2008 thru 2010 Sports Trac Adrenalin > Questions

[ingenuitor]

Hello Guys,

Anything I really need to look out for when trying to buy this model? Seems like a well made, low problem SUT?

What mileage mark is too high and or when things really start to go south?

Thanks

 

[ingenuitor]

^ bump

 

[rmcalis]

Early '08 V8 models had trouble with exhaust manifold bolts breaking, there was a change in the CAN bus system starting with the '09 model (improvement in the navigation system).
Many here have recorded over 100K with only minor or maintenance expenses. A few have complained about multiple issues, but no more than you'e expect from any year/model. Keep in mind that the Adrenalin package is mostly an appearance package, the only mechanical difference I can think of is that the Adrenalin is an AWD rather than 4WD. I have a '10 model STA with 48K and have had no major issues.

 

[ingenuitor]

Early '08 V8 models had trouble with exhaust manifold bolts breaking, there was a change in the CAN bus system starting with the '09 model (improvement in the navigation system).
Many here have recorded over 100K with only minor or maintenance expenses. A few have complained about multiple issues, but no more than you'e expect from any year/model. Keep in mind that the Adrenalin package is mostly an appearance package, the only mechanical difference I can think of is that the Adrenalin is an AWD rather than 4WD. I have a '10 model STA with 48K and have had no major issues.

Yeah my local dealer said the same thing, you have to watch out for rust, exhaust manifold bolts breaking / leaking on the passenger side and it's a pain to fix, so they have to use dental tools to cut them out. They also stated, a transmission flush is not always a good idea but if you do it every 30k miles it would be ok to keep doing it. So that is confusing, I guess if you haven't done the normal maintenance schedule, you have a higher risk factor.

 

[toddyfiveo]

I have an 08 with 98k miles on it. I did a transmission flush around 48k when I bought it due to surging. Haven't had an issue with it since. I did manage to get the manifold leak. It is annoying until the engine gets heat in it and then you cant hear it anymore. When it gets worse I'll fix it.

 

[ingenuitor]

I have an 08 with 98k miles on it. I did a transmission flush around 48k when I bought it due to surging. Haven't had an issue with it since. I did manage to get the manifold leak. It is annoying until the engine gets heat in it and then you cant hear it anymore. When it gets worse I'll fix it.

So with pushing almost 100k miles, would you buy it again? You happy with the truck? I'm digging for a low mileage 4.6 STA and may have found it. Time will tell as I go through the detailed inspections and such. If not I have a lead on someone that seemly can find me one, I just have to wait.

 

[toddyfiveo]

I would buy again for sure. I bought it 3 years ago out of Florida with 46k on it, it has been a great truck. Mileage has surprised me and it has held up really well. I don't abuse it, but I do tend to run the crap out of it. Even took it down the drag strip a few times last year.

 

[ingenuitor]

So I'm now being told replacing spark plugs on the V8 is a royal PITA at 100k miles, costs about 2k, very hard to get too, the people tell me this say, find a V6 not a V8, which again I never plan to mod the engine, so a V8 would not be needed, no super charger here.

I just want the best engine I can find for the model for a daily driver and some long distance highway driving. Thanks

 

[swshawaii]

^ "Two piece" spark plug issues only applies to 2007-08 V8 engines built before 11/30/07.
Given a choice, 9 out of 10 Gen 2 ST owners here would choose the 4.6L in a heartbeat.
Comparable fuel economy, better transmission, more HP/torque, higher demand and resale, etc.
http://www.explorerforum.com/forums/showpost.php?p=3479606&postcount=2

If you happen to be looking at a 2008 V8, use the link below for an EXACT build date.
Click vehicle, enter VIN, enter minor features for more details. GL.
https://www.etis.ford.com/

 

[toddyfiveo]

I have an 08 and changed my plugs at 48k with no issues. probably going to be changing them again as I am almost at 100k. I don't believe in the 100k first spark plug change, just doesn't seem healthy for the motor.

 

[hybridamp]

I'm basically in the exact same situation as the original poster, this would be my first product from this manufacturer so I'm just checking here for reliability and issues I should look for...

So the manifold gasket issue only applies to the V8?

I don't need the extra HP, just looking for which engine is the most reliable. (plus the V6 seems to be cheaper and easier to find used near me).

 

[Beecoach]

So I'm now being told replacing spark plugs on the V8 is a royal PITA at 100k miles, costs about 2k, very hard to get too, the people tell me this say, find a V6 not a V8, which again I never plan to mod the engine, so a V8 would not be needed, no super charger here.

I just want the best engine I can find for the model for a daily driver and some long distance highway driving. Thanks

I had the plugs and 2 coils replaced 2 months ago, one broke required an extra 1/2 hour, $814

 

[eppd00]

Brown spark plug boots below the coils indicate the new and improved spark plug design. Seems like the old version had black boots as a designation of the old style 2 piece plug.

 

[ingenuitor]

This is all great information to know, really makes it easy when deciding among years.