2001 Ford Explorer Sport Trac review from North America

The rear window leaked water during rain and was repaired by the dealer under warranty.

Oil pressure indicator quit at 50,000 km. Sending unit, $10 part, cost me $70 to replace at the dealer (5 minute job).

Running boards started to rust almost immediately. Several arguments with Ford dealers and head office resulted in no warranty replacement, so I'm living with the rust oozing out from under the grey paint and plastic. As an engineer it's obvious to me that the metal wasn't prepped properly at the factory... Ford says tough luck.

The transmission started slipping around 85,000 km and the O/D light would flash occasionally. During moderate acceleration there would be a couple of hundred rpm spike during shifts. Spent $90 dollars for dealer transmission diagnostic check. The computer said everything was fine and the technician concluded that I needed a complete rebuild (about $3000). I argued that it must be an electrical fault because it shifts flawlessly manually, but then again what do I know. The problem went away on it's own and hasn't returned.

Right rear window has been intermittent since new, working about 80% of the time. Dealer couldn't find a fault, but I don't care, it gives my Ford some personality.

Fuel economy is not acceptable in my opinion. Keep it tuned and you'll save money.

This vehicle has totally met my requirements for 5 passenger comfort.

I wanted more all weather cargo capability so I opted for a Raider Cap instead of the box lid (which is as useless as the bed extender in my opinion).

We do a bunch of 3, 7 and 18 hour drives a year with 2 adults, one child and a big dog, and lots of stuff. I do not use my Sport Trac for everyday city driving.

It's a nice highway cruiser.