I’m looking to buy a second Explorer for my wife. We currently have a 2004 with low miles, and it’s been great, but I’m dealing with the timing guide rattle issue.
I want to get her a safe and reliable older model. Any recommendations? Did Ford fix the rattle issue after 2004? I’d love to hear your experiences.
I’ve got a ‘99 5.0 with almost 300k on it. It’s been rock-solid. Replaced the fan clutch, one exhaust manifold, suspension components, a fuel pump, and a thermostat. Bought it at 150k over 11 years ago, and I’d buy six more if I could.
@Jules
I had an ‘00 Mountaineer with the 5.0. Bought it in ‘07 at 110k miles and sold it at 223k. Ran like a beast the whole time. I still miss it, but the repairs just didn’t make sense anymore.
The 4.0 SOHC V6 is a solid engine, but some years had issues with the timing chain rattle. My 2001 made it to 200k miles without any rattles before the rest of the car gave out. It’s easy to work on if you’re into DIY repairs. Just depends on what you value most—engine, body, drivetrain, etc.
Any V8 Explorer is a great choice. The late 90s to early 2000s models with the 5.0 V8 are especially reliable. If you can handle doing the timing chain repairs yourself, the 4.0 SOHC is pretty much indestructible otherwise. I’ve got a 267k-mile SOHC, and it’s still going strong after I did the timing chains.
I’ve owned both a ‘94 4.0 OHV and an ‘05 4.0 SOHC Sport Trac. The OHV is bulletproof but underpowered, while the SOHC has better performance but is prone to timing chain guide issues. If you’re handy with tools and don’t mind maintenance, either can last a long time. I prefer the older Explorers—they have a charm newer models don’t.
The 5.0 V8 Explorers are the best for reliability. The OHV V6s are good too, but the 5.0s are simpler and more dependable. Just make sure the vehicle has been maintained well. Even the best cars can turn into headaches if neglected.
Go for an Explorer with the 4.6L V8. They’re very reliable, though the older 5.0 V8s are also excellent. If you’re sticking with the 2004 range, consider upgrading to a Limited or Eddie Bauer trim for the added comfort features.
I had an ‘02 4.0 with the timing rattle. Drove it for six years without issues, even on long trips. If the rattle is coming from the front chain, it’s usually not a big deal. If it’s the rear, that’s when you need to worry. Recently upgraded to an ‘07 with a V6 and had to replace the engine due to a head gasket failure, but I’d recommend going for a V8 if you can find one.
I’ve been driving an ‘06 Explorer XLS. It’s been great aside from a fuel pump replacement and some transmission hard shifting. I’ve heard the 2009 and 2010 models are among the best for reliability.
I had a 2013 Explorer, and it was a nightmare—seven trips to the shop in six months. Ended up going back to Toyota. Based on my experience, I wouldn’t trust Ford for reliability.