2001 Ford Explorer Sport Trac review from North America

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.

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.