2001 Ford Explorer Sport

The 2001 Ford Explorer Sport is a two-door SUV that aimed to offer a sportier and more youthful alternative to the standard four-door Explorer. The 2001 Explorer Sport came with two engine options, the 4.0L SOHC V6 and the 4.0L OHV V6. The 4.0L SOHC engine produced 205 horsepower and 240 lb-ft of torque. The 4.0L OHV V6 engine produced 160 horsepower and 220 lb-ft of torque. Both engines were paired with a 5-speed automatic transmission. Owners often appreciated the Explorer Sport’s maneuverability, and ruggedness while some found the interior materials and ride quality to be lacking. Common complaints include premature rusting, and electrical gremlins.

Engine

4.0L SOHC V6

• Timing Chain Tensioner Failure
  • Description/Symptoms: A rattling noise from the front of the engine, particularly on startup. The engine may run rough or stall. In severe cases, timing chain failure can lead to catastrophic engine damage.
  • Solution: Replacing the timing chain tensioners, guides, and possibly the timing chains themselves.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $800 - $1500+
  • Recalls: None Found
• Intake Manifold Cracks
  • Description/Symptoms: Engine misfires, rough idling, and a check engine light. Vacuum leaks may also be present.
  • Solution: Replacing the intake manifold.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $300 - $600
  • Recalls: None Found

4.0L OHV V6

• Leaking Head Gaskets
  • Description/Symptoms: Overheating, coolant loss, white smoke from the exhaust, and a milky substance under the oil cap.
  • Solution: Replacing the head gaskets.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $1200 - $2500
  • Recalls: None Found

Transmission

5-Speed Automatic (5R55E)

• Slipping or Erratic Shifting
  • Description/Symptoms: The transmission hesitates or slips when shifting gears. Shifting may be harsh or erratic.
  • Solution: Valve body replacement/rebuild, transmission rebuild or replacement.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $500 - $2500+
  • Recalls: None Found
• Torque Converter Failure
  • Description/Symptoms: Shuddering or vibrations, especially at low speeds or when accelerating. Stalling may also occur.
  • Solution: Replacing the torque converter.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $500 - $1200
  • Recalls: None Found

Suspension

• Ball Joint Failure
  • Description/Symptoms: Clunking noises from the front suspension, especially when going over bumps. Steering may feel loose or wander.
  • Solution: Replacing the ball joints.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $200 - $500 per side
  • Recalls: None Found
• Rear Leaf Spring Sagging
  • Description/Symptoms: The rear of the vehicle sits lower than the front. Ride quality may be poor, and handling may be affected.
  • Solution: Replacing the leaf springs.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $400 - $800+
  • Recalls: None Found

Electrical

• Blend Door Actuator Failure
  • Description/Symptoms: The heater blows hot air on one side and cold air on the other, or the temperature is stuck in one position.
  • Solution: Replacing the blend door actuator.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $150 - $400
  • Recalls: None Found
• Power Window Motor Failure
  • Description/Symptoms: The power windows stop working or operate slowly.
  • Solution: Replacing the power window motor.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $150 - $300 per window
  • Recalls: None Found

Exterior

• Rust on Rocker Panels and Wheel Wells
  • Description/Symptoms: Visible rust forming on the lower body panels, particularly around the rocker panels and wheel wells.
  • Solution: Rust repair or panel replacement.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $300 - $1000+ per panel
  • Recalls: None Found
• Tailgate Handle Failure
  • Description/Symptoms: The tailgate handle breaks or becomes difficult to operate, making it hard to open the rear hatch.
  • Solution: Replacing the tailgate handle assembly.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $100 - $300
  • Recalls: None Found

Interior

• Dashboard Cracking
  • Description/Symptoms: Cracks forming on the dashboard, particularly in areas exposed to sunlight.
  • Solution: Dashboard replacement (expensive) or dashboard cover.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $100 (cover) - $1000+ (replacement)
  • Recalls: None Found
• Door Panel Sagging
  • Description/Symptoms: The fabric or vinyl on the door panels starts to sag or detach from the backing.
  • Solution: Reupholstering the door panels or replacing them.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $100 - $400 per door
  • Recalls: None Found

Summary

The 2001 Ford Explorer Sport has several common issues, ranging from moderate to severe. Engine problems like timing chain tensioner failure (4.0L SOHC) and head gasket leaks (4.0L OHV) can be costly to repair. Transmission issues, particularly slipping and erratic shifting, are also prevalent and require significant investment. Electrical problems, such as blend door actuator and power window motor failures, are less severe but can still be annoying. Exterior rust is a significant concern, especially in regions with harsh weather. Overall, potential buyers should carefully inspect the vehicle for these issues and factor in potential repair costs.