2004 Ford Explorer Sport Trac Body and structure Problems
- Complaints
- 9about this part
- Share
- 10%of 86 total for the year
- Median mileage
- 81,200miles
- Trend
- Not enough dataFewer than 15 complaints, too few for a reliable trend.
NHTSA recorded 9 complaints about the body and structure of the 2004 Ford Explorer Sport Trac, 10% of the 86 complaints for this model year. Where a mileage was given, the median is 81,200 miles.
Fewer than 15 complaints name this part, so treat the figures as a rough indication only.
Example complaints
Selected from NHTSA records; personal details are removed. They are consumer reports, not findings.
“I went to install a pair of step bars on my truck, and noticed that my body bushings looked odd. I touched one of them and it crumbled, and upon further investigation I noticed at least 3 sets on each side were in the same shape. I called Ford customer service and was told to take it to the dealer to have it checked, and that there was no warranty, customer satisfaction plan, or recall. I told them I was a mechanic and did not need to go to the dealer, but they did register my complaint. …”
NHTSA complaint #10429517, filed 2011-10, 96,000 miles“I own a 2004 Ford Explorer Sport Trac. The rear hard cover that covers the bed of the truck does not seal tightly. During heavy or steady rain, water will trickle into the bed of the truck. Dampening anything stored in that area. I have contacted Ford corporate headquarters to lodge a complaint. Ford claims the cover was never advertised as being weather sealed. Has anyone else encountered this problem? Is there a cure for it ? I have tried adjusting the cover. This only helped slightly.”
NHTSA complaint #10245507, filed 2008-10, 13,900 miles“Body/chassis mounts are deteriorating and crumbling. Body is now loose on the frame and has slight movement. These mounts are not rubber like most; they are some sort of urethane composite. Internet research and truck owner sites confirm this to be a common problem. Ford does not see this as a safety/recall issue and has directed owners of suspect vehicles to your department. This particular vehicle has never been in salt or snow . …”
NHTSA complaint #10508536, filed 2013-04, 81,200 miles“While operating 2004 Ford explorer, stopped at stop sign and the rear hatch glass literally exploded. Upon looking, it was realized the hatch arms/ springs let go, bending the hatch causing the glass to completely shatter.”
NHTSA complaint #10285014, filed 2009-09, 70,000 miles“The contact owns a 2004 Ford Explorer Sport Trac. The contact stated that while driving approximately 40 MPH, the spare tire detached from the tire well from under the carriage. The failure was related to a fractured cable harness. Vehicle was not repaired. The manufacturer was notified of the problem. The approximate failure mileage was 97,600.”
NHTSA complaint #10538523, filed 2013-09, 97,600 milesBody and structure: other model years
Other parts of the 2004 Ford Explorer Sport Trac
14 complaintsAir bags
13 complaintsTransmission and drivetrain
13 complaintsVehicle speed control
8 complaintsElectrical system
7 complaintsEngine cooling
7 complaintsTires
6 complaintsOther or unknown
5 complaintsSeat belts
5 complaintsBrakes
4 complaintsFuel system
4 complaintsSteering
3 complaints
← All problems reported for the 2004 Ford Explorer Sport Trac
About this data. Data from NHTSA (ODI) complaints, recalls, TSBs and investigations, updated Oct 30, 2026. Complaints are unverified consumer reports and may be duplicated or inaccurate.
To check a specific vehicle for open recalls, use its VIN at nhtsa.gov/recalls. Methodology