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

476 words

Problem Statement

Learn how to diagnose and fix shaking during acceleration in 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

•Ensure the vehicle is securely lifted and supported before working underneath.
•Disconnect the battery before working on electrical systems or components.

Symptoms

•Vibration felt through the steering wheel
•Shaking in the seat or floorboard
•Increased noise during acceleration
•Difficulty maintaining speed
•Uneven tire wear
•Check engine light may be illuminated

Diagnostic Steps

1
Inspect tires for uneven wear or damage.
2
Check tire pressure and balance.
3
Use an OBD-II scanner to check for any error codes.
4
Inspect the driveshaft and CV joints for damage or excessive play.
5
Examine the suspension components for wear or damage.
6
Test engine mounts for deterioration 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

•Jack
•Jack stands
•Lug wrench
•OBD-II scanner
•Tire pressure gauge
•Socket set

Parts Required

•Tires (if damaged)
•Wheel balancing weights (if needed)
•CV joints (if damaged)
•Engine mounts (if damaged)

Related Faults

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Solution

1. Preparation

Gather tools: jack, jack stands, lug wrench, OBD-II scanner, tire pressure gauge, socket set.
Ensure the vehicle is parked on a flat surface and the engine is off.

2. Tire Inspection and Maintenance

Step 1: Check tire pressure using the tire pressure gauge and inflate to the manufacturer's recommended PSI.
Step 2: Inspect all tires for uneven wear patterns and any visible damage (e.g., bulges, cuts).
Step 3: If tires are worn unevenly, rotate or replace them as necessary.

3. Wheel Balancing

Step 1: Remove the front wheels using the lug wrench.
Step 2: Take the wheels to a tire shop for balancing or use a wheel balancer if available.
Step 3: Reinstall the wheels and torque the lug nuts to the manufacturer's specification (typically 100-150 ft-lbs).

4. Drivetrain Inspection

Step 1: Inspect the driveshaft for signs of wear or play by shaking it side to side; replace if necessary.
Step 2: Check the CV joints for any cracks or leakage of grease and replace if damaged.

5. Suspension and Mounts Inspection

Step 1: Visually inspect suspension components (control arms, bushings, shocks) for signs of wear or damage.
Step 2: Check engine mounts for cracks or separation; replace if found faulty.