2001 Ford Explorer Sport Trac

Introduction

The 2001 Ford Explorer Sport Trac is a mid-size pickup truck that combines the versatility of a truck with the comfort and convenience of an SUV. It was available with two engine options: a 4.0L V6 and a 5.0L V8, and two transmission options: a 5-speed automatic and a 6-speed manual. The 4.0L V6 produced 205 horsepower and 230 lb-ft of torque, while the 5.0L V8 produced 230 horsepower and 280 lb-ft of torque. The Explorer Sport Trac was praised for its rugged design, spacious interior, and comfortable ride, but it was also criticized for its high fuel consumption and poor handling.

Engine

4.0L V6

• Intake manifold gasket failure: The intake manifold gasket can fail, causing coolant and oil leaks. Symptoms include coolant leaks, oil leaks, and a loss of coolant or oil. The solution is to replace the intake manifold gasket. The estimated cost to fix this issue is $400 - $600.
• Timing chain tensioner failure: The timing chain tensioner can fail, causing the timing chain to skip and damage the engine. Symptoms include a rattling noise from the engine, a loss of power, and a check engine light. The solution is to replace the timing chain tensioner and timing chain. The estimated cost to fix this issue is $800 - $1200.
• Spark plug blowout: The spark plugs can blow out of the cylinder head, causing a loss of compression and power. Symptoms include a rough idle, a loss of power, and a check engine light. The solution is to replace the spark plugs and cylinder head. The estimated cost to fix this issue is $1000 - $1500.

5.0L V8

• Cam Phaser Failure: The Cam Phaser can fail, causing the timing to be off. Symptoms include reduced power, rough idling, and a check engine light. The solution is to replace the Cam Phaser. The estimated cost to fix this issue is $800 - $1200.

Transmission

5-Speed Automatic

• Transmission slipping: The transmission may slip out of gear, causing the vehicle to lose power. Symptoms include a loss of power, a jerking or hesitation when shifting, and a check engine light. The solution is to rebuild or replace the transmission. The estimated cost to fix this issue is $1500 - $2500.
• Torque converter failure: The torque converter may fail, causing the transmission to slip and overheat. Symptoms include a loss of power, a slipping transmission, and a burnt smell. The solution is to replace the torque converter. The estimated cost to fix this issue is $1000 - $1500.

6-Speed Manual

• Clutch failure: The clutch may slip or fail, causing the vehicle to lose power. Symptoms include a slipping clutch, a loss of power, and a burning smell. The solution is to replace the clutch. The estimated cost to fix this issue is $500 - $700.
• Transmission grinding: The transmission may grind when shifting gears. Symptoms include a grinding noise when shifting gears and a difficulty shifting gears. The solution is to replace the transmission. The estimated cost to fix this issue is $1500 - $2500.

Suspension

• Ball joint failure: The ball joints can fail, causing the vehicle to lose stability and control. Symptoms include a clunking noise when turning, a loose or wobbly steering wheel, and a loss of control. The solution is to replace the ball joints. The estimated cost to fix this issue is $400 - $600.
• Strut failure: The struts may fail, causing the vehicle to ride rough and handle poorly. Symptoms include a rough ride, a loss of handling, and a clunking noise when going over bumps. The solution is to replace the struts. The estimated cost to fix this issue is $600 - $800.

Electrical

• Alternator failure: The alternator may fail, causing the battery to drain and the vehicle to lose power. Symptoms include a dim or flickering headlights, a dead battery, and a check engine light. The solution is to replace the alternator. The estimated cost to fix this issue is $400 - $600.
• Battery drain: The battery may drain quickly, causing the vehicle to lose power. Symptoms include a dead battery, a slow engine crank, and a check engine light. The solution is to test the battery and alternator and replace the battery or alternator as necessary. The estimated cost to fix this issue is $100 - $400.
• Starter failure: The starter may fail to turn over the engine. Symptoms include a clicking noise when starting the engine, a dead battery, and a check engine light. The solution is to replace the starter. The estimated cost to fix this issue is $300 - $500.

Exterior

• Rust on the frame: The frame can rust, causing it to weaken and fail. Symptoms include rust on the frame, a sagging frame, and a loss of structural integrity. The solution is to replace the frame. The estimated cost to fix this issue is $5000 - $10000.

Interior

• Cracked dashboard: The dashboard may crack or warp, causing it to look unsightly and distracting. Symptoms include cracks or warping on the dashboard, a loose or rattling dashboard, and a faded or discolored dashboard. The solution is to replace the dashboard. The estimated cost to fix this issue is $500 - $700.
• Seat upholstery tears: The seat upholstery may tear or wear, causing it to look unsightly and uncomfortable. Symptoms include tears or holes in the seat upholstery, a loss of support or comfort, and a faded or discolored seat upholstery. The solution is to replace the seat upholstery. The estimated cost to fix this issue is $300 - $500.

Summary

Overall, the 2001 Ford Explorer Sport Trac is a reliable vehicle with a few common issues. The most severe and expensive issue is rust on the frame, which can cost up to $10,000 to fix. Other common issues include intake manifold gasket failure, timing chain tensioner failure, spark plug blowout, transmission slipping, torque converter failure, ball joint failure, strut failure, alternator failure, battery drain, starter failure, cracked dashboard, and seat upholstery tears. Most of these issues are relatively minor and inexpensive to fix, but they can still be annoying and disruptive.