1998 Ford Explorer sport trac problems

General information about Ford-Explorer sport trac
Overview of popular issues

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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Common 1998 Ford Explorer sport trac problems

The Ford Explorer Sport Trac 1998 has been known to have several common problems, primarily related to transmission issues and reliability.

One of the most frequently reported problems is transmission failure, which has been a significant concern for many owners. The transmission is prone to overheating, leading to a loss of power and eventually complete failure. This issue can occur as early as 30,000 miles and has been reported to require multiple replacements in a short period. The nickname "Exploder" has been given to the vehicle due to these issues.

Another common issue is with the transfer case, which can cause problems when shifting between 2WD and 4WD. This issue can lead to a loss of power and difficulty driving, particularly in off-road conditions. This problem has been reported to occur in both automatic and manual transmission models, and can also lead to transmission failure if not addressed promptly.

The 1998 Ford Explorer Sport Trac has also been subject to recalls due to issues with the driver's seat back recliner. This issue can cause the seat back to fail, leading to a risk of injury in the event of a collision. The recall affects 1,552,880 potential units and was issued in 2002.

In addition to these issues, signs of trouble on a test drive can include slipping, hesitation, or roughness from the gear shifts, especially when switching between reverse and drive. These issues can indicate problems with the transmission or other drivetrain components.

Overall, while the Ford Explorer Sport Trac 1998 has many positive features, it is important to be aware of these common problems and to address them promptly to ensure the safety and reliability of the vehicle.

What issues does the Ford Explorer Sport Trac have?

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.

What years did the Ford Explorer have transmission problems?

Quick Answer: 2002, 2003, 2004, 2005, 2006

The 2002, 2003, 2004, 2005, and 2006 models have the most Ford Explorer transmission problems. The other models offer a much better experience on the road with this valuable component.

Is the Ford 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.

What issues does the Ford Explorer Sport Trac have?

Is the Ford Sport Trac reliable?

What is the common problem with Ford Explorer?

Yet, many model year Ford Explorers are plagued with problems, including problems with the engine, transmission, steering, wheels, body paint, and interior accessories.

How many miles can a Ford Explorer Sport Trac last?

1998 Ford Explorer sport trac complaints

The NHTSA has received 0 complaints about various vehicle components related to the 1998 Ford Explorer sport trac.

You can leave your car complaint via the special form below.

Additional sources

More sources of information about 1998 Ford Explorer sport trac problems:

98 Explorer 4.0L, Common Issues? - Ford Truck Enthusiasts Forums

https://www.ford-trucks.com/forums/1089801-98-explorer-4-0l-common-issues.html

Aug 8, 2011 ... Heater valves and thermostat housings are weak. Intake gaskets leak, causing lean codes. Many replace the oxygen sensors, but more thourough ...

common issues to avoid in used Sport Trac | Ford Explorer Forums ...

https://www.explorerforum.com/forums/threads/common-issues-to-avoid-in-used-sport-trac.194081/

Aug 28, 2007 ... Rust on the radiator support and door skin seams. Had door skin and tailgate seam rust on both Rangers I had before too. Note that I lease a new ...

1998 Ford Explorer High Beam Problem - Ford Truck Enthusiasts ...

https://www.ford-trucks.com/forums/498613-1998-ford-explorer-high-beam-problem.html

Jun 7, 2006 ... Explorer, Sport Trac, Mountaineer & Aviator - 1998 Ford Explorer High Beam Problem - Hello my 1998 Explorer's high beams are inop.

Q&A: Ford Explorer Sport 1998 Intermittent Stalling While Driving

https://www.justanswer.com/ford/1igi7-ford-explorer-sport-1998-intermittently-stalls-driving.html

Oct 21, 2008 ... A common problem causing your symptom is a faulty MAF sensor. Yes, it could be dirty but dirt does not come and go. I would suspect you have a ...