2008 Ford Explorer

Introduction

The 2008 Ford Explorer is a mid-size SUV available with three engine options: the 4.0L V6, 4.6L V8, and the 5.4L V8. The 4.0L V6 produces 210 horsepower and 254 lb-ft of torque, the 4.6L V8 produces 292 horsepower and 315 lb-ft of torque, and the 5.4L V8 produces 300 horsepower and 365 lb-ft of torque. The 4.0L V6 is paired with a 5-speed automatic transmission, while the 4.6L V8 and 5.4L V8 are paired with a 6-speed automatic transmission.

The 2008 Ford Explorer is praised for its spacious cabin, powerful engines, and comfortable ride. However, it has received criticism for its poor fuel economy, dated interior, and lack of advanced safety features.

Engine

4.0L V6

• Spark Plug Fouling:
  • Description/Symptoms: Misfiring, rough idling, and a loss of power.
  • Solution: Replace fouled spark plugs.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $100 - $200+

    4.6L V8

• Timing Chain Failure:
  • Description/Symptoms: Engine rattling, decreased power, and a check engine light.
  • Solution: Replace the timing chain and gears.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $1,500 - $3,000+

    5.4L V8

• Valve Seat Recession:
  • Description/Symptoms: Excessive oil consumption, blue smoke from the exhaust, and a loss of power.
  • Solution: Replace the affected valves and valve seats.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $2,500 - $4,000+

Transmission

5-Speed Automatic

• Transmission Slipping:
  • Description/Symptoms: Difficulty shifting gears, delayed engagement, and a loss of power when accelerating.
  • Solution: Replace or rebuild the transmission.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $2,000 - $3,500+

    6-Speed Automatic

• Torque Converter Shudder:
  • Description/Symptoms: Vibrations during acceleration or while driving at low speeds.
  • Solution: Replace the torque converter.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $1,000 - $2,000+

Suspension

• Front Sway Bar Links:
  • Description/Symptoms: Clunking or rattling noises while driving over bumps.
  • Solution: Replace the sway bar links.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $150 - $250+
• Rear Shock Mounts:
  • Description/Symptoms: A bouncy or loose ride, especially over rough roads.
  • Solution: Replace the rear shock mounts.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $200 - $300+

Electrical

• Battery Drain:
  • Description/Symptoms: Battery dies prematurely or difficulty starting the vehicle.
  • Solution: Identify and eliminate the electrical drain.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: Varies depending on the source of the drain
• Headlight Switch Failure:
  • Description/Symptoms: Headlights not turning on or intermittent headlight operation.
  • Solution: Replace the headlight switch.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $200 - $300+

Exterior

• Sunroof Drain Plugs:
  • Description/Symptoms: Water leaking into the cabin through the sunroof.
  • Solution: Clean or replace the clogged sunroof drain plugs.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $100 - $200+

Interior

• Instrument Cluster Failure:
  • Description/Symptoms: Malfunctioning gauges, dim or flickering lights, or complete failure.
  • Solution: Replace the instrument cluster.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $500 - $1,000+
• Keyless Entry Failure:
  • Description/Symptoms: Difficulty unlocking or starting the vehicle using the key fob.
  • Solution: Replace the key fob or repair the keyless entry module.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $150 - $400+

Summary

The 2008 Ford Explorer has a range of issues affecting its engine, transmission, suspension, electrical, exterior, and interior components. The severity of these issues varies, with some being relatively minor and inexpensive to fix, while others can be major and costly. Potential buyers should be aware of these issues and consider them when making a decision about purchasing this vehicle.