What is the life expectancy of a 2009 Ford Explorer Sport Trac?

The typical life expectancy for a well-maintained 2009 Ford Explorer Sport Trac is about 200,000 miles (roughly 320,000 kilometers). With diligent care, many owners report reaching 250,000 miles or more, while others may encounter earlier wear if maintenance has been neglected.

The Sport Trac blends SUV practicality with light-truck capability, built on Ford’s Explorer platform. Its longevity depends on maintenance history, usage patterns, climate, and timely repairs. This article explains what to expect and how to maximize the vehicle’s service life.

What determines how long it lasts

Several factors influence the durability of a 2009 Explorer Sport Trac, including maintenance habits, driving patterns, and environmental conditions.

• Maintenance history and the regularity of service visits, including timely oil changes and fluid replacements.


• Driving behavior, such as frequent highway miles versus heavy city driving with short trips.


• Climate and road conditions, including exposure to road salt, humidity, and corrosion risk.


• Quality of replacement parts and fluids, and adherence to Ford's recommended maintenance schedule.


• Tow loads, payload demands, and overall workload that stress drivetrain components.


• Past accidents or underlying structural damage that can accelerate wear.


• Consistency in addressing recalls, TSBs, and known fault areas for this model.

Understanding these factors helps explain why two identical model years can show markedly different lifespans.

Typical mileage milestones for a well-kept Sport Trac

Here are common gauges of longevity for a 2009 Sport Trac under prudent maintenance and normal use.

• About 150,000 miles (240,000 kilometers): a common early milestone where major systems are still robust if well maintained.


• Around 200,000 miles (322,000 kilometers): a widely cited target for many trucks and SUVs of this era with regular care.


• Toward 250,000 miles (402,000 kilometers): achievable for many with comprehensive maintenance and attentive repairs.


• Beyond 300,000 miles (484,000 kilometers): possible but increasingly dependent on preventive care and replacement of wear-prone components.

Actual results depend on how the vehicle has been maintained and used over its life.

Maintenance practices that help extend life

Adhering to a disciplined maintenance regime is the best predictor of longer life for the Sport Trac.

Daily driving and workload considerations

How you use the vehicle affects wear and tear. Highway miles tend to stress components differently than stop-and-go city driving, and towing or heavy payload use adds extra load to the drivetrain.

• Follow Ford's recommended service schedule and use quality fluids and parts.


• Perform regular oil changes and filter replacements; use synthetic oil if recommended and change intervals accordingly.


• Keep the cooling system healthy with periodic radiator hoses, coolant checks, and thermostat evaluations; address leaks promptly.


• Inspect and service the transmission and drivetrain according to manual guidance; replace fluid and monitor for shifting issues as the truck ages.


• Monitor brake components (pads, rotors, fluid) and replace as needed to maintain safe stopping performance.


• Maintain the ignition system and fuel delivery, including spark plugs and fuel filters, as advised for age and mileage.


• Inspect suspensions, belts, hoses, and exhaust for wear; replace worn components to prevent cascading failures.


• Pay attention to rust prevention, especially in regions with winter road salt or coastal exposure.


• Keep a detailed maintenance log and address recalls promptly.

With consistent upkeep, the Sport Trac can remain a capable vehicle well into its second decade.

Known issues to watch for in the 2009 Sport Trac

Like many aging vehicles, certain problems have been reported more frequently in this model year. Being aware of them can guide preventive care and potential budgeting for repairs.

• Automatic transmission wear and shifting irregularities as mileage accumulates.


• Electrical faults, including power window regulators and other sensor-related issues.


• Cooling system components prone to leaks or thermostat-related overheating if neglected.


• Rust and undercarriage corrosion in salt-prone or humid environments.


• Suspension wear, including wear on bushings and joints, leading to decreased handling and increased noise.


• Air conditioning performance decline due to compressor or refrigerant issues.

Proactive inspection and timely repairs can mitigate many of these issues and extend the vehicle’s usable life.

What to check when buying a used 2009 Sport Trac

If you are considering buying a 2009 Explorer Sport Trac, use this checklist as a guide during a pre-purchase inspection or when evaluating a listing.

• Full maintenance history and records of oil changes, fluid services, and major components replacements.


• Evidence of rust or frame corrosion, especially in the bed area and wheel wells.


• Transmission behavior during a test drive, including smooth shifting and absence of slipping.


• Cooling system status, including radiator leaks, hoses, and thermostat operation.


• Electrical system tests for windows, lights, and dashboard gauges.


• Inspection of the exhaust system and any unusual noises or fumes.


• Visual inspection of tires, brakes, steering, and suspension components for wear.


• Confirmation of recalls completed; verify with VIN against official recall databases.

Due diligence can help identify a Sport Trac with a reliable service history and fewer imminent repair needs.

Summary

In short, the life expectancy of a 2009 Ford Explorer Sport Trac hinges on maintenance, usage, and environment. With careful care, many units can reliably exceed 200,000 miles, and a good portion reach 250,000 miles or more. Prospective buyers or owners should prioritize regular maintenance, address issues promptly, and be mindful of rust and drivetrain wear as the vehicle ages. This approach maximizes the chance of keeping a Sport Trac on the road for many years to come.

How many miles can a Ford Explorer Sport Trac go?

According to MotorBiscuit.com, the average Ford Explorer can last anywhere from 80,000 miles to 200,000 miles. SUV owners looking to surpass 200,000 miles will need to provide their vehicle with the proper care. This range could mean your vehicle lasts anywhere from 10 to 20 years.

What years of Ford Explorer Sport Trac to avoid?

The Ford Explorer Sport Trac years to avoid are primarily the 2001-2007 models, due to reported issues with frequent engine, electrical, and transmission problems. Specific model years like 2002, 2003, and 2004 have been singled out for a high number of complaints related to transmissions, body/paint, and other issues. The 2006 model year is also problematic, especially with the 4.0L engine due to timing chain and thermostat housing issues. 
Years to avoid

• 2001-2007: This range is generally advised against due to frequent engine, electrical, and transmission issues reported by owners. 
• 2002, 2003, 2004: These years are cited for a high number of complaints, especially concerning transmissions and body/paint issues. 
• 2006: This model year has specific issues with the 4.0L engine, such as timing chain and thermostat housing problems, and a "glass transmission". 

Common problems by model year

• 2001-2005: Engine, electrical, and transmission troubles are common. 
• 2002: Serious transmission problems are a major concern. 
• 2003-2005: Body and paint issues are frequently reported. 
• 2007-2010: While better than earlier models, these can still have issues like leaking third brake light gaskets, shifter problems, and failing radio screens. 

Years considered more reliable 

• 2008-2010: These models are often recommended as a better choice for those wanting to avoid the issues of earlier years. 

This video discusses the top problems with the first generation Ford Explorer Sport Trac: 43s1A Auto: Repair Tips & Secrets Only Mechanics KnowYouTube · Sep 28, 2020

How many miles will a 2009 Ford Explorer last?

A properly maintained Ford Explorer will typically last 200,000 miles, and with excellent care, it can reach up to 250,000 miles or more. Factors that affect mileage longevity include driving habits, climate conditions, and adherence to service schedules.

Is the 2009 Ford Explorer Sport Trac reliable?

The 2009 Ford Explorer Sport Trac has a mixed reliability record, with generally positive consumer reviews but also known issues like potential engine problems, cooling system leaks, and other common complaints. While many owners report it as a reliable and capable vehicle, it's essential to be aware of specific potential weaknesses before buying.
 
You can watch this video for a detailed review of the 2009 Ford Explorer Sport Trac, including its common problems: 1mmunnday86YouTube · Feb 15, 2020
Common problems and issues

• Engine and fuel system: Some owners report the check engine light coming on, hesitation, or stalling, which can point to engine or fuel system issues. Other problems include cracked PCV hoses and rough idling. 
• Cooling system: The plastic thermostat housing is prone to cracking, leading to coolant loss and leaks. Owners have also reported smelling coolant and overheating without visible leaks. 
• Electrical and sensors: The gas gauge may read erratically. There are also reports of the heater being stuck on the hottest setting due to a broken heater blend door. 
• Other components: Wheel bearing failure is a reported issue. Additionally, the gas tank's vent tube can dry rot, causing the fuel pump to stop frequently during fill-ups and leading to spillage. 
• Mechanical wear: Body mount bushings can deteriorate over time and may need replacement. 

Positive aspects

• Overall consumer sentiment: Many consumers report being happy with the vehicle's comfort, performance, and value. 
• Durability: Some owners find the Sport Trac to be rugged and reliable for both daily driving and light-duty work. 
• Good for its class: Some reviewers highlight it as a capable blend of SUV comfort with the utility of a truck bed. 

Important maintenance

• Timing chains: Timing chain tensioners are critical components. It is crucial to replace them with OEM quality parts to prevent catastrophic engine failure. 
• Regular maintenance: To maximize its lifespan, a well-maintained Sport Trac can last for many miles, but it's important to follow the recommended service schedule.