2001 Ford Explorer Sport

Introduction:

The 2001 Ford Explorer Sport is a midsize SUV known for its spacious interior, off-road capabilities, and powerful engine options. It is offered with two engine options: a 4.0L V6 and a 4.6L V8, paired with a 5-speed automatic transmission. The 4.0L V6 produces 210 horsepower and 250 lb-ft of torque, while the 4.6L V8 generates 235 horsepower and 305 lb-ft of torque.

Owners appreciate the Explorer Sport’s comfortable and versatile interior, capable handling, and decent fuel economy for its size. However, it has also faced some common issues owners have reported.

Engine

4.0L V6

• Intake Manifold Gasket Failure:
  • Description/Symptoms: Coolant leak, engine overheating, rough idle, loss of power.
  • Solution: Replace intake manifold gasket.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $400 - $800+
  • Recalls: None Found
• Valve Cover Gasket Leak:
  • Description/Symptoms: Oil leak around valve covers, burning oil smell.
  • Solution: Replace valve cover gaskets and reseal.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $300 - $600+
  • Recalls: None Found

4.6L V8

• Spark Plug Blowout:
  • Description/Symptoms: Misfires, rough idle, loss of power.
  • Solution: Replace spark plugs and inspect cylinder heads for damage.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $200 - $500+
  • Recalls: None Found
• Timing Chain Tensioner Failure:
  • Description/Symptoms: Engine rattle, loss of power, check engine light.
  • Solution: Replace timing chain tensioner and inspect timing chain for damage.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $500 - $1,000+
  • Recalls: None Found

Transmission

• 5-Speed Automatic Transmission:
  • Torque Converter Shudder:
    • Description/Symptoms: Vibration during acceleration, especially at low speeds.
    • Solution: Replace torque converter and transmission fluid.
    • Estimated Cost to Fix: $1,000 - $2,000+
    • Recalls: None Found
  • Transmission Slippage:
    • Description/Symptoms: Difficulty shifting gears, loss of power, check engine light.
    • Solution: Rebuild or replace transmission.
    • Estimated Cost to Fix: $2,000 - $4,000+
    • Recalls: None Found

Suspension

• Front Lower Control Arm Bushing Failure:
  • Description/Symptoms: Clunking or rattling noises during driving, uneven tire wear.
  • Solution: Replace front lower control arm bushings.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $300 - $600+
  • Recalls: None Found
• Rear Sway Bar Links:
  • Description/Symptoms: Squeaking or rattling noises during turns, unstable handling.
  • Solution: Replace rear sway bar links.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $200 - $400+
  • Recalls: None Found

Electrical

• Battery Drain:
  • Description/Symptoms: Battery goes dead quickly, especially after short drives.
  • Solution: Inspect electrical system for parasitic drain, replace battery or alternator as needed.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $50 - $500+
  • Recalls: None Found
• Instrument Cluster Failure:
  • Description/Symptoms: Gauges become intermittent or inoperable.
  • Solution: Replace instrument cluster or repair circuit board.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $200 - $400+
  • Recalls: None Found

Exterior

• Roof Rack Crossbars Loosening:
  • Description/Symptoms: Crossbars on the roof rack become loose or detached.
  • Solution: Tighten crossbars or replace bolts.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $50 - $100+
  • Recalls: None Found

Interior

• Dashboard Rattle:
  • Description/Symptoms: Rattling noises from the dashboard, especially on rough roads.
  • Solution: Locate and address source of vibration, often loose screws or panels.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $0 - $100+
  • Recalls: None Found
• Power Window Switch Failure:
  • Description/Symptoms: Power windows become inoperable from the switch.
  • Solution: Replace power window switch assembly.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $100 - $200+
  • Recalls: None Found

Summary

The 2001 Ford Explorer Sport generally has a decent reliability record, but it is not without its issues. The most common problems are related to the engine (intake manifold gasket failures), transmission (torque converter shudder), and suspension (control arm bushing failures). While some repairs can be relatively inexpensive, more severe issues like timing chain or transmission problems can be costly. Owners should be aware of these potential problems and maintain their vehicles regularly to prevent or mitigate them.