2001 Ford Explorer Sport Trac 4.0 SOHC from North America
Summary:
A dismal lemon
Faults:
Fuel sending unit is faulty. Reads inconsistently.
Oil pressure gauge turns out not to be a gauge. It's merely an "on-off" switch. If engine has any oil pressure at all, it reads at the 2/3 mark. You don't know if it has 60 lbs oil pressure, or 5lbs. How do I know this? Read on...
Engine had the dreaded 4.0 SOHC death rattle. Sounds like the valves are clattering, much like some cars do if you run poor gas. After having the Campaign work performed to the car (at my expense), which consisted of new timing chain tensioners and a new intake gasket, still made the same "death rattle". Turns out the oil pressure has dropped below what is necessary to properly tension the timing chain, and keep it from rattling against the chain guides, which in turn, trigger the knock sensor, and cuts back on performance. Unfortunately, the oil pump is extremely difficult to replace, which translates into expensive. Estimate for repair (10 hours labor for repair + parts) $900.00. Ridiculous. This engine is worn out at 100k miles.
Power steering rack is also worn out.
Leather seats have worn excessively.
General Comments:
After owning a Honda, and having 175,000 trouble free miles, I decided to be a good American and buy domestic. What it's gotten me was a truck that has spent considerable time in the shop, and cost me a lot. And it appears that it's not going to end. Ford seems to be interested only in making vehicles that last until the warranty expires.
Would you buy another car from this manufacturer? No
Review Date: 13th October, 2003
28th Jan 2004, 10:24
You said that you purchased the vehicle with 100k miles. You don't know if the previous owner maintained the vehicle or just abused it. When you purchase a used car or truck especially with that mileage you are buying somebody else's problems.
23rd May 2006, 17:38
Whether you buy a car with 20K or 100K, know the history or you're making a foolish purchase. You really shouldn't blame the vehicle or the manufacturer for the abuse and failure to maintain from the previous owner.
We purchased our 01 Explorer with 162000 miles on it. It was a fleet vehicle with regular Ford maintenance every three thousand miles as mandated by fleet rules of the owner company. A Carfax showed them as the only owner and a copy of the company's fleet vehicle policy backed up the maintenance records that were with the vehicle.
We have had not one single problem with the vehicle. Since his pre-purchase inspection, our mechanic has seen it only to change the oil and perform general service.
Doing your homework is the difference between buying someone elses problem and getting a vehicle they didn't need anymore.
29th Nov 2003, 21:34
How can you complain buying a truck with 100000 miles on it and not knowing it's previous maintenance/use/abuse history. I have a 2001 Explorer which was purchased brand new which has been maintained to factory schedule and has been problem free. The vehicle now has 78000 miles on it and runs perfect.