2003 Ford Explorer Sport Trac

The 2003 Ford Explorer Sport Trac is a mid-size pickup truck that blends the practicality of a pickup with the comfort of an SUV. Engine options for the 2003 model year included a 4.0L Cologne V6, producing 210 horsepower and 254 lb-ft of torque, and a 4.6L Modular V8, producing 239 horsepower and 282 lb-ft of torque. Both engines were paired with a 5-speed automatic transmission. Owners generally appreciate the Sport Trac’s versatility and unique design. Common complaints include issues with reliability, particularly regarding electrical components, and relatively poor fuel economy.

Engine

4.0L Cologne V6

• Timing Chain Tensioner Failure
  • Description/Symptoms: Ticking or rattling noise coming from the engine, especially on startup. This can eventually lead to engine damage if not addressed.
  • Solution: Replace the timing chain tensioners and possibly the timing chains themselves.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $500 - $1500+
  • Recalls: None Found
• Intake Manifold Gasket Leak
  • Description/Symptoms: Coolant leak near the intake manifold, rough running engine, and potential overheating.
  • Solution: Replace the intake manifold gasket.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $300 - $700
  • Recalls: None Found

4.6L Modular V8

• Spark Plug Blowout
  • Description/Symptoms: Sudden loud popping noise from the engine, accompanied by a loss of power. This is due to the spark plugs ejecting from the cylinder head.
  • Solution: Install thread repair inserts in the cylinder head and replace the spark plugs.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $300 - $800
  • Recalls: None Found
• Oil Leaks
  • Description/Symptoms: Oil leaks from various locations, including the valve cover gaskets and the rear main seal.
  • Solution: Replace the leaking gaskets or seals.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $100 - $500+ (depending on the location and severity of the leak)
  • Recalls: None Found

Transmission

5R55E 5-Speed Automatic Transmission (Both Engines)

• Slipping or Harsh Shifting
  • Description/Symptoms: The transmission slips between gears, shifts harshly, or fails to engage properly.
  • Solution: In some cases, a fluid flush and filter change might resolve the issue. More severe cases may require a transmission rebuild or replacement.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $200 (fluid flush) - $3000+ (rebuild/replacement)
  • Recalls: None Found
• Torque Converter Failure
  • Description/Symptoms: Shuddering or vibration at highway speeds, especially under light acceleration.
  • Solution: Replace the torque converter.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $500 - $1500
  • Recalls: None Found

Suspension

• Front Ball Joint Failure
  • Description/Symptoms: Clunking or popping noise from the front suspension, loose steering, uneven tire wear.
  • Solution: Replace the worn ball joints.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $200 - $600
  • Recalls: None Found
• Rear Leaf Spring Sagging/Breakage
  • Description/Symptoms: The rear of the vehicle sits lower than normal, especially when loaded. Broken leaf springs can be visually inspected.
  • Solution: Replace the rear leaf springs.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $300 - $800
  • Recalls: None Found

Electrical

• Instrument Cluster Issues
  • Description/Symptoms: Gauges failing to work properly, flickering lights, and the instrument cluster malfunctioning.
  • Solution: In some cases, the instrument cluster can be repaired. Otherwise, it needs to be replaced.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $100 - $500+
  • Recalls: None Found
• Blend Door Actuator Failure
  • Description/Symptoms: Inability to control the temperature of the air coming from the vents. Either hot or cold air only.
  • Solution: Replace the blend door actuator.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $150 - $400
  • Recalls: None Found

Exterior

• Rust on the Underbody
  • Description/Symptoms: Rust formation on the frame, suspension components, and other underbody parts. Especially prevalent in areas with road salt.
  • Solution: Rust repair or replacement of affected components.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $100 - $2000+ (depending on the severity)
  • Recalls: None Found

Interior

• Power Window Regulator Failure
  • Description/Symptoms: Power windows failing to go up or down, or moving very slowly.
  • Solution: Replace the power window regulator.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $150 - $400
  • Recalls: None Found

Summary

The 2003 Ford Explorer Sport Trac is known for some reliability issues, with the electrical system and the engine being particular areas of concern. Engine issues such as timing chain tensioner failure on the 4.0L V6 and spark plug blowout on the 4.6L V8, alongside potential transmission problems, can lead to costly repairs. Suspension components are also known to wear out. While some issues are relatively inexpensive to fix, others can require significant investment. Potential buyers should be aware of these common problems and have a pre-purchase inspection performed.