2008 Ford Explorer Sport Trac

Introduction

The 2008 Ford Explorer Sport Trac is a midsize pickup truck based on the Ford Explorer SUV. It was available with three engine options: a 210-horsepower V6, a 250-horsepower V6, and a 292-horsepower V8. Transmission options included a five-speed automatic and a six-speed automatic.

Engine

4.0L V6 (210 hp)

• Intake manifold gasket failure: Symptoms include coolant leaks, overheating, and white smoke from the exhaust. Solution: Replace the intake manifold gasket. Estimated cost to fix: $600 - $1000+
• Head gasket failure: Symptoms include coolant leaks, oil leaks, and white smoke from the exhaust. Solution: Replace the head gaskets. Estimated cost to fix: $2000 - $3000+

4.6L V8 (250 hp)

• Timing chain failure: Symptoms include rattling noises from the engine, reduced engine power, and a check engine light. Solution: Replace the timing chain and related components. Estimated cost to fix: $1500 - $2500+
• Oil pump failure: Symptoms include low oil pressure, engine noises, and a check engine light. Solution: Replace the oil pump. Estimated cost to fix: $500 - $1000+

5.4L V8 (292 hp)

• Spark plug failure: Symptoms include engine misfires, rough idling, and reduced fuel economy. Solution: Replace the spark plugs. Estimated cost to fix: $100 - $200+
• Ignition coil failure: Symptoms include engine misfires, rough idling, and reduced fuel economy. Solution: Replace the ignition coils. Estimated cost to fix: $200 - $400+

Transmission

5-Speed Automatic

• Transmission slipping: Symptoms include difficulty shifting gears, delayed engagement, and a check engine light. Solution: Rebuild or replace the transmission. Estimated cost to fix: $2000 - $3000+
• Torque converter failure: Symptoms include shuddering while shifting, slipping gears, and overheating. Solution: Replace the torque converter. Estimated cost to fix: $1000 - $1500+

6-Speed Automatic

• Reverse gear failure: Symptoms include difficulty engaging reverse gear or slipping out of reverse gear. Solution: Replace the reverse gear assembly. Estimated cost to fix: $500 - $1000+
• Valve body failure: Symptoms include erratic shifting, delayed engagement, and a check engine light. Solution: Replace the valve body. Estimated cost to fix: $500 - $1000+

Suspension

• Front suspension strut failure: Symptoms include excessive noise, vibrations, and decreased ride quality. Solution: Replace the front suspension struts. Estimated cost to fix: $500 - $1000+
• Rear shock absorber failure: Symptoms include a rough ride, bouncing, and decreased stability. Solution: Replace the rear shock absorbers. Estimated cost to fix: $200 - $500+

Electrical

• Battery drain: Symptoms include a dead battery, difficulty starting the vehicle, and electrical system failures. Solution: Diagnose and repair the source of the battery drain. Estimated cost to fix: Varies depending on the cause
• Alternator failure: Symptoms include dim headlights, flickering electronics, and a check engine light. Solution: Replace the alternator. Estimated cost to fix: $500 - $1000+

Exterior

• Tail light failure: Symptoms include non-functioning tail lights or turn signals. Solution: Replace the tail light assembly. Estimated cost to fix: $100 - $200+
• Headlight failure: Symptoms include dim or non-functioning headlights. Solution: Replace the headlight assembly. Estimated cost to fix: $200 - $500+

Interior

• HVAC blower motor failure: Symptoms include no airflow from the vents, a noisy blower motor, or a check engine light. Solution: Replace the blower motor. Estimated cost to fix: $200 - $500+
• Power window failure: Symptoms include non-functioning power windows or slow window operation. Solution: Diagnose and repair the issue with the window motor, switch, or wiring. Estimated cost to fix: $200 - $500+

Summary

Overall, the 2008 Ford Explorer Sport Trac has a moderate number of reported issues. The most common and severe problems involve the engine and transmission, which can be expensive to repair. However, many of the other issues are relatively minor and affordable to fix.