2009 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.

2009 Ford Explorer sport trac

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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.

2009 Ford Explorer sport trac engine

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.

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?

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.

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.

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.
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.
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.
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
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

Negative 2009 Ford Explorer sport trac car reviews

  1. 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!

  2. 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

  1. 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!

  2. Cecil O'Conner 2025-05-01

    I love the eye-catching Adrenalin package with its great Colorado Red color. The 20

  3. Leonel Rempel 2025-04-29

    I recently purchased the last 2008 Adrenalin that my dealer had, and I must say, I'm thoroughly impressed! It came with every option available, Colorado Red paint, and 20'' wheels. Even with only 1000 miles on it, I'm already in love with the ride and handling of this truck. While it may be a little underpowered, even with the V8 (although that may be because my other car is a Z28 with an LT1), it still looks incredibly fast. It's a great looking truck that has everyone asking, 'What model is that?' and 'Did it come new like that?' The ride and drive are as smooth as silk, and it gets decent mileage for a 4500lb truck (16.9 mpg so far). At 46, I've had a lot of cars, and this one is definitely up there on my list.

  4. 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.

  5. Manley McCullough 2025-04-27

    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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Additional sources

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

2009 Ford Explorer Sport Trac Problems and Complaints - 8 Issues
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 ...
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
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 ...
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.

Common 2009 Ford Explorer Sport Trac Problems - Q&A
Common 2009 Ford Explorer Sport Trac Problems - Q&A
https://www.justanswer.com/ford/jhs4c-just-purchased-90-days-ago-2009-ford-explorer-sport-trac.html

Jun 2, 2022 ... Was this answer helpful? up Yes. down No. Finish.

Other years of Ford Explorer sport trac

ford explorer sport trac 2010 photo
Explorer sport trac 2010
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ford explorer sport trac 1997 photo
Explorer sport trac 1997
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ford explorer sport trac 1998 photo
Explorer sport trac 1998
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ford explorer sport trac 2000 photo
Explorer sport trac 2000
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ford explorer sport trac 2001 photo
Explorer sport trac 2001
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ford explorer sport trac 2002 photo
Explorer sport trac 2002
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2009 Ford Explorer sport trac photo