why does my Ford Explorer shake when I accelerate

Ford Explorer Fifth Generation (2011-2019)

Error Codes

2-4 hours

Time

medium

Difficulty

medium

Severity

3 min read

516 words

Problem Statement

Learn how to diagnose and fix shaking during acceleration in Ford Explorer. Step-by-step guide with diagnostic procedures 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 the vehicle.
•Disconnect the battery before working on electrical components.

Symptoms

•Shaking or vibrations felt in the steering wheel or chassis during acceleration
•Increased noise from the drivetrain
•Loss of power when accelerating
•Unusual tire wear patterns
•Potential check engine light illumination

Diagnostic Steps

1
Inspect tire condition and pressure to rule out imbalance or damage.
2
Check for any visible damage to suspension components, such as control arms and bushings.
3
Scan the vehicle’s onboard computer for any trouble codes using an OBD-II scanner.
4
Perform a visual inspection of the driveshaft and CV joints for damage or wear.
5
Test drive the vehicle to determine if shaking occurs at specific speeds or throttle positions.
6
Check engine and transmission mounts for signs of wear or failure.

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
•Jack and jack stands
•Tire pressure gauge

Parts Required

•Tires (if damaged)
•Suspension components (if worn)
•Drivetrain components (if necessary)
•Engine or transmission mounts (if damaged)

Related Faults

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Diagnostic Steps

1
Inspect tire condition and pressure to rule out imbalance or damage.
2
Check for any visible damage to suspension components, such as control arms and bushings.
3
Scan the vehicle’s onboard computer for any trouble codes using an OBD-II scanner.
4
Perform a visual inspection of the driveshaft and CV joints for damage or wear.
5
Test drive the vehicle to determine if shaking occurs at specific speeds or throttle positions.
6
Check engine and transmission mounts for signs of wear or failure.

Solution

1. Preparation

Park the vehicle on a level surface and engage the parking brake.
Gather necessary tools and parts.

2. Inspect and Replace Tires

Sub-steps:
1. Remove wheel covers or hubcaps, if applicable.
2. Loosen lug nuts slightly while the vehicle is still on the ground.
3. Lift the vehicle using a jack and secure it with jack stands.
4. Remove the wheels and inspect the tires for uneven wear, bulges, or punctures.
5. Replace any damaged tires and balance them properly.
6. Reinstall the wheels, torque the lug nuts to manufacturer specifications.

3. Examine and Repair Suspension Components

Sub-steps:
1. Inspect control arms, bushings, and struts for signs of wear or damage.
2. Replace any worn or damaged components using appropriate tools (e.g., socket set, wrenches).
3. Ensure all fasteners are torqued to the manufacturer's specifications.

4. Check and Replace Drivetrain Components

Sub-steps:
1. Inspect the driveshaft for any visible damage or looseness.
2. If issues are found, replace the driveshaft or CV joints as necessary.
3. Reassemble any removed components and ensure proper alignment.

5. Inspect Engine and Transmission Mounts

Sub-steps:
1. Check mounts for any signs of cracking or separation.
2. If damaged, remove the failing mount using a socket set.
3. Install the new mount and ensure all bolts are torqued properly.