2010 Ford Explorer Sport Trac

The 2010 Ford Explorer Sport Trac is a unique mid-size pickup truck known for blending SUV comfort with truck utility. The 2010 model came 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 were paired with a 6-speed automatic transmission. Owners generally appreciate the Sport Trac’s spacious interior, comfortable ride, and versatile cargo bed, although some dislike its fuel economy and dated styling. A common complaint is the availability of parts for certain issues.

Engine

4.0L V6

• Timing Chain Tensioner Failure
  • Description/Symptoms: Rattling noise from the engine, especially on startup. Can lead to engine damage if the tensioner fails completely.
  • Solution: Replace the timing chain tensioner, guides, and possibly the timing chains themselves.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $800 - $1500+
  • Recalls: None Found
• Camshaft Position Sensor Failure
  • Description/Symptoms: Engine stalling, rough idling, check engine light illumination with codes P0340 or P0344.
  • Solution: Replace the camshaft position sensor.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $100 - $300
  • Recalls: None Found

4.6L V8

• Spark Plug Breaking During Removal
  • Description/Symptoms: Spark plugs breaking while trying to remove them for maintenance. The design of the 2-piece spark plugs (Ford part #SP-515) can cause the plugs to separate inside the cylinder head.
  • Solution: Use a spark plug extractor tool designed for this specific issue. Sometimes the cylinder head must be removed for professional extraction, or to repair any damage caused during removal.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $200 - $2000+ (depending on severity)
  • Recalls: None Found
• Exhaust Manifold Leaks
  • Description/Symptoms: Ticking or hissing noise coming from the engine, especially noticeable on cold starts. Decreased fuel economy.
  • Solution: Replace the exhaust manifold and potentially the exhaust manifold studs which are prone to breaking.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $500 - $1200+
  • Recalls: None Found

Transmission

6-Speed Automatic (Both Engine Options)

• Torque Converter Shudder
  • Description/Symptoms: Shuddering or vibration, especially at lower speeds or during light acceleration.
  • Solution: Replace the torque converter and flush the transmission fluid.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $800 - $2000+
  • Recalls: None Found
• Erratic Shifting/Harsh Shifts
  • Description/Symptoms: Transmission shifting hard, slipping between gears, or failing to shift at all.
  • Solution: Could be due to a faulty transmission control module (TCM), valve body issues, or worn clutches/bands. Diagnosis is essential. Replacing the TCM or valve body may be necessary. In severe cases, a transmission rebuild or replacement may be required.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $200 - $4000+ (depending on severity)
  • Recalls: None Found

Suspension

• Rear Leaf Spring Sagging/Breaking
  • Description/Symptoms: Rear end of the truck sitting lower than the front, especially when loaded. Leaf springs may be visibly cracked or broken.
  • Solution: Replace the rear leaf springs.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $500 - $1000+
  • Recalls: None Found
• Wheel Bearing Failure
  • Description/Symptoms: Grinding or humming noise coming from the wheels, especially noticeable when turning. Wheel play when lifted.
  • Solution: Replace the affected wheel bearing(s).
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $200 - $500 per wheel
  • Recalls: None Found

Electrical

• Blend Door Actuator Failure
  • Description/Symptoms: Clicking noise from behind the dashboard. Inability to control the temperature of the air coming from the vents (either always hot or always cold).
  • Solution: Replace the faulty blend door actuator.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $150 - $400
  • Recalls: None Found
• Power Window Motor Failure
  • Description/Symptoms: Window not going up or down, or moving very slowly.
  • Solution: Replace the power window motor.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $200 - $400 per window
  • Recalls: None Found

Exterior

• Door Handle Failure
  • Description/Symptoms: Door handle breaking or becoming difficult to use. This is especially common with the exterior door handles due to age and plastic fatigue.
  • Solution: Replace the exterior door handle.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $100 - $300 per door
  • Recalls: None Found

Interior

• Sunroof Leak
  • Description/Symptoms: Water leaking into the cabin through the sunroof.
  • Solution: Clear the sunroof drain tubes, check seals, or replace the sunroof seal if needed.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $50 - $500+ (depending on severity)
  • Recalls: None Found

Summary

The 2010 Ford Explorer Sport Trac has several common issues, ranging from relatively inexpensive electrical fixes to more costly engine and transmission repairs. The potential for spark plug breakage during removal on the 4.6L V8 is a significant concern, and the transmission issues can be costly to address. The severity and cost of these issues vary, but potential buyers should be aware of them and have the vehicle inspected by a qualified mechanic before purchase.