2008 Ford Explorer 4x4 V8 with 135,000 miles worth buying ?

[94Eddie]

This all sounds right to me. I was in a pinch when I bought my '10 V6, and did not see any suitable V8's around (Detroit). The recent, quality transmission rebuild (with the new servo piston sleeves, new torque converter, etc.) was a big load off my mind, too. And with new timing chains on my '02, I have a "spare" engine to swap in if nec!

A good rebuild on the 5R55 transmission solve a lot of the issues of the original design. The good thing is you should have time to get a replacement ready since the timing chain issue is a problem that can typically be allowed to drag out for some time before being addressed.

Did you notice the improved ride on the 4th gen? I like my '02 2WD a lot (can get 19 mpg on the highway, with the gear ratio on it and the lack of limited-slip diff; good think I have the 4WD w/winter tires in Michigan!). But the 4th gen feel like a luxury ride by comparison.

I have the low profile tires on 20" OEM rims which compromise ride quality a good bit. It isn't better than my 2002 which had 17" tires that were thicker and absorbed bumps better. The 2010 handles far better than the 2002 though. There is less road noise and the body feels tighter but then this might be from having a higher trim level in the 2010 and it being eight years newer. The one place where the 2002 is better is the door panels. The 2002 was just more comfortable in where I could place my left arm and leg. Especially on long trips. The 2010 door panel seems to intrude into the passenger space more.

 

[Drewmcg]

I did a national craigslist search for a 2010 Explorer V8 4x4 and the pickings are slim, slim, slim! One decent candidate a couple of hours from Las Vegas who wanted at least $10k for 135k (?) miles. . . .

Fortunately, car repair is a hobby and I have all the tools to do the 4.0 timing chains . . . .

 

[zerodevil]

I'm on the prowl for a black on black 10 limited V8 AWD explorer with ALL of the bells and wistles. I think there might be 2 or 3 thousand built in the whole country lol. I need one as a parts doner.

 

[armie]

Really Hard to say, honestly. I've looked at these explorers and some had expensive issues, some seemed ok. The V8s have issues with the manifold bolts breaking and it is a difficult job.
09-10 v8s have a better transmission.

Does it have a carfax service history?

yes I looked at the Carfax and turns out it had transfer case grinding sound issues. So I decided not to buy it.

 

[ThunderbirdSport]

I paid 3K for an 06 V8 EB. All it needed was plugs and coils. And I done that myself. It was dirty, needed rubber, and now I'm starting to get a little bearing and/or hub growl. Pretty effing happy with it though.
I would NOT pay 10K for a '10, regardless. BTW, mione had 178K on it, about to hit 200K now. That's miles, not kilos.

 

[foren6guy3]

Hey guys is a 2008 Ford Explorer 4x4 V8 with 135,000 miles worth buying ? Its a limited explorer that costs around 10k do you guys think it will be reliable about how long will the engine and transmission work with no problems

 

[foren6guy3]

I bought my 2008 Ford Explorer, Eddie Bauer 7 years ago for 10k, with 129k miles on it. It now has 200,265.23 miles on it. It's clean as a whistle and running like a clock. This particular model year, along with 2009 and 2010, are hard to find with a 4.6 V8. I've had to put some maintenance into it, but it's expected on any vehicle with extended age. One inherent flaw is the paint on the aluminum hood. The aluminum oxidizes and causes little starbursts in the paint. I've gotten an estimate to restore the hood for around $500. It still looks pretty good, it's only noticeable up close. From the driver seat it's not at all noticeable. It didn't stop me from buying it. Over the 7 years I have replaced: Upper control arms, Fuel pump, water pump, oil pan gasket, radiator, battery, front brakes & rotors. I have no regrets. I would say if you have an opportunity to buy the car, if it is in clean condition inside and out, grab it. Expect to put some money into it along the way, but when properly maintained, I'm told the engine's life expectancy can be up to 300-350k miles. I've driven Lincolns, Mercury's and Fords most of my driving life. This truck rides and handles like a Lincoln. The ride is amazingly smooth, and it is built on a truck chassis, so it's not a wimpy SUV. Great power, lots of interior room. I just replaced both headlight assemblies because the lenses were kind of crackly looking and hazy. It looks like a new car now. It's black with tan trim, running boards, two-tone leather seats (black & Tan). It's a head-turner, I constantly get comments on it, and offers to buy it. I'm not selling. I'll replace the engine if need be. It's a keeper for life, surely heading to become a classic. Good luck with you decision. Michael C, in California.

 

[Bill MacLeod]

Welcome to the site Michael C. Enjoy your stay. Agree 100% with what you have to say.

I now have 190 k (kilometers) [about 120 k miles] on it, have owned it since early 09, do all my own maintenance on a regular bases and this vehicle is as robust as I had ever hoped for. Have replaced all known wear (out) items over time, some twice and always feel confident in this vehicle. It has the size, comfort and power for my needs. (not worried about gas mileage)
Have no idea what i would replace it with other than maybe a 2010??