Avoid: 2004, 2003, 2002 (lowest Year Scores on complaints per year on the road, crash reports and recalls)
Best: 2009
8 model years of NHTSA owner complaints and recalls · How we grade
Across 8 model years, the Ford Sport Trac has 7,071 owner-filed NHTSA complaints and 11 recalls on record. The most-reported areas are power train and structure. 2002 drew the most complaints (3,622), 2009 the fewest (6).
Source: NHTSA complaints and recalls filed for Ford Sport Trac vehicles (US, public record).
Complaint volume by model year. Raw NHTSA totals, not adjusted for sales volume or time on the road, so older and higher-selling years accumulate more. Every year links to its full breakdown.
Highest: 2002 (3,622 complaints). Lowest: 2009 (6).
Sentiment is mixed and heavily dependent on the specific generation and powertrain.
Primary chain rattle noise at 2000-3000 RPM, potential for catastrophic failure requiring engine removal for rear chain service.
Noted for failures and being a "lighter duty" transmission; one owner reported a vehicle having its third transmission replaced.
Ball joints, CV axles, and other components wear out, limiting lift potential and requiring frequent maintenance.
Cracked fuel sending units, failing fuel pump driver modules, and stalling problems (especially on 2002 models) are commonly cited.
Wiring issues behind the dashboard, faulty instrument clusters causing stalling or false warnings, and persistent "AdvanceTrac" system faults.
Owner insights cover all generations of the Sport Trac. Individual model years are broken down above.
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