2006 Ford Explorer Sport Trac Problems: 1 Issues Every Owner Should Know
2006 model year · 0+ owner reports · Updated April 2026
According to Au7o's analysis of 0+ owner reports, the 2006 Ford Explorer Sport Trac has 1 documented known issues, with 1 rated critical. The most serious is 4.0L SOHC Timing Chain Guide Failure ($1,500-$3,000 repair). Across all issues, repair costs range from $1,500 to $3,000. DIY maintenance guides at au7o.io.
All 1 Known Issues
On the 2001-2010 Ford Explorer Sport Trac 4.0L SOHC, the 4.0L SOHC V6 uses plastic timing chain guides and tensioners that fail, causing the chain to skip or break. This is the same engine and issue as the Explorer. The cassette-style chain system requires significant labor to replace.
Common Symptoms
- Rattling on startup
- Check engine light
- Rough idle
- Loss of power
- Engine stall
How to Fix
Confirm the problem by listening for a cold-start timing chain rattle from the front or rear of the 4.0L SOHC engine, scanning for cam/crank correlation or misfire codes, and checking oil pressure/condition since low oil pressure can worsen tensioner noise. Repair typically requires replacing the timing chain cassette guides, hydraulic tensioners, chains, and related sprockets; because the rear cassette is at the back of the engine, most shops remove the engine for proper service and often install the updated Ford timing components. If the chain has already skipped time, inspect for internal engine damage and verify cam timing with the proper Ford timing tools before reassembly. Typical repair cost is about $2,000-$4,000 depending on how many components are replaced, and a remanufactured engine may be more cost-effective if severe damage is found.
What Owners Are Using
Parts and tips from 0+ owners who fixed this issue
- UpgradeComplete timing chain kit includes chains, guides, and tensioners (Cloyes Timing Chain Kit)
- UpgradeHigh-quality engine oil is critical after timing service (Castrol Edge Full Synthetic Motor Oil)