Hey guys! Let's dive into the 2007 Ford Explorer Sport Trac, a vehicle that tried to blend the worlds of SUVs and pickup trucks. This unique ride offers a mix of comfort, utility, and a bit of ruggedness. Whether you're considering buying one, or just curious about this model, we’ll cover everything you need to know.

Overview of the 2007 Ford Explorer Sport Trac

The 2007 Ford Explorer Sport Trac is essentially a mid-size SUV with a shortened cargo bed. Ford aimed to capture buyers who wanted the practicality of a truck bed but preferred the ride and interior of an SUV. It's based on the Ford Explorer platform, sharing many of its components and features. The Sport Trac was designed to appeal to those who needed to haul gear occasionally but didn't want the full commitment of a traditional pickup truck. It offered a compromise, providing a more comfortable and refined driving experience compared to its truck counterparts. This model year was part of the second generation of the Sport Trac, which saw improvements in design, features, and overall performance compared to the first generation. The 2007 Sport Trac came with a choice of engines, offering different levels of power and fuel efficiency to suit various needs. Its interior was designed to be both functional and comfortable, with available features like leather seats, premium audio systems, and navigation. The Sport Trac's appeal lay in its versatility. It could be used for daily commuting, family trips, and light-duty hauling, making it a jack-of-all-trades vehicle for many buyers. However, this versatility also meant it didn't excel in any single area. Traditional SUVs offered more interior space and better towing capacity, while dedicated pickup trucks provided more robust hauling capabilities. Nevertheless, the Sport Trac carved out a niche for itself by offering a unique combination of features that appealed to a specific segment of the market.

Key Features and Specs

When we talk about the key features and specs of the 2007 Ford Explorer Sport Trac, there's quite a bit to unpack. Let's start with the engines. You typically had two options: a 4.0-liter V6 and a 4.6-liter V8. The V6 was the standard engine, providing adequate power for most drivers, while the V8 offered more oomph for those needing extra towing capacity or quicker acceleration. The V6 engine generally produced around 210 horsepower and 254 lb-ft of torque, making it suitable for everyday driving and light hauling. The V8, on the other hand, cranked out approximately 292 horsepower and 300 lb-ft of torque, offering a noticeable boost in performance. This made the V8-equipped Sport Trac a better choice for those who frequently towed trailers or carried heavy loads. Transmission options usually included a five-speed automatic for the V6 and a six-speed automatic for the V8, both designed to provide smooth and efficient gear changes. The Sport Trac came in both rear-wheel-drive (RWD) and four-wheel-drive (4WD) configurations, allowing buyers to choose the drivetrain that best suited their needs and driving conditions. The 4WD models were particularly useful for those living in areas with snow or rough terrain, providing added traction and stability. Inside, the Sport Trac featured a comfortable cabin with available leather seats, a premium sound system, and a navigation system. The rear seats could be folded down to expand the cargo-carrying capacity inside the cabin. The Sport Trac's bed was relatively short compared to traditional pickup trucks, but it was still useful for carrying smaller items like groceries, sports equipment, or garden supplies. The bed was made of a composite material, which was durable and resistant to scratches and dents. Safety features included anti-lock brakes (ABS), stability control, and a suite of airbags, providing a reasonable level of protection for occupants. Overall, the 2007 Ford Explorer Sport Trac offered a good balance of features and specifications, making it a versatile choice for buyers looking for a vehicle that could handle a variety of tasks.

Performance and Handling

Let's get into how the 2007 Ford Explorer Sport Trac actually performs on the road. The ride quality is generally comfortable, leaning more towards the SUV side than a traditional truck. The independent front suspension helps to absorb bumps and provide a smoother ride, making it suitable for daily commuting and longer trips. However, it's important to remember that this is still a body-on-frame vehicle, so it won't be as refined as some modern crossovers. When it comes to handling, the Sport Trac feels relatively stable and composed, but it's not exactly sporty. The steering is responsive enough, but it lacks the precision and feedback of a sports car. The body roll is noticeable in corners, especially at higher speeds, so it's best to take turns with caution. The V6 engine provides adequate power for most driving situations, but it can feel a bit strained when accelerating or climbing hills. The V8 engine, on the other hand, offers a more effortless driving experience, with plenty of torque available at low speeds. This makes the V8-equipped Sport Trac a better choice for towing or carrying heavy loads. The four-wheel-drive system works well in providing added traction in slippery conditions, but it's not designed for serious off-roading. The Sport Trac's ground clearance is relatively low, and its suspension travel is limited, so it's best to stick to mild trails and dirt roads. Braking performance is adequate, with ABS providing added control in emergency situations. However, the brake pedal can feel a bit soft, and the stopping distances are not as short as some modern vehicles. Overall, the 2007 Ford Explorer Sport Trac offers a decent balance of comfort and handling, making it a practical choice for everyday use. However, it's not the most exciting vehicle to drive, and it's not particularly well-suited for off-roading or performance driving. It's a compromise, offering a bit of everything without excelling in any one area.

Common Problems and Reliability

Now, let's talk about the common problems and reliability of the 2007 Ford Explorer Sport Trac. Like any vehicle, it has its share of issues to watch out for. One of the most commonly reported problems is with the automatic transmission. Some owners have experienced issues such as slipping gears, rough shifting, and complete transmission failure. These problems can be costly to repair, so it's important to have the transmission inspected before purchasing a used Sport Trac. Another area of concern is the electrical system. Some owners have reported issues with the power windows, door locks, and audio system. These problems can range from minor annoyances to major inconveniences. The 4.0-liter V6 engine has also been known to experience issues with the timing chain tensioners. If these tensioners fail, it can lead to serious engine damage. It's important to listen for any unusual noises coming from the engine, such as rattling or ticking, as this could be a sign of a failing timing chain tensioner. The suspension components, such as ball joints and control arms, can also wear out over time, leading to loose handling and poor ride quality. These components should be inspected regularly and replaced as needed. Rust can also be a problem, especially in areas where salt is used on the roads during the winter. The undercarriage and body panels should be inspected for rust, as this can weaken the structure of the vehicle. Despite these potential problems, the 2007 Ford Explorer Sport Trac is generally considered to be a reasonably reliable vehicle. However, it's important to keep up with regular maintenance and address any issues promptly to prevent them from escalating into more serious problems. Checking online forums and owner reviews can provide valuable insights into the specific issues that others have experienced with this model.

Fuel Economy

Alright, let's talk fuel economy – something everyone cares about, right? For the 2007 Ford Explorer Sport Trac, the MPG isn't exactly stellar, but it's also not the worst in its class. With the 4.0-liter V6 engine, you can expect to get around 15-16 miles per gallon in the city and 21-22 mpg on the highway. Now, if you opt for the more powerful 4.6-liter V8, those numbers drop a bit. Expect around 14 mpg in the city and 20 mpg on the highway. Keep in mind that these numbers can vary depending on your driving habits, the condition of the vehicle, and whether you have four-wheel drive. If you have a heavy foot or do a lot of stop-and-go driving, you'll likely see lower fuel economy. Also, four-wheel-drive models tend to be slightly less fuel-efficient than their rear-wheel-drive counterparts. Regular maintenance, such as keeping your tires properly inflated and changing your air filter, can help to maximize your fuel economy. Avoiding aggressive acceleration and maintaining a steady speed on the highway can also make a difference. Compared to other vehicles in its class, the 2007 Ford Explorer Sport Trac's fuel economy is about average. It's not as efficient as some of the smaller SUVs, but it's also not as bad as some of the full-size trucks. If fuel economy is a major concern, you might want to consider a different vehicle. However, if you're willing to sacrifice a bit of MPG for the Sport Trac's unique combination of features and capabilities, it could still be a good choice. Just be sure to factor in the cost of fuel when budgeting for your vehicle expenses.

Pricing and Value

When assessing the pricing and value of a 2007 Ford Explorer Sport Trac, keep in mind that these vehicles are now quite old, and their prices will vary significantly based on condition, mileage, and location. Generally, you can expect to find them priced anywhere from $4,000 to $10,000, but exceptional examples or those in poor condition may fall outside this range. The value of a 2007 Sport Trac depends on several factors. Low mileage, a clean title, and a well-maintained service history will all increase its value. Conversely, high mileage, a salvage title, or a history of neglect will decrease its value. The engine option also plays a role, with V8-equipped models typically commanding a higher price than V6 models. The trim level and options can also affect the price. Sport Tracs with leather seats, a navigation system, and other premium features will generally be worth more than base models. When comparing the Sport Trac to other vehicles in its class, it's important to consider its unique blend of SUV and pickup truck features. It offers more versatility than a traditional SUV, but it's not as capable as a dedicated pickup truck. This makes it a good choice for buyers who need a bit of both worlds. However, it's important to be realistic about its capabilities. It's not a heavy-duty work truck, and it's not as spacious or comfortable as a full-size SUV. Before purchasing a 2007 Ford Explorer Sport Trac, it's essential to have it inspected by a qualified mechanic. This will help to identify any potential problems and ensure that you're getting a fair price. It's also a good idea to check online resources such as Kelley Blue Book and Edmunds to get an idea of the market value of similar vehicles in your area. Overall, the 2007 Ford Explorer Sport Trac can be a good value for the right buyer. However, it's important to do your research and be aware of its potential problems before making a purchase.

Is the 2007 Ford Explorer Sport Trac Right for You?

So, is the 2007 Ford Explorer Sport Trac the right vehicle for you? That really depends on your needs and priorities. It's a unique vehicle that tries to blend the best of both worlds – the comfort and convenience of an SUV with the utility of a pickup truck. If you need a vehicle that can haul cargo occasionally but also serve as a comfortable daily driver, the Sport Trac might be a good fit. It's a practical choice for families who need to transport kids and gear, or for individuals who enjoy outdoor activities and need to carry equipment. However, if you need a vehicle for heavy-duty work or serious off-roading, the Sport Trac is probably not the best choice. It's not as capable as a dedicated pickup truck, and its ground clearance and suspension travel are limited. Also, if fuel economy is a major concern, you might want to consider a more fuel-efficient vehicle. The Sport Trac's MPG is about average for its class, but it's not as good as some of the smaller SUVs. Before making a decision, it's important to consider your budget, your driving habits, and your specific needs. Take the time to test drive a few different vehicles and compare their features and capabilities. Also, be sure to factor in the cost of ownership, including fuel, insurance, and maintenance. If you're considering a used 2007 Ford Explorer Sport Trac, it's essential to have it inspected by a qualified mechanic. This will help to identify any potential problems and ensure that you're getting a reliable vehicle. Ultimately, the decision of whether or not to buy a 2007 Ford Explorer Sport Trac is a personal one. There is pros and cons, just make sure you weigh them carefully and choose the vehicle that best meets your needs.