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2009 Ford Explorer

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By Research the Car 4 min read

Here’s a comprehensive breakdown of common issues reported by owners of the 2009 Ford Explorer, categorized by major components and specific options, formatted for your website.

The 2009 Ford Explorer is a mid-size SUV known for its truck-like capabilities and spacious interior. Engine options included 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. The V6 was paired with a 5-speed automatic transmission, while the V8 was paired with a 6-speed automatic transmission. Owners often praise the Explorer’s towing capacity and comfortable ride, but common complaints include fuel economy, certain electrical issues, and some suspension problems.

Engine

4.0L V6

  • Timing Chain Rattle
    • Description/Symptoms: A rattling noise from the engine, especially upon startup or at idle. This can be due to worn timing chain tensioners or guides.
    • Solution: Replacing the timing chain, tensioners, and guides.
    • Estimated Cost to Fix: $800 - $1500+
    • Recalls: None Found
  • Idle Air Control (IAC) Valve Failure
    • Description/Symptoms: Rough idle, stalling, or difficulty starting.
    • Solution: Replacing the IAC valve.
    • Estimated Cost to Fix: $100 - $300
    • Recalls: None Found

4.6L V8

  • Spark Plug Breakage During Removal
    • Description/Symptoms: Spark plugs breaking during removal due to corrosion and seizing in the cylinder head. This is a common issue on 3-valve V8 engines of this era.
    • Solution: Special tools and techniques are required to remove the broken spark plugs. Sometimes the cylinder head needs to be removed and taken to a machine shop.
    • Estimated Cost to Fix: $300 - $2000+, depending on severity
    • Recalls: None Found
  • Cam Phaser Noise/Failure
    • Description/Symptoms: A loud ticking or knocking sound from the engine, especially at idle. This can lead to reduced engine performance and potential engine damage.
    • Solution: Replacing the cam phasers, timing chain, and related components.
    • Estimated Cost to Fix: $1500 - $3000+
    • Recalls: None Found

Transmission

5-Speed Automatic (4.0L V6)

  • No Issues Found

6-Speed Automatic (4.6L V8)

  • Transmission Slipping/Rough Shifting
    • Description/Symptoms: Erratic shifting, slipping between gears, or harsh engagement. This can be due to worn clutches, valve body issues, or low fluid level.
    • Solution: Transmission flush and filter change, valve body repair/replacement, or complete transmission rebuild/replacement.
    • Estimated Cost to Fix: $200 (flush) - $3500+ (rebuild/replace)
    • Recalls: None Found

Suspension

  • Rear Suspension Sag/Failure
    • Description/Symptoms: Sagging rear suspension, especially when loaded. This is often due to worn-out leaf springs (if equipped) or air suspension components (if equipped).
    • Solution: Replacing the leaf springs or air suspension components.
    • Estimated Cost to Fix: $300 - $1000+ per side
    • Recalls: None Found
  • Front Ball Joint Wear
    • Description/Symptoms: Clicking or popping noise from the front suspension, especially when turning. Loose steering.
    • Solution: Replacing the worn ball joints.
    • Estimated Cost to Fix: $200 - $500 per side
    • Recalls: None Found

Electrical

  • Door Ajar Light Issues
    • Description/Symptoms: The “door ajar” light stays on even when all doors are closed. This can drain the battery.
    • Solution: Clean or replace the door latch sensor.
    • Estimated Cost to Fix: $50 - $200
    • Recalls: None Found
  • Power Window Failure
    • Description/Symptoms: Power windows failing to operate, often due to a faulty window motor or regulator.
    • Solution: Replacing the window motor or regulator.
    • Estimated Cost to Fix: $150 - $400 per window
    • Recalls: None Found
  • Blend Door Actuator Failure
    • Description/Symptoms: Inability to control the temperature of the air blowing from the vents, or clicking noises from behind the dashboard.
    • Solution: Replacing the blend door actuator.
    • Estimated Cost to Fix: $200 - $600+ (labor intensive)
    • Recalls: None Found

Exterior

  • Liftgate Handle Failure
    • Description/Symptoms: The liftgate handle breaking or becoming difficult to use, making it hard to open the rear liftgate.
    • Solution: Replacing the liftgate handle assembly.
    • Estimated Cost to Fix: $100 - $300
    • Recalls: None Found

Interior

  • Sun Visor Sagging/Breaking
    • Description/Symptoms: The sun visors sagging down or breaking at the pivot point, obstructing the driver’s view.
    • Solution: Replacing the sun visors.
    • Estimated Cost to Fix: $50 - $150 per visor
    • Recalls: None Found
  • Cracked Dashboard
    • Description/Symptoms: Cracking of the dashboard material, especially in hot climates.
    • Solution: Replacing the dashboard or using a dashboard cover.
    • Estimated Cost to Fix: $200 - $1500+
    • Recalls: None Found

Summary

The 2009 Ford Explorer, while generally reliable, has some common issues to be aware of. Engine issues, particularly spark plug breakage and cam phaser problems in the 4.6L V8, can be costly to repair. Electrical gremlins and suspension wear are also areas to inspect. The severity of these issues can range from minor inconveniences to major repairs costing several thousand dollars. A thorough pre-purchase inspection is highly recommended.

Ford, Explorer
Ford Explorer 2009
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