Ford · Known Issues

2009 Ford Explorer Sport Trac Problems & Issues

2009 model year · 250+ owner reports · Updated September 2026

According to Au7o's analysis of 250+ owner reports, the 2009 Ford Explorer Sport Trac has 2 documented known issues, with 2 rated critical. The most serious are 4.0L SOHC Timing Chain Cassette and Tensioner Failure ($1,500-$3,500 repair) and Cam Phaser Rattle on 4.0L SOHC ($800-$2,000 repair). The most commonly reported issue is 4.0L SOHC Timing Chain Cassette and Tensioner Failure with 250 owner reports. Across all issues with published estimates, repair costs range from $800 to $3,500. DIY maintenance guides at au7o.io.

Frequently Asked Questions

What are the most common Ford Explorer Sport Trac problems?

According to Au7o's analysis of 250+ owner reports, the 2009 Ford Explorer Sport Trac has 2 documented issues. The most frequently reported are: 4.0L SOHC Timing Chain Cassette and Tensioner Failure, Cam Phaser Rattle on 4.0L SOHC. Of these, 2 are rated critical and should be addressed promptly.

Is the Ford Explorer Sport Trac reliable?

The 2009 Ford Explorer Sport Trac has 2 known issues documented across 250+ owner reports. 2 issues are rated critical: 4.0L SOHC Timing Chain Cassette and Tensioner Failure and Cam Phaser Rattle on 4.0L SOHC. Prospective buyers should inspect for these issues and factor potential repair costs into their purchase decision. Regular maintenance following the manufacturer's schedule helps prevent many common problems.

How much does it cost to fix common Ford Explorer Sport Trac problems?

Repair costs for known Ford Explorer Sport Trac issues range from $800 to $3,500, depending on the specific problem and whether you choose DIY or professional repair. The most critical issue, 4.0L SOHC Timing Chain Cassette and Tensioner Failure, typically costs $1,500-$3,500 to repair. Au7o provides step-by-step DIY maintenance guides that can help reduce repair costs.

What is the 2007-2010 Ford Explorer Sport Trac 4.0L SOHC Timing Chain Cassette and Tensioner Failure?

The 4.0L SOHC V6 uses three timing chains with plastic cassette guides and hydraulic tensioners. The guides crack and the tensioners lose pressure, causing chain slack that leads to jumped timing and engine damage. This is the same issue affecting the Explorer and Ranger with thi… Repairs typically run $1,500-$3,500. Severity: high.

What is the 2007-2010 Ford Explorer Sport Trac Cam Phaser Rattle on 4.0L SOHC?

The 4.0L SOHC V6 cam phasers develop a loud rattle on cold startup that can persist for 30+ seconds. The phaser internal mechanism wears, causing timing chain slack and potential timing issues. Repairs typically run $800-$2,000. Severity: high.

2009 Ford Explorer Sport Trac Problems & Issues

All 2 Known Issues

2007-2010 Ford Explorer Sport Trac: 4.0L SOHC Timing Chain Cassette and Tensioner Failure#

Common Symptoms

How to Fix

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2007-2010 Ford Explorer Sport Trac: Cam Phaser Rattle on 4.0L SOHC#