2000 Ford Explorer

The 2000 Ford Explorer was a popular SUV known for its practicality and versatility. It offered three engine choices: a 4.0L OHV V6 producing 160 hp and 220 lb-ft of torque, a 4.0L SOHC V6 producing 210 hp and 254 lb-ft of torque, and a 5.0L V8 producing 215 hp and 290 lb-ft of torque. It came with either a 5-speed manual or a 5-speed automatic transmission. Owners often praised its spacious interior and towing capability, but some disliked its fuel economy and reliability issues, particularly with the automatic transmissions.

Engine

4.0L OHV V6

• Timing Chain Tensioner Failure
  • Description/Symptoms: Rattling noise from the front of the engine, especially on startup. Can lead to engine damage if the tensioner fails completely.
  • Solution: Replacement of timing chain tensioners and possibly timing chains.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $500 - $1000+
  • Recalls: None Found

4.0L SOHC V6

• Timing Chain Rattle
  • Description/Symptoms: The single overhead cam (SOHC) 4.0L V6 engine is known to have timing chain rattle, specifically at startup. This can be caused by worn timing chain tensioners and guides.
  • Solution: Replacement of timing chain tensioners, guides, and possibly the chains themselves.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $800 - $1500+
  • Recalls: None Found
• Intake Manifold Cracks
  • Description/Symptoms: The composite intake manifold can crack with age, leading to vacuum leaks, rough idling, and poor fuel economy.
  • Solution: Intake manifold replacement.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $300 - $600
  • Recalls: None Found

5.0L V8

• Oil Leaks
  • Description/Symptoms: Oil leaks are common on the 5.0L V8, often originating from the valve cover gaskets, rear main seal, or oil pan gasket.
  • Solution: Replacement of the leaking gaskets or seals.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $150 - $500+ depending on the location of the leak.
  • Recalls: None Found

Transmission

5R55E 5-Speed Automatic Transmission

• Valve Body Issues
  • Description/Symptoms: Erratic shifting, slipping between gears, delayed engagement, or complete loss of certain gears. The valve body is a common failure point.
  • Solution: Valve body replacement or rebuild, potentially including solenoids.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $500 - $1200+
  • Recalls: None Found
• Torque Converter Failure
  • Description/Symptoms: Shuddering or vibration, especially during acceleration. Can also cause stalling.
  • Solution: Torque converter replacement.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $600 - $1500+
  • Recalls: None Found

Suspension

• Front Ball Joint Failure
  • Description/Symptoms: Excessive play in the front suspension, clunking noises, uneven tire wear. The ball joints are prone to wear and failure.
  • Solution: Replacement of the front ball joints.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $200 - $500
  • Recalls: None Found
• Rear Leaf Spring Sagging
  • Description/Symptoms: Rear of the vehicle sits lower than normal, reduced load-carrying capacity, poor ride quality.
  • Solution: Replacement of rear leaf springs.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $300 - $700
  • Recalls: None Found

Electrical

• Window Regulator Failure
  • Description/Symptoms: Windows not operating properly, grinding noises, or complete failure to move.
  • Solution: Replacement of the window regulator.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $150 - $400
  • Recalls: None Found
• Blend Door Actuator Failure
  • Description/Symptoms: Clicking noises from behind the dashboard, inconsistent temperature control. The blend door actuator controls the flow of hot and cold air.
  • Solution: Replacement of the blend door actuator.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $150 - $400
  • Recalls: None Found
• ABS Module Failure
  • Description/Symptoms: ABS light illuminated, loss of ABS functionality.
  • Solution: Replacement of the ABS module.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $300 - $800+
  • Recalls: None Found

Exterior

• Rust
  • Description/Symptoms: Rust on the rocker panels, wheel wells, and undercarriage is very common.
  • Solution: Rust repair or panel replacement.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $300 - $1000+ depending on severity.
  • Recalls: None Found

Interior

• Dashboard Cracking
  • Description/Symptoms: Cracks in the dashboard, particularly in warmer climates.
  • Solution: Dashboard replacement or repair.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $200 - $800+
  • Recalls: None Found

Summary

The 2000 Ford Explorer is prone to a variety of issues, ranging from engine and transmission problems to electrical and suspension concerns. The timing chain issues on both V6 engines are particularly concerning, as is the valve body issue in the 5R55E transmission. Rust is also a significant problem, especially in regions with harsh winters. The cost to address these issues can vary widely, but some repairs can be quite expensive. Overall, potential buyers should be aware of these common problems and factor them into their purchasing decision.