2010 Ford Explorer Sport Trac
This year had at least 30% fewer complaints than this model's typical year.
This verdict reflects complaint volume compared to this model's typical year. Recalls and safety issues below apply regardless of the verdict — always check them.
COMPLAINTS PER YEAR
View as data table
| Year | Complaints |
|---|---|
| 1997 | 6 |
| 1998 | 5 |
| 1999 | 0 |
| 2000 | 3 |
| 2001 | 167 |
| 2002 | 144 |
| 2003 | 78 |
| 2004 | 86 |
| 2005 | 66 |
| 2006 | 5 |
| 2007 | 100 |
| 2008 | 23 |
| 2009 | 6 |
| 2010 | 31 |
KNOWN PROBLEM AREAS
Percentages can add to more than 100% -- a complaint can name more than one system.
23% of complaints: power train — 7 distinct reports on file, most commonly citing automatic transmission.
Show complaint excerpts
The key gets stuck in the ignition when gear selector is placed in park. This issue is due to the Gear Shift Assembly - Ford (9L2Z-7210-BB) malfunctioning.
NHTSA ODI report, 20240108
13% of complaints: air bags — 4 distinct reports on file.
CRASH INJURYShow complaint excerpts
WHEN THE BRAKES ARE ENGAGED, THAT ACCELERATOR ALSO ENGAGES CAUSING THE VEHICLE TO NOT STOP. WHICH CAUSED A SERIOUS WRECK. THIS HAS BEEN CHECKED OUT BY THE FORD DEALER ON MULTIPLE OCCASIONS. SEVERAL OTHERS HAVE ALSO REPORTED THIS ISSUE.
NHTSA ODI report, 20210212
Passenger Seat / Airbag Safety Concern The front passenger seat does not reliably lock into position and can move while the vehicle is being driven.
NHTSA ODI report, 20260914
Also filed under SEATS
THE AIRBAG SENSOR LIGHT HAS BEEN ILLUMINATING INTERMITTENTLY FOR A FEW MONTHS. AT FIRST, ONLY WHEN THE TEMPS DROPPED BELOW FREEZING BUT RECENTLY WITHOUT ANY PRELUDE.
NHTSA ODI report, 20140327
13% of complaints: seats — 4 distinct reports on file, most commonly citing power adjust.
13% of complaints: engine and engine cooling — 4 distinct reports on file, most commonly citing engine.
FIREShow complaint excerpts
I HAVE A 2010 FORD EXPLORER SPORT TRAC WITH APPROXIMATELY 26000 MILES. I WAS DRIVING DOWN THE INTERSTATE AND I SAW SMOKE COMING FROM BETWEEN THE CAB AND THE BED. I PULLED OFF THE FREEWAY, ONTO AN EXIT RAMP TO A FRONTAGE ROAD. I CALLED 911.
NHTSA ODI report, 20110510
RADIATOR LEAKING COOLANT INTERMITTENTLY. NOTICED THAT THE RADIATOR WAS LEAKING AT THE BOTTOM, ON THE PASSENGER SIDE. AFTER INSPECTING THE PROBLEM I DETERMINED THAT THE RADIATOR WAS LEAKING FROM THE TOP.
NHTSA ODI report, 20130719
13% of complaints: service brakes — 4 distinct reports on file, most commonly citing hydraulic.
CRASH INJURYSAFETY TIMELINE
FORD IS RECALLING CERTAIN MODEL YEAR 2010 FUSION, EXPLORER, EXPLORER SPORT TRAC, AND MERCURY MILAN AND MOUNTAINEER VEHICLES MANUFACTURED BETWEEN DECEMBER 15, 2009 THROUGH FEBRUARY 3, 2010 EQUIPPED WIT
Remedy: DEALERS WILL REPLACE THE MANUAL RECLINERS FOR BOTH POWER AND MANUAL SEATS FREE OF CHARGE. THE SAFETY RECALL IS EXPECTED TO BEGIN ON OR BEFORE APRIL 30, 2010. OWNERS MAY CONTACT FORD AT 1-866-436-733
Campaign 10V161000 — check if this car was fixed
Fleet Vehicle Recall Completion Audit
BUY-SMART CHECKLIST
2010 Ford Explorer Sport Trac — pre-purchase inspection
- Test/inspect for power train issues (7 reports on file for this year).
- Test/inspect for air bags issues (4 reports on file for this year).
- Test/inspect for seats issues (4 reports on file for this year).
- Verify recall 10V161000 (seats) has been completed.
OTHER YEARS OF THIS MODEL
BEST YEARS
WORST YEARS
FAQ
Is the 2010 Ford Explorer Sport Trac reliable?
Based on NHTSA complaint volume compared to this model's typical year, the 2010 Ford Explorer Sport Trac is rated "better than typical".
What are the most common problems with the 2010 Ford Explorer Sport Trac?
The most-reported component is power train, accounting for 23% of complaints on file.
How many recalls does the 2010 Ford Explorer Sport Trac have?
1 recall on file for this model year.
Data updated 2026-09-16 · Complaints are unverified owner reports filed with NHTSA, not independently verified defects. Methodology.