their vehicle with the proper care. This range could mean your vehicle lasts anywhere from 10 to 20 years.
Are Ford Explorer Sport Trac reliable?
According to repairpal.com, the Ford Explorer Sport Trac scores 3. ⁄5, placing it 21st out of 32 across all car brands. It's towards the end of the pack. It's generally reliable, but there is always a chance you will see severe issues that will cost a bit to repair.
Why did Ford discontinue the Sport Trac?
Due to slowing sales, the Ford Explorer Sport Trac was discontinued after the 2010 model year.
Percentage distribution of complaints by Ford Explorer sport trac years
We have researched Ford problems and analysed all the complaints filed against Ford Explorer sport trac cars and compiled the top 5 most problematic Ford Explorer sport trac model years:
- Ford Explorer sport trac 2002
- Ford Explorer sport trac 2004
- Ford Explorer sport trac 2003
- Ford Explorer sport trac 2005
- Ford Explorer sport trac 2007
Below you can see the percentage distribution of known problems by Ford Explorer sport trac model years.
Distribution of the number of complaints by Ford Explorer sport trac years
We've also compiled a chart for you with the number of complaints about Volkswagen Jetta cars of certain model years:
Ford Explorer sport trac car problems categorized by type of issue
After analysing all complaints related to Ford Explorer sport trac , it was concluded that the most common issues with these cars are:
- Power train problems
- Structure problems
- Suspension problems
- Engine and engine cooling problems
- Electrical system problems
The graph below shows statistics for all Ford Explorer sport trac vehicle components and the number of complaints received.
Distribution of the number of complaints where the accident occurred by Explorer sport trac model years
A total of 345 complaints were registered in which the accident occurred. In the graph you can see the distribution of the number of complaints by model year.
Distribution of the number of complaints with fire by Explorer sport trac model years
There were a total of 118 complaints that resulted in a fire. In the graph you can see the distribution of the number of complaints by model year.
Distribution of the number of complaints with injuries by Explorer sport trac model years
There were a total of 413 complaints that resulted in a injuries. In the graph you can see the distribution of the number of complaints by model year.
Distribution of the number of complaints with deaths by Explorer sport trac model years
There were a total of 10 complaints that resulted in a death. In the graph you can see the distribution of the number of complaints by model year.
The NHTSA has received 7062 complaints about various vehicle components related to the Ford Explorer sport trac . Below are the 25 most recent complaints reported for Ford Explorer sport trac vehicles.
Latest 25 complaints
Ford Explorer sport trac 2007
- Date Of Incident: 2024-04-12
- Date Complaint: 2024-10-09
- VIN: 1FMEU31867U
- Components: ELECTRICAL SYSTEM
- Summary: Tire pressure monitoring system will incorrectly display tire sensor fault after driving over 55mph for approximately 15 miles After repeated repair attempts, Ford dealer has not been able to fix it and the TPMS is in constant alert with message Tire Monitor Fault. Dealer states that Ford no longer supports this government mandated safety feature.
Ford Explorer sport trac 2002
- Date Of Incident: 2024-06-14
- Date Complaint: 2024-06-14
- VIN: 1FMYU60E02U
- Components: AIR BAGS
- Summary: The contact owns a 2002 Ford Explorer. The contact stated that while her fiancé was driving 45 MPH, the driver’s side and passenger’s side air bags inadvertently deployed without an impact or a crash, causing the contact’s fiancé to swerve and drive down into a ditch. No warning lights were illuminated. The front bumper, windshield, and passenger’s side taillight were cracked. No injuries were sustained. A Police report was not filed. The vehicle was not diagnosed or repaired by an independent mechanic or dealer. The manufacturer was not made aware of the failure. The failure mileage was 118,583.
Ford Explorer sport trac 2004
- Date Of Incident: 2024-06-05
- Date Complaint: 2024-06-05
- Number Of Injuries: 1
- VIN: 1FMDU77K64U
- Components: AIR BAGS
- Summary: All four side curtain airbags deployed while I was driving my car in a parking lot. There was no collision and no reason whatsoever for the airbags to deploy. The airbags in the dash did not deploy. The airbag hit me in the side of the head and shrapnel from the airbag, hit me in the face and eyes and knocked me sideways toward the passenger seat. I was completely stunned and had piercing pain throughout my head and neck. I was able to pull into a parking spot and call police dispatch, and get the car towed. The car will be inspected tomorrow by the insurance company, but because there was no reason for the airbags to deploy, this could be a major problem! Imagine if I was driving on the freeway or in another situation and the airbags just deployed for no reason with no warning. Please take immediate action to get these unsafe airbags off the road. The car will be inspected by the insurance company in the morning and the service provider in the following days. If you would like those reports, I will be happy to send them to you.
Ford Explorer sport trac 2004
- Date Of Incident: 2024-05-08
- Date Complaint: 2024-05-28
- VIN: 1FMZU74W84Z
- Components: SERVICE BRAKES
- Summary: on [XXX] brought to local shop on power steering leak. Week before, Paid $50 for inspection. on [XXX] appointment was line and replaced. But tech said get pass brake line was rotted and was bad leak of brake fluid. On [XXX] my wife's Explorer was reinspected and rear driver side brake copper line also reported rotted after paying $539.95 for power steering low pressure and brake line. Wife's Eddie Bauer 2004 v8 was reported to FORD Motor Co. Case# [XXX] defective copper brake lines on suv. No good will offered no warrantee fue to latent defective brake line copper tubing coming from ABS modular. ABS LIGHT COMES ON AT TIMES. INFORMATION REDACTED PURSUANT TO THE FREEDOM OF INFORMATION ACT (FOIA), 5 U.S.C. 552(B)(6)
Ford Explorer sport trac 2010
- Date Of Incident: 2024-04-15
- Date Complaint: 2024-04-20
- VIN: 1FMEU3BE8AU
- Components: ENGINE
- Summary: My vehicle's engine has on a number of occasions simply quit running. The engine has died while underway, and also when resuming from a stop. It will or has to this point cranked without problems each time this has happened. I've just been fortunate it hasn't quit while I'm in a driving situation that involves another vehicle in the position to crash into me as I'm restarting the engine. There is not a particular situation I can point to where it does this more. The engine has less than 120K miles and maintence is routine. OBD by certified mechanics has not shown any defective readings. I've also check on-line and found it's not just my vehicle, but others in different years are doing the same thing. There's nothing on the Ford website that addresses this issue.
Ford Explorer sport trac 2005
- Date Of Incident: 2024-02-21
- Date Complaint: 2024-02-21
- VIN: 1FMZU62K95U
- Components: ENGINE
- Summary: The contact owns a 2005 Ford Explorer. The contact stated that while starting the vehicle, the vehicle independently jerked forward. Additionally, the check engine warning light illuminated. The vehicle was not diagnosed or repaired by an independent mechanic or dealer. The manufacturer was not made aware of the failure. The failure mileage was approximately 179,000.
Ford Explorer sport trac 2004
- Date Of Incident: 2024-02-08
- Date Complaint: 2024-02-09
- VIN: 1FMZU72K84Z
- Components: FUEL/PROPULSION SYSTEM
- Summary: I need a new gas tank for my vehicle and Ford stopped making the gas tank for my vehicle. That is a very big safety issue. I called Ford and they were helping to find one from junkyard's I don't want one from a junkyard that I have to repair. I asked for Ford to make a gas tank or pay for them to have mine fixed right at a Ford dealership, no help. That's a big safety problem. Ford provided the contacts phone number to the junkyards but the contact doesn't want the gas tank from a junkyard who probably put holes in them to drain the gasoline out of the tank.
Ford Explorer sport trac 2010
- Date Of Incident: 2023-12-30
- Date Complaint: 2024-01-08
- VIN: 1FMEU5D89AU
- Components: POWER TRAIN
- Summary: The key gets stuck in the ignition when gear selector is placed in park. This issue is due to the Gear Shift Assembly - Ford (9L2Z-7210-BB) malfunctioning.
Ford Explorer sport trac 2002
- Date Of Incident: 2023-11-23
- Date Complaint: 2023-11-30
- VIN: 1FMZU74W42Z
- Components: ENGINE
- Summary: The contact owns a 2002 Ford Explorer. The contact stated while driving 45 MPH, the vehicle shut off. The contact was able to coast off the freeway. There were no warning lights illuminated. The contact called an independent mechanic, but the mechanic declined to service the vehicle. The local dealer was not contacted. The vehicle was not diagnosed or repaired. The manufacturer was notified about the failure and opened a case. The approximate failure mileage was 88,000.
Ford Explorer sport trac 2005
- Date Of Incident: 2023-07-04
- Date Complaint: 2023-10-08
- Number Of Injuries: 2
- Crash: 1
- VIN: 1FMZU77K35U
- Components: AIR BAGS
- Summary: I got into an accident where I hit a semi head on and at 40 mph and the airbags never deployed. I got hurt and may seek a lawyer.
Ford Explorer sport trac 2002
- Date Of Incident: 2023-06-01
- Date Complaint: 2023-07-31
- VIN: 1FMZU77E32U
- Components: VEHICLE SPEED CONTROL
- Summary: The contact owns a 2002 Ford Explorer Sport Trac. The contact stated that after parking the vehicle, the following day it was discovered that the cruise control switch located on the steering wheel had overheated and melted. The cause of the failure was not yet determined. The manufacturer was notified of the failure and the contact was informed that the VIN was not included in NHTSA Campaign Number: 09V399000 (Vehicle Speed Control). The contact stated that the vehicle had experienced the failure listed in the recall. The local dealer was not contacted. The failure mileage was 120,000.
Ford Explorer sport trac 2004
- Date Of Incident: 2023-07-16
- Date Complaint: 2023-07-19
- Fire: 1
- VIN: 1FMZU72E54Z
- Components: FUEL/PROPULSION SYSTEM
- Summary: Smoke for a good 5 mins under the hood oil leeking
Ford Explorer sport trac 2008
- Date Of Incident: 2023-05-07
- Date Complaint: 2023-05-10
- VIN: 1FMEU51E08U
- Components: VEHICLE SPEED CONTROL
- Summary: The contact owns a 2008 Ford Explorer Sport Trac. The contact stated that on three occasions while the vehicle was in drive but stationary, the brake pedal was depressed, and the vehicle accelerated unintendedly. The vehicle was not diagnosed or repaired. The manufacturer was not notified of the failure. The failure mileage was 130,018.
Ford Explorer sport trac 2004
- Date Of Incident: 2023-01-19
- Date Complaint: 2023-04-22
- VIN: 1FMZU62K14U
- Components: STRUCTURE,ENGINE,FUEL/PROPULSION SYSTEM
- Summary: Back windows fell off track and windows fell down, cannot roll them up. AC and Heater broke and won't work at all. Fuel system is too lean. Transmission is going out Timing Chain and tensioners making loud knocking noise. Burning oil.
Ford Explorer sport trac 2005
- Date Of Incident: 2022-01-12
- Date Complaint: 2023-01-12
- Components: ENGINE
- Summary: The contact owns a 2005 Ford Explorer. The contact stated while driving at an undisclosed speed, the vehicle was making an abnormal clunking sound and shaking. The check engine warning light illuminated. The vehicle was taken to an independent mechanic and the contact was informed that the timing chain was fractured, and a plastic piece had detached. The local dealer was not contacted. The vehicle was not diagnosed or repaired. The manufacturer was not contacted. The approximate failure mileage was 130,000. The VIN was not available.
Latest 5 recalls Ford Explorer sport trac
The National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) has issued 18 recalls for different components of the Ford Explorer sport trac.You can explore the year of the Volkswagen Jetta you are interested in by selecting it from the list.
- Model: Ford Explorer sport trac 2010
- Report Received Date: 2010-04-20
- Manufacturer: FORD MOTOR COMPANY
- Components: SEATS:FRONT ASSEMBLY:RECLINER
- Summary: FORD IS RECALLING CERTAIN MODEL YEAR 2010 FUSION, EXPLORER, EXPLORER SPORT TRAC, AND MERCURY MILAN AND MOUNTAINEER VEHICLES MANUFACTURED BETWEEN DECEMBER 15, 2009 THROUGH FEBRUARY 3, 2010 EQUIPPED WITH FRONT SEAT MANUAL RECLINERS. THESE VEHICLES FAIL TO COMPLY WITH THE REQUIREMENTS OF FEDERAL MOTOR VEHICLE SAFETY STANDARD NO. 202, "HEAD RESTRAINT." THE RECLINER GEAR PLATE TEETH MAY BE OUT OF DIMENSION SPECIFICATION WHICH COULD RESULT IN LIMITED PAWL TO GEAR PLATE TOOTH ENGAGEMENT.
- Consequence: IN THE EVENT OF A CRASH, THE SEATBACK AND HEAD RESTRAINT MAY MOVE REARWARD, INCREASING THE RISK OF INJURY.
- Remedy: DEALERS WILL REPLACE THE MANUAL RECLINERS FOR BOTH POWER AND MANUAL SEATS FREE OF CHARGE. THE SAFETY RECALL IS EXPECTED TO BEGIN ON OR BEFORE APRIL 30, 2010. OWNERS MAY CONTACT FORD AT 1-866-436-7332.
- Model: Ford Explorer sport trac 2008
- Report Received Date: 2007-09-26
- Manufacturer: FORD MOTOR COMPANY
- Components: POWER TRAIN:AUTOMATIC TRANSMISSION:COOLING UNIT AND LINES
- Summary: ON CERTAIN SPORT UTILITY VEHICLES EQUIPPED WITH THE 4.6L ENGINE AND 6R TRANSMISSION, THE BOLT SECURING THE TRANSMISSION OIL COOLER LINE FITTINGS AT THE TRANSMISSION MAY NOT HAVE BEEN SUFFICIENTLY TORQUED DURING VEHICLE ASSEMBLY. AS A RESULT, THE BOLT MAY LOOSEN AND THE TRANSMISSION OIL COOLER LINES MAY DISENGAGE FROM THE TRANSMISSION, CAUSING A TRANSMISSION FLUID LEAK.
- Consequence: IF LEAKING TRANSMISSION FLUID CONTACTS THE CATALYTIC CONVERTER, IT MAY POSE A RISK OF FIRE.
- Remedy: DEALERS WILL INSPECT AND HAVE THE TRANSMISSION COOLER LINE ATTACHMENT BOLT TIGHTENED FREE OF CHARGE. THE RECALL BEGAN ON AUGUST 30, 2007. OWNERS MAY CONTACT FORD AT 1-800-392-3673.
- Model: Ford Explorer sport trac 2002
- Report Received Date: 2007-08-03
- Manufacturer: FORD MOTOR COMPANY
- Components: VEHICLE SPEED CONTROL
- Summary: ON CERTAIN PICKUP TRUCKS, PASSENGER VEHICLES, SPORT UTILITY VEHICLES, AND MOTOR HOMES CHASSIS, THE SPEED CONTROL DEACTIVATION SWITCH MAY, UNDER CERTAIN CONDITIONS, LEAK INTERNALLY AND THEN OVERHEAT, SMOKE, OR BURN.
- Consequence: THIS COULD RESULT IN AN UNDERHOOD FIRE.
- Remedy: DEALERS WILL INSTALL A FUSED WIRING HARNESS. OWNERS OF THE PASSENGER CARS INCLUDED IN THIS CAMPAIGN WILL BE INSTRUCTED TO RETURN THEIR VEHICLES TO THEIR DEALERS TO HAVE THE SPEED CONTROL DEACTIVATION SWITCH DISCONNECTED AS AN INTERIM REPAIR. AS SOON AS REPAIR PARTS ARE AVAILABLE (EXPECTED OCTOBER 2007), OWNERS WILL BE INSTRUCTED TO RETURN TO THE DEALERS FOR INSTALLATION OF A FUSED WIRING HARNESS. THE RECALL BEGAN ON AUGUST 13, 2007, AND MAILING COMPLETED BY SEPTEMBER 19, 2007. OWNERS MAY CONTACT FORD AT 1-888-222-2751.
- Model: Ford Explorer sport trac 2001
- Report Received Date: 2007-08-03
- Manufacturer: FORD MOTOR COMPANY
- Components: VEHICLE SPEED CONTROL
- Summary: ON CERTAIN PICKUP TRUCKS, PASSENGER VEHICLES, SPORT UTILITY VEHICLES, AND MOTOR HOMES CHASSIS, THE SPEED CONTROL DEACTIVATION SWITCH MAY, UNDER CERTAIN CONDITIONS, LEAK INTERNALLY AND THEN OVERHEAT, SMOKE, OR BURN.
- Consequence: THIS COULD RESULT IN AN UNDERHOOD FIRE.
- Remedy: DEALERS WILL INSTALL A FUSED WIRING HARNESS. OWNERS OF THE PASSENGER CARS INCLUDED IN THIS CAMPAIGN WILL BE INSTRUCTED TO RETURN THEIR VEHICLES TO THEIR DEALERS TO HAVE THE SPEED CONTROL DEACTIVATION SWITCH DISCONNECTED AS AN INTERIM REPAIR. AS SOON AS REPAIR PARTS ARE AVAILABLE (EXPECTED OCTOBER 2007), OWNERS WILL BE INSTRUCTED TO RETURN TO THE DEALERS FOR INSTALLATION OF A FUSED WIRING HARNESS. THE RECALL BEGAN ON AUGUST 13, 2007, AND MAILING COMPLETED BY SEPTEMBER 19, 2007. OWNERS MAY CONTACT FORD AT 1-888-222-2751.
- Model: Ford Explorer sport trac 2007
- Report Received Date: 2007-04-25
- Manufacturer: FORD MOTOR COMPANY
- Components: STEERING
- Summary: ON CERTAIN SPORT UTILITY VEHICLES, THE TWO BOLTS THAT ATTACH THE STEERING GEAR ASSEMBLY TO THE FRAME MAY HAVE BEEN OVER-TIGHTENED. THIS CONDITION COULD RESULT IN ONE OR BOTH OF THE BOLTS FRACTURING, CAUSING THE STEERING GEAR TO BECOME LOOSE.
- Consequence: THIS CONDITION COULD CAUSE "CLUNKING" NOISE WHEN STEERING AS WELL AS DECREASED STEERING EFFECTIVENESS POTENTIALLY RESULTING IN A CRASH.
- Remedy: DEALERS WILL REPLACE BOTH THE STEERING GEAR ASSEMBLY MOUNTING BOLTS AND NUTS FREE OF CHARGE. THE RECALL BEGAN ON APRIL 27, 2007. OWNERS MAY CONTACT FORD AT 1-800-392-3673.
Latest negative Ford Explorer sport trac car reviews
Latest positive Ford Explorer sport trac car reviews
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Vehicle year: 2008
The Sport Trac is a fantastic truck/SUV! It's perfect for families. This vehicle has so many features, it's hard to know where to begin. Even my kids love it, and my wife prefers to drive it over her Mustang and Audi!
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Vehicle year: 2003
This is my first truck and I have had a great experience with it. I left it mostly stock, but added rain visors to the windows and back. I also bought an after-market bed cover which keeps the contents out of sight. The color is white and it still looks great with no dings in the doors, thanks to the plastic side moldings on the doors which protect the paint. With 80,000 miles, I have had very little maintenance. I did have to have the hood and roof painted twice due to hail damage and flaking paint, but the local Ford dealership fixed it for free under a service bulletin. The heater is great and I have had no other problems except for the rheostat arm on the float inside the gas tank going bad, which left me with no gas gauge. I learned how to use my trip odometer as a gas gauge until I got it fixed. The only thing I wish it had was an Aux input to the radio or Bluetooth, but I can live without it. I have owned other Fords - Mustangs and Thunderbirds - but this has been my best experience with them. By the way, has anyone else had trouble renting a trailer because they drove an Explorer? Let me know!
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Vehicle year: 2010
I recently purchased a used Sport Trac and have been thoroughly impressed with its well-rounded and comfortable design. As someone who doesn't put many miles on a truck, I was looking for a reliable and comfortable mid-sized pickup. While I considered buying a new truck, I ultimately decided on a used Sport Trac or Ridgeline. After reading numerous reviews from both professional reviewers and owners, it seemed that the so-called experts favored the Ridgeline. However, I found that the reviews from owners were more accurate, and I am glad I went with the Sport Trac. Some experts claim that the Sport Trac is a gas guzzler, but I have found that my truck, with 79,000 miles on it, gets an average of 19 MPG with 65% of the miles being highway miles. While this may not be exceptional, it is certainly not a gas guzzler. The ride is quiet and smooth, with very little wind noise, although the all-weather tires do produce a hum that I could do without. I strongly disagree with the experts who complain about a lack of power in the V6. The V6 delivers plenty of power, unless you are drag racing a Corvette. While cargo space is limited, the Sport Trac is primarily designed for carrying people in comfort and safety. The truck has many little niceties that make it an absolute pleasure to drive, with superb handling and excellent braking. The cost to operate is reasonable, and the Sport Trac is capable of carrying cargo. It truly is the best of both worlds. UPDATE: I recently replaced both front wheel bearings, which eliminated the hum I mentioned in my previous review. The truck is now very quiet and smooth, and the only maintenance costs thus far have been $220 for the bearings and a new battery. Overall, I am extremely pleased with my Sport Trac.After a couple of years, I can still say that I am very pleased with my Sports Trac. In fact, I had originally planned to purchase the new Ford Ranger that was rumored to be released in 2016, but I ultimately decided against it because my Sports Trac is such an exceptional truck. I recently added a stereo with a backup camera, which has made driving even more enjoyable. The only issue I've had with the truck is resetting the oil change indicator light.
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Vehicle year: 2008
I've owned a variety of vehicles over the years, but I've had my eye on the Sport Trac since it first came out in 2001. I was waiting for a more powerful engine than the 4.0 litre, and now that the V8 4.6 is available, my dream truck has become a reality. The wait was definitely worth it, as the new model has a more robust frame and suspension (IRS), better looks, and overall refinements. As someone who is over 6'1
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Vehicle year: 2004
After 110000M, it's still going strong without any mechanical failures. The basic maintenance required is easy to manage. It has excellent fuel consumption, especially compared to my Tahoe. Of course, you trade off horses when you go into a V6 but it's enough to do most things that can be done with a 4 foot long box. The outside styling looks very sporty and the paint has a tough anti-scratch coating. The suspension is a little too soft for spirited driving, but the truck still handles very well on the road. The front seats are very comfortable. I haven't had the chance to try the back seats yet, but I haven't heard any complaints about them. The tail of the truck is extremely light (fiberglass box), but nothing some sandbags won't fix.
Are you having problems with your Ford Explorer sport trac?
Monserrate Haley 2025-05-24
Vehicle year: 2001
The 3rd Explorer is nothing like the first one (1991). However, it did save me when a 3/4 ton Chevy turned into me at 60mph. While it took a beating, I am grateful for its safety features. Unfortunately, this vehicle did not meet my expectations. It has trouble on wet roads with traction and wind noise around the front windows that makes it difficult to have a conversation with passengers unless you both shout (occurs at 35mph or higher). Additionally, the gas mileage is terrible, with only 11mpg in town and about 14+mpg on the highway. There are also many engine noises under the hood. Overall, the car seems very poorly assembled. In comparison, my '91 was the best followed by '96 Eddie B. and this one is a distant 3rd, very distant!!
Jermey Emard 2025-05-21
Vehicle year: 2003
I have owned my Sport Trac for over two years now and it has proven to be an incredibly versatile truck for my family. Despite initially considering a Ranger, we were won over by the Sport Trac's larger cab, even with the shorter bed. As our only vehicle, we drive it approximately 15,000 miles per year and have experienced no issues with it. Our 30,000 mile check confirmed that it is in excellent condition. Unfortunately, we were involved in a collision when another driver turned in front of us. However, the damage sustained by our truck was minimal, limited to the fender and grill, and the airbags did not deploy. The other driver's car sustained more damage and I only suffered a hand fracture. Overall, I am confident in the Sport Trac's safety and durability, even in the face of unexpected accidents.
Trystan Beatty 2025-05-17
Vehicle year: 2009
I bought this vehicle out of necessity as my family had just welcomed a new baby and we needed more trunk space. However, I ended up trading quality for price and paid for it in the end. The lower gears have good power, allowing for quick acceleration, but the power drops off quickly once you get into the upper gears. Passing anyone above 50MPH was always a challenge and required me to press down hard on the gas pedal. The interior has a lot of plastic, but the seats are comfortable for short drives. However, for drives of 3 hours or more, the seats can be uncomfortable on your lower back. Unfortunately, the SYNC feature is not great and I often had to repeat myself 2-3 times for the system to recognize what I was saying.
Jadon Parker 2025-05-17
Vehicle year: 2001
Hey there! I hope you're doing well. I just wanted to share my experience with the SportTrac. Overall, it's a pretty decent vehicle that served me well for five years. I really appreciated its versatility and the mix of luxury and ruggedness that made it perfect for most situations. However, I did run into a few issues along the way. For example, the windshield has a tendency to crack when you use the defrosters in cold weather, and there are a few sensors that can be a bit finicky. But my biggest challenge came when the automatic transmission stopped working at 95,000 miles. It was a bit of a surprise, especially since I had taken good care of the truck. After doing some research, I found out that this is a common issue with these trucks. So, just be aware of the blinking
Francis Towne 2025-05-15
Vehicle year: 2003
I bought this truck from a private owner when it had 70K miles on it. I needed a vehicle to transport my two kids, aged 5 and 2, and this truck has been perfect for that. It can take a lot of abuse, although I'm not looking forward to the resale value with the cloth interior. The gas mileage isn't great for its size and V6 engine, but it's on par with much bigger, heavier V8s. The materials on the dash and cabin are cheap, but it's an economical choice. Unfortunately, the paint is coming off of the center stack facing. However, after 132K miles, the engine is still going strong and it's been very reliable. Overall, I'm happy with my purchase.