2008 Ford Explorer Ford Explorer 2008

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2008 Ford Explorer repairs by problem area

Engine (25%)

Transmission and Drivetrain (18%)

Brakes and Traction Control (6%)

Suspension and Steering (20%)

Electrical and Air Conditioning (18%)

Paint, Rust, Leaks, Rattles, and Trim (6%)

Other (6%)

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Chart based on 65 repairs.
See TSBs and recalls for the 2008 Ford Explorer.

2008 Ford Explorer transmission repair cost distribution

$2500+ (0%)

$1000 - $2499 (9%)

$500 - $999 (9%)

$100 - $499 (45%)

< $100 (36%)

Worried about potential repair costs? An extended warranty can provide peace of mind.

Chart based on 11 repair trips. The repair cost chart excludes repairs made under warranty, do-it-yourself repairs, and repair trips that include maintenance.

2008 Ford Explorer 4dr SUV

292-horsepower 4.6L V8 6-speed automatic 4WD w/low range

48000 mi Front Driver axle seal was leaking. The dealer replaced the seal. 

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2008 Ford Explorer 4dr SUV

210-horsepower 4.0L V6 5-speed automatic RWD

80000 mi

US $1844
Transmission started to get a pronounced bang when shifting into reverse. It had a hesitation also when shifting into reverse. Total rebuild job. All parts that were worn out replaced. Found out it was due to design flaws from factory. 
107000 mi

US $358
Had to have solenoid pack replaced (again), after rebuild job 2 years ago. Water from ac condensation dripping down on wire terminal caused corrosion to short wires thus sending wrong signal to tranny telling it to shift when not suppose to. 

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2008 Ford Explorer 4dr SUV

210-horsepower 4.0L V6 5-speed automatic AWD

41200 mi

US $159
Leaking front axle seal. Replaced seal at local transmission shop. Topped off fluid. 
39800 mi

US $99
found front cover leaking, remove cover, reseal with RTV and re-check for leak and refill differential. 

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2008 Ford Explorer 4dr SUV

210-horsepower 4.0L V6 5-speed automatic 4WD w/low range

50000 mi

US $300
Transmission Flush, filter replacement, and oil change. 
74000 mi

US $500
had to replace the transmission 
54000 mi

US $100
The front differential began to make noise. A bad bearing from the factory that just showed up. There was grease in the pumpkin. Grease changed, additives added, noise the same. Ultimately will have to change out the bearing or swap out end. 
46500 mi

US $75
Replace trans filter, change oil transfer case and trans.Repair made difficult by Fords none transmission filler on this model. it is very heard to get the fluid in correctly, the special adapter costs $20 at Advanced Auto. What a pain!!!!!! 
55000 mi

US $450
A factory bearing in the front pumpkin whining/growling. Inspection revealed bearing wear, however the pumpkin was full of grease. Replaced pumpkin with one front the junk yard, changed grease etc. not at all happy with Ford..cheap bearings 
60000 mi Left front bearing was noisy. Replaced by dealer under 30 day guarantee. U Joint was noisy as well. 

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2008 Ford Explorer Transmission Problems

See our lemon odds and nada odds page to see vehicles with no repairs or vehicles with more than three repairs. To see how frequently 2008 Ford Explorer problems occur, check out our car reliability stats.