how can I tell if I need new struts on my Ford Explorer Fifth Generation (2011-2019)

Ford Explorer Fifth Generation (2011-2019)

Error Codes

2-4 hours

Time

medium

Difficulty

medium

Severity

3 min read

577 words

Problem Statement

Learn how to diagnose and replace struts on a 2011-2019 Ford Explorer. Step-by-step guide with symptoms, diagnostic steps, and repair instructions.

Affected Component

Suspension

Estimated Time

2-4 hours

⚠️ Safety Warnings

Important safety information - read before proceeding

•Always ensure the vehicle is securely supported on jack stands before working underneath.
•Allow the vehicle to cool if it has been driven recently to avoid burns from hot components.

Symptoms

•Excessive bouncing or swaying during driving
•Uneven tire wear
•Vehicle tilting or leaning during turns
•Fluid leakage from strut assembly
•Noise such as clunking or knocking over bumps
•Decreased braking performance or stability

Diagnostic Steps

1
Inspect the strut assembly visually for any signs of fluid leakage.
2
Perform a bounce test by pushing down on the front or rear of the vehicle and observing the number of bounces.
3
Check tire condition and wear patterns for unevenness.
4
Observe the vehicle's handling characteristics while driving over bumps and turns.
5
Listen for any unusual noises from the strut area while driving.

Solution

💡 Expert Tip

For complex repairs like this, consider taking photos at each step. This helps if you need to reverse a step or consult with a mechanic. Also, keep all removed parts organized - you may need to reference them during reassembly.

Verification

After completing the repair, verify that the issue has been resolved:

✓Test the affected component to ensure it functions correctly
✓Check for any error codes or warning lights
✓Monitor the vehicle for a few days to ensure the issue does not recur

Prevention Tips

To prevent this issue from occurring again:

•Follow the manufacturer's recommended maintenance schedule
•Address warning signs early before they develop into major issues
•Use quality parts and fluids recommended for your vehicle
•Keep detailed records of all repairs and maintenance

Tools & Equipment Required

•Jack and jack stands
•Lug wrench
•Socket set
•Wrench set
•Torque wrench

Parts Required

•New strut assemblies (front and/or rear as needed)
•Sway bar link (if damaged)

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Diagnostic Steps

1
Inspect the strut assembly visually for any signs of fluid leakage.
2
Perform a bounce test by pushing down on the front or rear of the vehicle and observing the number of bounces.
3
Check tire condition and wear patterns for unevenness.
4
Observe the vehicle's handling characteristics while driving over bumps and turns.
5
Listen for any unusual noises from the strut area while driving.

Solution

1. Preparation

Gather Tools and Parts: Assemble necessary tools and replacement parts.
Safety Precautions: Park the vehicle on a level surface, engage the parking brake, and wear safety glasses.

2. Lift the Vehicle

Sub-steps:
1. Use a jack to lift the front or rear of the vehicle, depending on which struts are being replaced.
2. Secure the vehicle with jack stands for safety.

3. Remove the Wheel

Sub-steps:
1. Use a lug wrench to loosen and remove the lug nuts.
2. Take off the wheel to access the strut assembly.

4. Remove the Strut Assembly

Sub-steps:
1. Disconnect the sway bar link from the strut (if applicable) using a wrench.
2. Remove the bolts securing the lower strut mount to the steering knuckle using a socket set.
3. Support the strut assembly and remove the top mounting nuts from the strut tower inside the engine bay.
4. Carefully lower and remove the strut assembly from the vehicle.

5. Install New Strut Assembly

Sub-steps:
1. Position the new strut assembly in place.
2. Secure the strut tower with the top mounting nuts, ensuring they are torqued to manufacturer specifications.
3. Reattach the lower strut mount to the steering knuckle and tighten the bolts.
4. Reconnect the sway bar link if it was removed.

6. Reinstall the Wheel

Sub-steps:
1. Place the wheel back onto the hub and hand-tighten the lug nuts.
2. Lower the vehicle to the ground and then torque the lug nuts to the manufacturer's specifications.

7. Final Inspection

Sub-steps:
1. Check all connections and ensure nothing is loose.
2. Verify that the strut is properly seated and functions correctly.