Ford Explorer 1998 - Power train - car safety information, failing parts, recalls, bulletins, complaints

Ford Explorer 1998

Technical Service Bulletins
Defect investigations
Consumer Complaints

Bulletins

Bulletin	Bulletin date	Replacement Bulletin	Item no.	Summary	Added
POWER TRAIN
16935	07/01/2003		10003831	An uncommanded shift to 4x4 low. *tt	11/04/2003
0282	04/29/2002		637922	Some 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. *tt	12/09/2002
15887	05/01/2002		637755	Some 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). *tt	12/04/2002
13745	01/01/2000		612742	Some vehicles may experience a condition of no 4 x 4 low range engagement or a stuck in 4 x 4 low range. *mjs	06/12/2000
13794	01/01/2000		612815	Vehicles equipped with m5od r1 transmissions mat exhibit a 2-3 upshift grind. *mjs	06/12/2000
0036	02/07/2000		612387	Vehicles may experience buzzing and or grinding noise during 2-3 shift- vehicles equipped with m50d transmission and built before 11/1/99. *mjs	06/07/2000
7885	01/01/2000	7885	612270	The vehicle may exhibit the speedometer/odometer inoperative as well as malfunction indicator lamps illuminated or flashing after the generic electronic module (gem), central timer module (ctm), or for wheel anti-lock brake system (4wabs) m	06/07/2000
991813	09/06/1999		6090076	Experiencing an inoperative or inaccurate odometer / speedometer readings. *tt	03/06/2000
9943	03/08/1999		604751	Information regarding reprogramming powertrain control modules (pcms). *tt	05/11/1999
POWER TRAIN - AUTOMATIC TRANSMISSION
03261	01/05/2003		10008279	New service part - number 5 needle bearing and race kit - 4r70w transmission - service tip. *tt	07/26/2004
12298	12/01/1998		615543	Some 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. *tt	01/18/2001
99152	07/26/1999		608431	Information on the new flush and fill tool available through rotunda. *tt	01/05/2001
11534	04/01/1998		613799	Some vehicles may exhibit a repeat concern of no engagement after replacing the 5r55e transmission assembly. *tt	08/03/2000
11482	04/01/1998		613391	For certain model vehicles, the 4r70w transmission solenoid molded leadframe must be replaced when removed. *tt	07/10/2000
8008	01/01/2000	8008	612506	Buzzing and grinding notchy noise when shifting(2-3 upshift).	06/08/2000
0015	01/10/2000		612203	Information regarding the new transmission cooler flusher- service tip. *mjs	06/06/2000
13482	11/01/1999		610895	Some 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. *tt	05/18/2000
7468	11/01/1999		610834	Some vehicles may exhibit a vibration / groan on acceleration or take off.	05/15/2000
7353	11/01/1999		610785	Some 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. *tt	05/15/2000
13412	10/01/1999		609668	Some 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. *tt	04/06/2000
983180	02/16/1998		607422	Information on the new 4r100 transmission. *tt	09/22/1999
9996	05/17/1999		606428	Experiencing 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. *tt	08/20/1999
9986	05/03/1999		606406	Some vehicles may exhibit an overdrive (o/d) light flashing with diagnostic trouble code (dtc) p0741 and / or p1740. *tt	08/19/1999
5814	03/01/1999		605225	Service tips for checking transmission fluid level. *tt	06/04/1999
9946	03/08/1999		604762	Concerns with transmission fluid leaking at radiator. *tt	06/01/1999
982312	11/23/1998		603740	Issues regareding diagnostic trouble codes ( dtcs ) p0705, p0708, p1704, and / or p1705 may be stored in memory. *yc	03/04/1999
98412	03/02/1998		601273	The 4r70w transmission installed in some vehicles will have an orange	07/16/1998
9888	04/27/1998		601238	Information on a new transmission fluid usage chart. *yc	07/10/1998
POWER TRAIN - AUTOMATIC TRANSMISSION - CONTROL MODULE (TCM, PCM)
042107	12/13/2004	042414	10014086	General (pcm) power train control module programming procedures. *tt	04/28/2005
9987	05/27/1999		621290	Some 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. *tt	09/17/2001
00E11	02/01/2001		619150	Service action 00e11, supplement #1 - update information regarding on-board diagnostic system upgrade. *tt	05/16/2001
9987	05/03/1999		606407	Some 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. *tt	01/22/2001
12704	05/01/1999		6091676	Subject regarding all vehicles requires a parameter reset to be performed on the passive anti-theft system module (pats / vic / hec) when the powertrain control module (pcm) is replaced. *tt	11/09/2000
5189	11/01/1998		613320	Some vehicles may exhibit a hesitation / lack of power on re-acceleration after decelerating from highway speed (45-65 mph) to a slow roll condition (exit ramp / tollbooth). this may be due to the transmission calibration not making the	06/21/2000
7494	11/01/1999		610853	All 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. *tt	05/16/2000
97090297183	09/02/1997		54069	Experiencing difficulties with the malfunction indicator lamp (mil). *yc	03/30/1998
POWER TRAIN - AUTOMATIC TRANSMISSION - COOLING UNIT AND LINES
03148	07/21/2003		10003748	New transmission cooler flusher - service tips. 2003 escort and super duty f series included. *tt	10/29/2003
002310	11/13/2000		616522	Subject regarding contamination from prior transmission concerns or excess wear may be trapped in the transmission fluid cooling system. *tt	03/05/2001
981613	04/07/2000		609748	Transmission fluid leaks at radiator. yd	04/07/2000
9946	01/01/1999		606733	Concerns with transmission fluid leaking at the radiator. *tt	09/01/1999
POWER TRAIN - AUTOMATIC TRANSMISSION - LEVER AND LINKAGE - COLUMN SHIFT
14586	01/01/2001		617969	Some 4.0l vehicles with a4wd built prior to 9/13/99 may exhibit a vibration / pulsation at 0-45 mph on dry pavement under light to moderate acceleration in 4 auto mode which may characteristic with the control trac 4x4 system. *jb	04/02/2001
5128	12/01/1998		615325	Some vehicles with electronic shift on the fly 4x4 systems may stick in 4x4 low. engineering is investigating. *tt	01/13/2001
13505	11/01/1999		614630	All 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. *tt	11/29/2000
985128	11/01/1998		613268	Some vehicles with electronic shift on the fly 4x4 systems may stick in 4x4 low. *tt	06/20/2000
POWER TRAIN - AUTOMATIC TRANSMISSION - PARK/NEUTRAL START SWITCH
01181	09/17/2001		625715	Brake shift interlock.*jb	11/30/2001
POWER TRAIN - AXLE ASSEMBLY
030508	04/01/2005	05620	10017891	Front axle leaks fluid from vent tube - vehicles equipped with 4x4 or awd. *tt	12/06/2005
0358	03/17/2003		10001922	Fluid may leak out of the front axle vent tube. tt jb	07/25/2003
0242	03/04/2002		636056	Certain vehicles with 4x4 or all-wheel drive may have a fluid leak from the front axle vent tube. *tt	11/04/2002
01114	06/11/2001		622642	Some 4x4 vehicles may exhibit a high-pitched squeal or whistle type noise from the front axle area of the vehicle at speeds from 16 to 64 km/h (10 to 40 mph). *tt	10/22/2001
01411	03/05/2001		619427	High-pitched front axle squeal or whistle type noise from the front of the vehicle at speeds from 16 to 64 km/h (10 to 40 mph). *tt	05/30/2001
14819	04/01/2001		619314	Some 4x4 vehicles may exhibit a fluid leak from the front axle vent tube. *tt	05/23/2001
14847	04/01/2001		619330	Concerns with vehicles exhbit fluid leakage from the front axle vent tube. *tt	05/23/2001
0186	04/30/2001		619276	On some vehicles, including sport and sport trac, the front axle leaks fluid from the vent tube. *tt	05/22/2001
12521	03/01/1999		6091767	Vehicles with limited slip / traction-lok rear axles may exhibit a chatter noise while turning. *tt	11/14/2000
6032	05/01/1999		6091736	Some vehicles may exhibit a high pitched squeal or whistle type noise from the front end at speeds from 10 mph to 40 mph. *tt	11/14/2000
12843	06/01/1999		606905	Some 4x4 vehicles may exhibit a high pitched squeal or whistle type noise from the front end at speeds from 10 mph to 40 mph. *tt	11/08/2000
0083	04/17/2000		613577	Some vehicles equipped with a 5.0l engine may exhibit a rubbing noise during right hand turns from the rear of the vehicle. **mr	07/21/2000
13757	01/01/2000		612786	Vehicles equipped with limited slip/traction-lok rear axles may exhibit a chatter noise while turning. *mjs	06/12/2000
983074	02/27/1998		607369	Concerns with axle wind-up and / or clunking, popping, ratcheting type noises when making cornering maneuvers. *tt	09/21/1999
12905	06/01/1999		606937	Some 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. *tt	09/08/1999
5845	03/01/1999		605233	Some vehicles equipped with limited slip / traction-lock rear axles may exhibit a chatter noise while turning. *tt	06/04/1999
5506	03/01/1999		605189	Vehicle may exhibit a high pitched squeal / whistle type noise from the front end at speeds from 10 mph to 40 mph. *tt	06/03/1999
POWER TRAIN - AXLE ASSEMBLY - AXLE SHAFT - SEAL
13752	03/01/2001		620270	Some 4x4 vehicles may exhibit an oil leak from the front axle pinion seal. *tt	07/23/2001
13404	10/01/1999		6092199	Some 4x4 vehicles may exhibit an oil leak from the front axle pinion seal. *tt	11/27/2000
14056	04/01/2000		613704	Some vehicles may exhibit an oil leak from the front axle pinion oil seal area. **mr	07/27/2000
8512	04/01/2000		613657	Some vehicles may exhibit an oil leak from the front axle pinion oil seal area. **mr	07/26/2000
13752	01/01/2000		612757	Some vehicles may exhibit an oil leak from the front axle pinion seal. *mjs	06/12/2000
13504	11/01/1999		610907	Concerns 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. *tt	05/18/2000
7316	10/01/1999		609601	Some vehicles may exhibit an oil leak from the front axle pinion seal. *tt	04/04/2000
POWER TRAIN - CLUTCH ASSEMBLY
0057	03/06/2000		612953	Some vehicles may experience a squawking/eeking noise that may be heard from the clutch on acceleration from a stop or when under load in first gear. *mjs	06/14/2000
13442	11/01/1999		610880	Vehicles equipped with 4.0l ohv engine and manual transmission may exhibit a squawk noise from the clutch on take off. *tt	05/16/2000
13289	10/01/1999		609610	Owners of vehicles equipped with 4.0l ohv engine and manual transmission may exhibit a squawk noise from the clutch on take off. *tt	04/04/2000
7206	10/01/1999		6090799	Vehicles equipped with 4.0l ohv engine and manual transmission may exhibit a squawk noise from the clutch on take off. *tt	03/30/2000
13175	09/01/1999		6090528	Information regarding clutch squawk noise on take off. *mjs	03/21/2000
6991	09/01/1999		6090299	Vehicles equipped with 4.0l ohv and manual transmission may exhibit a squawk noise from the clutch on take off. *tt	03/14/2000
POWER TRAIN - DRIVELINE
13004	07/01/1999		610753	Some 4.0l vehicles with a4wd may exhibit a vibration / pulsation felt from the driveline in the steering wheel and floorpan on acceleration / light tip-in at 25-35 mph when in 4 auto mode. *tt	05/12/2000
6603	07/01/1999		610704	Some 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. *tt	05/11/2000
98514	03/16/1998		601303	Concerns with a whistling or hissing noise from the main control area occuring while idling in drive and / or reverse on some vehicles. *tt	07/20/1998
POWER TRAIN - DRIVELINE - DIFFERENTIAL UNIT
7918	01/01/2000	7918	612404	Front axle pinion lil seal leaks.	06/08/2000
13004	07/01/1999		610753	Some 4.0l vehicles with a4wd may exhibit a vibration / pulsation felt from the driveline in the steering wheel and floorpan on acceleration / light tip-in at 25-35 mph when in 4 auto mode. *tt	05/12/2000
POWER TRAIN - MANUAL TRANSMISSION
02138	11/10/2003	032210	635998	Low 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. *tt	11/04/2002
12512	03/01/1999		6091754	Brief information on checking transmission fluid level. *t	11/14/2000
7366	11/01/1999		610793	Some 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). *tt	05/15/2000
996887	08/01/1999		608882	Some 4.0l vehicles with a4wd may exhibit a vibration / pulsation at 0-45 mph on dry pavement under light to moderate acceleration. *tt	12/06/1999
983315	02/03/1998		607478	The 4r100 transmission will have an orange prior to repair tag on the fluid pan. *tt	09/23/1999
POWER TRAIN - TRANSFER CASE (4-WHEEL DRIVE)
13112	08/01/1999		6091923	Vibration on light to moderate acceleration at 0 - 45 mph on a4wd vehicles. *tt	11/16/2000
13723	01/01/2000		612712	Some all wheel drive vehicles may experience a low speed whining noise from the transfer case. *mjs	06/12/2000
12571	03/01/1999		605295	Experiencing a whinning noise from the transfer case. *tt	06/07/1999

Investigations

NHTSA ID	Manufacturer	Date open	Date close	Subject
POWER TRAIN
SQ99017	FORD MOTOR COMPANY	06/09/1999	02/22/2000	VEHICLE HESITATION/STALLING
	Ford has issued a technical service bulletin, article no. 99-8-7, pertaining to the powertrain control module (pcm) of the explorers, which may be related to this issue.the service bulletin addressed the issues of explorers and mountaineer's harsh downs

Consumer Complaints

Fail date	miles	occurences	Purchase date
POWER TRAIN
07/07/2011	110000
	Vehicle excellerates from stopped and braked position for 3 seconds and then returns to normal.
01/19/2010	158000	1
	Check engine light comes on and o2 sensors have to be replace every thirty to forty thousand miles. now o/d off light is flashing and car drives like it is in first gear, shifts hard. *tr
08/16/2009		1
	98 ford explorer is there a recall on transmission 2 wheel drive
05/03/2000
	Vehicle makes loud clunk noise and act as if it has been bumped from behind, action aslo felt in the brake pedal and resulting in forward motion. ford invoice indicates customer statement resulting in r&r transmision and overhal, to no avail. problem can not be determin
07/01/2001		6	09/01/1998
	Suv surges when backing back boat and trailer.
03/01/1999		1	05/01/1998
	Problem is an almost constant grinding noise that dealer says cannot be repaired due to the fact that the manufacturer has no permenant fix. refer to ford technical service bulletin 12328.12329. dealer refused to document that problem was not a potential safety issue and that there would not be a failure of the drive train system, or that the wheels would not fall off. dealer's service dept mgr. further stated that there were hundreds and perhaps thousands of cars with the same defect. my observation of this problem is that there is a high pitched grinding or squealing noise coming from the front end when the vehicle is in motion. this sound is a metal on metal rubbing noise, which could cause frictiion, heat and perhaps parts failure that could cause potential failure of the drive train system.
POWER TRAIN - AUTOMATIC TRANSMISSION
01/16/2010	152600	1
	1998 ford explorer transmission overdrive light started flashing and trans started slipping badly all at once. can not drive now. i don't yet know how much a new trans will cost, but vehicle has been well maintained and serviced regularly. i believe this transmission should be recalled. *tr
06/06/2009	78952	1
	We were driving along in our 1998 ford explorer and the overdrive light started blinking and then it would not shift into 3rd gear. it occurs everytime we drive the car now. we took it to a ford dealer, they said it was a torque converter and that it was 2000 dollars. about 2 weeks later it would not come out of third gear. ford dealer said it was not the same problem, and the transmission needed replaced for 4000 dollars. we did some research and found that this is a very common problem from 98-04 explorers, as they share the same transmission. link: http://www.carcomplaints.com/ford/explorer/2002/transmission/transmission_failure.shtml feel free to call me anytime. *tr
05/28/2009	96112	1
	Reverse sometimes it works sometimes it doesn't. *tr
03/15/2006	65000	1
	Faulty transmission in 1998 ford explorer. vehicle was bought from ford dealership, approximately 4 yrs. old when purchased. trans. not shifting properly after first year of ownership or approx. 65,000 miles. would not go into reverse at all shortly afterward. hard and late shifting from 2nd to 3rd, and transmission will frequently totally disengage while driving at 55 to 60 mph, engine will rev., but car will start slowing down. engine sounds like it's going to blow up while waiting for transmission to shift. had transmission rebuilt by private mechanic and problem is still the same. *tr
02/12/2008	108201	2	10/12/2003
	Transmission slips when shifting into gear and clunks. transmission disengaging out of drive gear; will not stay in gear when moving in the forward (drive) direction. almost was in wreck due to transmission/drive failure. had taken vehicle in to transmission specialty service station to have looked at. faulty solenoid and stuck mechanism due to failure. total cost of repair $1700.00. *tr
03/01/2007	115000	3
	Ford explorer transmission problems ~ haven't had my vehicle in about a month due to continuining problems with the transmission
10/18/2003		1	05/01/1998
	Consumer heard a loud noise when attempting to back up. the vehicle failed to move because the reverse gear failed. ak sc *jb
05/02/2003		1
	The transmission experienced problems. *nlm
08/20/2002		1	04/01/2000
	Vehicle lost power to wheels, grinding gear noise in all gears - park selection would not hold. *ak
			01/01/2002
	There is a mild to moderate vibration that can be felt in the steering wheel, floor board, and center console while driving at highway speeds (most obvious at approximately 65 - 70 mph). it seems worse when applying slight throttle, and seems to subside when you let completely off the throttle.*ak
04/02/2002		1	06/01/1998
	Vehicle would not move, rolled off of highway required towing. very dangerous.*ak
01/09/2002		1	12/01/1998
	Tsb 99-14-02, repair cost $799.40, repair includes adding a jumper which should be considered a manufacturing flaw and this problem should be listed as a recall. the cost for reapir should be refunded by manufacturer. no safety defect listed. *ak
12/07/2001		0
	After coming off a highway stopped at a red light, tried to avoid hitting another vehicle, and red light came on dashboard. took vehicle to dealer, where they said that transmission had broken down. please provide more information.*ak
04/26/2001		1
	The vehicle the consumer was towing caught fire, it appeared that the drivetrain/transmission possibly overheated on the towed vehicle damaging the engine compartment (all wheel drive - ohio traffic crash report). nlm
			09/01/1998
	The transmission stop working on the highway at 70mph. foward or reverse gears will not engage. to get off the highway i switch to 4w low. the dealer said the transmission gear broke and the 4w gear chamber were damaged. dealer could not find the part needed it will not be available until 2001. dealer used a subsitute part..
02/18/2000		1	09/01/1998
	The transmission would not upshift and i would lose control of the car's accelaeration power until it would slide into gear. the electrical system has got out on me twice while driving. all of the instrument panel zeros out except for the speedometer and tachometer. this problem has still not been fixed.
01/01/2000		6
	Transmission makes noise. yh
04/30/2000		1	03/01/1998
	Put truck in reverse - truck stuck in reverse - had to be towed to ford dealer - waiting for response from dealer - they said never heard of this happening before. *ak
11/01/1998		1	06/01/1998
	Transmission is leaking. yh
05/15/1998
	On-going / intermittent problem with transmission; whenever slowing down from highway speed,transmission would remain in 3rd gear and cause engine to stall out. dealer notified. *ak
09/17/1998
	While driving at low speeds accelerator would become hard. transmission would jump from neutral into drive. then a loud noise, like a bang, would be heard. transmission would reengage itself into drive. the problem is intermittent. took to dealer to have transmission overhauled. *ak
04/01/1998		1	04/01/1998
	The valve body in transmision failed, causing noise. yh
		4	08/01/1998
	Automatic transmission slips in and out of gear. yh
08/01/1999		1	09/01/1998
	Transmission slipping upon acceleration greater than 40 mph. *yc
04/02/1998			03/01/1998
	Transmission.
12/14/1998		1	03/01/1998
	Automatic transmission.
07/30/1999		1
	Vehicle jumped out of gear, causing propery damage to the inside wall of owner's garage which could have resulted in injury. *yc
07/26/1999		5	07/01/1998
	At very low speeds, or after releasing the foot brake, and then accelerating briskly, the entire drive train goes into neutral. the engine speeds up, but no vehicle movement. you must stop, or coast until the drive line violently clunks back into gear. this has happened several times, twice nearly causing accidents. this is very dangerous, and i would like to know if other similar vehicles have the same problem. it has just been reported to the manufacturer, so they have not had time to respond.
09/01/1998		12	05/01/1998
	Stalls when shifting from reverse to drive. dealer cannot duplicate. near collision in parking lot. *ak
08/26/1998		1	07/31/1998
	Gear shift failed, could not get it out of park. *yc
		1	07/01/1998
	Transmission failed. *yc
05/12/1998
	When applying the brakes pedal gets stuck,causing the brakes to hesitate. when putting the gear in park the vehicle hesitates. consumer doesn't know whenever the vehicle is going to move, and the dealer can't determine the problem. *ak
11/22/1998		5	07/03/1998
	Original transmission failed and replaced, new transmission failed several times causing leak prior to replacing.
09/11/1998		1	03/28/1998
	Transmission failed due to broken support, however vibrations in drivetrain prior to failure.
09/13/1998		1	03/28/1998
	Transmission failed causing vehicle to loose reverse gear.
05/04/1998
	Automatic transmission fails to engage properly in either forward or reverse gear.
04/29/1998			04/21/1998
	Transmission failure; transmission is slow to engage and then will jerk once it does.
04/23/1998		3	04/21/1998
	Automatic transmission intermittently fails while in reverse.
01/08/1998		1	01/07/1998
	Drive train vibration throughout the vehicle.
POWER TRAIN - AUTOMATIC TRANSMISSION - COOLING UNIT AND LINES
05/05/1998		1	11/01/1997
	Transmission is leaking. yh
07/09/1998		1
	Loose trans cooler lines resulted in leakage. mjs
		1	09/08/1997
	Transmission cooler line leak.
10/03/1998
	While driving the vehicle one of the fittings for the automatic transmission cooling lines came loose and caused the fluid to leak, almost creating a fire. the fluid leaked on the brake pads which increased the stopping distance. the dealer was notified about the problem immediately. the problem with the transmission fitting line was corrected, but consumer still experiences a problem with the brakes. *ak
POWER TRAIN - AUTOMATIC TRANSMISSION - GEAR POSITION INDICATION (PRNDL)
07/24/2005	74800	2	10/07/1998
	Dt: while driving in july the owner noticed that there was a problem with the shift mechanism. the gear position indicator was not correct. the vehicle had a normal position indicator for about 7 years. then one day it went out of wack. the reverse was where neutral should be, neutral was where drive should be, and drive was where second gear should be. the owner has not taken it to the dealership or contacted them yet. the owner has not contacted the manufacturer. there was no problem with the transmission's performance, the owner is just concerned because he doesn't know what gear the car was in. the owner added that the gas pedal got stuck yesterday. the owner was backing out of a driveway. the owner was going slowly and and went to push the accelerator and it wouldn't accelerate. the gas pedal was jammed. the owner thinks the pedal was down a little bit and there was no reaction. the owner stopped the vehicle and shouted for husband to come over and look. then she tried again. this time the accelerator worked. this was the first and last time the vehicle has ever this problem.ak nm
08/30/2000		1
	Gear shift knob pulls off into your hand as you are shifting, this is a danger especially when you are making turns and having to accelerate fast. *ak
POWER TRAIN - AUTOMATIC TRANSMISSION - LEVER AND LINKAGE - COLUMN SHIFT
09/07/2002
	4 wheel drive will not engage, and indicator light says it has engaged.*ak
06/21/2002		1	12/01/2098
	Experiencing a clicking noise from the transfer case at low speed (forward and reverse).*ak
02/07/2001		1	06/01/1998
	The consumer stated that vehicle locked in 4 x 4 and the o/d light was blinking. *yh
			07/01/1998
	The 4 wheel drive would jerk when accelerating, has done this for a couple of years, the dealer finally discovered that there was a service bulletin for this problem with the auto 4 wheel drive system and made computer adjustment which has reduced but not eliminated the problem. they say this is normal, it occurs when accelerating usually a fast acceleration and is more pronounced when i pull my boat. i am concerned that this significant jerking over a period of time could be contrbuting to the tire seperation problems or tire damage. i can't believe that any car maker would market a car with the problem that i have been having and say that is is not unusual. i am wondering if this is a large problem since there has been a service bulletin on it. *ak
			10/01/1997
	4- wheel drive hi and lo lights flashed on/off. dealer replaced shift motor and harness as per tsb 94-14-02. mechanic said if i did not do it, could have dropped into four wheel drive while driving. ford refuses to pay cost of $409.28. dealer said problem has come up before. have less then 500 miles in four wheel drive. believe it is a serious safety issue. thank you.*ak
02/20/2000		3	02/01/2000
	Leaking between case. *ak
11/01/1999			01/01/1999
	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
07/20/1999
	Intermittently 4- wheel drive light comes on . the dealer has determined that the 4-wheel drive has burned out. *ak
07/20/1999		1	06/01/1998
	Vehicle would lock into and out of 4-wheel drive rapidly on dry, smooth pavement for no reason ,causing vehicle to lurch and lag ( jerking ) and causing front left wheel hop and vibration. dealership has removed the 4 wheel drive capabilty of this vehicle to reslove the problem instead of repairing. the originally equipped 4 wheel drive explorer is now only 2 wheel drive. indicator lights on dash now continuously flash providing somewhat of a drivers distraction. also vehicle has a loud squeal in front end at speeds from 1 thru 40 mph which one failed repair attempt has been made. also vehicle engine has loud mechanical engine noise ( knocking and banging ) in upper engine area. *ak
07/15/1998
	4- wheel drive indicator light would flash continually, indicating tha t 4- wheel drive was inoperative. on two occasions vehicle has been at dealer's shop for repairs, and dealer informed consumer that gem module part replacement has been on back order, and was waiting to receive the parts. can nhtsa help in this matter or provide additional information.*ak

	While driving vehicle on highway at 60 to 65 mph vehicle switches to 4- wheel drive without warning. problem has not been corrected. *ak
04/25/1998		1	12/28/1997
	While driving on dry straight road at approximately 55 mph vehicle jerked suddenly to the left. when attempting to correct steering, vehicle went out of control and veered to the right, the spun back to the left. turned around on the road backwards and flipped on passengers's side and slid into median. also, abs brakes/suspension and transfer case failed.
POWER TRAIN - AUTOMATIC TRANSMISSION - PARK/NEUTRAL START SWITCH

	Vehicle was placed in park and without any warning vehicle jumped out of gear into reverse and rolled backwards.*ak
		1	08/01/1998
	When foot is not on brake, vehicle can be shifted into any gear. ignition would be in between on and off when this occurs. have taken to dealership, and informed by mechanic all vehicles are designed like that.ak consumer states owners manual specifically states that vehicle has interlock safety and the brake must be applied to shift into gear, this caused an accident where vehicle ran into a fence. slc
04/07/2001		0
	Consumer's son got inside of vehicle, turned on ignition switch without stepping on brake pedal and not turning on engine, shifted gear where vehicle was at an incline hill, and vehicle rolled backward, crashing into a fence. dealer said that was normal on that particular model.*ak
07/01/2000
	While vehicle was shut off a child accidentally hit transmission shift lever and vehicle rolled, resulting in injuries. dealer has been notified.*ak
05/21/1999		2
	For no reason the vehicle would stop and consumer would have an odor as if wires where burning. took vehicle to dealer twice. the transmission was overhauled. problem still exists. *yc
POWER TRAIN - AUTOMATIC TRANSMISSION - TORQUE CONVERTER
04/18/2002			06/01/2098
	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
12/27/2000		1	08/01/1998
	Torque converter failed, it lost internal integrity & experienced internal clutch damage. metal exiting the torque converter caused occulussionary blockages at rear section lube orifices elevating internal ambient temperatures while elevating stress to geartrain components. clutches & bands became metal impregnated. bearings bushings & washers became pitted due to metalized fluid passing through inner surfaces. sprags became flat spotted at cam surface - damaged the race & created more metal. solenoids were metal contaminated. internal seals were hard, indicating metal contamination. vehicle would only run in reverse after this catastrophic failure and requires $2400 in repairs. car only has 46000 miles on it. *ak
POWER TRAIN - AXLE ASSEMBLY
04/02/2002		1	04/01/2001
	While driving, rear axle broke on driver's side. consumer lost control, causing a vehicle roll over. driver injured. ak yh
04/02/2002		1	06/01/2001
	April 2, 2002, while driving on a flat, straight freeway, the rear driver's side axle broke. the tire came off the car and sailed through the air. i lost control of vehicle immediately, resulting in a severe skid and vehicle roll-over. crash resulted in driver sustaining large bump on head from roof collapse and a concussion. numerous cuts, bruises, and severe muscle stress/strain of neck, shoulders and back. also received deep contusion on chest due to seat belt retraction. i feel blessed to be alive to make this report. 2 weeks after accident still experiencing body pain. i can just now talk about the roll-over without crying. my family and myself have been through hell. vehicle is a total loss.*ak
09/21/2001		10	09/01/2001
	I feel this suv is very unsafe ford and dealership state otherwise. no safety defect recorded. *ak
		1	08/21/1998
	Axle failure. *slc
09/26/1999		1
	Rr axle shaft broken, resulting in loss of control, vehicle ran off the road and overturned. (n.c. crash report) *mjs
POWER TRAIN - AXLE ASSEMBLY - AXLE SHAFT
06/17/1999		3	12/01/1998
	Bearing failed caused by dirt passing by seal/ causing squeak in front l/r sides / will cause bearing fail ford service manager has stated that ford knows is only front drive train componet not covered. have had to request past recalls to be done after 8 times being told they did it, i found out was lied to and had to contact you in past to get ford to fix. atty. general az has complaint filed. *ak
02/01/1999		3	05/01/1998
	3 problems; #1. gas pedal sticks. dealer says no problem, but keeps putting lube on linkage. #2 left front bearing replaced twice due to sqealing at low speed, other times they lubed rubber boot. #3 rear hatch when cold,lifts fail, hit head and upper back.
POWER TRAIN - AXLE ASSEMBLY - AXLE SHAFT - SEAL
	37000	1
	Consumer noticed oil leaking, took vehicle to dealer, dealer stated that seals were defective. *ak
08/03/1999		1
	Noise in front wheels, dealer removed axles and replaced seals. *slc
09/15/1998		1	04/13/1998
	Rubber sealing for junction draft shaft and transmission failed. yh
01/10/1999		2	01/01/1998
	When i tried to use the ac in march it blew out only hot air. a new compressor had to be put in it. it still leaks under the dash when it rains hard or going through car wash. rear wiper motor burnt out. wiper would not work, had to be replaced. rear seal, pinon seals, and rear drive shaft were replaced twice. the rear passenger door panel and window rattled really bad. had repaired. now front driver door panel and window rattles. had a vibrating noise repaired. when vehicle idled a piece of metal vibrated. several times i have gone to turn on the headlights and they won't come on. i have to turn the button several times before they will come on. after my auto has set overnight and i start it, it idles very rough for a few minutes. the gas pedal has been sticking for quite a few months. only when you initially push on the gas to go. you have to tap on it to get it to unstick; there has been a recall on this, the pa
01/04/1999		2	11/01/1998
	Some 1998/1999 explorer/mountaineer 4x4 vehicles may exhibit a high pitched squeal/whistle type noise from the front end at speeds from 10mph to 40mph. this noise may be coming from the front half axle shaft excluder(dust) seals (3k070) as they rotate against the inner front hubs. perform procedures 205-04-9 through 205-04-8 of the 1999 explorer/mountaneer workshop manual applying a 1/8 thick bead of high tempature wheel bearing grease (part# e8tz-19590-a) onto the seal lips and the surfaces, they contact. perform procedure 205-04-8 of the 1999 explorer/mountaineer workshop manual. this is a temporary fix and ford engineers are currently investigating this issue. *ak
POWER TRAIN - CLUTCH ASSEMBLY
			09/01/1998
	The transmission stop working on the highway at 70mph. foward or reverse gears will not engage. to get off the highway i switch to 4w low. the dealer said the transmission gear broke and the 4w gear chamber were damaged. dealer could not find the part needed it will not be available until 2001. dealer used a subsitute part..
POWER TRAIN - CLUTCH ASSEMBLY - PEDAL/LINKAGE
05/22/2007	128000	1	07/15/1998
	The 1998 ford explorer accelerator pedal fell off. i was driving at 60 mph in a straight line and accelerating to 65 mph when i felt a pop. the accelerator pedal stopped working. despite the emergency flashers, i was nearly rear-ended by a car that didn't notice i was slowing down on the freeway. luckily, i pulled over and stopped safely. looking at the break, i think the sheet metal holding the rivets was too weak.*ak on 5/23/07 i called the ford customer relations hot line. they refused to help stating only there are no recalls on my car. i believe this is a safety issue and can very easily result in an accident and deaths. ford should investigate this and pay for repairs of defective materials used or improper installation. when was the last time you heard of an accelerator peddle falling off?
POWER TRAIN - DRIVELINE
07/28/1999		1	05/01/1998
	4x4 automatically engaging when under heavy load on dry pavement and wheels are not slipping, 4x4 selector is in the auto position and no error codes are displayed or found. causes pulsation in the drive train and groaning noises in the engine compartment, noise and pulstation goes away when engine load is decreased and or 4x4 is switched to 4x4 high. dealer has replaced the 4x4 computer and checked the axles and differential, problem still exits. dealer has stated they cannot fix the problem and they will try and get a technician from ford three weeks ago.
02/13/1999		5	02/01/1999
	We hear a loud hissing/whistling noise from the front of the vehicle. we have been told that ford is working on fixing the problem and would like to know if this is true. thank you in advance for your assistance. steve and gaylene schmitz
		3	02/01/1998
	When vehicle is in motion, a loud squealing noise emits from the front hubs. ford has replaced the seals twice and says there is nothing else they can do. the ford dealership says the receive several complaints a day on this problem. each time i see a 98 explorer coming down the street, i listen and it seems all of them have the same problem.
POWER TRAIN - DRIVELINE - DIFFERENTIAL UNIT
01/23/2005	63674	2	07/09/1998
	Drive train failure, differential, within 12 months after having 60,000 mile differential fluid replaced with synthetic ,to ford specs. differential gears and clutch assembly disentigrated. resulting in replacement of entire differential. could have caused gears to lock-up while driving.*ak
01/09/2003	73400		12/05/1997
	At about 73,000 miles the rear differential went out on my 1998 ford explorer.
POWER TRAIN - DRIVELINE - DRIVESHAFT
01/10/1999		2	01/01/1998
	When i tried to use the ac in march it blew out only hot air. a new compressor had to be put in it. it still leaks under the dash when it rains hard or going through car wash. rear wiper motor burnt out. wiper would not work, had to be replaced. rear seal, pinon seals, and rear drive shaft were replaced twice. the rear passenger door panel and window rattled really bad. had repaired. now front driver door panel and window rattles. had a vibrating noise repaired. when vehicle idled a piece of metal vibrated. several times i have gone to turn on the headlights and they won't come on. i have to turn the button several times before they will come on. after my auto has set overnight and i start it, it idles very rough for a few minutes. the gas pedal has been sticking for quite a few months. only when you initially push on the gas to go. you have to tap on it to get it to unstick; there has been a recall on this, the pa
			09/01/1998
	Vibration in drivetrain. most pronounced when accelerating on uphill grade. occurs at around 35 mph. not related to tires or wheels, all have been replaced.
01/15/1999		2	11/01/1998
	Special service message 12328 - some 1998/1999 explorer/mountaineer 4x4 vehichles may exhibit a high pitched squeal/whistle type noise from the front end at speeds from 10mph to 40mph. this noise may be coming from the front halfshaft excluder seals(3k070) as they rotate against the inner hubs. if a vehicle comes in for this concern, perform the following service procedure for both sides of the vehicle; 1. perform the front half shaft removal procedure per section 205-04-6 through 205-04-8 of the 1999 explorer/mountaineer workshop manual. 2. clean the extended lip of the front wheel excluder seals(3k070), the inner surface of the knuckle(3k185/3k186) in which the wheels ride against the axle shaft oil seals(3254). 3. spread approximately 1/8 thick bead of high temp wheel bearing greese(part #e8tz-19590-a) onto the seal lips&surfaces they contact. 4. perform the front halfshaft installation procedure per section 205-04-8 of the 1999 explorer/mountaineer workshop manual. verify that the noise is no longer present. additional information will be provided when available. engineering is currently investigating this issue. note: do not replace the seals unless they are damaged.
POWER TRAIN - MANUAL TRANSMISSION
09/28/2003	45	1	10/08/1998
	Have ford exeplorer 1998 transmission has been acting up for a year and a half. jerking when you put it in reverse and clunking when you put it in to drive. my exeplorer just turned 60.000 miles and the transmission is no longer working,i can not believe the problems i have had with this car,from having a wreck and airbag not deploying to all of the recalls,had the bad tires and windsheild wipers not working.they should really have to do something about the exeplorer from that year.ibought my exeplorer in oct,98 of that year new. when my exeplorer was hit head on ,the police asked if i turned off my airbags.the car had to be towed.*ak
02/23/1999		1	09/01/1998
	Power seat. rocked back and forth and got worse. dealer replaced. seat started to get loose again and dealer replaced it again. also seat belt was not retracting back in. dealer replaced. additional defect not noted was the 5 speed manual transmission having to be rebuilt at 22,868 miles. would be glad to fill out additional form or provide service records etc. if needed. thanks for your time. keith
POWER TRAIN - TRANSFER CASE (4-WHEEL DRIVE)
07/01/2004		2
	Re:ford explorer wheel lockup and uncontrolled skid at highway speed. bf the vehicle was taken to be repaired. the technician found significant metal fragments in the transfer case indicating severe gear stress when the vehicle self shifted into 4x4 low engagement. nm
01/29/2004	59000	1	09/01/1998
	Vehicle lost power (to accelerate) yesterday after grinding noise from transmission. coasted into a parking lot, but was unable to move it from there. continued to grind moving shift lever from any gear into park. vehicle has less than 60,000 miles on it. current transmission is a replacement. previous (original) transmission dropped into neutral and engine revved (w/ loss of power) at inopportune moments- while accelerating or trying to accelerate, while coasting or while at a complete stop. began complaining about this about a month after purchase, but transmission was not replaced until jan. 2002. i was given a 12-month warranty on it then, although the vehicle was purchased with the extended warranty, which was supposed to cover everything (bumper to bumper) to 50,000 miles.
08/23/2003		1
	When driving at 40 mph transmission transfer case would make a loud noise and it would be hard for the driver to accelerate forward. *ak
07/03/2003		1
	While traveling on the highway and without prior warning four wheel drive will engage on its own, causing vehicle to suddenly accelerate. *ak
10/04/2002		1	10/01/2001
	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
		2	10/01/1997
	Tranfer case still not switch out of 4-wheel low. fords's remedy: turn ignition to on w/o starting, put transmission into neutral, turn off ignition, put transmission back into park. had 4x4 solinoid replaced. problem still exists. dealer told me they have had several bad solinoid come in to be replaced.
06/29/1998		5	02/05/1998
	Design problem with the automatic 4x4 control and vehicle electronics.