2009 Ford Explorer sport trac problems

General information about Ford-Explorer sport trac
Overview of popular issues
Analysis of common problems
Сomplaints list
Negative car reviews
Positive car reviews

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.

Social links

Common 2009 Ford Explorer sport trac problems

Based on complaints from owners of the 2009 Ford Explorer Sport Trac, several common problems have been reported:

Wheel Bearing Failure: Another prevalent problem reported by owners is wheel bearing failure. While this issue is not specific to the Explorer Sport Trac alone, it is a common problem across various vehicles that can affect the driving performance and safety of the vehicle.

Transmission Issues: Owners have frequently reported transmission problems with the 2009 Ford Explorer Sport Trac. Staying on top of transmission fluid intervals can help mitigate these issues and ensure the smooth operation of the vehicle.

Radiator Leaks: Radiator leaks have also been a commonly reported problem with the 2009 Ford Explorer Sport Trac. These leaks can lead to overheating, posing a risk to the engine's health and overall vehicle performance.

These issues highlight some of the key concerns that owners of the 2009 Ford Explorer Sport Trac have faced, emphasizing the importance of regular maintenance and awareness of these common problems to ensure the longevity 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.

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.

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?

Is the Ford Explorer Sport Trac reliable?

How many miles can a Ford Explorer Sport Trac last?

Why did Ford stop making Explorer Sport Trac?

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

2009 Ford Explorer sport trac 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
Electrical system problems
Air bags problems
Tires problems
Vehicle speed control problems

The graph below shows statistics for all 2009 Ford Explorer sport trac vehicle components and the number of complaints received.

2009 Ford Explorer sport trac complaints

The NHTSA has received 5 complaints about various vehicle components related to the 2009 Ford Explorer sport trac.

2021-02-24

ELECTRICAL SYSTEM,AIR BAGS PROBLEM

Date Of Incident: 2009-05-10
VIN: 1FMEU23809U
Components: ELECTRICAL SYSTEM,AIR BAGS
Summary: THE SEAT BELT WARNING LITE WANTS TO STAY ON.

Add Complaint

2020-11-13

POWER TRAIN PROBLEM

Date Of Incident: 2020-11-02
VIN: 1FMEU51E99U
Components: POWER TRAIN
Summary: WHEN IN 4 WHEEL DRIVE AND PUT IT IN PARK IT LOCKS UP. CAN NOT REMOVE AND GET OUT OF PARK.

Add Complaint

2019-09-03

POWER TRAIN PROBLEM

Date Of Incident: 2019-08-01
VIN: 1FMEU51E59U
Components: POWER TRAIN
Summary: TL* THE CONTACT OWNS A 2009 FORD EXPLORER SPORT TRAC. WHEN THE VEHICLE WAS ENGAGED IN PARK, THE KEY BECAME STUCK INSIDE THE IGNITION. THE CONTACT MENTIONED THAT HE MANUALLY PUSHED A PIN IN THE SHIFTER TO REMOVE THE KEY. THE CONTACT ALSO MENTIONED THAT THE GEAR WAS ABLE TO BE REMOVED OUT OF PARK WITHOUT THE KEY BEING IN THE IGNITION. THE VEHICLE WAS NOT TAKEN TO AN INDEPENDENT MECHANIC OR DEALER FOR REPAIRS. THE MANUFACTURER WAS MADE AWARE OF THE FAILURE. THE FAILURE MILEAGE WAS 102,000.

Add Complaint

2009-09-04

TIRES PROBLEM

Date Of Incident: 2009-09-01
Components: TIRES
Summary: WHILE DRIVING ON THE HIGHWAY, THE TIRE BLEW UP DUE TO A NAIL EMBEDDED IN THE TIRE. THE TIRE WAS RIPPED AWAY FROM THE RIM. THE SPARE WAS PLACED ON THE VEHICLE AND THEN DRIVEN TO THE DEALER WHERE THE TRUCK WAS PURCHASED. THE TIRE WAS DEEMED DEFECTIVE AS A NAIL EMBEDDED IN THE TIRE SHOULD NOT CAUSE IT TO RIP AWAY FROM THE RIM. *TR

Add Complaint

2009-04-27

VEHICLE SPEED CONTROL PROBLEM

Date Of Incident: 2009-04-19
VIN: 1FMEU51E19U
Components: VEHICLE SPEED CONTROL
Summary: MY NEW 2009 FORD EXPLORER SPORT TRAC WITH ADJUSTABLE PEDALS HAS THE ACCELERATOR PEDAL AND BRAKE PEDAL TOO CLOSE TOGETHER. I FIND MYSELF HITTING THE GAS AT THE SAME TIME I AM HITTING THE BRAKE. THIS IS AN ACCIDENT WAITING TO HAPPEN. I ALREADY HAVE RUN INTO AN INTERSECTION ONCE. *TR

Add Complaint

Negative 2009 Ford Explorer sport trac car reviews

Trystan Beatty 2025-05-17

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.
Dewitt Reichel 2024-08-27

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 for $725.00. It's definitely not cheap, but at least it's available if you ever need it. Take care!
Fausto Sipes 2024-01-28

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 2009 Ford Explorer sport trac car reviews

Aaron Grimes 2025-06-03

I am completely satisfied with the vehicle, despite the minor issues with fuel economy, which currently stands at around 18 mpg in the city, and the tire pressure indicator. Despite having had two dealerships look at the tire pressure indicator, a solution has yet to be found.
Kurtis Goodwin 2025-06-02

I got a fantastic deal on the Adrenalin model during Christmas. I have been a loyal Acura customer since 1989, but unfortunately, they were not motivated to sell me a vehicle. However, this truck provides a tremendous sense of security in winter driving situations and we enjoy sitting higher when driving. The 6-speed transmission is smooth and the V8 is very flexible. Compared to the Chevy Silverado I rented last year for a weekend, the independent rear suspension gives a much more impressive ride over rough roads. Fuel economy so far is acceptable at 15-20 mpg in winter driving, but I'm expecting a seasonal improvement to 20-26 mpg when the weather warms up, just like my Acura TL does. We immensely enjoy driving this truck and recommend it to anyone looking for style, power, and tremendous versatility. Adding sunny days and a favourite recreational activity would make it even better. It's definitely a keeper!
Columbus Kerluke 2025-05-07

In January 2009, we experienced a snowstorm that caught some of the locals off guard. I remember leaving work at 1:00 AM and driving slowly on the I-40 freeway. I noticed several vehicles, including a couple of police cars, losing control on the icy roads. However, I felt safe and secure in my new 2008 Sport Track all-wheel drive truck, which handled the conditions with ease. I am thrilled with my purchase and grateful for the peace of mind it provides. Go me!
Cecil O'Conner 2025-05-01

I love the eye-catching Adrenalin package with its great Colorado Red color. The 20
Juwan Feest 2025-04-29

Purchased a brand new white 09 Sport Trac XLT 4x2 with sync/sunroof over Labor Day 2009. This truck is perfect for those who want a smoother ride and do not need a huge cargo bed. There is plenty of room for 5 people. I have put 3,000 miles on it and have had no issues. It rides very nicely and I am getting decent gas mileage, about 18 MPG overall city/hwy. I paid $21,000+ Tax/License.

Additional sources

More sources of information about 2009 Ford Explorer sport trac problems:

2009 Ford Explorer Sport Trac Problems and Complaints - 8 Issues

https://repairpal.com/2009-ford-explorer-sport-trac/problems

Problem with your 2009 Ford Explorer Sport Trac? Our list of 8 known complaints reported by owners can help you fix your 2009 Ford Explorer Sport Trac.

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 ... Seems like a well made, low problem ... swshawaii. Staff member. Moderator. Elite Explorer. Joined: April 3, 2009 ... reliability and issues I ...

2009 Ford Explorer Sport Trac Radiator, Coolant Leak & Problems

https://www.justanswer.com/ford/9dwwg-ford-explorer-sport-trac-2009-ford-explorer-sport.html

Nov 3, 2015 ... Ok most common source of a coolant leak in that area of the engine would be the thermostat housing in the front of the intake valley where the ...

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.