Just picked up an Explorer Sport Trac today! Always thought they looked awesome, so I finally pulled the trigger. Anything I should watch out for? Any common problems or maintenance tips?
Change the transmission fluid ASAP. Ford’s recommended service intervals for their transmissions tend to lead to early failures.
Nathaniel said:
Change the transmission fluid ASAP. Ford’s recommended service intervals for their transmissions tend to lead to early failures.
Good to know! This one recently had a new transmission put in.
@Savanna
I had a Sport Trac with leather back in the day and loved it. I was young, and the payments killed me, so I swapped it for something cheaper.
The family member I sold it to had transmission issues down the line, something related to the overdrive. Keep an eye on that because if it goes, it’s not a cheap fix.
My mom’s got one with 200k miles. Solid truck, but the interior plastics break easily. Some people worry about the timing chains on the 4.0 V6, but she’s had two with that engine, and both have been tanks.
Just keep up with oil changes and fresh fluids, and it should treat you well!
@Reuben
Make sure you replace those timing chain tensioners regularly. If they fail, it’s a nightmare.
Biggest problem you’re gonna have? All the attention you’ll get. Godspeed.
Madison said:
Biggest problem you’re gonna have? All the attention you’ll get. Godspeed.
Appreciate the warning 
Madison said:
Biggest problem you’re gonna have? All the attention you’ll get. Godspeed.
Just make sure to use protection. Only seats five.
Madison said:
Biggest problem you’re gonna have? All the attention you’ll get. Godspeed.
Just make sure to use protection. Only seats five.
Damn, a tiny condom compartment for such a spacious truck.
People might stare at you when you drive by. That’s just because you’re in a badass-looking truck. Enjoy it!
Check for leaks around the rear cab light fixture. Mine had a nasty water leak from there, and it’s apparently a common issue. Dealer fixed it for next to nothing.
Watch out for those timing chains. They can be a real pain.
My dad loved his Sport Trac so much he bought another to replace it. Great trucks, barely had any issues with them.
Those dual timing chains like to fail.
Marlow said:
Those dual timing chains like to fail.
And they’re a nightmare to replace. If you hear a plastic slapping sound when the engine’s running, that’s your timing chain going. Other than that, mine ran great—I got it to 235k miles before selling it.
I saw one of these the other day and thought someone had modded an Explorer because ‘TrUcK BeTtEr ThAn SuV.’
But honestly, it did look sick.
Lucky! I’ve always wanted one but can’t afford truck gas prices.
Miles said:
Lucky! I’ve always wanted one but can’t afford truck gas prices.
Yeah, don’t expect good mileage. It’s about the same as an F-150 from that era. I get 15-16 mpg around town, 21 on the highway. 22.5-gallon tank, only runs on 87—no E85.
@Niko
Damn, that’s brutal.