how to check and fix Ford Explorer Fifth Generation (2011-2019) suspension issues?

Ford Explorer Fifth Generation (2011-2019)

Error Codes

4-8 hours

Time

medium

Difficulty

medium

Severity

3 min read

585 words

Problem Statement

Learn how to diagnose and fix suspension issues in Ford Explorer Fifth Generation (2011-2019). Step-by-step guide with symptoms, diagnostic steps, and repair instructions.

Affected Component

Suspension

Estimated Time

4-8 hours

⚠️ Safety Warnings

Important safety information - read before proceeding

•Always use jack stands when working under a vehicle to prevent injury.
•Allow the vehicle to cool before working on suspension components.

Symptoms

•Excessive noise when driving over bumps
•Vehicle swaying or leaning during turns
•Rough ride quality or feeling of instability
•Uneven tire wear patterns
•Steering wheel vibrations
•Visible leaks from shock absorbers or struts

Diagnostic Steps

1
Inspect the vehicle visually for any signs of damage or wear on suspension components, including shocks, struts, control arms, and bushings.
2
Check the air pressure in the tires and inspect for uneven wear, as this can indicate alignment issues.
3
Perform a bounce test on each corner of the vehicle to assess the effectiveness of the shocks and struts.
4
Use a torque wrench to check the tightness of suspension bolts and nuts to ensure they are within manufacturer specifications.
5
Examine the bushings and mounts for any signs of deterioration or cracking.
6
Scan for any error codes using an OBD-II scanner that may relate to vehicle stability control systems.

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

•OBD-II scanner
•Socket set
•Torque wrench
•Spring compressor
•Pry bar
•Alignment tools

Parts Required

•Shock absorbers or struts
•Suspension bushings
•Control arms

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Diagnostic Steps

1
Inspect the vehicle visually for any signs of damage or wear on suspension components, including shocks, struts, control arms, and bushings.
2
Check the air pressure in the tires and inspect for uneven wear, as this can indicate alignment issues.
3
Perform a bounce test on each corner of the vehicle to assess the effectiveness of the shocks and struts.
4
Use a torque wrench to check the tightness of suspension bolts and nuts to ensure they are within manufacturer specifications.
5
Examine the bushings and mounts for any signs of deterioration or cracking.
6
Scan for any error codes using an OBD-II scanner that may relate to vehicle stability control systems.

Solution

1. Preparation

Gather necessary tools and parts.
Park the vehicle on a flat surface and engage the parking brake.
Raise the vehicle using a jack and support it securely with jack stands.

2. Inspect and Replace Shock Absorbers or Struts

Tools Required: Socket set, torque wrench, spring compressor (if replacing struts)
Remove the wheel to access the suspension components.
If replacing struts, use a spring compressor to safely remove the coil spring from the strut assembly.
Disconnect the strut from the upper mount and lower control arm, then remove the old strut.
Install the new strut, ensuring the upper and lower mounts are connected securely.
Follow the manufacturer's torque specifications to tighten all bolts.

3. Replace Bushings or Control Arms

Tools Required: Socket set, pry bar, torque wrench
Inspect bushings for wear and replace if necessary.
To replace bushings, remove the control arm from the vehicle by loosening the bolts.
Use a pry bar to remove the old bushings and press in the new bushings.
Reinstall the control arm, ensuring all bolts are torqued to specifications.

4. Wheel Alignment

Tools Required: Alignment machine or alignment tools
After all repairs, take the vehicle to a professional alignment shop or use alignment tools to ensure that the wheels are aligned correctly.
Adjust the camber, caster, and toe settings to match manufacturer specifications.