Bulletins

BulletinBulletin dateReplacement BulletinItem no.SummaryAdded
POWER TRAIN
1693507/01/200310003831An uncommanded shift to 4x4 low. *tt11/04/2003
028204/29/2002637922Some vehicles built prior to 9/15/2001 may exhibit low line pressure readings while in drive, no 2nd gear, no 3rd gear, no engine braking in manual 1st and slipping shifts and / or delayed engagements. *tt12/09/2002
1588705/01/2002637755Some vehicles may exhibit a no 1-2 upshift, no 2-3 upshift, a no engine braking condition in manual 1 or diagnostic trouble code p0732 (gear 2 incorrect ratio) or p0733 (gear 3 incorrect ratio). *tt12/04/2002
1374501/01/2000612742Some vehicles may experience a condition of no 4 x 4 low range engagement or a stuck in 4 x 4 low range. *mjs06/12/2000
994303/08/1999604751Information regarding reprogramming powertrain control modules (pcms). *tt05/11/1999
POWER TRAIN - AUTOMATIC TRANSMISSION
0326101/05/200310008279New service part - number 5 needle bearing and race kit - 4r70w transmission - service tip. *tt07/26/2004
1229812/01/1998615543Some vehicles equipped with 4r70w transmissions may exhibit delayed or no 2-3 upshift, primarily when the transmission is cold. transmission control indicator light (tcil) may also flash with diagnostic trouble code p0782. *tt01/18/2001
9915207/26/1999608431Information on the new flush and fill tool available through rotunda. *tt01/05/2001
001501/10/2000612203Information regarding the new transmission cooler flusher- service tip. *mjs06/06/2000
1348211/01/1999610895Some vehicles may exhibit a vibration / groan on acceleration or take-off due to the rear transmission mount being twisted and allowing a ground out condition to occur. *tt05/18/2000
746811/01/1999610834Some vehicles may exhibit a vibration / groan on acceleration or take off.05/15/2000
735311/01/1999610785Some vehicles may exhibit a condition of no 4x4 low range engagement or a stuck in 4x4 low range, with no diagnostic trouble codes stored in the gem module. *tt05/15/2000
1341210/01/1999609668Some vehicles may exhibit a condition of no 4x4 low range engagement or a stuck in 4x4 low range, with no (dtc) diagnostic trouble code stored in the gem. *tt04/06/2000
999605/17/1999606428Experiencing a delayed or no 2-3 upshift, primarily when the transmission is cold on vehicles with ford qality remanufactured (fqr) 4r70w transmission exchange units with julian build between 062-97 and 040-99. *tt08/20/1999
9811201/19/1998605573Subject regarding a new service center support that uses a thrust bearing (#3 and #4) in place of thrust washers has been released. *tt07/12/1999
581403/01/1999605225Service tips for checking transmission fluid level. *tt06/04/1999
994603/08/1999604762Concerns with transmission fluid leaking at radiator. *tt06/01/1999
98231211/23/1998603740Issues regareding diagnostic trouble codes ( dtcs ) p0705, p0708, p1704, and / or p1705 may be stored in memory. *yc03/04/1999
988804/27/1998601238Information on a new transmission fluid usage chart. *yc07/10/1998
9751103/03/199751945Fluid- transmission fluid usage charts. *jd07/17/1997
BC031797020101/02/199751116Driveline wind-up in 4-auto mode. *jd06/27/1997
9711601/02/199751373Transfer case- water ingestion through vent tube. *jd06/27/1997
96241011/18/199650909Transmission - e40d - 4r70w - 4r44e - 5r55e - new digital transmission range sensor - diagnosis service tip. *tw06/17/1997
POWER TRAIN - AUTOMATIC TRANSMISSION - CONTROL MODULE (TCM, PCM)
04210712/13/200404241410014086General (pcm) power train control module programming procedures. *tt04/28/2005
998705/27/1999621290Some vehicles may exhibit harsh downshift from 3rd to 1st gear while stopping, hesitation after acceleration from stop and / or lack of power after acceleration from stop on vehicles with 4.0l or 5.0l engines. *tt09/17/2001
00E1102/01/2001619150Service action 00e11, supplement #1 - update information regarding on-board diagnostic system upgrade. *tt05/16/2001
998705/03/1999606407Some vehicles may exhibit harsh downshift from 3rd to 1st gear while stopping; hesitation after acceleration from stop; and / or lack of power after acceleration from stop. *tt01/22/2001
749411/01/1999610853All vehicles with electronic shift on the fly transfer cases will display contact plate pids opposite of what the 1999 or earlier workshop manual indicates when using ngs with 15.0 level or later software. *tt05/16/2000
9709029718309/02/199754069Experiencing difficulties with the malfunction indicator lamp (mil). *yc03/30/1998
POWER TRAIN - AUTOMATIC TRANSMISSION - COOLING UNIT AND LINES
0314807/21/200310003748New transmission cooler flusher - service tips. 2003 escort and super duty f series included. *tt10/29/2003
00231011/13/2000616522Subject regarding contamination from prior transmission concerns or excess wear may be trapped in the transmission fluid cooling system. *tt03/05/2001
98161304/07/2000609748Transmission fluid leaks at radiator. yd04/07/2000
994601/01/1999606733Concerns with transmission fluid leaking at the radiator. *tt09/01/1999
POWER TRAIN - AUTOMATIC TRANSMISSION - LEVER AND LINKAGE - COLUMN SHIFT
512812/01/1998615325Some vehicles with electronic shift on the fly 4x4 systems may stick in 4x4 low. engineering is investigating. *tt01/13/2001
1350511/01/1999614630All 4x4 vehicles with electronic shift onthe fly transfer cases will display contact plate pids opposite of the 1999 or earlier workshop manual indicates when using ngs with 15.0 level or later software. *tt11/29/2000
98512811/01/1998613268Some vehicles with electronic shift on the fly 4x4 systems may stick in 4x4 low. *tt06/20/2000
98031804/01/1998603511Conditions with axle wind-up on tight turns with control trac transfer case. *yc02/23/1999
BC348497230101/23/199751481When performing tsb 96-24-16, the existing transfer case vibration damper should not be adapted and reinstalled to the service replacement transfer case. *jd06/27/1997
BC101989723001/23/199751558Performing tsb 96-24-16, the existing transfer case vibration damper should not be adapted and reinstalled to the service replacement transfer case.06/27/1997
POWER TRAIN - AUTOMATIC TRANSMISSION - PARK/NEUTRAL START SWITCH
0118109/17/2001625715Brake shift interlock.*jb11/30/2001
BC344197230101/23/199751468As of 1/7/97 the automatic shift lock feature tag that was affixed around the gear selector, has been discontinued for prodution. *jd06/27/1997
POWER TRAIN - AUTOMATIC TRANSMISSION - TORQUE CONVERTER
96261212/16/199650997Transaxle - torque converter replacement guidelines and torque converter/transaxle cooling system cleaning procedures - service tip. *tw06/17/1997
9624911/18/199650908Torque converter - leak test procedure - service tip. *tw06/17/1997
POWER TRAIN - AXLE ASSEMBLY
03050804/01/20050562010017891Front axle leaks fluid from vent tube - vehicles equipped with 4x4 or awd. *tt12/06/2005
035803/17/200310001922Fluid may leak out of the front axle vent tube. *tt *jb07/25/2003
024203/04/2002636056Certain vehicles with 4x4 or all-wheel drive may have a fluid leak from the front axle vent tube. *tt11/04/2002
1481904/01/2001619314Some 4x4 vehicles may exhibit a fluid leak from the front axle vent tube. *tt05/23/2001
1484704/01/2001619330Concerns with vehicles exhbit fluid leakage from the front axle vent tube. *tt05/23/2001
018604/30/2001619276On some vehicles, including sport and sport trac, the front axle leaks fluid from the vent tube. *tt05/22/2001
008304/17/2000613577Some vehicles equipped with a 5.0l engine may exhibit a rubbing noise during right hand turns from the rear of the vehicle. **mr07/21/2000
98307402/27/1998607369Concerns with axle wind-up and / or clunking, popping, ratcheting type noises when making cornering maneuvers. *tt09/21/1999
1290506/01/1999606937Some vehicles may experience axle wind up and / or clunking, popping, ratcheting type noises when making cornering maneuvers on vehicles equipped with a four wheel drive hi or low range mode. *tt09/08/1999
BC0317A9702002/01/199751655Driveline wind-up in 4-auto mode. *tw06/27/1997
BC022597020101/02/199751081Binding/axle wind-up at low speed. *jd06/27/1997
BC006996110111/01/199650826Concern of binding/axle wind-up at low speed. *tw06/17/1997
BC519796100110/01/199650474Some vehicles equipped w/ an ax4s transaxle may have been shipped w/ a low transaxle fluid level. *tt04/24/1997
POWER TRAIN - AXLE ASSEMBLY - AXLE SHAFT - SEAL
1375203/01/2001620270Some 4x4 vehicles may exhibit an oil leak from the front axle pinion seal. *tt07/23/2001
1340410/01/19996092199Some 4x4 vehicles may exhibit an oil leak from the front axle pinion seal. *tt11/27/2000
1405604/01/2000613704Some vehicles may exhibit an oil leak from the front axle pinion oil seal area. **mr07/27/2000
851204/01/2000613657Some vehicles may exhibit an oil leak from the front axle pinion oil seal area. **mr07/26/2000
1375201/01/2000612757Some vehicles may exhibit an oil leak from the front axle pinion seal. *mjs06/12/2000
1350411/01/1999610907Concerns with vehicles exhibiting an oil leak from the front axle pinion seal. engineering is currently addressing this issue through the high milage / time-in-service concern resolution process. *tt05/18/2000
731610/01/1999609601Some vehicles may exhibit an oil leak from the front axle pinion seal. *tt04/04/2000
POWER TRAIN - CLUTCH ASSEMBLY
BC10597970505/01/199752877Update information for 1997 4r44e and 5r55e transmissions - there are two (2) different size direct clutch steel plates when servicing 4r44e or 5r55e transmissions. *tw09/18/1997
POWER TRAIN - CLUTCH ASSEMBLY - PEDAL/LINKAGE
BC018497020101/02/199751052Procedure to purge potential water contamination from transfer case. *jd06/27/1997
POWER TRAIN - DRIVELINE
660307/01/1999610704Some vehicles may exhibit an audible pinging or creaking noise that may be heard from the driveline when engine torque is initially applied to the driveline. *tt05/11/2000
9851403/16/1998601303Concerns with a whistling or hissing noise from the main control area occuring while idling in drive and / or reverse on some vehicles. *tt07/20/1998
97111097231211/10/199753668Concerns with pinging or creaking being heard from the driveline when shifting from park to drive or reverse, between drive and reverse, or when engaging the clutch. *yc03/30/1998
BC031797230101/23/199751426Driveline wind-up in 4-auto mode. *jd06/27/1997
POWER TRAIN - DRIVELINE - DIFFERENTIAL UNIT
791801/01/20007918612404Front axle pinion lil seal leaks.06/08/2000
POWER TRAIN - DRIVELINE - DRIVESHAFT
BC053496110811/08/199650776Driveshaft design may cause floorpan vibration while at highway speeds or with throttle wide open. *tw06/17/1997
BC522596100110/01/199650500Vehicles may experience a vibration during wide open throttle acceleration or while cruising at highway speeds. revised front driveshaft. *tt04/24/1997
POWER TRAIN - MANUAL TRANSMISSION
0213811/10/2003032210635998Low line pressure reading at wide open throttle (wot), slipping shifts and / or delayed engagements with possible diagnostic trouble codes p0732, p0733, p1762 set on vehicles built before 12/1/2001. *tt11/04/2002
1251203/01/19996091754Brief information on checking transmission fluid level. *t11/14/2000
736611/01/1999610793Some vehicles equipped with manual transmission may exhibit neutral gear rollover noise (a light metallic rattling sound from the transmission) which occurs at idle with transmission in neutral clutch engaged (clutch pedal up). *tt05/15/2000
BC230197050105/01/199752797New clutch slave cylinder with a redesigned lip seal. *tw09/12/1997
POWER TRAIN - TRANSFER CASE (4-WHEEL DRIVE)
1372301/01/2000612712Some all wheel drive vehicles may experience a low speed whining noise from the transfer case. *mjs06/12/2000
1257103/01/1999605295Experiencing a whinning noise from the transfer case. *tt06/07/1999
BC013397020101/02/199751039Revised vent tube for 1995-97 explorers & mountaineers with water ingestion into transfer case. *jd06/27/1997
9731402/03/199751676Transfer case- binding or shudder- diagnostics- vehicles with 4.0l engine- service tip. *jd06/27/1997
BC101279702001/02/199751191Revised vent tube for vehicles with water ingestion into transfer case. *jd06/27/1997
BC101129702001/02/1997511764.0l ohv/sohc 4x4 explorers with transfer case bind or shudder. *jd06/27/1997
BC020697020101/02/199751077Transfer case bind or shudder. *jd06/27/1997

Consumer Complaints

Fail datemilesoccurencesPurchase date
POWER TRAIN
10/07/201097000
 After turning a corner at less than 15 mph a loud sound was heard and the engine raced but stopped moving. tried all gears and after having it towed to a repair facility i was informed that the transfer case broke.i had to have it replaced
02/14/2013147000
 The engine slowed down and just quit. would not restart. had it towed to a repair facility *again* and found out that *2 (two)* timing chains went out. the drivers side snapped in two and the passenger side (rear) had over 1 1/2 inches of play in it and obvious stretching of the timing chain. the front broken one totaled the engine, all tentioners, spacers etc were nor in pieces lying in the engine. and guess what to replace the rear timing chain you have to completely remove the engine from the vehicle! thanks again ford!!!!!!!!
02/24/201199000
 We maintained our vehicles regularly, after replacing the transfer case not 8 months ago now the transmission went out. spent $2400 for a rebuild. shop states this model is a piece of sh**, and the have made a lot of money from fords poor engineering on this model.
10/07/201097000
 After turning a corner at less than 15 mph a loud sound was heard and the engine raced but stopped moving. tried all gears and after having it towed to a repair facility i was informed that the transfer case broke.i had to have it replaced
02/14/2013147000
 The engine slowed down and just quit. would not restart. had it towed to a repair facility *again* and found out that *2 (two)* timing chains went out. the drivers side snapped in two and the passenger side (rear) had over 1 1/2 inches of play in it and obvious stretching of the timing chain. the front broken one totaled the engine, all tentioners, spacers etc were nor in pieces lying in the engine. and guess what to replace the rear timing chain you have to completely remove the engine from the vehicle! thanks again ford!!!!!!!!
02/24/201199000
 We maintained our vehicles regularly, after replacing the transfer case not 8 months ago now the transmission went out. spent $2400 for a rebuild. shop states this model is a piece of sh**, and the have made a lot of money from fords poor engineering on this model.
10/07/201097000
 After turning a corner at less than 15 mph a loud sound was heard and the engine raced but stopped moving. tried all gears and after having it towed to a repair facility i was informed that the transfer case broke.i had to have it replaced
02/14/2013147000
 The engine slowed down and just quit. would not restart. had it towed to a repair facility *again* and found out that *2 (two)* timing chains went out. the drivers side snapped in two and the passenger side (rear) had over 1 1/2 inches of play in it and obvious stretching of the timing chain. the front broken one totaled the engine, all tentioners, spacers etc were nor in pieces lying in the engine. and guess what to replace the rear timing chain you have to completely remove the engine from the vehicle! thanks again ford!!!!!!!!
02/24/201199000
 We maintained our vehicles regularly, after replacing the transfer case not 8 months ago now the transmission went out. spent $2400 for a rebuild. shop states this model is a piece of sh**, and the have made a lot of money from fords poor engineering on this model.
10/07/201097000
 After turning a corner at less than 15 mph a loud sound was heard and the engine raced but stopped moving. tried all gears and after having it towed to a repair facility i was informed that the transfer case broke.i had to have it replaced
02/14/2013147000
 The engine slowed down and just quit. would not restart. had it towed to a repair facility *again* and found out that *2 (two)* timing chains went out. the drivers side snapped in two and the passenger side (rear) had over 1 1/2 inches of play in it and obvious stretching of the timing chain. the front broken one totaled the engine, all tentioners, spacers etc were nor in pieces lying in the engine. and guess what to replace the rear timing chain you have to completely remove the engine from the vehicle! thanks again ford!!!!!!!!
02/24/201199000
 We maintained our vehicles regularly, after replacing the transfer case not 8 months ago now the transmission went out. spent $2400 for a rebuild. shop states this model is a piece of sh**, and the have made a lot of money from fords poor engineering on this model.
10/07/201097000
 After turning a corner at less than 15 mph a loud sound was heard and the engine raced but stopped moving. tried all gears and after having it towed to a repair facility i was informed that the transfer case broke.i had to have it replaced
10/11/2012256000
 Tl- the contact owns a 1997 ford explorer. the contact stated that while driving 45 mph, the transmission failed. the contact stated that the transmission would stop and the engine would rev. the contact waited for the engine stop revving. the contact the drove the vehicle to the dealer for inspection. the dealer stated that the speedometer needed to be replaced. the vehicle was repaired but the failure recurred. the manufacturer was notified and they stated that there was nothing wrong with the vehicle. the failure mileage was 256,000. ap
08/15/2003112000
 Transfer case failed with no apparent problems. when taken apart by tech. it looked perfectly fine. must have complete replace of transfer case, can't just change parts. msn auto-tecs brings up a number of mechanics who found same problems. ford has built better after market replacement but never notified anyone of this problem. some mechanics say that customers have brought in with this problem and they have never engaged their 4x4.
10/03/2000108/01/2000
 My vehicle suddenly started accelerating when i was proceeding down the interstate. i could slow the vehicle down somewhat by aggressively applying the brakes. however, this would just get me slowed down a little until i would release the brake. the vehicle would suddenly speed up again. i was traveling on a fairly busy stretch of interstate at the time of the incident. i luckily did not have a need to stop quickly while this problem occurred. i tried hitting the accelerator a few times to get it to stop sticking in the wide open position. i even tried manipulating the cruise control (which was off). after several failed attempts to remedy the problem, i started trying to think of a quick game plan to get out of this potential disaster. i am very thankful that my wife was not driving at the time and that i did not have others in the car during this nightmare. i was finally able to find a shoulder where i could pull off the road. as i said, the road was extremely busy and i was very worried about getting off the road safely with a semi-truck not far behind me. i pulled toward the shoulder and put the car into neutral. the rpm's, which had been running extremely high for about 3 minutes, moved even higher at this point. the rpm's were pegged to the top of the gauge for about 30 seconds. as soon as i felt i was off of the roadway enough, i turned the key to the off position. when i got out of the car there was a horrible burning odor coming from the front of the car. i am not only concerned about the problem that may have triggered this incident, but i am also very worried about collateral damage that this undoubtedly caused. i feel that this caused an excessive amount of wear and tear to the engine and the braking system. on top of all of the physical damage done to the car, the experience was scary to say the least. my wife refuses to even get in the car at this point. needless to say, she doesn't want my kids to ride in it either.
04/17/20011
 While driving about 55 mph vehicle suddenly accelerated without prior warning, and odometer will stay stuck in place.*ak consumer states vehicle has been repaired, and transmission has been rebuilt. *jb
POWER TRAIN - AUTOMATIC TRANSMISSION
02/01/2007100000301/01/2007
 Tl*the contact owns a 1997 ford explorer. the contact stated that on three different occasions, the vehicle shut off and the keys could not be removed from the ignition. additionally, the vehicle suddenly rolled backwards. the dealer was notified of the roll backs. the contact places bricks behind two wheels to keep the vehicle secure. the engine size was unknown. the current mileage is 120,000 and failure mileage was 100,000.
04/27/200688215102/11/2006
 Parked on a slight slope with the engine off, my 97 ford explorer rolled back 5 feet by itself, coming close with coming traffic! *nm
04/28/2005128000202/15/2002
 Dt: the overdrive light intermittently came on. dealer said it could either be a loose connection or moisture in the system. after about five miles on the road, the transmission was slipping. pulls in second gear. transmission finally failed.*ak *sb
09/10/20042
 While shifting gears vehicle jerked and vibrated uncontrollably. consumer was able to maintain control of the vehicle, and drove it to a garage for inspection. mechanic determined that transmission needed to be replaced, and replaced it. however, the problem recurred. *ak
06/24/20041
 While driving at any speed vehicle jerked and the overdrive light appeareed on the dashboard and remained on. vehicle was taken to dealer for inspection, and mechanic determined that transmission needed to be replaced.*ak
01/01/199842000209/01/1998
 In searching the internet, i've found there are many people who have suffered the same problems that i have had. i have a 1997 ford explorer eddie bauer edition. the climate control system failed in 1998 and i took it to les pinkam lincoln mercury in elizabethtown, ky for repair. without even looking at it, the technician told me that the blend air door had broken and it would costs $800 to repair it. thinking he was lying, i took it to bill collins ford in louisville, ky. again, the same results and repair estimate. technicians at both places, told me it's a common problem. i eventually had les pinkam repair it. it seems that ford would design a system that wouldn't require the complete removal of the dash to repair it, much continue with a design with so many problems. years later and the problem has happened again. in addition i came across tsb article number 98-23-20 in my searches, but couldn't find the article at your web-site. i also have had the transmission rebuilt twice and finally replaced it with one from a salvage yard. i couldn't see repairing it a third time when a ford technician and private yard couldn't fix it. both times within 13 months after repair, the car would suddenly completely fail and tach out as if it were in neutral. i could get it to do it with a ford technician and his code sensor plugged in. this has come close to having me get rear ended on the interstate 65, especially when its in cruise control. for no reason at all the transmission would completely disengage and the engine would almost completely tack out before i could hit the brake pedals to dis-engage. to make a long story short, i've spent almost $6000 in repairs since owning this vehicle. in addition, i've had it in for many recalls. all i've ever got out of ford or the dealers is, sorry about your luck. surely there is something your agency can do about this. my transmission problems, were pretty scary. *jb
12/23/200378000110/30/1997
 Transmission out before i reached 87,000 miles. when my husband changed the transmission fluid, large chunks of metal came out. the problem occured when driving home from krogers and vehicle did not shift out of 2nd gear, rmps went up past 4000, then vehicle would loss power. would take my foot off gas til rmps 0, then repeat this cycle for my 5 miles home. my husband towed vehicle to peffley ford of dayton, ohio on dec 24, 2003. they said this is normal for that many miles, but according to my search, this is not. ford transmissions have been problems for other buyers. could have been fatal if i was on interstate. we are being charge $2100 for a new transmission, today is jan 1, 2004 and i don't even have it back.*ak
12/19/2003610001
 The truck's overdrive light blinked and the engine lights came on. when this occurred the truck failed to go into overdrive and the # 3 cylinder misfired. the dealership indicated this could be caused by automatic transmission failure. please provide any additional information. *nlm
09/17/200361061105/15/2003
 Loss of reverse. failure of bearing race above valve body caused fluid to be ported to both forward and reverse drive at same time. when reverse was selected, the vehicle would only travel in rearward direction two to three feet before binding and all motion ceased. drive forward was not adversely effected before the repairs were completed. ford motor company recommended the replacement of the transmission with a rebuilt unit at the cost of $2800. with only 61000 miles on the vehicle, i opted for a second opinion. a reliable transmission shop diagnosed the problem with the exploder transmission and completely rebuilt the unit for half the ford replacement cost. *la
10/01/20025000002/08/1997
 Transmission failure. ts
07/01/2002610/01/2099
 While on vacation from california going to montana i was driving down a 7% grade with my family in the car, our transmission started to spin and we lost all foward/backward propulsion. upon contacting the nearest ford dealer, they stated the o-rings on our new transmission filter were broken. they stated they replaced them and charged us 200+ dollars (we have since found out that there are no o-rings on the transmission filter for this make and modle of vehicle) the problem reoccured while in the mountains. ford then stated that we needed a new transmission, however, in the town we were in on vacation, they were unable to put one in. we then took the vehicle to the gmc dealer who put in the transmission according the instruciton and recommendation from ford at a cost of $2700. the gmc dealer was having difficulty finding a suitable place to attach the overdrive wireing to the new transmission. ford talked them through it and i and my two small children were on our way home (after flying my husband home who had to return to work). we were headed out of town and the transmission started to spin again. we were towed back to the gmc dealer who contacted the ford techs. the ford techs. stated that the transmission harness that was originally put on our vehicle was not correct and that they have been having a lot of problems with them because they don't allow the vehicle to shift properly and eventually everything locks up. they stated that it should be recalled but hasn't yet. they sent the gmc dealer a new harness which still was not the right one. the gmc dealer then built a harness for my vehicle to get me home as i had been stranded in montana for three weeks at this point living in motel rooms with my two small children. at this point ford is taking no responsiblity for this problem. now my vehicle is at the ford service center in temecula ca and there cont. to be a problem with the transmission. help please this is an extreme danger!!*ak
 On slight inclines vehicle rolls either up or down hill. dealer has been notified.*ak
04/19/2002
 Engine has been sounding different since throttle recall oov422000 was done in december of 2001. while driving 75-80 mph there was a loud noise. vehicle was taken to dealer who stated transmission needed to be replaced. *ak
02/28/2002103/01/1998
 My vehicle developed a clunk in the rear end which i assumed was a problem with the rear differential. when i took it to my mechanic he found there was a problem in the transfer case. after repairing the transfer case he then found that the problem originated in the transmission and that it was a costly repair. i would not have thought much about this except for the fact that he had another ford explorer with the same problem in his shop at the same time. i contacted ford motor company about this problem but they deny ever having this problem or having any dealerships reporting this type of defect.*ak
12/02/2001
 At 45,000 miles transmission had to be replaced. at 70, 000 vehicle started to hesitate. consumer took vehicle to dealer. please provide any further information. *ak
09/30/20010
 There's a winding and grinding noise whenever traveling at high speeds. it is an intermittent problem with vehicle going into reverse without warning.*ak
08/03/20013
 Had started vehicle & shifted into reverse and transmission locked up. reshifted back to driveand then into reverse again transmission locked up. when it happened a third time, transmission damaged left front tire. vehicle now at dealership. *ak
11/01/1999410/01/1999
 When trying to pass, or even when accelerating, the transmission will completely disengage! the problem is that you never know when it's going to happen. this has almost caused me to crash in two cases while passing another vehichle. when this occurs it's as if you intentionally put the transmission in neutral. there is no slippage, just complete disengagement. i have even had it completely shift into neutral while operating in cruise control on the interstate. believe me it's really scary when your enginge completely tachs out at this speed. it's a wonder the engine didn't blow before i tapped the brake pedal. the transmission has been completely rebuilt twice and repaired once. costs to me so far in repairing this transmission have been $3000 and counting for the last time. the repairs were made at a ford dealer and an independent. again, the transmission is doing the same thing after 13,000 miles. what's bad is that ford technicians, nor their technical service department, can correct the problem. their diagnostic equipment shows no problem. i have to take it on the road to show the mechanic how it's operating which takes a pretty good test drive. again their only suggestion is another complete rebuild since they are clueless. unfortunatley, this time, it is one thousnand miles over their warranty period. this is extremely dangerous in my opinion. if i'm haveing this trouble, then surely others are experiencing the same. thanks for your time, and if you need further information please call or contact me. i have all my records.*ak
11/01/1998
 This vehicle has a emmisions related torque converter problem which must be repaired by an authorized ford dealer. it effects the the shifting of the transmission and the engaging of the torque converter. this problem was reported to the dealer on august 17, 1999 with 22,941 miles and again on february 2, 2000 with 32,304 miles. the dealer stated it was a normal characteristic and since no trouble lights come on that the ford division would not be willing to do anything about the problem. this is fords problem not mine i have been driving this vehicle under much stress daily and ford needs to own up to the problem and make the repair at their cost not mine. ford made the faulty vehicle and i should not be left with the expense of fixing their faulty equipment. let me add torrington ford will not be involved in this nor will they touch this vehicle. the ford dealership will be of my choice and i want a loaner vehicle while the repair is being made. i don't care if they have to replace the transmission, torque converter, front driveshaft and the pinion seal. this vehicle is faulty and it will not be at my expense. thank you, diane urso
04/10/2001111/01/2000
 Is this legal to sell a vehicle new or used with serious safety recalls, they have jeopordized my safety in this vehicle. sudden engine acceleration and tachometer re-line at passing gear. shifting into low gear prior to 1800rpms. engine noise at start up. overheating causing damage to the transmission, i.e. torque converter failure. idles at 1200.rpms and fluctuates. what ethics do these dealer possess and do they not safety inspect them prior to sales, they let me drive off the lot. this vehicle is currently in service for the failed parts after purchasing it on novemeber 1,2000. i have firestone at tires yet to be inspected.
07/22/1999207/19/1999
 Vehicle experienced several engine problems, consumer stated that the engine sounded like no oil was in it when started, dealer has replaced gaskets, upper intake cam tensioner three times, and there was a coolant leak. left front door hinge replaced, it was making noise. power steering pump was replaced, it was noisy when turning the wheel. vanity mirror on driver's side would not close all the way and popped when opened, dealer replaced it. the right front of the vehicle was lower than the left front. brakes were squeaky, dealer replaced front brake pads and turned rotors. a tap noise was heard while playing cd's. vehicle experienced several transmission problems, while going over bumps and railroad tracks, transmission jumped out of gear, dealer intalled overhaul kit because the clutch had burned. 4 wheel drive was inoperable and made a rubbing/groan noise, when reversing and putting intor drive, consumer heard popping noise, dealer replaced rear transfer case flange and removed driveshaft. vehicle would not start, it would turn over, dealer found the pcm was not wiring, dealer replaced pcm. *slc
06/16/2000205/01/1998
 See description from another dissatisfied owner at odi id: 702324. no safety defect listed in summary. *ak( dot number: )
 Intermittently when driving overdrive light flashes and jerks forward. dealer has inspected vehicle. *ak
101/01/1997
 Connector seal between the engine and the transmission was leaking causing a bang when vehicle was put into reverse. nlm
05/16/2000212/01/1999
 Mechanic made comment that seals in transmission were defective and were supposed to be replaced but dealer neglected to do so when vehicle was traded in or in for prior services. *ak
06/23/20001
 The 4-wheel drive lites (4-wheel dr-low & 4-wheel dr) and the cruise control lite began flashing on the dash. i stopped at a ford dealership, pocatello, idaho. they put on computer, but said they could find nothing in the gem memory, so advised me to drive on to salt lake city, but do not put in cruise control, and this would not harm the car's equipment or be unsafe. i returned from my trip and stopped at a retirement home's parking lot in idaho falls on july 1, 2000 and the car made banging noises when reversed out of the parking slot. the dash lites that had been flashing previously were not showing. i called the broadway ford dealership that services the car to haul it in for repair. they found the sensors were not working properly. then they test drove the car and said it had a noise in the transfer case and thought they should investigate. they found shavings in the fluid, and have parts on order. i am alarmed at what might have happened while driving on the interstate to and from salt lake city at 75 mph, as the car lurched and banged in reverse and forward gear when i tried to drive out of the parking lot at the retirement home. it seemed to have the gears locked up, or the two 4-wheel drive transmissions not working together. they cannot assure me that the transmission might also be damaged from these sensors not working.*ak
10/01/199903/01/1999
 Engine ticks primarily at cold startup. problem becoming more prevelant however, now it occurs also at a warm startup. engine also hisses at low speeds to idle. rear end leaks fluid and also shudders at high speeds. clunking noise often heard and felt from rear end when vehicle stops.
 Ea99001, throttle body system malfunctioned, causing the vehicle to jump forward or backward. also, while starting vehicle, it will stall out when placing it in gear. owner thinks part should be recalled. *ak *ml
01/09/20000
 Automobile jumped out of park and rolled forward and hit a pole. no injuries were sustained. *ak
01/26/2000109/01/1997
 4 wheel drive stuck in low. if switched out of low the transmission disengages from both the front and rear axel so the vehicle just stops. even though the lights on dash indicate the vehicle is in 4 wheel high the vehicle remains in 4 wheel low. we have had the vehicle for 2 1/2 years and never once used 4 wheel low. with the snow this week i used 4 wheel low to get out of the driveway. i did not go more then 3 feet forward when the transmission became stuck. nothing i did would fix the problem. when i contacted ford all they told me was my vehicle was out of warrenty so i had to pay for it. i know from other explorer owners that this is a common problem. the fear here is that the 4 wheel drive system completely disengages and my vehicle with my family is put at risk as others come up on us at speed. thanks for the site. kevin
12/28/1999105/01/1997
 We (herndon, va residents - jane, my son tj-15, my daughter bobbie-13, and i) were returning from spending christmas with jane's sister, anne, and our brother-in-law, jack, in detroit. we departed from farmington hills mi (detroit) at 9:30am in a light snow. it worsened as we got into ohio, but the roads were cleared and in some areas were salted. most traffic was moving at approximately 50 mph in one lane, the far right one closest to the shoulder. that is where i was when the accident occurred. shortly after we started the trip i heard a series of loud noises from under the car. my sport utility vehicle (suv), a 1997 ford explorer, has a series of settings for 4 wheel drive (4wd), i.e., auto 4wd, 4wd high, and 4wd low. at the time i believed the noise to be the car shifting from 2wd to 4wd as it sensed the road conditions. i attempted to set it to 4wd, but the noise continued. since the noise did not stop i set it back to the setting i had it in most of the time. at approximately 1pm, i am certain the transmission failed locking the wheels, which put me into a spin. during the spin the car rolled over, went in and out of a ditch (located to the right of the shoulder of the road) on its side, and eventually settled right side up with the front of the car pointed downward into the ditch toward the highway. i contacted my insurance company and the car is currently located at suburban collision center, 1151 west bagley road, burea, oh 44017 (440) 243-5533. *ak
11/17/1999108/01/1997
 Ford powertrain system disengaged while driving down a highway with a steep grade. auto engine braking control was lost with loud gear tearing sounds. vehicle speed immediately encreased to a dangerous level during curved down-hill setion of the road. heavy application of brakes kept us from sliding off the highway and down the mountain side. there was no warning that the ford gem control module was failing and subsequently instructing the transmission transfer case to release/engage in such a manner as to destroy the powertrain and disconnect the vehicle from the powertrain. *ak
10/17/199710001/01/1997
 Transmission problem occurred beginning in october 1997 until november 1998 when vehicle was returned to ford per a lemon law settlement. transmission problems included lack of power, loss of power, erratic idle and throttle. please contact me for more information per your investigation.
09/04/1998305/01/1997
 Vehicle is not consitent switching in/out of overdrive/4 wd -sticks-ford denies there is a problem.
06/03/1997
 When changing gear into reverse defect in transmission will cause a ten seconds delay, vehicle will not move before it will actually engage the reverse gear. dealer has rebuilt transmission, now saying this is normal with vehicle. *ak
12/04/1998109/01/1996
 Brought vehichle into different ford dealer to complain of noise, was told that it was the air presssure valve and to wait till it got louder till they would fix, one week later transmission failed, they say it is a cracked drum and replaced entire transmission...never had an air valve problem
10/06/19971
 Transmission leaked on the converter causing fire.
02/16/1997
 When backing up, the gas pedal may stick. you must tap the pedal to disengage it. if the transmission is in drive, the vehicle may lurtch forward and if you're on an incline it may roll backwards before engaging.
POWER TRAIN - AUTOMATIC TRANSMISSION - GEAR POSITION INDICATION (PRNDL)
02/18/20051232601
 While driving 35 mph transmission engaged itself into 4-wheel drive. as a result, vehicle lost power, and would not shift gears. dealer stated transmission burned itself out, and needed to be rebuilt. *ak
460001
 Consumer turned on the ignition switch and the alarm chimed, indicating that a door was ajar. driver got out to check the doors. heard something that sounded like the gear was engaging. then vehicle suddenly began to roll backwards. consumer grabbed the steering wheel but was dragged 300 feet before the vehicle came to a stop by slamming into a neighbor's house.*ak
02/07/200394187
 The vehicle will not shift back to auto, its stuck on auto low. please provide any further information. ph
05/12/1998
 While the truck was parked with the ignition running, the gear popped out of park and took off in drive. the driver was able to jump in the truck and turn off the ignition switch. the truck hit a mail box, and the hood and fender were dented. *ak
POWER TRAIN - AUTOMATIC TRANSMISSION - LEVER AND LINKAGE - COLUMN SHIFT
09/01/2002
 Tranfer case will lock up four wheel drive. and there was difficulty in steering. see service bullentin 99-14-2. *ak
209/01/1996
 Transfer case bearing broke while driving, causing excessive shimmering and shaking, driver lost control and the vehicle went off the road immediately. after repairs, main driveshaft bearing failed with same result.*ak
11/01/2001
 While driving steering was stiff, and consumer could hear a grinding noise in front end of vehicle. when making a turn felt like wheels were going to lock up. vehicle was towed to a ford dealer, and they stated that front and rear sensor in transfer case had gone bad. consumer stated that on may 4th problem reoccurred. please provide any further information.*ak
02/28/2002103/01/1998
 My vehicle developed a clunk in the rear end which i assumed was a problem with the rear differential. when i took it to my mechanic he found there was a problem in the transfer case. after repairing the transfer case he then found that the problem originated in the transmission and that it was a costly repair. i would not have thought much about this except for the fact that he had another ford explorer with the same problem in his shop at the same time. i contacted ford motor company about this problem but they deny ever having this problem or having any dealerships reporting this type of defect.*ak
1
 Vehicle would make a grinding noise while accelerating and stopping. a dealership and independent mechanic concluded that noise was coming from transfer case, v8 engine, automatic transmission, all-wheel drive. please provide any additional information / documentation. *ak
02/01/2000
 Consumer had to replace o ring in intake manifold, and transfer box of 4- wheel drive.
12/15/2000109/01/1996
 Transfer case failed with no reason. the 4 wheel drive is never used. when being fixed they found chuncks of metal in the transfer case. it appeared to be defective. ford is is denying this. *ak
07/18/1999209/01/1996
 I was driving down the road and when going down a hill the veh. stared to make a grinding noise. i had to get up out of the hole to pull off and i noted that when i steped back on the gas it stoped. it only does this when coasting or braking. i took it to the shop and they said it was a failure in the transfer case. i started looking for a new one on the net and found alot of other people describing the same problem to a t. one guy stated that his mechanic said that the gem control module had failed or partially failed and commanded the tranfer case to disengage causing damage to the case. it appeared to be a ford electronic defect not having a fail safe mode but instead ordering the tranfer case to self destruct. the oxygen senors i replace them and they go right back out.
06/23/20001
 The 4-wheel drive lites (4-wheel dr-low & 4-wheel dr) and the cruise control lite began flashing on the dash. i stopped at a ford dealership, pocatello, idaho. they put on computer, but said they could find nothing in the gem memory, so advised me to drive on to salt lake city, but do not put in cruise control, and this would not harm the car's equipment or be unsafe. i returned from my trip and stopped at a retirement home's parking lot in idaho falls on july 1, 2000 and the car made banging noises when reversed out of the parking slot. the dash lites that had been flashing previously were not showing. i called the broadway ford dealership that services the car to haul it in for repair. they found the sensors were not working properly. then they test drove the car and said it had a noise in the transfer case and thought they should investigate. they found shavings in the fluid, and have parts on order. i am alarmed at what might have happened while driving on the interstate to and from salt lake city at 75 mph, as the car lurched and banged in reverse and forward gear when i tried to drive out of the parking lot at the retirement home. it seemed to have the gears locked up, or the two 4-wheel drive transmissions not working together. they cannot assure me that the transmission might also be damaged from these sensors not working.*ak
01/26/20001207/01/1999
 Vehicle has been taken in 4 times - some parts replaced -dealer can not find problem. ford motor company contacted not resolved. vehicle 4- wheel drive low and high lights blink while driving then the vehicle will not go into 4 wheel drive. after you turn off car and restart the system resets and 4 wheel drive works. this problem could be dangerious and could cause an accident if 4 wheel drive does not work and this would also probably include auto 4 wheel drive mode for slippery conditions. *ak
03/14/20003
 4-wheel drive activated while driving at 30mph, causing the steering to lock which resulted in a crash
03/14/20003
 - wheel drive high and low activated while driving at 30mph causing the steering to lock which resulted in a crash. *ak
01/24/200005/01/1997
 Transfer case went out traveling between speeds of 40-60 mph, no pulling power in gear.*ak
01/26/2000109/01/1997
 4 wheel drive stuck in low. if switched out of low the transmission disengages from both the front and rear axel so the vehicle just stops. even though the lights on dash indicate the vehicle is in 4 wheel high the vehicle remains in 4 wheel low. we have had the vehicle for 2 1/2 years and never once used 4 wheel low. with the snow this week i used 4 wheel low to get out of the driveway. i did not go more then 3 feet forward when the transmission became stuck. nothing i did would fix the problem. when i contacted ford all they told me was my vehicle was out of warrenty so i had to pay for it. i know from other explorer owners that this is a common problem. the fear here is that the 4 wheel drive system completely disengages and my vehicle with my family is put at risk as others come up on us at speed. thanks for the site. kevin
 While traveling 55 mph with snow on pavement consumer heard noise under vehicle. all 4 wheels locked up, causing truck to rollover. manufacturer has been notified. please provide further information. *ak
12/15/19974
 While driving vehicle would automatically go into 4- wheel drive. cannot drive on dry payment when in 4- wheel drive. vheicle is heavy going for steering. dealer reset computer & could not find anything wrong. *ak
12/08/1997112/01/1997
 While driving along at 25-3m mph in rain, and after engaging 4-whhel drive, vehicle flipped over on its top.
03/18/1997110/01/1996
 4 wheel drive indicator light flashes.
POWER TRAIN - AUTOMATIC TRANSMISSION - PARK/NEUTRAL START SWITCH
102/01/1999
 While vehicle is parked on slight incline, vehicle rolls either up or down hill. *ak consumer states this happens when the engine is turned off and the emergency brake has not been applied. *slc
11/30/20011
 Consumer explains that while having parked the vehicle in a driveway with a slight incline, driver left the vehicle running in park, while standing in the doorway the vehicle rolled up the driveway and struck another vehicle. *jg
10/15/2000105/01/2000
 While vehicle was parked in the neutral position, and emergency brake on, vehicle jerked and rolled, causing a collision. dealer has inspected the vehicle.*ak
POWER TRAIN - AUTOMATIC TRANSMISSION - TORQUE CONVERTER
12/01/2001
 Drivers door lock not working properly, gasket cylinder front cover, torque converter shudder, catalytic converter, rt bank exhaust manifold; these problems have been corrected, but new ones mount every week. now there is a problem with the steering, being checked tomorrow. *ak
11/01/1998
 This vehicle has a emmisions related torque converter problem which must be repaired by an authorized ford dealer. it effects the the shifting of the transmission and the engaging of the torque converter. this problem was reported to the dealer on august 17, 1999 with 22,941 miles and again on february 2, 2000 with 32,304 miles. the dealer stated it was a normal characteristic and since no trouble lights come on that the ford division would not be willing to do anything about the problem. this is fords problem not mine i have been driving this vehicle under much stress daily and ford needs to own up to the problem and make the repair at their cost not mine. ford made the faulty vehicle and i should not be left with the expense of fixing their faulty equipment. let me add torrington ford will not be involved in this nor will they touch this vehicle. the ford dealership will be of my choice and i want a loaner vehicle while the repair is being made. i don't care if they have to replace the transmission, torque converter, front driveshaft and the pinion seal. this vehicle is faulty and it will not be at my expense. thank you, diane urso
11/01/1998
 I purchased this vehicle in november of 1998. at the time it had 10,000 miles on it. i noticed the vehicle had what seemed to be a shutter or vibration. i took the vehicle back to the dealership and the service manager drove with me for many miles. he stated that this was a normal characteristic of the vehicle. everything is a normal characteristic of the vehicle. i have taken the vehicle to a certified transmission repair/replacement shop and have found that this problem is actually an emissions problem, and that the computer needs to be flashed to change the strategy of the torque converter. i would like this issue addressed as it causes my vehicle to vibrate and at highway speeds the vehicle feels very unsafe.*ak
POWER TRAIN - AXLE ASSEMBLY
05/05/2009130000
 Tl*the contact owns a 1997 ford explorer. while driving approximately 10 mph on normal road conditions, the vehicle began to jerk excessively. the driver pulled over to the side of the road and inspected the vehicle. he noticed that the rear driver's side axle was split in half. the failure occurred without warning. roadside assistance was called to the scene and the vehicle was towed to his residence. the vehicle has not been repaired. the vin was unknown. the failure and current mileages were 130,000.
07/01/20002
 The consumer states that both front axles failed in the same way: the rubber sleeve split allowing grease to come out causing the moving metal parts to disintegrate. the consumer doesn't drive over rough terrain, although i would expect an all wheel drove to be able to do so w/out damage to the axles. the consumer's mechanic has replaced the axles on three explorers in two months in an area with a small population seems more than coincidence. *scc
08/01/1997
 After the car was broken on highway 20 west, :making a lot of noise [ sound like the flat , but lucky, the tires are good ] . the car lost control and stop near the exit , about 1 mile to the millbury ford dealer . , l looked down under the car : seeing the axle which connected to the rear diffderential assembly by the u join was broken , it pull apart , and drop on the ground . then call a tow-truck , and a policeman stopped by for guiding the traffic to avoid ,prevent accident ..etc.. for safety .*ak
06/01/20000
 Consumer had seen left front tire show initial separation. consumer believed it was the axle. *ak
03/18/1997110/01/1996
 Vehicle tends to buck when making tight turns.
POWER TRAIN - AXLE ASSEMBLY - AXLE SHAFT - SEAL
10/15/2000303/01/1997
 The last repair was a third time the front end seal have failed. the service dealer customer service attendent state that he had six explorers that morning for the same failure. ford motor co. could not provide me with infromation regarding if this was a common occurance for this vehicle.*ak
11/13/1997308/27/1998
 Pinion seal leaking.
POWER TRAIN - CLUTCH ASSEMBLY
03/19/2001112/01/1997
 No summary listed for above vehicle. *ak
01/22/1997310/19/1996
 Manual clutch failed several times, repairs made however still failed.
POWER TRAIN - DRIVELINE
09/15/20081250001
 I kept hearing the gears spinning when i would press on the brakes. according to my transmission specialist, the transfer cases were not built right in this year of explorer. he says he sees the same problem all the time and is unsure why there has not been a recall on this. *tr
10/15/1996310/11/1996
 Vibration/grinding in front drive line.
POWER TRAIN - DRIVELINE - CONSTANT VELOCITY JOINT
01/01/2000
 While driving on highway started slowing down and heard a clunking noise. when let go the gas pedal, all 4 wheels locked up. also, cv joint on the front driveshaft had separated. *ak
03/13/19983
 Started applying brakes after going 30mph. vehicle did not slow down or stop. rearended several vehicles. upon impact, airbags did not deploy. left front wheel came off. prior to impact, cv joint made knocking noise when turning. took to dealer twice for knocking noise. *ak
POWER TRAIN - DRIVELINE - DIFFERENTIAL UNIT
61000106/24/1998
 The front differential had to be replaced.*jb
02/05/2002
 Vehicle was taken to dealership due to noise coming from front end. dealer determined that front differential was broken and had to be replaced.*ak
11/01/1998
 This vehicle has a emmisions related torque converter problem which must be repaired by an authorized ford dealer. it effects the the shifting of the transmission and the engaging of the torque converter. this problem was reported to the dealer on august 17, 1999 with 22,941 miles and again on february 2, 2000 with 32,304 miles. the dealer stated it was a normal characteristic and since no trouble lights come on that the ford division would not be willing to do anything about the problem. this is fords problem not mine i have been driving this vehicle under much stress daily and ford needs to own up to the problem and make the repair at their cost not mine. ford made the faulty vehicle and i should not be left with the expense of fixing their faulty equipment. let me add torrington ford will not be involved in this nor will they touch this vehicle. the ford dealership will be of my choice and i want a loaner vehicle while the repair is being made. i don't care if they have to replace the transmission, torque converter, front driveshaft and the pinion seal. this vehicle is faulty and it will not be at my expense. thank you, diane urso
POWER TRAIN - DRIVELINE - DRIVESHAFT
209/01/1996
 Transfer case bearing broke while driving, causing excessive shimmering and shaking, driver lost control and the vehicle went off the road immediately. after repairs, main driveshaft bearing failed with same result.*ak
07/03/20001
 Left front drive shaft worn out and replaced. *yh
07/03/20001
 The sway bar links broke prior to the recall notice, consumer was sent a check for the repairs of the front sway bar links, however the left front drive shaft was also replaced due to the links breaking which caused damage to the drive shaft, consumer is requesting reimbursement for the drive shaft as well.*yh
11/08/2001212/01/1999
 Getting on highway at 55 mph, steering wheel and front of car began excessive vibrating (shaking and sputtering). car cut off at side of road. towed to dealer who said they never heard of symptoms and could not reproduce problem (after 4 days). on day 4 they told me it was my driveshaft which needed to be replaced. car has not been the same since and still maintains a constant vibrating although significantly different than first episode. car still has troubles at 70-75 mphs.*ak
11/01/1998
 This vehicle has a emmisions related torque converter problem which must be repaired by an authorized ford dealer. it effects the the shifting of the transmission and the engaging of the torque converter. this problem was reported to the dealer on august 17, 1999 with 22,941 miles and again on february 2, 2000 with 32,304 miles. the dealer stated it was a normal characteristic and since no trouble lights come on that the ford division would not be willing to do anything about the problem. this is fords problem not mine i have been driving this vehicle under much stress daily and ford needs to own up to the problem and make the repair at their cost not mine. ford made the faulty vehicle and i should not be left with the expense of fixing their faulty equipment. let me add torrington ford will not be involved in this nor will they touch this vehicle. the ford dealership will be of my choice and i want a loaner vehicle while the repair is being made. i don't care if they have to replace the transmission, torque converter, front driveshaft and the pinion seal. this vehicle is faulty and it will not be at my expense. thank you, diane urso
05/17/2001112/01/1999
 The crank/drive shaft completely sheared off and fell out with the pulley still attached. the dealer's service manager and three other service personnel stated they have never seen anything like this before. the service manager also stated he could not even begin to explain how it would have happened.
10/01/20002
 On two occasions the driveshaft broke without warning causing the driver to loose temporary control of the vehicle. nlm
12/12/1997
 While driving at 45 mph, applied brakes, and they went straight to the floorboard. also, emergency brake didn't work at all, and consumer is having problems with the drive train. *ak
03/03/1997
 While driving the vehicle made a cracking noise, driveshaft failed, and then became unable to drive. dealer has fixed it. *ak
07/26/1997106/30/1997
 Driving 68mph on highway when vehicle started vibrating excessively. slowed down for 1st exit & vibrations decreased; but started up again. took to mechanic at gas station to check out & informed was driveshaft. had vehicle towed to nearest dealer. *ak *jb
POWER TRAIN - MANUAL TRANSMISSION
04/11/2000111/01/1999
 Consumer stated the overdrive light was illuminated, consumer was informed that the converter needed to be serviced at a transmission shop.*jb
02/01/20000
 While going up hill car was backing back down hill. took vehicle to dealer, and had transmssiion replaced. february 2000, consumer had to get a total of 3 transmssions.on 07-oct-2000, while waiting at a light, consumer took foot off of brake and vehicle rolled backwards. *ak
POWER TRAIN - TRANSFER CASE (4-WHEEL DRIVE)
02/01/200856000112/12/1996
 Tl*the contact owns a 1997 ford explorer. the contact attempted to open the windows, but was unsuccessful. the windshield wipers, interior lights, and the 4x4 also failed to operate. the dealer has not diagnosed the vehicle. there were no warning indicator lights prior to the failures. the contact is unable to drive the vehicle due to the safety risk involved. the current and failure mileages were 50,000. updated 03-04-08 *bf
11/22/20061
 On a 1997 ford explorer had problems with transfer case. first noticed when driving on interstate with cruise control on vehicle made grinding noise and would not decelerate had to put into neutral to stop. when decelerating while driving vehicle it would also make grinding noise almost sounding like it was not down shifting. few weeks later when vehicle was put into reverse it would make a grinding noise and would not go into gear. did not feel safe to drive. ending up having to have a mechanic rebuild transfer case, cost almost $1000.00. now five months later having problems with check engine light continuously coming on. replaced sensors and spark plug on #4 cylinder twice. this will be replacement number 3 for spark plug in four month period. mechanics cannot seem to figure out why. *jb
09/01/2004109/07/2002
 Dt: 1997 ford explorer. the consumer states the four wheel/ two wheel lights are flashing on and off. this will happen until the vehicle is turned off. the vehicle automatically engages into four wheel drive. the only way one can tell this has happened is from the popping and cracking noises coming from the vehicle. the vehicle was taken to cumberland falls ford twice. they have not been able to diagnose the problem. the vehicle was also taken to a local mechanic, they thought it was the switch. the transfer switch was replaced, but the problem recurred. the vehicle automatically slows down when it goes into four wheel drive.*ak
25000503/01/1998
 On 5 separate occasions when driving in the snow, the 4-wheel drive failed, resulting in the vehicle skidding and hitting a guard rail, a mail box and rocks. *ak when the four wheel drive engaged the vehicle went into a skid. *jb
01/17/20030109/15/1996
 The automatic 4wd system selects 4wd on dry pavement during sharp turns causing the gears to bind, intermittently - about half the time. however the same automatic 4wd selection does not result in 4wd when wheels are slipping. in fact the implementation of 4wd when auto is selected seems to be completely random. this has happened since the vehicle was new. i complained to the dealer when it was under warranty and they said it is supposed to do that. i am about to rewire the system to a manual selector as i am now on my own with the warranty expired. however ford has seen the last of my money. *cb
11/15/2002
 While driving at highway speed, consumer states there was a sudden big bang and then sound like a machine gun. consumer tried to keep driving, when a big cloud of smoke emerged from the rear. cause is unknown. dealer states transfer case had completely locked up. please provide any further information. ts
09/23/2002110/01/2099
 Loss of drive accompanied by a ratcheting noise coming from the transfer case during coast or deceleration or when in reverse. after reseaching this problem on the net i have found many with this same problem. the dealer says the transfer case must be replaced at cost of $3000.00. the september issue of gears magizine has an article on page 64 that address the cause and how to correct it. and states that this is a defect. however the article says that it is cheaper and more efficient to buy a new unit. you would think that a problem like this should at leased be addressed by ford. dt
1
 Consumer stated the transfer case in the front and rear fell out, dealer was unable to correct the problem completely, the vehicle was eventually sold.*jg
05/14/20001
 While traveling down a hill and letting off the gas, the transfer case makes a grinding sound, dealer stated that the transfer case is defective. *slc
08/16/20001
 4 wheel drive is inoperative, the dealer drained and filled the transfer case. *slc
11/01/19991
 Transfer case failed. *mjs

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