2008 Ford Explorer

The 2008 Ford Explorer is a mid-size SUV known for its truck-based durability and spaciousness. It was offered with two engine options: a 4.0L V6 producing 210 horsepower and 254 lb-ft of torque, and a 4.6L V8 generating 292 horsepower and 300 lb-ft of torque. Both engines could be paired with a 5-speed automatic transmission (V6) or a 6-speed automatic transmission (V8). Owners often appreciate the Explorer’s towing capacity and comfortable ride. Some common dislikes include fuel economy and some reliability concerns related to age.

Engine

4.0L V6

• Timing Chain Rattle
  • Description/Symptoms: A rattling noise, especially on startup, coming from the front of the engine. This indicates wear and potential failure of the timing chain and/or tensioners. If left unaddressed, can lead to significant engine damage.
  • Solution: Replacement of the timing chain, tensioners, and guides.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $1200 - $2000+
  • Recalls: None Found
• Camshaft Position Sensor Failure
  • Description/Symptoms: Check engine light, rough idling, stalling, and poor fuel economy.
  • Solution: Replacement of the camshaft position sensor.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $150 - $300
  • Recalls: None Found

4.6L V8

• Spark Plug Breakage During Removal
  • Description/Symptoms: When changing spark plugs, the two-piece design can separate, leaving the lower portion stuck in the cylinder head.
  • Solution: Special tools and techniques are required to remove the broken spark plug without damaging the cylinder head.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $300 - $800+ (depending on the number of plugs and severity)
  • Recalls: None Found
• Exhaust Manifold Leaks
  • Description/Symptoms: Ticking or hissing sound, especially when the engine is cold, emanating from the engine bay. Can also cause reduced fuel economy and performance.
  • Solution: Replacement of the exhaust manifold(s) and gaskets.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $500 - $1200+
  • Recalls: None Found

Transmission

5-Speed Automatic (4.0L V6)

• No Issues Found

6-Speed Automatic (4.6L V8)

• Torque Converter Failure
  • Description/Symptoms: Shuddering or vibrations at specific speeds, especially when accelerating lightly. Can also cause stalling or difficulty shifting.
  • Solution: Replacement of the torque converter.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $800 - $1800+
  • Recalls: None Found

Suspension

• Rear Air Suspension Failure (if equipped)
  • Description/Symptoms: The rear of the vehicle sits lower than the front, especially when loaded. The air compressor may run constantly or not at all. Ride quality can be significantly degraded.
  • Solution: Replacement of the air springs, compressor, and/or ride height sensors. Sometimes conversion to coil springs is preferred.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $500 - $2000+ (depending on parts replaced and conversion)
  • Recalls: None Found
• Ball Joint Failure
  • Description/Symptoms: Clunking or squeaking noises from the front suspension, especially when going over bumps or turning. Loose steering and uneven tire wear.
  • Solution: Replacement of the upper and/or lower ball joints.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $200 - $600+ per ball joint
  • Recalls: None Found

Electrical

• Blend Door Actuator Failure
  • Description/Symptoms: Inability to control the temperature of the air blowing from the vents. One side may blow hot while the other blows cold. Clicking noise from behind the dashboard.
  • Solution: Replacement of the blend door actuator.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $200 - $500
  • Recalls: None Found
• Power Window Motor Failure
  • Description/Symptoms: Window operates slowly or not at all. Clicking noise from the door when the window switch is activated.
  • Solution: Replacement of the power window motor.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $200 - $400
  • Recalls: None Found

Exterior

• Liftgate Strut Failure
  • Description/Symptoms: The rear liftgate will not stay open on its own and falls closed.
  • Solution: Replacement of the liftgate struts.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $100 - $300
  • Recalls: None Found

Interior

• Sun Visor Sagging
  • Description/Symptoms: Sun visors droop down and will not stay in the upright position.
  • Solution: Replacement of the sun visors.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $100 - $300
  • Recalls: None Found

Summary

The 2008 Ford Explorer has several common issues that potential buyers should be aware of. The severity of these issues ranges from minor inconveniences like sun visor sagging to more serious and costly problems such as timing chain issues, torque converter failure, and rear air suspension problems. The cost to address these issues can vary significantly, from a few hundred dollars to several thousand, making a thorough inspection before purchasing a used 2008 Explorer crucial.