Potential 2009 Explorer purchase

[sactnato]

I currently own a 2002 4.0 Explorer with 212k miles
and am looking at a 2009 4.0 Explorer to replace it. I’ve had to replace the typical parts such as all wheel bearings/hub assemblies and window regulators and was wondering if the later explorers are any better, or if there are different common problems to the later models. I appreciate any comments.

 

[96eb96]

I currently own a 2002 4.0 Explorer with 212k miles
and am looking at a 2009 4.0 Explorer to replace it. I’ve had to replace the typical parts such as all wheel bearings/hub assemblies and window regulators and was wondering if the later explorers are any better, or if there are different common problems to the later models. I appreciate any comments.

If you own a 4.0L 2002 with the original powertrain and 200K miles you should play the lottery .
There are certainly improvements by 2009, but the engine and trans are quite similar (but improved reliability).

 

[94Eddie]

I currently own a 2002 4.0 Explorer with 212k miles
and am looking at a 2009 4.0 Explorer to replace it. I’ve had to replace the typical parts such as all wheel bearings/hub assemblies and window regulators and was wondering if the later explorers are any better, or if there are different common problems to the later models. I appreciate any comments.

I suggest buying the 4th gen V8 version. The six speed transmission (6R60/80) and engine (4.6L 3V) in these models are much more reliable than the five speed transmissions mated to the 4.0L engines. You are fortunate to have gotten 212k miles from your V6 without having to replace the timing chains and guides which requires removing the engine to complete. What would be even more impressive is if you also got 212k miles from the original 5R55 transmission.

Overall, the 4th gens share a lot of components with the 3rd gens so expect to have many of the same issues between them.