how to troubleshoot my Ford Explorer Fifth Generation (2011-2019) suspension problems

Ford Explorer Fifth Generation (2011-2019)

Error Codes

2-4 hours

Time

medium

Difficulty

medium

Severity

3 min read

551 words

Problem Statement

Learn how to troubleshoot and fix suspension problems in Ford Explorer Fifth Generation (2011-2019). Step-by-step guide with diagnostic and repair instructions.

Affected Component

Suspension

Estimated Time

2-4 hours

⚠️ Safety Warnings

Important safety information - read before proceeding

•Always use jack stands when working under a vehicle.
•Disconnect the battery before working on electrical components.

Symptoms

•Clunking or knocking noises while driving over bumps
•Excessive bouncing or swaying during turns
•Uneven tire wear patterns
•Vehicle pulling to one side
•Warning lights related to suspension or stability control

Diagnostic Steps

1
Inspect the vehicle for visible signs of damage or wear in suspension components such as shocks, struts, and control arms.
2
Perform a bounce test by pushing down on each corner of the vehicle to assess the shocks and struts' response.
3
Check tire pressures and inspect tires for uneven wear patterns.
4
Use a jack to lift the vehicle and examine the suspension for any loose bolts or damaged bushings.
5
Scan the vehicle's onboard computer for any suspension-related error codes using an OBD-II scanner.

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
•Jack and jack stands
•Socket set
•Torque wrench
•Screwdrivers
•Pliers

Parts Required

•New shocks or struts (if applicable)
•Control arms or bushings (if needed)
•Sway bar links (if applicable)

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Diagnostic Steps

1
Inspect the vehicle for visible signs of damage or wear in suspension components such as shocks, struts, and control arms.
2
Perform a bounce test by pushing down on each corner of the vehicle to assess the shocks and struts' response.
3
Check tire pressures and inspect tires for uneven wear patterns.
4
Use a jack to lift the vehicle and examine the suspension for any loose bolts or damaged bushings.
5
Scan the vehicle's onboard computer for any suspension-related error codes using an OBD-II scanner.

Solution

1. Preparation

Gather tools and parts needed for repair.
Park the vehicle on a flat surface, engage the parking brake, and disconnect the battery.

2. Inspect and Replace Shocks/Struts

Remove Wheel:
- Use a jack to lift the vehicle and secure it with jack stands.
- Remove the lug nuts with a socket set and take off the wheel.
Remove Strut Assembly:
- Disconnect the sway bar link if present.
- Remove the bolts attaching the strut to the lower control arm and the top mounts in the engine bay (check torque specifications in the service manual).
- Carefully pull out the strut assembly.
Install New Strut:
- Position the new strut into place and secure it with bolts at the top and bottom.
- Reconnect the sway bar link if applicable.
Reinstall Wheel:
- Reattach the wheel and tighten the lug nuts to the manufacturer's torque specification.

3. Replace Control Arm/Bushing (if needed)

Remove Control Arm:
- Follow similar steps to remove the wheel.
- Disconnect the control arm from the frame and the steering knuckle (check for any other components that may need removal).
Install New Control Arm/Bushing:
- Position the new control arm and secure it with the correct torque specifications.
- Reattach any components that were removed earlier.

4. Final Checks

Reinstall the wheel and lower the vehicle.
Reconnect the battery.