Ford Explorer sport trac 2008 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.

Ford Explorer sport trac 2008

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Common Ford Explorer sport trac 2008 problems

The 2001 and 2007 Ford Explorer Sport Trac models are known to have several common problems based on complaints from owners.

  • Transmission Problems: Transmission failure is another significant issue with the Ford Explorer Sport Trac. The 2007 and 2002 models are most commonly reported to experience transmission troubles.
  • Electrical Troubles: The 2004 model of the Ford Explorer Sport Trac is particularly prone to electrical troubles. These issues include haywire gauges, inaccurate fuel gauges, and a car that dies while driving.
  • Leaking Coolant: The 2001 to 2005 models of the Ford Explorer Sport Trac are known to have a leaking coolant problem due to the thermostat housing. Drivers reported that the coolant leaked into the ground, giving off a sweet smell.
  • Faulty Blend Door Actuator: The blend door actuator is a miniature HVAC motor that works with the vehicle's temperature sensors to handle its climate control system. When the actuator is faulty or failing, it causes the blend door to get stuck in one position, resulting in outlet temperatures colder or hotter than the desired setting.
  • Deceptive Head Restraints: The head restraints of some models of the Sport Trac are out of spec and move backward during a crash. This problem can be hard to tell without experiencing a collision, but to increase safety, it is recommended to fully adjust the head restraint before operating the Sport Trac.
  • Plastic Intake Manifold May Crack: This issue can cause a coolant leak, which is one of the most common problems reported by Ford Explorer Sport Trac owners.

These problems have led to the 2001 and 2007 models being considered the worst Ford Explorer Sport Trac years, with 337 and 205 complaints, respectively.

Ford Explorer sport trac 2008 engine

How many miles will a 2008 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.

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.

What is the recall on the 2008 Ford Explorer transmission?

THE RECALL BEGAN ON AUGUST 30, 2007. OWNERS MAY CONTACT FORD AT 1-800-392-3673. 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.

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.

What issues does the Ford Explorer Sport Trac have?

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 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.

How many miles will a 2008 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.

Is a 2008 Ford Explorer a good car?

Any 2008 Ford Explorer is a relative joy to drive compared to other truck-based SUVs like the Dodge Durango and Chevy Trailblazer. Taking much of the credit for this praise is the rear independent suspension, which provides a smooth ride and keeps the wheels planted on rough pavement.

Ford Explorer sport trac 2008 car problems categorized by type of issue

After analyzing all complaints sent to the NHTSA and researching popular Ford Explorer sport trac problems, we found that the most common problems with these 2023 model year vehicles are:

  • Power train problems
  • Engine problems
  • Electrical system problems
  • Service brakes problems
  • Vehicle speed control problems

The graph below shows statistics for all Ford Explorer sport trac 2008 vehicle components and the number of complaints received.

Ford Explorer sport trac 2008 complaints

The NHTSA has received 23 complaints about various vehicle components related to the Ford Explorer sport trac 2008.

2023-05-10

VEHICLE SPEED CONTROL PROBLEM

  • Date Of Incident: 2023-05-07
  • 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.
2019-07-19

ELECTRICAL SYSTEM,ENGINE,FUEL/PROPULSION SYSTEM PROBLEM

  • Date Of Incident: 2019-05-25
  • Fire: 1
  • VIN: 1FMEU51828U
  • Components: ELECTRICAL SYSTEM,ENGINE,FUEL/PROPULSION SYSTEM
  • Summary: TL* THE CONTACT OWNED A 2008 FORD EXPLORER SPORT TRAC. THE CONTACT STATED THAT WHILE DRIVING 15 MPH ON THE SAND IN A BEACH AREA THAT THERE WAS A FAILURE OF WHICH A STRONG BURNING ODOR STARTED, EXCESS HEAT WAS FELT BY THE DRIVER, FRONT PASSENGER AND 3 REAR PASSENGERS. THE VEHICLE WAS PULLED OVER AS THEY EXITED THE VEHICLE. UPON INSPECTING THE VEHICLE, IT WAS NOTICED THAT THERE WAS A SMALL FIRE NEAR THE TRANSMISSION AREA, FLUID HAD LEAKED ONTO THE CATALYTIC CONVERTER AS THE FIRE PROGRESSED TO DESTROYING THE VEHICLE WITH THE FIRE BECOMING EXTENSIVE WHICH HAD ERUPTED ALL THE WAY TO THE FUEL SYSTEM TO THE FUEL TANK. THE FIRE DEPARTMENT HAD ARRIVED AND EXTINGUISHED THE REMAINING FLAMES. THE INSURANCE COMPANY HAD NOT RENDERED ANY ASSISTANCE TO INSPECT THE CAUSE OF THE FIRE. A DEALER HAD NOT DIAGNOSED THE CAUSE OF THE FIRE YET. THE VEHICLE WAS DESTROYED DUE TO THE INTERNAL FAILURE RESULTING IN A CATASTROPHIC FIRE. THE MANUFACTURER WAS NOTIFIED OF THE FAILURE TO DETERMINE IF THEY MAY BE ABLE TO INVESTIGATE THE CAUSE OF THE FIRE. THE APPROXIMATE FAILURE MILEAGE WAS 81,000.
2017-12-29

SERVICE BRAKES PROBLEM

  • Date Of Incident: 2017-12-28
  • VIN: 1FMEU53E88U
  • Components: SERVICE BRAKES
  • Summary: TL* THE CONTACT OWNS A 2008 FORD EXPLORER. WHILE DRIVING VARIOUS SPEEDS AND ATTEMPTING TO STOP, THE BRAKE PEDAL WAS DEPRESSED AND TRAVELED TO THE FLOORBOARD. THE BRAKES EVENTUALLY STOPPED THE VEHICLE. THERE WERE NO WARNING INDICATORS ILLUMINATED. THE VEHICLE WAS TAKEN TO AN INDEPENDENT MECHANIC WHERE IT WAS DIAGNOSED THAT THE BRAKE PEDAL FAILED AND NEEDED TO BE REPLACED. THE VEHICLE WAS NOT REPAIRED. THE LOCAL DEALER WAS NOT CONTACTED. THE MANUFACTURER WAS NOT NOTIFIED OF THE FAILURE. THE FAILURE MILEAGE WAS APPROXIMATELY 55,000. *TT *TR
2017-08-04

ENGINE PROBLEM

  • Date Of Incident: 2017-05-15
  • VIN: 1FMEU31E28U
  • Components: ENGINE
  • Summary: BROKE DOWN ON A VERY HIGH TRAFFIC BRIDGE, THAT HAD NO SAFETY LANE TO PULL OVER. VERY DANGEROUS, WITH NO TIME TO PULL OVER WHEN ENGINE LIGHT CAME ON. REPEAT, THIS HAPPENS TO ALL FORD SPORT TRACS WITH PLASTIC RADIATOR HOUSING. THERE ARE SOME CLASS ACTION LAWSUITS ACROSS THE USA. FORD HAS KNOWN ABOUT THIS CONDITION SINCE 2002, BUT ONLY NOTIFIED GOVERNMENT VEHICLES FOR THE FIXES.
2017-03-16

ENGINE PROBLEM

  • Date Of Incident: 2017-02-28
  • VIN: 1FMEU53E48U
  • Components: ENGINE
  • Summary: DRIVING ON HIGHWAY CHECK ENGINE LIGHT CAME ON AND ENGINE STARTED MISSING AND CAR SHAKING; PULLED IN TO FORD DEALER IN NEXT TOWN; DIAGNOSIS SAID COULD BE THIS OR THAT THEY COULD NOT FIGURE IT OUT BUT GOT CAR RUNNING SMOTHER; WE WENT ANOTHER 300 MILES TO OUR DESTINATION; TOOK CAR TO LOCAL FORD DEALER; REPLACED SPARK PLUGS AND UPSTREAM O2 SENSOR; TOOK IT HOME; STILL RAN ROUGH SEEMS LIKE IT IS ABOUT TO STALL AN A LIGHT OR SITTING IN TRAFFIC; TOOK IT BACK; THEY HAD IT FOR 3 DAYS; MECHANIC DROVE IT; COULD NOT FIGURE OUT WHAT WAS WRONG AND SAID THEY THOUGHT IT WAS OK BECAUSE MECHANIC COULD NOT MAKE IT DRIVE LIKE IT WAS MIS FIRING OR ANYTHING UNUSUAL; DROVE HOME AND IT IMMEDIATELY STARTED ACTING LIKE ONE CYLINDER WAS MIS FIRING. AM GOING TO TAKE IT TO A REPAIR SHOP THAT IS HIGHLY RECOMMENDED AND LET THE SEE IF THEY CAN FIND OUT WHAT IS THE MATTER.
2016-08-08

VEHICLE SPEED CONTROL,ENGINE PROBLEM

  • Date Of Incident: 2016-07-29
  • VIN: 1FMEU53808U
  • Components: VEHICLE SPEED CONTROL,ENGINE
  • Summary: TL* THE CONTACT OWNS A 2008 FORD EXPLORER SPORT TRAC. WHILE AT A STOP LIGHT WITH THE BRAKE PEDAL DEPRESSED, THE VEHICLE ACCELERATED INDEPENDENTLY. THE VEHICLE WAS TOWED TO A DEALER WHERE IT WAS DIAGNOSED THAT THE THROTTLE BODY AND MOTOR ASSEMBLY NEEDED TO BE REPLACED. THE VEHICLE WAS REPAIRED. THE MANUFACTURER WAS NOT NOTIFIED OF THE FAILURE. THE FAILURE MILEAGE WAS 61,130.
2015-11-03

STEERING PROBLEM

  • Date Of Incident: 2015-11-02
  • VIN: 1FMEU31E58U
  • Components: STEERING
  • Summary: TL* THE CONTACT OWNS A 2008 FORD EXPLORER SPORT TRAC. WHILE DRIVING APPROXIMATELY 15 MPH, THE STEERING WHEEL BECAME LOOSE AND FRACTURED. THE VEHICLE WAS TOWED TO AN INDEPENDENT MECHANIC. THE CONTACT WAS MADE AWARE OF NHTSA CAMPAIGN NUMBER: 17V181000 (STEERING); HOWEVER, THE VIN WAS NOT INCLUDED. THE MANUFACTURER WAS NOTIFIED OF THE FAILURE. THE APPROXIMATE FAILURE MILEAGE WAS 100,000.
2015-06-25

ELECTRICAL SYSTEM,ENGINE PROBLEM

  • Date Of Incident: 2015-06-24
  • Components: ELECTRICAL SYSTEM,ENGINE
  • Summary: DRIVING THE CAR IT BEGAN TO LOSE POWER, THEN GET POWER, THEN IT SHUT OFF. RESTARTED THE CAR, STARTED DRIVING AND IT SURGED UNEXPECTEDLY THEN BEGAN TO LOSE POWER AGAIN, THEN IT SHUT OFF. THIS SCARED MY WIFE BECAUSE SHE DIDN'T KNOW IF IT WAS GOING TO SURGE OR LOSE POWER. TOOK IT TO A MECHANIC AND FINALLY AFTER A LOT OF DIAGNOSTICS THEY DETERMINED IT WAS THE ECM OR ELECTRONIC POWER CONTROL MODULE. I HAVE RESEARCHED THIS AND A LOT OF PEOPLE HAVE HAD THIS PROBLEM.. FORD KNOWS OF THE PROBLEM BUT WILL NOT REPLACE THE MODULE. OTHERS HAVE WRITTEN OF THIS SAME PROBLEM. HTTPS://WWW.YOUTUBE.COM/WATCH?V=UCUSQJ3-EVK I JUST WISH SOMEONE WOULD LOOK INTO THIS DO SOMETHING ABOUT IT.
2015-02-09

ENGINE PROBLEM

  • Date Of Incident: 2015-02-05
  • VIN: 1FMEU31E08U
  • Components: ENGINE
  • Summary: AFTER TURNING ONTO THE MAIN ROAD OUT OF OUR SUBDIVISION THE VEHICLE SHUT DOWN AND WOULD NOT START. THE CAR BEHIND US NEARLY RAN INTO THE BACK OF THE VEHICLE. IT APPEARS THERE IS A DESIGN FLAW IN THE TENSIONERS USED FOR THE TIMING CHAINS ON THE MOTOR IN THIS VEHICLE. THE TENSIONERS ARE A PLASTIC THAT CANNOT HOLD UP TO THE HEAT AND EVENTUALLY DETERIORATE PREMATURELY. APPARENTLY WHEN ONE OF THEM FAILS THE VEHICLE AUTOMATICALLY SHUTS OFF THE ENGINE CAUSING THE DRIVER TO LOSE CONTROL. *TR
2014-05-06

POWER TRAIN PROBLEM

  • Date Of Incident: 2013-05-15
  • VIN: 1FMEU31EX8U
  • Components: POWER TRAIN
  • Summary: TL* THE CONTACT OWNS A 2008 FORD EXPLORER. THE CONTACT STATED THAT THE CHECK ENGINE LIGHT AND WRENCH ICON ILLUMINATED. THE CONTACT TOOK THE VEHICLE TO THE DEALER FOR A DIAGNOSTIC TEST, WHO STATED THAT THE TORQUE CONVERTER WOULD NEED TO BE REPLACED. THE VEHICLE WAS REPAIRED. THE MANUFACTURER WAS MADE AWARE OF THE FAILURE. THE FAILURE MILEAGE WAS 80,000. THE CURRENT MILEAGE WAS 92,000.
2014-04-07

FUEL SYSTEM, GASOLINE,ELECTRICAL SYSTEM,ELECTRONIC STABILITY CONTROL (ESC) PROBLEM

  • Date Of Incident: 2014-03-20
  • VIN: 1FMEU31E58U
  • Components: FUEL SYSTEM, GASOLINE,ELECTRICAL SYSTEM,ELECTRONIC STABILITY CONTROL (ESC)
  • Summary: TRUCK CUT OFF 4 TIMES IN MIDDLE TRAFFIC WOULD NOT STAY ON. NO WARNING LIGHT CHANGE TRIED TO PULL OFF TRUCK JUST KEPT CUTTING OFF. *TR
2013-05-17

POWER TRAIN,ELECTRICAL SYSTEM,SERVICE BRAKES PROBLEM

  • Date Of Incident: 2013-03-18
  • VIN: 1FMEU51EX8U
  • Components: POWER TRAIN,ELECTRICAL SYSTEM,SERVICE BRAKES
  • Summary: PARKED VEHICLE. TURNED OFF IGNITION. KEY WOULD NOT RELEASE FROM THE IGNITION. CYCLED THE AUTO SHIFT LEVER TO MAKE SURE IN PARK. AT THIS POINT NOTED THAT I COULD SHIFT OUT OF PARK WITHOUT MY FOOT BEING ON THE BRAKE. VERY DANGEROUS. I WAS ABLE TO REMOVE THE KEY BY PULLING THE IGNITION FUSE. I PULLED THE FUSE AND REMOVED THE KEY. REINSTALLED THE FUSE. WAS STILL ABLE TO SHIFT OUT OF PARK WITHOUT MY FOOT ON THE BRAKE. I LEFT THE CAR SITTING FOR A WHILE AND NOTED THAT THE BATTERY HAD COMPLETELY DRAINED DOWN. I WAS ABLE TO JUMP THE CAR OFF TO START IT. IF I LEAVE THE IGNITION FUSE IN, THE BATTERY WILL COMPLETELY DRAIN DOWN AGAIN. *TR
2013-01-22

AIR BAGS PROBLEM

  • Date Of Incident: 2013-01-07
  • VIN: 1FMEU23808U
  • Components: AIR BAGS
  • Summary: THE AIRBAG LIGHT INDICATOR IS ON. SOME TIME IF YOU SHUTOFF THE ENGINE IT WILL RESET BUT SOMETIMES WONT RESET. I TOOK IT TO FORD DEALERSHIP THEN CALLED THE EXTENDED WARRANTY COMPANY AND THEY SAID ITS NOT COVERED. THIS IS A SAFETY ISSUE, ISN'T IT A RESPONSIBILITY FOR THE MANUFACTURER? *TR
2012-11-29

ENGINE PROBLEM

  • Date Of Incident: 2012-11-26
  • VIN: 1FMEU23828U
  • Components: ENGINE
  • Summary: TL* THE CONTACT OWNS A 2008 FORD EXPLORER SPORT TRAC. THE CONTACT STATED THAT THE RADIATOR BEGAN TO LEAK ABNORMALLY. THE CONTACT ATTEMPTED TO LOCATE THE PARTS NEEDED TO MAKE REPAIRS TO THE VEHICLE FROM AN INDEPENDENT PARTS DEALER, BUT WAS UNABLE TO LOCATE THE PART. THE VEHICLE WAS THEN SCHEDULED FOR REPAIRS WITH AN AUTHORIZED DEALER. THE MANUFACTURER WAS NOTIFIED BUT OFFERED NO ASSISTANCE. THE FAILURE AND CURRENT MILEAGE WAS 35,000.
2012-03-14

POWER TRAIN PROBLEM

  • Date Of Incident: 2012-02-13
  • VIN: 1FMEU53E78U
  • Components: POWER TRAIN
  • Summary: TL* THE CONTACT OWNS A 2008 FORD EXPLORER SPORT TRAC. THE CONTACT STATED THAT THE VEHICLE WOULD LUNGE FORWARD WHEN ATTEMPTING TO SHIFT GEARS. THE VEHICLE WOULD ALSO STALL, SHIFT OUT OF NEUTRAL, SHIFT OUT OF OVER DRIVE OR WOULD SHIFT INTO VARIOUS GEARS ERRATICALLY. A LOCAL MECHANIC REPLACED THE TRANSMISSION, BUT THE FAILURE RECURRED. THE MANUFACTURER REQUESTED TO RECEIVE INFORMATION FROM THE DEALER BEFORE ASSISTING THE CONTACT WITH THE FAILURE. THE DEALER WAS NOTIFIED BUT DENIED ANY ASSISTANCE WITH REPAIR TO THE FAILURE. THE FAILURE MILEAGE WAS 75,000 AND THE CURRENT MILEAGE WAS 80,000.
2011-11-19

ENGINE AND ENGINE COOLING PROBLEM

  • Date Of Incident: 2011-07-21
  • VIN: 1FMEU33818U
  • Components: ENGINE AND ENGINE COOLING
  • Summary: VEHICLE DEVELOPED AN EXHAUST LEAK FROM THE LEFT SIDE MANIFOLD. REPAIRED AT A COST OF 250 DOLLARS. LEAK WAS NOTICEABLE BY EXHAUST SMELL IN CAB AND SOUND FROM LEFT SIDE OF ENGINE. SECOND LEAK HAS NOW DEVELOPED ON RIGHT SIDE, STILL NEED TO REPAIR, HAVE EXHAUST SMELL IN CAB AND SIMILAR SOUND FROM ENGINE. *TR
2011-10-06

ENGINE AND ENGINE COOLING,POWER TRAIN PROBLEM

  • Date Of Incident: 2011-10-04
  • VIN: 1FMEU33E58U
  • Components: ENGINE AND ENGINE COOLING,POWER TRAIN
  • Summary: RADIATOR STARTED LEAKING AT BOTTOM GASKET /O RING SEAL OF TANK. ALSO INTERIOR LIGHT GOES OFF AND ON WHEN HIT BUMPS. FOUND IT IS TIED INTO THE IGNITION SWITCH. IF LIGHT COMES ON AFTER HITTING BUMP ALL I HAVE TO DO IS GIGGLE THE IGNITION SWITCH TO GET IT TO GO BACK OFF. *TR
2011-03-18

SERVICE BRAKES, HYDRAULIC,POWER TRAIN PROBLEM

  • Date Of Incident: 2011-03-18
  • Crash: 1
  • VIN: 1FMEU53858U
  • Components: SERVICE BRAKES, HYDRAULIC,POWER TRAIN
  • Summary: BRAKE OR TRANSMISSION IS MALFUNCTIONING, TRUCK WAS PARKED ON A FLAT SURFACE IN THE DRIVEWAY AND NOT RUNNING, IN PARK, LOCKED AND AFTER A BOUT AN HOUR THE TRUCK BEGAN ROLLING, AN WAS STOPPED MY A PIECE OF WROUGHT IRON FENCE, DAMAGING THE FRONT BUMPER. IT COULD HAVE BEEN WORSE HAD THE FENCE NOT BEEN THERE. *TR
2010-08-10

SERVICE BRAKES, ELECTRIC,TRACTION CONTROL SYSTEM PROBLEM

  • Date Of Incident: 2010-07-27
  • VIN: 1FMEU33E28U
  • Components: SERVICE BRAKES, ELECTRIC,TRACTION CONTROL SYSTEM
  • Summary: 2008 FORD SPORT TRAC WHEN PULLING ONTO HIGHWAY TRACTION LIGHT CAME ON AND BRAKES LOCKED UP WOULD NOT GO OR ABLE TO STOP BRAKE PEDAL FELT LIKE A JACK HAMMER WHEN APPLYING THE BRAKES THE ONLY WAY TO GET THE LIGHT OFF WAS TO SHUT THE TRUCK DOWN IN THE MIDDLE OF THE ROAD FORD HAS DONE NOTHING TO FIX THE PROBLEM THEY KNOW IT IS A SENSOR BUT IT HAS 4 OF THEM AND THEY WILL NOT CHANGE ALL 4 TO FIX THE PROBLEM. THEY WOULD RATHER RISK MY LIFE AND ANYONE THAT MAYBE FOLLOWING ME. *TR
2010-08-05

POWER TRAIN PROBLEM

  • Date Of Incident: 2010-07-01
  • VIN: 1FMEU53E58U
  • Components: POWER TRAIN
  • Summary: 2008 FORD EXPLORER SPORT TRAC, 5 SPEED AUTOMATIC, V6. TRANSMISSION FAILS TO ENGAGE; TRUCK HAS DIFFICULTY ACCELERATING FROM A STOP AND WILL ROLL BACKWARDS FROM A STOP IF ON AN INCLINE. TRANSMISSION ALSO 'SLAMS' GEARS AND FEELS LIKE THE VEHICLE HAS BEEN HIT FROM BEHIND. DEALERSHIP HAS FAILED TO REPAIR AND HAS WORKED ON THE VEHICLE FOR OVER FOUR WEEKS WITH NO PERMANENT RESOLUTION. FIXES LAST A COUPLE WEEKS AND THEN IT FAILS AGAIN. TRANSMISSION HAS BEEN REMOVED AND MANY PARTS REPLACED, BUT IT STILL DOES NOT WORK PROPERLY. VEHICLE DOES NOT FEEL SAFE FROM A STOP AND I AM IN FEAR OF AN ACCIDENT DUE TO THE TRANSMISSION FAILING. FORD TECHNICIAN HAS BEEN WORKING WITH DEALERSHIP, BUT HAS BEEN ONLY APPLYING 'BAND-AID' SOLUTIONS. *TR
2010-02-19

POWER TRAIN PROBLEM

  • Date Of Incident: 2009-10-01
  • VIN: 1FMEU53878U
  • Components: POWER TRAIN
  • Summary: 2008 SPORT TRAC V8 4 WHEEL DRIVE. I MUST WAIT APPROXIMATELY 30 SECONDS BEFORE BACKING TRUCK OUT OF MY GARAGE...ANY SOONER AND THE ENGINE JUST REVS BUT WILL SLOWLY MOVE AFTER REACHING 6,000 RPM. TRUCK ALSO ADVANCES SLOWLY FROM A STOP. 1ST DEALER ADVISED ME IT ACTUALLY WAS 21 SECONDS AND THAT I SHOULD JUST WAIT THE 21 SECONDS BEFORE SHIFTING TO REVERSE. 2ND DEALER CANNOT DUPLICATE PROBLEM BECAUSE IT IS INTERMITTENT AND SEEMS WORSE WHEN WEATHER IS WARM AND HUMID. 1ST DEALER INDICATED THEY DID A REFLASH OF TRANSMISSION BUT 2ND DEALER CONFIRMED THEY DID NOT AND ACCOMPLISHED IT AND SHIFTING IMPROVED. TRUCK STILL DOES NOT DOWNSHIFT CORRECTLY TO FIRST GEAR UPON COMING TO A STOP OR NEAR STOP AND TRUCK WILL REMAIN IN HIGHER GEAR UNLESS FULL STOP AND ONE SECOND BOTH OCCUR. FOUND PLENTY OF SAME TYPE COMPLAINTS ONLINE FROM 2007 AND 2008 SPORT TRAC OWNERS BUT FORD AND THEIR DEALERS TRY AND CONVINCE ME THAT THERE IS NO PROBLEM AND THEY ARE NOT AWARE OF OTHERS WITH SAME ISSUES. REFLASH SO FAR SEEMS TO HAVE FIXED PROBLEM OF HARD DOWN AND UPSHIFTING BUT CREATED THE SLOW DOWN SHIFTING TO FIRST GEAR. NUMEROUS CLOSE CALLS WHEN TRUCK IS SLOW TO ACCELERATE INTO TRAFFIC BECAUSE IT DOES NOT DOWN SHIFT TO FIRST GEAR AFTER SLOWING TO 3 MILES PER HOUR OR LOWER LIKE EVER OTHER VEHICLE I HAVE OWNED. *TR
2008-12-07

TIRES PROBLEM

  • Date Of Incident: 2008-12-07
  • VIN: 1FMEU33847U
  • Components: TIRES
  • Summary: ALL 4 TIRE STEMS/VALVES WERE FRACTURED ... FORD DENIES A RECALL ... INTERNAL MEMO ACKNOWLEDGES A PRODUCT WIDE PROBLEM WITH TIRE CALVES FROM THAT FACTORY. *TR
2008-11-21

POWER TRAIN PROBLEM

  • Date Of Incident: 2008-11-03
  • VIN: 1FMEU53898U
  • Components: POWER TRAIN
  • Summary: 2008 FORD SPORT TRAC HAS A PROBLEM WITH THE TRANSMISSION. *NJ THE CONSUMER NOTICED THAT AFTER COMING TO A STOP, THE VEHICLE WAS NOT MAKING A SMOOTH STOP, BUT RATHER LURCHING SEVERAL TIMES IN STOPPING. THE DEALER PERFORMED A PROGRAM ON THE TRANSMISSION, HOWEVER THE CONTINUED. *JB

Ford Explorer sport trac 2008 recalls

The National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) has issued 1 recalls for different components of the Ford Explorer sport trac 2008.

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.

Negative Ford Explorer sport trac 2008 car reviews

  1. Rocky Leffler 2024-11-06

    Hey there! I hope you're doing well. I just wanted to let you know that finding a drive shaft for the 2 wheel drive with the 4.0 can be quite a challenge. Unfortunately, they can't be rebuilt and Ford no longer has them in stock. However, after 4 weeks of searching, I was finally able to locate one in a warehouse in Michigan. The only downside is that it costs $725.00. Hopefully, you won't ever need one, but if you do, at least you know where to find it!

  2. Jake Crooks 2024-02-04

    I was wondering what Ford was thinking with their latest truck model. As someone who has been in the industry for a while, I was disappointed with the level of comfort it provided. Although it was provided as a work vehicle, I found it uncomfortable to ride in. In comparison, the YukonXL I previously used was much more comfortable and had a smoother ride. I believe that even though the SUV is smaller, it should still have a well-designed and comfortable seat. Additionally, the leather and interior seemed cheap and worn out, which was disappointing. I understand why some people may have concerns about the quality of cars produced by the big three, but I believe that Ford should have done better with this model. I hope that they will improve their fit and finish in the future.

Positive Ford Explorer sport trac 2008 car reviews

  1. Drake VonRueden 2024-07-27

    This is the best and most reliable vehicle I have ever owned. I have been diligent about oil changes every 4K miles and it gets exactly the same mileage, has the same performance, and for the most part, the same appearance as it did when it was new. Furthermore, most of the mileage has been in relatively heavy traffic in Metro Atlanta, yet I anticipate another 100K flawless miles before I pass it on. Sadly, there is still nothing on the market that competes with it in this size range.

  2. Deshaun Vandervort 2024-07-14

    You've had this vehicle for about a month and it's been great so far! The Sport Trac seems like the perfect fit for you, as you wanted something between a full-size pickup and a compact. The bed is a little small, but it's still capable of hauling 4x8 sheets when fitted with a couple of 2x4s in the notches in the bed. The interior is roomy and comfortable, not extravagant, but still satisfying. While the MPG could be improved, you're currently getting 16mpg, and it would be great if Ford could up that to 20. The V6 has been adequate, and the 5-speed auto is smooth. The satellite radio is a nice touch, and the molded bed with compartments and tie-downs is well-designed. Overall, the look is very appealing!

  3. Efren O'Hara 2024-07-01

    I've never been a Ford fan, but after test driving this vehicle, I was impressed with how solid it felt and how quiet the cabin was.

  4. Gregg Willms 2024-06-09

    I've owned my V6 XLT for three months and I'm really happy with my purchase. Although I don't need to haul large or heavy objects very often, the small bed works for me. The ride is comfortable and composed, and the V6 has plenty of power. Everything has been reliable so far. While the fuel economy could be better, I'm not disappointed with the mileage. I think Ford could do better, but overall I'm really satisfied with my truck.

  5. Cleo Hansen 2024-05-04

    Hi there! I hope you're doing well. I just wanted to say that I really enjoyed reading about your experience with your new vehicle. It sounds like you made a great choice in upgrading to a 4WD for more family room and off-road capabilities. The skid plates and BF Goodrich Longtrail tires sound like awesome additions that have really improved your driving experience. It's great to hear that the truck handles well both on and off the road, and that you've had no problems with it so far. Thanks for sharing your thoughts on the mileage too - it's always helpful to have that kind of information. Wishing you all the best with your new ride!

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Additional sources

More sources of information about Ford Explorer sport trac 2008 problems:

Common Problems with 2008 Ford Explorer Sport Trac - Q&A
Common Problems with 2008 Ford Explorer Sport Trac - Q&A
https://www.justanswer.com/ford/dgivm-dose-2008-ford-explorer-sports-trac-problems.html

Jan 23, 2020 ... The transmissions may be the only weak spot that I can think of one those trucks. Have worked on and driven quite a few of them over the years, ...

2008 Ford Explorer Sport Trac Problems and Complaints - 13 Issues
2008 Ford Explorer Sport Trac Problems and Complaints - 13 Issues
https://repairpal.com/2008-ford-explorer-sport-trac/problems

Top 2008 Ford Explorer Sport Trac Problems · Plastic Intake Manifold May Crack Causing Coolant Leak · Wheel bearing faliure · Problems With 5-speed Automatic ...

Need HELP with strange electrical problem in my 2008 Sport Trac ...
Need HELP with strange electrical problem in my 2008 Sport Trac ...
https://www.explorerforum.com/forums/threads/need-help-with-strange-electrical-problem-in-my-2008-sport-trac.373412/

Oct 31, 2012 ... Ford Explorer ... The problem seems to be getting more frequent ... 2008 Explorer Sport Trac. April 25, 2014. #14.

2008 Ford Explorer Sport Trac Reliability - Consumer Reports
2008 Ford Explorer Sport Trac Reliability - Consumer Reports
https://www.consumerreports.org/cars/ford/explorer-sport-trac/2008/reliability/

IF LEAKING TRANSMISSION FLUID CONTACTS THE CATALYTIC CONVERTER, IT MAY POSE A RISK OF FIRE. Read Recall Details. Summary:.

2008 thru 2010 Sports Trac Adrenalin > Questions | Ford Explorer ...
2008 thru 2010 Sports Trac Adrenalin > Questions | Ford Explorer ...
https://www.explorerforum.com/forums/threads/2008-thru-2010-sports-trac-adrenalin-questions.445558/

May 10, 2016 ... A few have complained about multiple issues, but no more than you'e expect from any year/model. Keep in mind that the Adrenalin package is ...

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