2002 Ford Explorer Sport Trac

Here’s a breakdown of common issues reported for the 2002 Ford Explorer Sport Trac, categorized and formatted as requested. The 2002 Ford Explorer Sport Trac was a unique vehicle, blending SUV and pickup truck characteristics. Engine options included a 4.0L SOHC V6 producing around 210 horsepower and 254 lb-ft of torque, and a 4.0L OHV V6 producing around 205 horsepower and 240 lb-ft of torque. Both engines were typically paired with a 5-speed automatic transmission. Owners often appreciated its versatility and decent ride, while common complaints revolved around reliability issues and fuel economy.

Engine

4.0L SOHC V6

• Timing Chain Tensioner Failure
  • Description/Symptoms: Rattling noise, especially on startup. Can lead to catastrophic engine failure if not addressed.
  • Solution: Replace timing chain tensioners, chains, and possibly guides.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $1,200 - $2,500+
  • Recalls: None Found
• Intake Manifold Cracks
  • Description/Symptoms: Misfires, rough idling, check engine light (often codes P0171 and P0174 indicating lean conditions).
  • Solution: Replace the intake manifold.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $500 - $900
  • Recalls: None Found
• Thermostat Housing Leak
  • Description/Symptoms: Coolant leak, overheating.
  • Solution: Replace the thermostat housing, gasket, and thermostat.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $200 - $400
  • Recalls: None Found

4.0L OHV V6

• No Issues Found

Transmission

5R55E 5-Speed Automatic

• Valve Body Issues
  • Description/Symptoms: Harsh or delayed shifting, slipping between gears, transmission not shifting at all.
  • Solution: Replacement of the valve body or a complete transmission rebuild.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $800 - $3,000+
  • Recalls: None Found
• Torque Converter Failure
  • Description/Symptoms: Shuddering at low speeds, stalling, or failure to move.
  • Solution: Replace the torque converter.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $600 - $1,200
  • Recalls: None Found

Suspension

• Front Ball Joint Failure
  • Description/Symptoms: Clunking or popping noise from the front end, especially when turning or going over bumps. Excessive tire wear.
  • Solution: Replace the front ball joints.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $300 - $600 per side
  • Recalls: None Found
• Rear Leaf Spring Sagging/Breakage
  • Description/Symptoms: Rear end sagging, poor ride quality, clunking noise from the rear.
  • Solution: Replace the rear leaf springs.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $400 - $800
  • Recalls: None Found

Electrical

• Window Regulator Failure
  • Description/Symptoms: Window not going up or down, or moving erratically.
  • Solution: Replace the window regulator.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $200 - $400
  • Recalls: None Found
• Instrument Cluster Issues
  • Description/Symptoms: Gauges not working properly (speedometer, fuel gauge, etc.), flickering lights, intermittent power loss to the cluster.
  • Solution: Repair or replace the instrument cluster.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $200 - $600
  • Recalls: None Found
• Fuel Pump Relay Failure
  • Description/Symptoms: Engine cranks but does not start.
  • Solution: Replace the fuel pump relay.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $20 - $50
  • Recalls: None Found

Exterior

• Door Handle Breakage
  • Description/Symptoms: Exterior door handles breaking, making it difficult to open the doors.
  • Solution: Replace the door handle.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $50 - $200
  • Recalls: None Found
• Rust (Particularly on the Frame)
  • Description/Symptoms: Visible rust, especially in areas prone to moisture.
  • Solution: Rust repair or frame replacement (if severe).
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $100 - $3,000+ (depending on severity)
  • Recalls: None Found

Interior

• Blend Door Actuator Failure
  • Description/Symptoms: Inability to control the temperature of the air coming from the vents (e.g., only hot air blowing, or only cold air blowing). Clicking noise behind the dashboard.
  • Solution: Replace the blend door actuator.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $200 - $400
  • Recalls: None Found

Summary

The 2002 Ford Explorer Sport Trac, while offering a unique blend of SUV and truck functionality, suffers from a range of common issues. The most concerning are the timing chain tensioner issue on the 4.0L SOHC V6 and the valve body issues on the 5R55E transmission, as these can lead to significant repair costs and potential engine/transmission failure. Suspension components like ball joints and leaf springs are also prone to wear and tear. Electrical and interior issues, while less severe, can still be annoying to deal with. The presence of rust, especially on the frame, should be a major red flag when considering purchasing one of these vehicles. Overall, potential buyers should carefully inspect any 2002 Sport Trac and be prepared for potential maintenance and repair expenses.