2000 Ford Explorer sport trac problems

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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.

2000 Ford Explorer sport trac

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Common 2000 Ford Explorer sport trac problems

The Ford Explorer Sport Trac, produced from 2001 to 2010, has been known for various issues and complaints. While it offers a solid platform and a truck-like feel, several problems are worth noting before considering a purchase.

  • Transmission Problems: Transmission failure is the second most common issue with the Ford Explorer Sport Trac. The 2007 and 2002 models are most frequently reported to experience transmission troubles. Difficult shifting, transmission failure, and slipping transmission are some of the issues that owners have faced.
  • Electrical Troubles: The 2004 model is particularly prone to electrical issues, including haywire gauges, inaccurate fuel gauges, and a car that dies while driving. These problems, while not as expensive as engine or transmission failures, can still be a significant inconvenience.
  • Head Restraints: In some cases, head restraints have been known to move backward during a crash, increasing the risk of injury. This issue is related to the gearing for the system that raises or lowers the head restraint, which can be out of spec.
  • Steering Assembly Bolts: Over-tightening on some of the steering assembly bolts has caused them to fracture, leading to loss of control of the vehicle and potential accidents.
  • Speed Control Deactivation Switch: Some speed control deactivation switches have been known to develop an internal leak, causing the switch to overheat, smoke, burn, and potentially cause a fire.
  • Speed Control Cable: The casing over the speed control cable can stretch and bind up the cable, requiring additional braking power. This issue is more prevalent in low-mileage vehicles.
  • Transmission Leaks: Insufficiently tightened bolts in the transmission can cause leaks, potentially leading to a fire, loss of power, or transmission failure.
  • Hood Can Fly Open During Operation: The hood of the Sport Trac has been known to fly open during operation, potentially causing damage to the vehicle's mechanical components.
  • Airbag and Seatbelt Issues: Various airbag and seatbelt-related issues have been reported since 1996, including side window airbag problems, airbags not deploying, front airbag issues, and seatbelt mechanism malfunctions.

These problems, while not an exhaustive list, highlight the importance of being aware of potential issues when considering a Ford Explorer Sport Trac. While the vehicle offers value and utility, its share of problems should be taken into account before making a purchase decision.

2000 Ford Explorer sport trac engine

How many miles can a 2000 Ford Explorer 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.

What is the problem with the Sport Trac?

Faulty dash gauge cluster – 1st generation Sport Trac owners reported that their dash gauge cluster just turns on and off intermittently. This issue occurs when the key isn't in the ON position and is due to a wiring issue. Coolant leaks – Sport Tracs equipped with a 4.0-liter engine are prone to coolant leaks.

Is 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.

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.

What issues does the Ford Explorer Sport Trac have?

Top Ford Explorer Sport Trac Problems

  • Plastic Intake Manifold May Crack Causing Coolant Leak. ...
  • Wheel bearing faliure. ...
  • Problems With 5-speed Automatic Transmission are Common. ...
  • Worn Timing Chain Cassettes May Cause Rattling Noise From Engine. ...
  • Coolant Leak/Overheating Due to Radiator Leak.

Is the 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 stop making Sport Trac?

Due to slowing sales, the Ford Explorer Sport Trac was discontinued after the 2010 model year.

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.

2000 Ford Explorer sport trac complaints

The NHTSA has received 0 complaints about various vehicle components related to the 2000 Ford Explorer sport trac.

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2000 Ford Explorer sport trac recalls

The National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) has issued 1 recalls for different components of the 2000 Ford Explorer sport trac.

2000-11-28
  • Manufacturer: FORD MOTOR COMPANY
  • Components: STRUCTURE:BODY:HOOD:HINGE AND ATTACHMENTS
  • Summary: VEHICLE DESCRIPTION: SPORT UTILITY VEHICLES WITH STEEL HOODS AND CERTAIN PICKUP TRUCKS EQUIPPED WITH SHEET MOLDING COMPOUND HOODS. A WIRE FORMED HOOD STRIKER COULD BE SUSCEPTIBLE TO FATIGUE FRACTURES. IF THE HOOD STRIKER FRACTURES, THE HOOD COULD FLY OPEN WHILE THE VEHICLE IS BEING DRIVEN.
  • Consequence: A HOOD FLY-UP WHILE THE VEHICLE IS BEING OPERATED COULD RESULT IN REDUCED DRIVER VISIBILITY.
  • Remedy: DEALERS WILL REPLACE THE HOOD STRIKER.
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Additional sources

More sources of information about 2000 Ford Explorer sport trac problems:

2000 Explorer 4.0 SOHC Problems | Ford Explorer Forums - Serious ...
2000 Explorer 4.0 SOHC Problems | Ford Explorer Forums - Serious ...
https://www.explorerforum.com/forums/threads/2000-explorer-4-0-sohc-problems.465708/

Aug 22, 2017 ... A very common problem with the Job 1 SOHC V6 engine, which is what you have, is that the intake manifold upper and lower O-ring gaskets dry out, ...

Q&A: 2001 Ford Explorer Sport Trac Transmission Problems ...
Q&A: 2001 Ford Explorer Sport Trac Transmission Problems ...
https://www.justanswer.com/ford/7ih57-explorer-sport-trac-2001-ford-explorer-sport-trac-4-0l-transmission.html

Jan 24, 2013 ... Michael : With the symptom and codes you have the problem is internal to the transmission. There are a few common things to look for. First, ...

Transmission Problems and Reliability for Sport Trac | Ford Explorer ...
Transmission Problems and Reliability for Sport Trac | Ford Explorer ...
https://www.explorerforum.com/forums/threads/transmission-problems-and-reliability-for-sport-trac.332707/

Oct 18, 2011 ... I don't think many people realize that until they need to replace them. Look through every brand and make, these problems are common.

Q&A: 2003 Ford Explorer Sport Trac XLT - Common Problems ...
Q&A: 2003 Ford Explorer Sport Trac XLT - Common Problems ...
https://www.justanswer.com/ford/49ncd-2003-ford-explorer-sport-trac-xlt-span-alot-problems-span.html

Nov 27, 2010 ... Dude...i have a 2003 ford explorer sport trac XLT and have been having alot of problems with the 4 wheel drive...It - Answered by a verified ...

Should I buy a 2000 Ford Explorer Sport Trac? : r/MechanicAdvice
Should I buy a 2000 Ford Explorer Sport Trac? : r/MechanicAdvice
https://www.reddit.com/r/MechanicAdvice/comments/po8o3u/should_i_buy_a_2000_ford_explorer_sport_trac/

Sep 14, 2021 ... It appears to be in decent shape, although I have not seen it in person yet. The seller claims that it has no major issues. I only need a car ...

Other years of Ford Explorer sport trac

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Explorer sport trac 2001
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ford explorer sport trac 2002 photo
Explorer sport trac 2002
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ford explorer sport trac 2003 photo
Explorer sport trac 2003
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ford explorer sport trac 2004 photo
Explorer sport trac 2004
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ford explorer sport trac 2005 photo
Explorer sport trac 2005
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ford explorer sport trac 2006 photo
Explorer sport trac 2006
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2000 Ford Explorer sport trac photo