1991-2005 Ford Explorer/Sport Trac/Sport: Reliability
Updated: 11/23/08
2005 Ford Explorer Sport Trac
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1991-2005 Ford Explorer/Sport Trac/Sport ▼
- Price Range: $600 - $13,100
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Our reliability study for this generation Ford Explorer includes details on average repair costs, manufacturer recalls, and everything you need to know to gauge the long-term reliability of this generation Ford Explorer .
Trouble Spots
Consumer Guide's® Auto Editors have scoured repair bulletins and questioned mechanics to search
for commonly occurring problems for a particular vehicle. In some cases we also give possible manufacturer-suggested
solutions. In many instances these trouble spots are Technical Service Bulletins posted by the manufacturer,
however, we have our own expert looking at additional vehicle problems.
Air conditioner:
Water may drip onto the floor when the air conditioner is operated because the evaporator strip seals were not properly positioned. (1995-96)
Brakes:
Brakes may be grabby after being parked in damp weather due to moisture absorbed by linings. Revised rear shoes are offered. (1991-94)
Clutch:
Hopping, binding sensation from rear axle caused by binding limited-slip clutch packs requires revised clutch packs and reformulated gear lube. (2002-04)
Hard starting:
If the engine does not start or cranks for a long time then stalls, the idle air-control valve may be sticking. (1996)
Heater core:
Installing a restrictor in the heater inlet hose may repair heater cores leaks. (1991-20002)
Keyless entry:
Remote keyless entry quits due to Remote Anti-theft Personality (RAP) module damaged by static electricity requiring a redundant ground on the passenger seats. (1995-97)
Radiator:
The radiator may leak in cold weather because of a bad seal between the tank and core. (1995-96)
Spark plugs:
Spark plug hole threads in cylinder heads are easily damaged or stripped out when removing plugs because carbon builds up on them. (2004-05)
Suspension problems:
The sway bar links bend or break because the original bushings are too rigid. (1995-2002)
Transmission problems:
Transmission flare when shifting from 2nd to 3rd gear is due to shift solenoid malfunction. (1997-2001)
Vehicle noise:
Synthetic-rubber radius-arm bushings separate internally, causing noise and degraded steering control. (All)
Vehicle noise:
A chattering noise that can be felt coming from the rear during tight turns after highway driving is caused by a lack of friction modifier or over-shimming of the clutch packs in the Traction-Lok differential. (1991-96)
Vehicle noise:
Loose frame rivets should be replaced with bolts (welding is not approved). (1991-96)
Consumer Guide® Estimated Repair Costs
This table lists costs of likely repairs for comparison with other vehicles. The
dollar amount includes the cost of the part(s) and labor (based on $50 per hour) for the
typical repair without extras or add-ons. Like the pricing information, replacement
costs can vary widely depending on region. Expect charges at a new-car dealership
to be slightly higher.
| Item Name | Repair Cost |
| A/C Compressor | $505 |
| Alternator | $280 |
| Automatic Transmission or Transaxle | $840 |
| Brakes | $265 |
| Clutch, Pressure Plate, Bearing | $435 |
| Exhaust System | $295 |
| Radiator | $440 |
| Shocks and/or Struts | $175 |
| Timing Chain or Belt | $400 |
| Universal Joints | $105 |
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