Bulletins

BulletinBulletin dateReplacement BulletinItem no.SummaryAdded
ENGINE AND ENGINE COOLING
1215011/01/1998613170Information concerning the replacement of the engines on vehicles equipped with a 4.0l sohc that require service. *mjs06/19/2000
ENGINE AND ENGINE COOLING - COOLING SYSTEM
9923811/15/19996090164A temperature gauge fluctuation and / or a knocking / thumping noise may be audible inthe passenger compartment on some vehicles. *tt03/09/2000
1258303/01/1999605310Some vehicles equipped with 4.0l ohv engines may exhibit a thumping noise from the cooling system. *tt06/08/1999
ENGINE AND ENGINE COOLING - COOLING SYSTEM - RADIATOR ASSEMBLY
1461701/01/2001617995Subject pertaining to broken thermostat. *jb04/03/2001
1458301/01/2001617968Concerns with broken thermostats on engines. *jb04/02/2001
1292407/01/1999614751Some vehicles may require radiator hose clamp replacement during normal vehicle service. *tt12/13/2000
655907/01/1999610686Brief information regarding radiator hose clamp for service. *tt05/10/2000
ENGINE AND ENGINE COOLING - ENGINE
0222111/11/200210008304Engine-gear driven synchronizers-incorrect installation-camshaft position synchronizer (cmp) installation tool correct application. *mj07/27/2004
0319909/29/200310004038Rattle/buzz sound from under the vehicle on 4.0l single overhead cam (sohc) engines. *tt11/14/2003
87019710/22/200210000592Incorrectly installed gear driven camshaft position (cmp) sensor synchronizer assemblies causing surge, lost of power, malfunction indicator lamp on and diagnostic trouble codes p1336, p1309 and p0340. *tt03/25/2003
01M0104/01/2001619285Owner notification program regarding additional coverage program for front cam chain guide assembly which may wear or break and cause excessive cam chain noise that does not go away after five minutes of engine operation. *tt05/22/2001
01M0101/05/2001618042Subject regarding advance notice on upcoming owner notification program which will provide additional coverage on the front cam chain guide assembly on certain vehicles. *tt04/03/2001
1456001/01/2001617944Vehicles may experience start up timing chain noise. *jb04/02/2001
00M1211/01/2000616507Ford motor company is providing additional coverage for the 4.0l sohc camshaft chain tensioner and lower intake manifold gasket. *tt03/01/2001
1346511/01/19996092219Information regarding clean air tube retaining clamps / throttle body cam. *tt11/28/2000
1404804/01/2000613703Some vehicles may experience an oil leak at the rear crankshaft area after service. **mr07/27/2000
849304/01/2000613654Some vehicles may experience an oil leak at the rear crankshaft area after service. **mr07/26/2000
98514811/01/1998613283Some vehicles equipped with 5.0l engines may exhibit an upper engine tapping noise on cold start. *tt06/20/2000
98514411/01/1998613280All vehicles equipped with 4.0l sohc that require engine service please note that the xl2z-6m289-aa (drive assembly-camshaft-lh) must be used on 4.0l sohc engines if replacement is required. *tt06/20/2000
713810/01/19996090757Service tip information when servicing the 4.0l sohc short block assembly. *tt03/29/2000
1326009/01/19996090690Service tips information provided to assist when servicing vehicles with short block assembly. *tt03/23/2000
1318009/01/19996090538Information regarding camshaft position (cmp) sensor alignment tool chart. *mjs03/21/2000
1317009/01/19996090518Information regarding 4.0 l sohc camshaft bolt torque. *mjs03/21/2000
699709/01/19996090310Some service manuals may list the incorrect camshaft position sensor alignment tool for vehicles with various engine sizes. *tt03/14/2000
698609/01/19996090291Information regarding 4.0l sohc camshaft bolt torque. *tt03/13/2000
981093009/24/1999607488Some vehicles may exhibit an engine oil leak from the rear main crankshaft seal. *tt09/24/1999
9811801/19/1998605588Experiencing an audible noise in engine.07/13/1999
ENGINE AND ENGINE COOLING - ENGINE - GASOLINE
0124612/10/2001630515Engine oil system priming procedures, service tips for reports of premature engine failure. *tt04/18/2002
021401/21/2002630001Some engine assemblies with aluminum cylinder heads repaired in-vehile have been found to leak coolant and/or oil from the cylinder head gasket area. *tt04/11/2002
1504001/01/2002630022Some vehicles including 1997 through 1999 explorer sport trac equipped with a 4.0l sohc engine may exhibit a start-up noise from the left front of the engine. *tt04/11/2002
0120510/15/2001627927Some vehicles may exhibit vacuum or air leaks in the intake manifold and / or engine system causing diagnostic trouble codes p0171 and or p0174. *tt02/26/2002
0119710/01/2001627752Some vehicles equipped with the 4.0l ohv engine may exhibit an engine noise which may be perceived by the customer as a piston / onnecting rod bearing knock. *tt02/22/2002
1522609/01/2001625775Some vehicles equipped with a 4.0l ohv engine may exhibit an engine noise that may be perceived by the customer a s adiesel type noise and is known as marble noise. *tt12/03/2001
07010107/01/2001623810Subject regarding owner notification program 01m01 supplement #2: revised technical instructions and new labor operation. nlm10/30/2001
1500606/01/2001622817Some vehicles with 4.0l sohc engines may make a start-up noise from the left front of the engine. *tt10/23/2001
1504007/01/2001621039Some explorer / sport / sport trac equipped with a 4.0l sohc engine may exhibit a start-up noise condition from the left front of the engine. *tt09/06/2001
1448901/01/2000620462Some vehicles built through 01/1999, equipped with a 5.0l engine may exhibit a cold start or hot engine deceleration noise coming from the #5 cylinder. *tt08/09/2001
01M0104/26/2001620173Subject regarding owner notification program 01m01 regarding additional coverage for front cam chain guide assembly. *tt07/19/2001
01M0103/02/2001619443Subject regarding additional coverage on the front cam chain guide assembly for rental vehicles with 4.0l single overhead cam (sohc) engines. *tt05/31/2001
1486804/01/2001619337Some vehicles equipped with the 4.0 sohc engine may exhibit a primary chain rattle noise (sometimes described as a spark knock-type noise). *tt05/23/2001
00M1212/01/2000616816Subject regarding owner notification suppllemental program for vehicles equipped with 4.0l sohc engines - camshaft chain tensioner and lower intake manifold gasket additional coverage. *tt03/13/2001
1448911/01/2000616561Some vehicles built through 01/1999 and equipped with a 5.0l engine may exhibit a cold start or hot engine deceleration noise coming from the #5 cylinder. *tt03/06/2001
527212/01/1998615393Brief information regarding engine stall condition. *tt01/16/2001
525612/01/1998615373Information on vehicles exhibiting upper engine noise. *tt01/13/2001
462308/01/1998615160Brief information for vehicles exhibiting engine stall. *tt01/02/2001
1330010/01/19996092122Some vehicles with 4.0l sohc engines may exhibit a vibration / moan / boom at idle. *tt11/27/2000
1315408/01/19996091965Subject regarding engine hotline phone numbers. *tt11/17/2000
1311808/01/19996091931Some vehicles may exhibit an engine noise which may be perceived by the customer as a piston / connecting rod bearing knock. *tt11/16/2000
1311008/01/19996091919Some vehicles may exhibit an internal low end noise that is described as a diesel and / or marbels in a tin can rattle. *tt11/16/2000
1328309/01/19996091663Some vehicles with the 4.0l ohv engine may exhibit an internal low end noise that is described as a diesel and / or marbles in a tin can rattle. *tt11/09/2000
1326109/01/19996091661Service tips when servicing a 4.0l sohc short block assembly. *tt11/09/2000
689608/01/1999608921Some vehicles may exhibit an engine noise which may be perceived by the customer as a piston / connecting rod bearing knock. *tt11/09/2000
1270505/01/19996091678Some 4.0l ohv engines may exhibit an internal low engine noise that is described as a diesel and / or marbles in a tin can rattle. *tt11/09/2000
619905/01/1999607018Vehicle may experience a diesel / marbel type noise. *tt11/03/2000
1153004/01/1998613794When diagnosing crank / no start on certain vehicles equipped with passive anti-theft (pats) check the customers key ring for any magnetic objects like the mobile speedpass key which may affect the signal transmission between the pats key a08/03/2000
504911/01/1998613181Brief information regarding upper engine noise. *tt06/19/2000
98506411/01/1998613200Repeat message regarding engine stalling *tt06/19/2000
1214611/01/1998613167Some vehicles equipped with 5.0l engines may exhibit an upper engine tapping noise on cold start. *mjs06/19/2000
1352711/01/1999610913Some vehicles equipped with 4.0l sohc engines may exhibit an overheat condition that may be attributed to the thermostat. engineering is currently investigating this issue and is looking for thermostats and coolants samples from these05/18/2000
1348411/01/1999610897Vehicles equipped with 4.0l ohv engines may exhibit excessive oil consumption as reported by the customer. *tt05/18/2000
747111/01/1999610836Some vehicles equipped with 4.0l ohv engines may exhibit excessive oil consumption as reported by the customer. *tt05/15/2000
98151408/03/1998609554A vehicle vibrates during a hot or cold idle condition.04/04/2000
727010/01/19996090871Some vehicles equipped with 4.0l sohc engines may exhibit a vibration / moan / boom at idle. *tt03/31/2000
714710/01/19996090765Exhibiting an internal low end noise that is described as a diesel and / or marbles in a tin can rattle. *tt03/29/2000
1327009/01/19996090699Vehicles with the 4.0l ohv engine may exhibit an internal low end noise that is described as a diesel and / or marbles in a tin can rattle. *tt03/23/2000
1317109/01/19996090520Information regarding 4.0l sohc engine noise (cam chain noise). *mjs03/21/2000
1317709/01/19996090532Information regarding 4.0l sohc engine repair procedure update. *mjs03/21/2000
1311009/01/19996090508Information regarding 4.0l ohv engine-marble type noise. *mjs03/21/2000
1317209/01/19996090522Information regarding sohc engine noise (cam chain noise). *mjs03/21/2000
699309/01/19996090303Subject regarding 4.0l sohc engine repair procedure update. *tt03/14/2000
698709/01/19996090293Some vehicles may exhibit engine noise(cam chain noise). *tt03/13/2000
9922310/18/19996089683A no start condition when vehicle is parked on an incline with the vehicle in a nose down position and less than 1/4 tank of fuel may occur. *tt02/11/2000
99688408/01/1999608880Customers may complain of an internal low end noise that is described as a diesel and / or marbels in a tin can rattle on vehicles with a 4.ol ovh engine. *tt12/06/1999
9981605/03/1999606420Ford motor company now recommends sae 5w-30 viscosity grade for servicing any ford gasoline-powered vehicle regardless of model year. *tt08/19/1999
1262403/01/1999605343Some vehicles may exhibit a hesitation / lack of power on re-acceleration after decelerating from 45 - 65 mph to a slow roll condition. *tt06/08/1999
9821110/26/1998603665Experiencing a noise and vibration during idle.03/01/1999
98251112/21/1998603649Service tips on composite fuel rail. *yc03/01/1999
ENGINE AND ENGINE COOLING - ENGINE - GASOLINE - BELTS AND ASSOCIATED PULLEYS
1275505/01/1999607073Some vehicles built before 1/1/1999 equipped with 5.0l engine may exhibit a front accessory drive (fead) belt noise. *tt11/03/2000
629506/01/1999606783Vehicles may exhibit a front accessory drive (fead) belt noise. *tt09/02/1999
ENGINE AND ENGINE COOLING - EXHAUST SYSTEM
98201010/12/1998603695Experiencing a buzzing or rattling noise from the exhaust system. *yc03/02/1999
98031304/01/1998603507Experiencing idle vibration / exhaust boom. *yc02/23/1999
986403/30/1998601312Information on a buzzing or rattle noise from the exhaust system. *tt07/21/1998
ENGINE AND ENGINE COOLING - EXHAUST SYSTEM - EMISSION CONTROL
98151208/03/1998609551A direct replacement part for the evaporative emission canister and bracket assembly. ak04/03/2000
98231011/23/1998603724Mass air flow (maf)- sensor contamination- service tip. *ak03/03/1999

Investigations

NHTSA IDManufacturerDate openDate closeSubjectRecall campaign
ENGINE AND ENGINE COOLING
DP05005FORD MOTOR COMPANY09/22/200501/04/2006SPARK PLUG EJECTION FROM CYLINDER HEAD
 On september 6, 2005, odi received a petition requesting that the agency investigate allegations of engine spark plug ejection in certain model year 1997 through 2004 ford vehicles with triton v-8 and v-10 engines.odi received a total of 474 non-duplicative complaints on the subject vehicles where the complainant, or the dealer repairing the vehicle, reported that a spark plug detached from the cylinder and/or ejected from the engine.as of december 8, 2005, odi is not aware of any allegations where the alleged defect resulted in a loss of vehicle control, a crash, an injury, or a fatality in any of the 10,319,810 subject vehicles.in addition, odi is aware of only two incidents where the vehicle stalled without restart.information contained in the odi consumer complaints and obtained from 72 telephone interviews with complainants showed the following:(1) 99% of the complaints were on my 1997 to 2002 subject vehicles.(2) most the complainants reported hearing a loud pop while driving or upon starting up the vehicle followed by a loud, repetitive clicking or popping sound.(3) many of the complainants reported that the popping sound was accompanied by some loss of vehicle power; however, in 99% of the incidents reported, the vehicle did not stall.in the very few incidents where the vehicle did stall, most vehicles could be restarted.(4) only a small percentage of the complainants cited that they smelled gas or a slight burning smell when the incident occurred.(5) in all but a very few incidents, vehicle damage was limited to the engine.in one incident, the complaint reported that the fuel rail was damaged and replaced after one of the spark plugs ejected from the engine; however, the complainant reported that the damage did not result in any type of fuel leak or fire.in another incident, the only incident where a fire was alleged, the complainant reported that no fluid leak was observed, but that a fire resulted after the spark plug had ejected from the engine and he had restarted the vehicle and driven to another location.none of the complainants reported any damage to the vehicle hood.(6) only two complainants reported that they observed what appeared to be some drops of fuel coming from the cylinder where the spark plug had failed or on the spark plug itself; however, each of these complainants reported that there was no smoke or flames as a result of his incident.as the petitioner noted, and odi
ENGINE AND ENGINE COOLING - ENGINE
DP05005FORD MOTOR COMPANY09/22/200501/04/2006SPARK PLUG EJECTION FROM CYLINDER HEAD
 On september 6, 2005, odi received a petition requesting that the agency investigate allegations of engine spark plug ejection in certain model year 1997 through 2004 ford vehicles with triton v-8 and v-10 engines.odi received a total of 474 non-duplicative complaints on the subject vehicles where the complainant, or the dealer repairing the vehicle, reported that a spark plug detached from the cylinder and/or ejected from the engine.as of december 8, 2005, odi is not aware of any allegations where the alleged defect resulted in a loss of vehicle control, a crash, an injury, or a fatality in any of the 10,319,810 subject vehicles.in addition, odi is aware of only two incidents where the vehicle stalled without restart.information contained in the odi consumer complaints and obtained from 72 telephone interviews with complainants showed the following:(1) 99% of the complaints were on my 1997 to 2002 subject vehicles.(2) most the complainants reported hearing a loud pop while driving or upon starting up the vehicle followed by a loud, repetitive clicking or popping sound.(3) many of the complainants reported that the popping sound was accompanied by some loss of vehicle power; however, in 99% of the incidents reported, the vehicle did not stall.in the very few incidents where the vehicle did stall, most vehicles could be restarted.(4) only a small percentage of the complainants cited that they smelled gas or a slight burning smell when the incident occurred.(5) in all but a very few incidents, vehicle damage was limited to the engine.in one incident, the complaint reported that the fuel rail was damaged and replaced after one of the spark plugs ejected from the engine; however, the complainant reported that the damage did not result in any type of fuel leak or fire.in another incident, the only incident where a fire was alleged, the complainant reported that no fluid leak was observed, but that a fire resulted after the spark plug had ejected from the engine and he had restarted the vehicle and driven to another location.none of the complainants reported any damage to the vehicle hood.(6) only two complainants reported that they observed what appeared to be some drops of fuel coming from the cylinder where the spark plug had failed or on the spark plug itself; however, each of these complainants reported that there was no smoke or flames as a result of his incident.as the petitioner noted, and odi
ENGINE AND ENGINE COOLING - ENGINE - GASOLINE
DP05005FORD MOTOR COMPANY09/22/200501/04/2006SPARK PLUG EJECTION FROM CYLINDER HEAD
 On september 6, 2005, odi received a petition requesting that the agency investigate allegations of engine spark plug ejection in certain model year 1997 through 2004 ford vehicles with triton v-8 and v-10 engines.odi received a total of 474 non-duplicative complaints on the subject vehicles where the complainant, or the dealer repairing the vehicle, reported that a spark plug detached from the cylinder and/or ejected from the engine.as of december 8, 2005, odi is not aware of any allegations where the alleged defect resulted in a loss of vehicle control, a crash, an injury, or a fatality in any of the 10,319,810 subject vehicles.in addition, odi is aware of only two incidents where the vehicle stalled without restart.information contained in the odi consumer complaints and obtained from 72 telephone interviews with complainants showed the following:(1) 99% of the complaints were on my 1997 to 2002 subject vehicles.(2) most the complainants reported hearing a loud pop while driving or upon starting up the vehicle followed by a loud, repetitive clicking or popping sound.(3) many of the complainants reported that the popping sound was accompanied by some loss of vehicle power; however, in 99% of the incidents reported, the vehicle did not stall.in the very few incidents where the vehicle did stall, most vehicles could be restarted.(4) only a small percentage of the complainants cited that they smelled gas or a slight burning smell when the incident occurred.(5) in all but a very few incidents, vehicle damage was limited to the engine.in one incident, the complaint reported that the fuel rail was damaged and replaced after one of the spark plugs ejected from the engine; however, the complainant reported that the damage did not result in any type of fuel leak or fire.in another incident, the only incident where a fire was alleged, the complainant reported that no fluid leak was observed, but that a fire resulted after the spark plug had ejected from the engine and he had restarted the vehicle and driven to another location.none of the complainants reported any damage to the vehicle hood.(6) only two complainants reported that they observed what appeared to be some drops of fuel coming from the cylinder where the spark plug had failed or on the spark plug itself; however, each of these complainants reported that there was no smoke or flames as a result of his incident.as the petitioner noted, and odi

Consumer Complaints

Fail datemilesoccurencesPurchase date
ENGINE
07/11/2012120000
 Tl-the contact owned a 1998 ford explorer. the contact stated that while parked, the vehicle engulfed into flames with the sound of a large explosion. the fire department extinguished the fire, which originated underneath the hood area. the vehicle was declared as destroyed and remained at the residence for further investigation. the manufacturer was not notified of the problem. the approximate failure mileage was 120,000. sm.
07/11/2012
 Tl-the contact owns a 1998 ford explorer. while parked, the vehicle engulfed into flames with the sound of a large explosion. the fire department extinguished the fire which originated underneath the hood area. the vehicle was declared as destroyed and remained at the resident for further investigation. the manufacturer was not notified of the problem. the approximate failure mileage was 120,000. js
ENGINE AND ENGINE COOLING
01/19/2012112000
 When backing up at 5mph vehicle excellerated at high speed went up curb and hit guardrail. after 2-3- seconds vehicle dropped down to 0 mph.
06/23/201196160
 Tl-the contact owns a 1998 ford explorer. the contact stated that the vehicle was parked when the engine caught on fire. the fire department appeared on the scene to extinguish the fire. the contact was informed that the fire was electrical and originated near the cruise control switch. the vehicle was not repaired. the failure and current mileages were 96,160. the vin was unavailable. sm.
06/23/201196160
 Tl-the contact owns a 1998 ford explorer xlt. the contact stated while the vehicle was parked the engine caught on fire. the boca raton fire department examined the vehicle and stated that the fire was electrical the fire originated in th cruise control area. the vehicle has not been repaired. the vin information was not available. the failure and the current miles was 96,160. li
04/03/2009110000
 Tl* the contact owns a 1998 ford explorer. while the engine was on she exited the vehicle for a brief moment. when she returned the vehicle was engulfed with smoke. she removed her children and exited the vehicle. after waiting for five minutes the vehicle caught on fire. the fire department was able to extinguish the flames. however, because of the fire damage the cause of the failure was not determined. the current and failure mileages were 110,000.
05/01/20091
 My car caught fire while driving it. *tr
01/20/2009143000110/26/2006
 Tl*the contact owns a 1998 ford explorer. the contact heard a huge explosion coming from her driveway and noticed that the vehicle was engulfed in flames. the vehicle was destroyed. there were no warning signs prior to the failure. the contact called the fire department and they extinguished the fire. the cause of the failure was undetermined. a police report was filed. she called her insurance company and is in the process of notifying the manufacturer. the failure mileage was 143,000. updated 03/17/09. *lj updated 03/17/09.*jb
01/20/2009143000
 Tl*the contact owns a 1998 ford explorer. the contact heard a huge explosion coming from her driveway and noticed that the vehicle was engulfed in flames. the vehicle was destroyed. there were no warning signs prior to the failure. the contact called the fire department and they extinguished the fire. the cause of the failure was undetermined. a police report was filed. she called her insurance company and is in the process of notifying the manufacturer. the failure mileage was 143,000.
11/20/2008110000
 Tl*the contact owns a 1998 ford explorer. after the contact parked the vehicle in his driveway, he noticed firefighters outside of his house. he then noticed that his vehicle was on fire. the engine was determined to be the cause of the failure. a fire report was filed. the vehicle has not yet been towed. the failure and current mileages were 110,000.
05/03/2007101000107/15/1998
 My wife was just leaving our house and the crankshaft broke. this happened without any warning and led to sudden loss of power steering. she was able to get it to the side of the road without mishap. this was at a low speed. this failure at highway speed could resulted in an accident. *ak
08/17/200675000101/01/2003
 Dt*: the contact stated while pulling out from a stop sign, traveling 5 mph, the vehicle's check gauges light illuminated on the dashboard. as the vehicle accelerated, there was a noise heard coming from the engine that sounded like something flying around inside the engine. the vehicle stalled and wouldn't restart. the vehicle was towed to a local ford authorized mechanic who determined the pins used in the timing chain on these vehicles are plastic and had fractured, penetrating the engine and ending up in the oil causing the vehicle to stall. the dealership has been informed.
03/28/2006122000104/13/1998
 Dt*: the contact stated without warning the engine stalled and the steering and brakes locked up. this occurred at 55 mph, the vehicle was towed to the contact's residence. a family member inspected the vehicle and determined the crankshaft busted, causing engine failure. the engine would need to be replaced at a cost higher than the value of the vehicle. the contact tried to replace it with a used engine, but was told by several mechanics that ford manufactured a bad engine with the 4.0 sohc, and to put a used engine would be a waist of money since it would fail again. *ak
05/01/2005104/15/2001
 I own a 1998 ford explorer. this vehicle has been making an awful knocking/rattle in the engine on start up. it has been doing this for about 6 months now. unable to diagnose problem due to it only does it on cold start ups, once the engine has warmed up it tends to stop. however, after a cold start up it will rattle (sounds like a diesel engine), the rattle increases as i accelerate, however once vehicle has ran for about 10 miles it will go away. if vehicle is parked for an extended period of time then started up again then the noise will return.*jb
04/29/2004104/09/1998
 The vehicle was parked around 8:00am, about 4 hours later, the vehicle caught on fire. the fire was coming from the driver's side engine compartment. there are 35 mm pictures. the vehicle had cruise control, but it was rarely used, and the consumer did not know if it was working. the insurance was liability only. *ak *sc *jb
07/30/20041
 While driving consumer experienced that vehicle was riding roughly. while sitting still vehicle vibrated uncontrollably. consumer drove the vehicle to the dealer for inspection, and mechanic determined that the engine needed to be replaced due to a cracked cylinder . *ak ...... *ak
12/21/20031
 The harmonic balancer came loose and the camshaft had broken right at the engine block. *ph consumer was given an option by the dealer to either overhaul the engine, with no warranty, or replace the engine, with a 3 year 36,000 mile warranty. a service technician found out that upon inspecting the harmonic balancer camshaft area that the long bolt holding the pulley to the camshaft was never tightened was able to removed with the technician's fingers. in addition, the bolt should have some markings on it consistent with an impact wrench. it was confirmed that the bolt would have been removed in order to replace the timing chain. when engine was replaced and performed additional test on vehicle, dealer found a small fuel line leak. fuel line was repaired and made another test on vehicle. consumer currently seeking reimbursement of all expenses incurred due to mechanical error that rendered vehicle inoperable. *la
03/19/20041
 While idling or driving vehicle vibrated continuously until vehicle was turned off. consumer applied the brakes and vehicle stalled. consumer drove vehicle to the dealer for inspection, and mechanic was unable to duplicate or resolve the problem.*ak
12/20/200393000110/01/1997
 Crankshaft cracked at 93000 miles. *ak
10/14/20031
 Vehicle frequently stalls and starves for fuel. consumer has had this problem for the past two years. dealer has inspected vehicle several times and found nothing wrong .*ak
06/29/200244087103/13/2002
 Defective alternator, rear axle seals, and oxygen sensor. *scc
07/01/2001609/01/1998
 Suv surges when backing back boat and trailer.
 Intermittently, vehicle stalls out and dies when decellerating. dealer has inspected vehicle several times, and has replaced engine temprature sensor, butproblem still exists. *ak
04/01/19981
 Temprature guage failed. yh
ENGINE AND ENGINE COOLING - COOLING SYSTEM
05/27/200395000010/19/1998
 The thermostat on my 1998 ford explorer has had to be replaced for the second time in two years with no definition of why it has broken. *tt
01/31/20037800008/31/2002
 The blend actuator door is stuck in the open position which means that i can't set the temperature in the passenger compartment to a comfortable level. after searching this problem on the internet it's apparent to me and others that this has got to be a defect based on the number of complaints.
07/05/2001101/01/1998
 No summary listed for above vehicle. *ak
05/05/199903/01/1998
 With only 15,614 miles on my 1998 explorer, the entire cooling system failed. the dealership had to install a new radiator, clutch fan assembly, water pump gasket, and thermostat assembly. *ak
03/01/1998
 Vehicle stalls, loses power when accelerating from full stop, especially when hot. 5 times at dealer w/ no solution. dealer computer indicates nothing wrong. loss of power could result in collision in heavy traffic. *ak
ENGINE AND ENGINE COOLING - COOLING SYSTEM - HOSE
08/26/200345210106/15/2002
 Upper intake plenum had burnt a hole in it.*mr while driving the vehicle hesitated and the consumer smelled something burning like rubber/plastic. the hole in the plenum caused two vacuum hoses to melt. *ph *nlm
ENGINE AND ENGINE COOLING - COOLING SYSTEM - RADIATOR ASSEMBLY
02/11/1999106/01/1998
 The vehicle was overheating due to a bad thermostat. *yh
01/01/2002111/10/1998
 Consumer stated thermostat and valvebody gasket failed.*jb
1
 Thermostat failed. nlm
109/08/1997
 Radiator failed, resulting in leaking.
ENGINE AND ENGINE COOLING - ENGINE
08/19/20081600001
 I was leaking antifreeze. brought to mechanic. he changed the intake manifold. a tune up was also done. now periodic smell of antifreeze and oil at different times. very potent. mechanic is aware of these problems, but cannot find anything wrong after doing many pressure tests and flushes. *tr
08/29/2008110000
 Tl*the contact owns a 1998 ford explorer. while leaving his home, the contact noticed that the hood of the vehicle was on fire. the fire department was called to extinguish the fire and a police report was filed. the contact did not notice any differences beforehand. the vehicle has not been diagnosed for the failure. the current and failure mileages were 110,000.
02/17/2008130022110/01/1998
 Engine failure. engine code p0300. cylinders 4, 5, 6 have weak compression. timing chain is damaged. dealer has previously serviced timing chain twice and after second service ford extended engine warranty to 100k miles (now expired). dealer now recommends engine replacement at cost of $5,500. what was once a $30,000 beautiful eddie bauer rig now has a kelly bb retail value of ~$8000, but without engine, car is a total (auction block) loss! while no one was hurt when this engine failed, it is both a potential safety hazard and yet another shock to a vehicle with a troublesome (and expensive) past, and to a loyal ford customer who expected a better quality product. i can't help but wonder how many more 1998 explorers are out on the roads about to loose their engines. is 10 years too long to own a ford? i am still pondering what to do with this vehicle which now sits as a 2-ton bookend in my garage. *tr
11/26/2004184000103/14/1999
 Very heavy rattling in the engine of my 1998 explorer 4.0 sohc. took to local ford dealer, they claimed characteristics of the motor, twice. some time later tensioners broke while driving and motor ceased. no cooperation offered on ford's part. had to replace engine out of pocket for ford's design flaw, which has been getting swept under the rug for years now. one month after the replacement ford offered to fix others, if found before 75k miles, etc. too late for me. how many failures have occurred? what if this failure had of occurred at highway speed, instead of idle speed. check the figures on this problem, it's scary, and ford is pitiful. *jb
09/01/20059900010
 Intermittent stalling when coming to a stop. *nm
05/09/200583000111/10/2000
 It started with a minor rattle in the engine towards the front of the engine. the rattle got louder and louder and louder until it was decided not to move the vehicle any longer. took vehicle to a certified mechanic, turns out, the timing chain assembly broke throwing pieces all over the place causing the chain to malfunction that lead to damage to the engine. engine block had to be replaced at a cost of around $3000. ford has a service bulletin out on this same problem, however i bought the vehicle in nov 2000 and i never received any service bulletin from ford informing me of this problem. i tried taking the vehicle to the local dealer and was told they won't repair it under the ford safety bulletin because it was only for 7 yrs or 100,000. the vehicles 7 years expired in april 2005. i tried emailing or contacting ford directly and got no response.
10/21/20041300001
 While driving 50 mph engine started producing a clicking sound. cause has yet to be determined. *ak
05/22/200486482112/05/1997
 I had problems with my ford explorer engine since the first day i bought the truck. it has been in the shop a few times for recallas on the engine, the last time only this past december. last saturday, may 22nd the truck stopped in the middle of traffic. i had it towed to ford dealer and was told my crankshaft broke. two different dealers told me the same thing and agreed that that should not have happend but also told me that there is nothing they can do. basically to bad on you. i have seen many messages on the internet on this very same problem happening to others. this could have been deadly if i were on a highway when it stopped. ford should be responsible to cover costs when something that should not break does. ford could care less. cost to me over $4,500.00 for a new engine on a maintained 6 year old car. per an attorney this is known as a latent defect and it took this time to happen, when that kind of part should last a long time.*ak
02/09/200469432107/01/1999
 Engine head gasket cracked. *ak the consumer stated while driving home the engine started to misfire and the temperature gauge went up a little. *jb
1
 1998 ford explorer fire.*mr the consumer ( a fire fighter) responded to a vehicle fire. the owner of the vehicle stated the brake light blew. he changed the 15 amp bulb and noticed a plug on the master cylinder was hot and had some soot on it and it wasn't melted or deformed. the vehicle sustained heavy fire damaged to the engine compartment with the heaviest fire damage near the master cylinder. *ph
12/06/200376000210/14/2002
 I have read 24 complaints concerning the failure of the camshaft chain on the 1998 ford explorers with the 4.0 sohc engines and seen 23 technical service bulletins concerning this same problem. this type of failure can cause serious injury if this occurs while operating the vehicle due to engine failure,not to mention the fact that it also blows the engine requiring it to be replaced at a cost near $5000. ford has acknowledged this problem and has offered replacement with mileage limitations. if this is a defect and a safety hazard causing the loss of control of the vehicle when this failure occurs ,why is this not important enough to warrant an investigation? my ford is 4000 miles over the limit set by ford to replace the parts in question. although this did not lessen the danger when this failure occurred to my wife, 5 year old and 1 year old daughters while in the vehicle causing her to lose control due to the engine failure as a result of these defective parts. i was told in a phone conversation that the recall was voluntary by ford and it is legal for them to set those limitations. this is unconceivable that they can place individuals in harms way knowingly and in an effort to save a buck, not a life , set limits to the remedy of the situation. why are these complaints not being investigated and if they have what was the end results of this investigation? *la david kyde 810 third st. #5 trenton, ohio 45067 513-988-6516
11/07/20031200001
 Check engine indicator light illuminated. vehicle was taken to the dealer at consumer's expenses of $850.00. twenty days afterwards the problem was still recurring. *ak
08/28/200385000102/08/1998
 Cam shaft broke inside engine, during normal operation. car had only 85,000 miles, there must have been a defect in the part. it cost $3,500 to repair damage. *ak
08/15/2002820061
 1999 ford explorer experiencing high idle.*mr vehicle experienced high idle for 1 year. *ts *jb
07/09/1999110/15/1998
 1998 ford explorer, 4.0sov has a repeated engine hesitation problem when engine is warm and accelerating from a stop. dealer says after numerous complaints he can not find the problem. i have had this problem since the vehicle was new it now has 100,000 miles and still hesitates on acceleration. *la
1
 Engine light illuminated and the vehicle was driving rough. dealer determined that the cam chain guide broke, and engine had to be replaced. *ak
04/09/200386000103/18/2001
 Vehicle stopped dead in traffic on weems creek bridge in annapolis maryland during a rainstorm because the crankshaft broke. *nlm
04/15/20031
 After sitting idle for an hour the vehicle caught on fire. the fire department determined the fire started in the engine. *tt
05/03/20033800007/07/2000
 Broken crankshaft on 1998 ford explorer with only 83,000 miles. no help from ford. seems to be a materials defect. *jb
03/04/20031
 Front end felt loose and vehicle was veering to the right due to cracked ball joints. engine check light appeared, and a red brown liquid was leaking from driver's side because power steering rack was defective. also, dealer replaced timing gear, and upper and lower intake manifolds.*ak
1
 The engine stalled off while driving. *jb
04/12/20027600002/20/1998
 Rear chain guide tensioner broke - part of cam chain guide assembly. engine died in morning rush hour, but car coasted safely to emergency lane. *nlm
03/26/2003900001
 The crank shaft broke in half, which caused the vehicle to be disabled. *jb
50000111/25/2001
 When reducing speed from 60 mph to a stop the vehicle stalls. *ts *nlm
01/01/2001
 Vehicle stalled and shut down without prior warning. all of the lights appeared on dashboard, and vehicle would restart. dealership was aware of problem.*ak
07/14/2002
 While driving on highway vehicle completely lost power and stalled. vehicle was checked by dealer who advised consumer that crankshaft had broken, and vehicle needed a new engine.*ak
06/14/2002
 While turning onto an intersection vehicle shutdown without prior warning. vehicle had to be towed. *ak
03/26/20021
 Vehicle would not start and was towed to dealer. dealer determined crankshaft had broken and needed to be replaced.*ak. *jb
01/01/2002111/10/1998
 Consumer stated thermostat and valvebody gasket failed.*jb
09/10/2001111/01/1997
 Rear timing chain failed and caused cylinder head damage. not covered under extended warranty for front timing chain. the vehicle lost all power while driving 45mph, stranding driver and small child. vehicle was towed to dealer. engine was pulled out of truck and the head and timing chain replaced. cost was $2800. ford gave goodwill warranty of 50%.
11/01/20012
 Ford replaced the gasket the first time but now refuses to do so. manufacturer's. defect?*ak
05/01/20010
 Vehicle rattles underneath. dealership is aware of problem. camshaft broke, and chain that goes around it also broke.*ak
07/01/2001
 Consumer took vehicle into the dealer to get camshaft fixed. after dealer fixed the problem back engine.*ak
05/15/2001
 Engine failure due to camshaft pulley. dealer notified and replaced engine under ford program. please feel free to provide any further details concerning this matter . *ak
108/01/1998
 The intake gasket leaks, the consumer is waiting for ford to redesign it so the noise will not persist while driving. nlm
104/01/1998
 Ford is offering to replace engine components, but damage has already occurred to the motor. the motors should be replaced also. failure to have a recall for the camshaft tensioners can result in an engine seize resulting in a crash if at highway speeds (for example).*ak
01/02/20010
 While traveling at 15 mph vehicle died. took to a dealer and they said camshaft went into motor. two months before that van pulley split open, and vehicle cut off. *ak
11/20/2000112/01/1997
 Head gasket failure: truck overheated at highway speed. diagnosed as blown head gasket. *ak
12/04/20000
 While driving engine would stall. while at an intersection on a six lane road, in middle lane, vehicle stalled. felt this was dangerous because consumer could have been hit from behind. took vehicle to dealer when rear timing chain jumped time, timing chain broke. dealer said engine needed to be replaced. *ak
03/01/1998
 Engine starting failure has caused the car to be left two times, each time it stumbled and when it did start my wife put it into drive at which time it rolled into traffic and cut off again. this is dangerous, the shop i took it to could find no bad codes and had no idea why it happened. i found a tsb concerning it on your website so now i know others are having the same problem. concerning the squeeling coming from the front end at speeds from 0-40, i took it to a shop and they sprayed some lubricant on it but the noise returned, i am afraid that something is going to fail in the front end and again. i found a tsb concerning the same problem on your site, so i am not alone in this problem. the oil leak was noticed when the squeal problem was investigated and again i noticed a tsb conserning the rear main seal leaking.*ak
10/15/20001
 While driving about 40 mph engine locked up. explorer was able to be driven to dealership. timing chain was replaced at owner's expense because it was stretched and slipped off. ford is aware of this problem because of service bulletin. *ak
03/01/1998
 When our explorer had 29,000 miles on it, i brought it into the dealership because the check engine light had come on and the vehicle was stalling out at stoplights. they replaced the oxygen sensor, a gasket on the intake manifold, and a fuel injector. now, 3,000 miles later, i returned to the dealership complaining about the same problem, except that the check engine light had not come on. at times, the explorer sounds and feels like it's going to stall out at stoplights or when shifting from reverse to drive. the dealership had the truck for 2 days and ran up 11 miles on it, but they could not recreate the scenario. they could find no problem at this time.
03/30/20001
 A tapping in motor area due to valve lifters and cylinder heads failure. yh
04/03/2000
 Crankcase is broken-truck has been serviced properly before this--$6,000 repair est. by ford. *ak
 Upon routine oil change dealer noticed engine connecting rod broke from engine piston. due to the broken engine connecting rod engine needed replacing. dealer stated this problem was common. please provide any further details.*ak
01/01/1999
 Dealer says that it is the timing chain housing and ford is working on a fix. *ak
 Engine head gasket is leaking at only 45,000 miles. cause is unknown. consumer has made several attempts to contact dealer, but no parts have been available since dec 30,1999. *ak
06/18/19991
 Engine oil leak due to a cross threaded galley plug in engine. mjs
10/01/19982007/10/1998
 Intermittent stalling.
05/03/1998
 While driving noticed smoke coming from the exhaust system without prior warning the vehicle started to lose power. took the vehicle for service, and the consumer had problems with the engine head gasket, the dealer replaced the engine, and there was a problem with the oxygen sensor. vehicle has been in the shop for repair service eight times, and the dealer still can't determine the problem. vehicle is back in the shop for repair service. *ak
 Going down a steep hill at a very low speed about 5 mph ,the idling speed will overcome the compressor in engine. totally dependent on brakes, causes the brakes to overheat and results in brakes fading. dangerous sitution. *ak
09/21/19981
 Heard a lound noise while driving vehicle. noises were coming from under the hood. checked under the hood & noticed engine pulley was loose. took vehicle to dealer & pulley was about to fall off. *ak
10/05/199804/23/1998
 Noisy engine. dealer replaced intake manifold/timing chain/alternator and starter.
ENGINE AND ENGINE COOLING - ENGINE - GASOLINE
12/28/2007111/30/2005
 My daughter was driving home the car (engine) caught on fire . the fire chief was not really sure what the cause was. *tr
01/20/2003105754109/05/2000
 4.0l sohc engine failed within 9,000 miles of replacing timing chain cassette under ford program oom12. towed to a ford dealership and was told that i would need to pay 5,800 for a rebuilt engine and there was nothing they could do with regard to oom12 which is a known problem with the ford 4.0l sohc engine failing prematurely.*ak
11/27/2001
 Vehicle stalls intermittently at 50 mph. mechanic cannot find cause. *ak
04/18/200206/01/2098
 Torque converter did not disengage when trying to stop the vehicle. vehicle went through a stop sign and stopped when braking stalled the engine. ford recommended replacing the solonoid that controls the torque converter. this is a safety issue. this failule is totally without warning and makes the vehicle difficult to stop. stopping occures only when the brake is applied hard enough to stall the engine. *ak
02/17/2002302/01/2002
 When making turns, especially right turns, vehicle slides and almost turns over.*ak. consumer states vehicle is experiencing acceleration problems,and there was a humming noise coming from the engine, signals are not working, dealer replaced a defective connector and multi-function switch, firestone tires have experienced tread separation, which were replaced in july 2001, the rear seats move/bounce when driving, the rear seat belts were inoperative, the dealer replaced the buckles, there was smoke coming from the steering column, dealer replaced the multi-function switch, the windshield was chipped, the alarm would not chut off at times, dealer replaced a bad loose wire.*jb
09/11/20012
 Without warning engine is overheating and caused vehicle to stall twice.*ak *yh
09/20/2000304/01/1998
 Engine continues to stall when driving at speeds of 30 mph. i am concerned for my safety and that of my passengers everyday. *ak
 When making a left turn or accelerating to left vehicle completely shuts down, cause unkown. also, consumer has concerns about wheels being out of around. please give any further details. *ak
11/01/1997
 Ford initiated a recall on the 4.0liter single-overhead cam engine on the ford explorer. when i took my car in to have it check for the problem i was told that my car did have the problem but that there was no fix yet for it. one of the statements on the recall notice said that this could lead to engine damage. i asked what could happen if there was engine damage and the response i got was that the car could stall while i am driving. then the service manage assured me that a stalled car, even when driving on the highway, is not a safety problem. i consider this to be a problem. i am amazed that ford acknowledged that my car has a problem then told me to drive it home with my young children in the back seat. do i have any recourse? *ak
05/01/2001105/06/2000
 Trunk door will not shut properly. consumer is able to slide his hand in while door is shut. *ak consumer contacted dmv and found out vehicle had been in an accident, consumer specifically asked for a vehicle that had not been damaged, however dealer sold it to him anyway, consumer feels deceived and is experiencing multiple problems with vehicle. radio is inoperative at times. hatch rubs agains frame of vehicle. taillight and headlight are out of alignment, fog lights had lamp failure. vehicle experiences problems with absorbing road shock, vehicle pulls to right. check engine light illuminates, vehicle experiences low power. rear power window motor failed. power antenna failed. right windshield wiper interior garnish molding loose, rear wiper blade skips center of glass, dealer replaced rear wiper arm and blade assembly. steering gear assembly replaced due to noisy. bumper not even. *slc
12/28/2000110/01/1998
 No summary listed for above vehicle. *ak (dot number: unkown tiresize: 22575)
08/07/2000
 While driving vehicle would vibrate once it goes over 30mph. there would be severe shaking & hard to control. this would happen when just idling or waiting. sometimes vehicle would stall out. *ak
07/01/19997
 When vehicle comes to complete stop or when it takes off vehicle stalls without prior warning. dealership is aware of problem.*ak the vehicle had stalled more than six times but the cause was not known. *yh
06/01/2000
 No summary listed for abov evehicle. *ak
01/06/20011
 Check engine light came on while driving vehicle, problem may have occurred because of recall (00v-422) and (00m12). cj
01/15/2001
 Engine failed. *ak
1
 Vehicle stalls for no apparent reason. nlm
07/12/20000
 When wheather is hot vehicle will lose power for a couple of seconds, then it will come back on. *ak
12/23/2000
 Ongoing problem with noise coming from engine. vehicle taken to dealer for inspection. please feel free to provide any further details. *ak
305/01/2000
 Consumer vehicle stalls intermittently, the dealer has replaced the fuel filter, timing guide and now they propose to replace the fuel pump and check for carbon deposits in the rngine but they cannot guarantee this will stop the stalling. nlm
06/01/199915005/01/1998
 No summary
1
 The vehicle intermittently hesitates and the factory repair facility is unable to repair. nlm
01/01/2000
 At 2700 miles motor blewout. vehicle sounded like it was rattling in a tin can. consumer has contacted the dealership.*ak
09/09/19992
 I was slowing down to make a left hand turn at a busy intersection and my explorer just died. as i was losing control of my steering, i coasted to a stop at the side of the road. only because of my 30 years of driving experience and calm demeanor was i able to avoid a terrible crash. if my 16 year old had been driving, it is frightening to think about what would have happened.
 Intermittently, vehicle stalls out and dies when decellerating. dealer has inspected vehicle several times, and has replaced engine temprature sensor, butproblem still exists. *ak
05/01/20001
 Vehicle occasionally loses power or stalls several seconds after normal acceleration from a full stop. problem occurs most freqently at intersections when making a left turn. dealership is aware of the problem. *yh
 Upon entering into a intersection vehicle will completely shut down without warning, cause unknown. dealer cannot identify the cause. please give any further details.*ak
03/16/20001
 Faulty engine causing consumer to hear noise under the hood when vehicle idles. yh
10/01/19981512/26/1997
 After extended driving and making a stop, vehicle would stall without any indication while trying to accelerate from the stop. dealer has been notified. *ak *ml
06/03/199915705/01/1998
 Car stalls - it has stalled 157 times since 6-3-99. it has been in the shop 12 times. *ak
06/04/199994
 Vehicle was repair by dealership after a collision, since then the engine experiences continued severe stalling on at least 94 times since 6-4-99, the dealerships are unable to rectify stalling. *mjs
02/01/1998
 Truck engine dies/hesitates when turning left from complete stop. engine died once but was able to restart while coasting, the other 2 times the engine hesitated although gas pedal was depressed. dealer notified, could not find anything wrong.
01/01/2000210/01/1997
 Ford people say they don't know when the gaskets kits will come in, yet its been 3 months now and the vehicle runs sluggish, and is a safety hazard in traffic. where are all the parts at. *ak
10/01/1997
 Engine makes cracking sound when stopping. yh
 No summary listed for above vehicle. *ak
11/20/1998
 Driving down a two way street another vehicle was trying to pass from behind. when applying brakes to slow down, vehicle stalled and within seconds it accelerated. *ak
3
 The vehicle failed to start numerous times. yh
11/01/199901/01/1999
 Inc #1 4--wheel drive lights flashed 15 seconds, 4-wheel drive motor replaced. inc #2 - vehicle stalled during left turns after travlling at hwy speeds. new processor installed, problem still exists. *ak
03/09/2000101/01/1999
 Traveling at 35 mph, engine stalled. i was able to make a safe stop on a busy/curvy road. engine restarted and stalled one additional time. *ak
6
 Engine stalls when coming from a stop or from slowing down. driver has to put vehicle in neutral and restart vehicle. dealer has seen vehicle 6 times, and cannot find a solution. *ak
10/22/1998
 Vehicle stalled upon stopping while applying accelerator pedal, causing engine to shut off. vehicle been in/out of dealer shop for inspection/repairs. ecu was replaced, and problem still reoccurring. *ak
10/19/1998
 While pulling out the vehicle will hesitate which may cause an accident. cause unknown. been to dealer, but dealer cannot determine problem. please provide further information. *ak
07/20/19983
 Engine stalling on a continual basis, unable to rectify after three repair attempts. mjs
06/01/19981203/01/1998
 After coming to a stop, intermittently, upon acceleration the engine hesitates and stalls. this leaves the driver in a dangerous situation, stalled in the middle of an intersection - this has led to numerous near accidents. the dealer is indifferent to the severity of the problem. the service dept. can not find the cause. the onboard cpu does not leave any error codes and the service capture device does not pick-up any error codes. it appears to be an ignition misfire.
01/01/1998
 Engine has a loud noise like tappets come from the engine, and the engine occasionally stalls upon accelleration.
 Vehicle will stall while coasting or at a stop. dealer cannot determine cause of defect.*ak
03/01/199811/01/1997
 Cam chain noisy at times(clattering); dealer unable to eliminate problem
05/23/19991808/01/1998
 1998 ford explorer has spontaneously accelerated over 18 times in the last ten months. it surges to maximum rpm while in park, reverse, drive. drivers foot is not on accelerator when this occurs. driver can only save the situation by shifting into neutral and jamming on brakes or turning off car.
607/22/1999
 Engine failure causing vehicle stalling. yh
09/27/19992506/01/1998
 Ford says aware of problem no fix, stalling is serious on highway and can cause fatality
208/01/1998
 The engine has a loud clicking noise on the right side. the local dealer helped to get a remanufactured engine for me under warranty. the new engine has just started to make the same noise. it's very loud. i haven't had any stalls or hesitations, just a very loud noise.
09/20/19991
 Vehicle hesitates on re-acceleration after decelerating from 50-65 mph to a slow roll. this has happened many times since the car was first purchased. dealer claims there is nothing wrong. i just located a service bulletin #12624 that addresses this problem.
09/19/1999308/01/1998
 Engine stalls and sometimes dies while accelerating from a stop. problem most often occurs after long drives, on hot days, when turning to the left from a full or partial stop.
 While traveling consumer notice smoke coming from the engine compartmenton right passenger's side and vehicle caught an fire. also, vehicle was totaled. please provide any further details. *ak
08/05/1999112/01/1998
 I noticed smoke coming from engine compartment after stopping to fuel up after driving several hours at a speed of 65 mph. took vehicle into dealer and told them that the engine was leaking oil and had to put in three quarts to finish 400 mile trip. service dept. advisor said problem was do to galley plug leaking. they replaced plug and engine still leaks. vehicle is still in shop after 5 days. they recommended replacing head.
09/08/19987
 Engine continually experiences stalling, several repair attempts/repairs with no change in stalling problems. mjs
04/12/19991
 Vehicle experiencing hesitaion and stalling problems when accelerating rapidly from a stop or slow speed. *yc
1
 Motor experiencing noise. *yc
02/27/199901/01/1999
 This is a very distinct tapping noise coming from the right side of the engine that can be heard at all times and gets louder as you drive the car. we are afraid that this is a lifter and our engine is going to blow up while we are driving. the service shop denies even hearing this tapping noise but when we went to arbritration 5 people , whom are not mechanics all heard and verified that this noise is present. the service shop will not even say they hear this noise, alone fix it for us. we want to know how to get this fixed, we have had it in the shop 22 days.
111/01/1997
 Vehicle shuts off when put in reverse gear. nlm
1
 Vehicle experiences continued engine stalling. mjs
06/01/1998
 Vehicle shuts itself off while traveling. once it begins to shut itself off, it happens several times in a row. it happened the first time then traveled an additional 200 miles before it did it again. it then did it about six times. took to dealer, unable to find. brought vehicle to local dealer, then to selling dealer. shut down on busy freeway, was towed to a fourth dealer who says it might have been a loose fuel wire. says the cars movement may have made it intermintent. picked up vehicle from last dealer and he advised may have fixed problem, but not sure. unable to use vehicle as there is no trust.
 After driving for 3hours and pulling over to rest, vehicle shut off for a period of time, vehicle would not start back up even after wating 2hrs. vehicle had to be towed. dealer has not been contacted. *ak
05/20/1999211/25/1997
 Vehicle experiencing engine noise, cam tensioners were installed to correct problem, vehicle is still noisy. *yc
06/11/1999101/01/1998
 After driving at 65 mph for app. 2 hours, the engine stalled making a left turn while accelerating from a stop. *ak
 The engine completely dies while vehicle is traveling, causing loss of control. *ak
106/23/1998
 Vehicle intermittently hesitates or completely stalls out. nm
09/17/19982512/01/1997
 Problem is hesitation or engine quitting during acceleration. while this is not a common event, it happens about once per week. the dangerous condition occurs when merging into traffic on the interstate hwy. dealers service dept. indicates no problem is indicated by their diagnostic systems therefore ford will assume no resposibility.
06/12/1998
 When driving and stopping for a light and pulling off, the vehicle gave no prior warning and started to stall. when driving down a hill the vehicle lost all power, causing the consumer to lose steering and brakes. the consumer put the vehicle in neutral to get the vehicle to come to a stop. *ak
08/01/19982010/01/1997
 4.0l sohc engine, engine will severely lag or stall under heavy acceleration from slow speeds or from dead stop. *ak
10/01/19982509/01/1998
 The explorer we have sometimes loses power and then after 10-15 seconds bolts forward abruptly. our vehicle has almost caused several accidents because of this problem. we have been into the service department of our dealer 5 times, and began complaining of the problem a week after we took the car home. our dealer seems oblivious to the fact that so many other people are having this same problem, which i can find on the internet. they feel since it hasn't done it while they were driving it, then it doesn't have a problem. we have continued to drive this car, our only vehicle for six months in this condition. the dealer rarely returns our calls. this vehicle is very unsafe to be driven, especially with our child in the car. you have no warning when it will stop, and most often you are turning and stalling with people swerving and blowing their horns, and you have no control for 10-15 seconds. the dealers should take back dangerous vehicles such as this one! *ak
05/01/1998
 Engine stalls. when accelerating from a stop the engine rpms will drop to 0. the engine will restart on its own. the stalling is for only a moment. i have reported ths problem to the dealer. the dealer could not solve the problem. the dealer put a flig
03/15/1998
 Vehicle experiencing intermittent stalling while accelerating fron 0-45 mph. vehicle was inspected by dealer ,and informed consumer that if it gets any worse to bring it back. seeking help in this matter. *ak
1509/01/1998
 Stalling/hesitation upon acceleration from a stop or low speed. occurs at intersections and making turns. vehicle loses power momentarily then kicks back in.
09/04/199806/05/1998
 Whenever coming to a stop or pulling off from a stop sign or a light, vehicle will stall and cut off. consumer vehicle has been in the shop 8 times and they can't determine the problem. vehicle is running intermittently. *ak *ml
06/09/199810/28/1997
 Upon acceleration vehicle stalls and loses power for no reason. problem is intermittent. dealer cannot duplicate problem. cause unknown. *ak
02/10/1999301/01/1998
 Engine stalled during left turn at intersection. all three times that this has occured has been up starting from a complete stop, and under moderate to heavy acceleration. two of the incidents have occured during left turns, while the other occured going straight. the vehicle has been maintained in accordance with ford's recommended maintenance schedule.
05/01/1998804/01/1998
 Hesitation/stall - vehicle has intermittent hesitation when making left turns after a stop and sometimes stalls. i have nearly avoided two accidents. teh dealer cannot duplicate the problem but says the manufacturer has other matching complaints. i am activating the ga warranty rights act now. if ford knows this problem exists and i have seen many other complaints on this site, i think there should be a recall before someone is killed or seriously injured.
12/30/19980
 Automobile shut off in traffic, near crash because of vehicle shutting off. *ak
04/20/19981202/01/1998
 This is an explorer with the sohc 4l engine. i have experienced at least a dozen episodes of the engine stalling, or nearly stalling, when accellerating from a stop, and usually when turning left. it seems to happen most often when the weather and engine are hot, and after idling for a few moments, such as when stopped at an intersection waiting for a light or a break in traffic. the stall, or hesistation, happens after the vehicle has moved perhaps one car length. the dealership has made three attempts at repair. this seems to be a common problem with explorers with the sohc motor, and is very dangerous, leaving the occupants in the direct line of oncoming traffic in a disabled vehicle. ford has not admitted a fault, or fixed the vehicle.
11/15/1998110/01/1998
 After traveling east on i-90 for approximately 50 miles with the cruise control on, i exited the freeway and came to a stop. upon making a left turn and accellerating, the engine died momentarily and then came back to speed. this seems to be a problem that many other owners have experienced. although i was able to continue on my trip, it was an anxious moment as i was attempting to merge with traffic.
10/01/1998309/01/1998
 Read report of others having this stall engine failure, vehicle engine doesn't go dead will will litterally almost quit but then regains without warniing.
07/01/19981006/01/1998
 Engine stalls or sputters from a stop or accelerating from ~40mph. this seems to happen at a greater rate when turning a sharp left and going over an incline such as a railroad crossing. this has caused 3 near collisions and would have caused a fatal incident had a train been bearing down on the train crossing. i have stalled on a raised train crossing 3 times.
12/18/19981206/01/1998
 Engine occasionally hesitates or stalls upon reacceleration after coming to a stop at intersections. possible danger of being in heavy traffic when stall occurs - potential accident. dealership service department kept vehicle 2 days after one occurrence and could not duplicate the problem, but indicated that they were aware of this same problem in other explorers. the hesitation or stalling usually happens after cruising on the freeway at 60 - 70 mph then getting off at an exit and stopping at an intersection. when reaccelerating the engine sometimes either hesitates badly then resumes normal operation or stalls completely - usually in the middle of the intersection - requiring restart.
 While vehicle was in park a fire started in the engine compartment area ,cause unknown. dealer cannot identify the problem. please give any further details. *ak
05/01/19982003/01/1998
 The vehicle randomly stalls after slowing down or coming to a stop. when i accelerate after slowing to a stop or comming to a complete stop, the truck hesitates/stalls and then kicks in and goes. truck has been to dealer 4 times, but he can't fix because he can't duplicate the problem. it happens very randomly. it may happen 2-3 times a week and then not again for 3-4 weeks. this vehicle is very unsafe. it has happened many times when turning left across on-comming traffic. if this problem is not fixed, i will be hit some day!!! ford wasn't very helpful. the dealer suggested i call the 800 number in my book. i reported this directly to ford on the 800 number and never heard from ford or the dealer. ford said that they would contact the dealer and they would work on the problem. the dealer i am working with in not the one i purchased the vehicle from. the servicing dealer is kings ford 9555 kings automall drive cincinnati oh 45249 513-697-2414.
 Vehicle has severe hesitation, and engine misses which could result in an accident. *ak
02/22/19985
 Vehicle would stutter when driving. at different times would stall out. pressure applied to accelerator pedal, vehicle stalls out. problem cannot be duplicated by mechanic. *ak
10/05/199804/23/1998
 Noisy engine. dealer replaced intake manifold/timing chain/alternator and starter.
09/19/1998
 While driving at any speed and when driving at 65 mph, the vehicle started to vibrate and shake. also, there was a leakage coming under the vehicle near the engine. contacted the dealer for repairs, and the vehicle was in for repairs twice. vehicle will be taken back to the shop for additional repairs. *ak
05/10/1998405/04/1998
 When traveling at low speeds/accelerating from a stopped position, engine stalls. qcaw
09/06/1998
 Intermittently the vehicle stalls , giving the driver no indication. the dealer and manufacturer have been notified. *ak
2004/25/1998
 Intermittent stalling.
 When vehicle is at a stop,defect in engine causes vehicle to stall or hesitate. dealer cannot duplicate problem. *ak
07/05/1998
 While driving vehicle suddenly shuts down. dealer has been notified. *ak
 While driving the vehicle stalled without indications. dealer has been contacted. please provide further details. *ak
 Ford dealership claims not to be aware of recall pertaining to 4.0l sohc engines.
ENGINE AND ENGINE COOLING - ENGINE - GASOLINE - BELTS AND ASSOCIATED PULLEYS
11/01/2004131111111/13/1998
 The timing chain tensioner inside of the engine failed, causing the timing chain to come loose. as a result heads and pistons inside of the engine came loose, destroying other parts inside of the engine. the ultimate result of this was that the engine seized and the vehicle lost power, making it difficult to steer at highway speed prior to getting off of the highway. manufacturer has a waranty extension in place prior to 72,000 miles, but no recall, and considers a vehicle that looses power and cannot be completed steered as a result of an explosion in the engine not to be a safety issue!?!?!? the manufacturer acknowledged that there is a potential problem with these engines, but will only do something about it if the vehicle has symptoms. i had the first minor symptom on a sunday afternoon, and a major problem the next day, monday.*ak
05/05/20031020001
 2nd time this happened...tensioner pulley failed (broke off) while driving on the highway. serpentine belt came off, car overheated/engine failure/etc. first time was ay 40,000 miles. this time, at 102,000 miles. towed to a texaco station in aberdeen, md. service manager says tensioner pulley failure common in explorers. had to replace pulley/belt. once i returned home to nj, i started to notice minor dripping of radiator fluid. 2 weeks later, it all gushed out, causing me to also replace my radiator. to know this has now happened twice, caused secondary damage both times, and that you get left stranded on a highway each time is very concerning.
06/26/2003105/13/1998
 Have been hearing loud tapping noises from engine-brought it to stadium ford and was told it was front timing chain and gaskets which they replaced for $300 (no discount) noise has continued so never brought car home from dealership same day. left car at ford service center (stadium auto mall rutherford, nj) and now being told it is the lower/rear tensioner and was advised ford has a program for this defect yet was advised that they will not cover this for me. they want me to pay $2100 minimum to repair this defect with camshaft tensioners. however this defect/problem has previously shown to cause engine dmage other than w/the tensioners. also read many complaints about this issue where was covered. made complaint w/ford customer relations and was advised that car w/either 7 years or under 100,000 miles is covered. yet the dealership will not cover it and my truck is under 7 yrs and under 100,000 miles...at this point has been 3 weeks and still have not come to resolution and my truck is still in the dealership service center. still waiting for manager/owner to contact me back...*ak
03/04/20031
 Front end felt loose and vehicle was veering to the right due to cracked ball joints. engine check light appeared, and a red brown liquid was leaking from driver's side because power steering rack was defective. also, dealer replaced timing gear, and upper and lower intake manifolds.*ak
09/01/1998106/01/1998
 Drive belt continually makes noise, replacement necessary to stop noise. mjs
ENGINE AND ENGINE COOLING - EXHAUST SYSTEM
10/04/2002110/01/2001
 Consumer states that theres a noise coming from the engine while driving, when the accelerator is pressed the noise stops, the vehicle was taken to the dealer who stated that the mass air flow sensor was the problem, 4x4 sensor is defective. mr *nlm *dt
07/20/2001
 Vehicle will not idle without pressing accelerator pedal, engine will stall . dealer said it was a faulty idle air valve.
07/19/1999112/16/1997
 Vehicle was making a siren noise. dealer replaced idle air control valve under warranty. on 03-aug-2000 consumer took the vehicle back because the problem reoccurred. dealer stated in writing that it was something normal.*ak
11/01/1998103/01/1998
 Oxygen intake valve failed. yh
05/03/1998
 While driving noticed smoke coming from the exhaust system without prior warning the vehicle started to lose power. took the vehicle for service, and the consumer had problems with the engine head gasket, the dealer replaced the engine, and there was a problem with the oxygen sensor. vehicle has been in the shop for repair service eight times, and the dealer still can't determine the problem. vehicle is back in the shop for repair service. *ak
ENGINE AND ENGINE COOLING - EXHAUST SYSTEM - EMISSION CONTROL
03/01/1998
 When our explorer had 29,000 miles on it, i brought it into the dealership because the check engine light had come on and the vehicle was stalling out at stoplights. they replaced the oxygen sensor, a gasket on the intake manifold, and a fuel injector. now, 3,000 miles later, i returned to the dealership complaining about the same problem, except that the check engine light had not come on. at times, the explorer sounds and feels like it's going to stall out at stoplights or when shifting from reverse to drive. the dealership had the truck for 2 days and ran up 11 miles on it, but they could not recreate the scenario. they could find no problem at this time.
05/03/1998
 While driving noticed smoke coming from the exhaust system without prior warning the vehicle started to lose power. took the vehicle for service, and the consumer had problems with the engine head gasket, the dealer replaced the engine, and there was a problem with the oxygen sensor. vehicle has been in the shop for repair service eight times, and the dealer still can't determine the problem. vehicle is back in the shop for repair service. *ak
ENGINE AND ENGINE COOLING - EXHAUST SYSTEM - EMISSION CONTROL - CATALYTIC CONVERTOR
08/01/1998108/01/1998
 Catalitic converter malfunctioned. *yc
ENGINE AND ENGINE COOLING - EXHAUST SYSTEM - MANIFOLD/HEADER/MUFFLER/TAIL PIPE
09/27/20052
 Dt:1998 ford explorer. while driving the vehicle shut off and was almost involved in a wreck this was the first time this happened. the consumer took the vehicle to dealership, who informed the consumer there were recalls 00m12 and 01m01, but the recalls expired, dealership said they were not official recalls. ford m said it was the intake manifold gasket.*ak
07/14/20041030006
 Since purchasing a used 1998 ford explorer i have been blessed with nothing but problems with it. 6 months after purchasing the vehicle my wheel bearings went out and damaged the spindle. this was a $500 expense as the spindle was a dealer part. when i purchased it there were 26000 miles on it...there were about 36000 when the bearings went out...just as the warranty expired. then, about a year later, the upper air intake manifold got a hole burned in it. again, ford couldn't offer me any kind of help and said it was a $800-1000 repair. on a side note, this type of problem was a known issue by ford. in fact, recalls were made by ford to replace the intakes free of charge to fleets but not to the general public. just recently my freeze plugs rusted through and caused my car to overheat. this has been quoted by ford as a $1300 repair. i called ford to see about some sort of goodwill warranty and of course anything with goodwill in the equation is definitely something ford will not do. i currently have 2 years left on the loan for a piece of crap car that isn't even worth half of what i still owe on it. i am really thinking of taking it back to the dealer and parking right in front of the entry way and taking the keys with me and telling them to stick it up their rears. ford makes the whole car industry look really bad and in no way would i ever buy another ford. please help us consumers out and make the game fair between the auto industry and consumers...we are getting ripped off left and right while they keep getting richer and richer. *la
03/04/20031
 Front end felt loose and vehicle was veering to the right due to cracked ball joints. engine check light appeared, and a red brown liquid was leaking from driver's side because power steering rack was defective. also, dealer replaced timing gear, and upper and lower intake manifolds.*ak
01/01/1999
 Engine manifold leaking. engine check light warning light is on. parts have been on back order from ford for over 2 months. the dealer says this is most likely a possible recall problem, but can not give specifics. we have concerns about driving vehicle with warning lights on for a prolonged period of time. *ak

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