how to diagnose suspension problems in Ford Explorer Sixth Generation (2020-present)

Ford Explorer Sixth Generation (2020-present)

Error Codes

2-4 hours

Time

medium

Difficulty

medium

Severity

3 min read

511 words

Problem Statement

Learn how to diagnose and fix suspension problems in Ford Explorer Sixth Generation (2020-present). Step-by-step guide with symptoms and repair instructions.

Affected Component

Suspension

Estimated Time

2-4 hours

⚠️ Safety Warnings

Important safety information - read before proceeding

•Always engage the parking brake and use jack stands when lifting the vehicle.
•Wear safety glasses and gloves when handling suspension components.

Symptoms

•Excessive bouncing or swaying while driving
•Uneven tire wear
•Steering wheel vibration or looseness
•Clunking or knocking noises when going over bumps
•Vehicle pulling to one side during braking or acceleration
•Difficulty maintaining straight-line stability

Diagnostic Steps

1
Inspect the vehicle's suspension components visually for any signs of wear, damage, or leakage.
2
Perform a bounce test by pushing down on each corner of the vehicle to assess the shock absorbers' performance.
3
Check tire pressure and inspect tires for uneven wear patterns.
4
Test drive the vehicle on various road surfaces to identify any abnormal noises or handling issues.
5
Use a specialized suspension alignment tool to check the alignment settings of the wheels.
6
Inspect bushings and joints for play or damage, particularly in control arms and sway bar links.

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

•Hydraulic jack
•Jack stands
•Socket set
•Torque wrench
•Alignment machine

Parts Required

•Shock absorbers
•Control arm bushings
•Sway bar links

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Diagnostic Steps

1
Inspect the vehicle's suspension components visually for any signs of wear, damage, or leakage.
2
Perform a bounce test by pushing down on each corner of the vehicle to assess the shock absorbers' performance.
3
Check tire pressure and inspect tires for uneven wear patterns.
4
Test drive the vehicle on various road surfaces to identify any abnormal noises or handling issues.
5
Use a specialized suspension alignment tool to check the alignment settings of the wheels.
6
Inspect bushings and joints for play or damage, particularly in control arms and sway bar links.

Solution

1. Preparation

Gather necessary tools and parts.
Park the vehicle on a level surface and engage the parking brake.
Ensure safety gear is worn (gloves, safety glasses).

2. Lift the Vehicle

Use a hydraulic jack to lift the vehicle at the designated lift points.
Secure the vehicle with jack stands for safety.

3. Inspect and Replace Components

Inspect Shock Absorbers:
- Check for oil leaks and physical damage.
- If damaged, remove the old shock absorber using a socket set and replace it with a new one, ensuring proper torque (typically 15-25 ft-lbs).
Check Control Arms and Bushings:
- Look for wear or cracks in bushings.
- If bushings are worn, use a press to remove and replace them.
Inspect Sway Bar Links:
- Check for play or damage.
- Replace if necessary, using a torque wrench to tighten bolts to factory specifications (usually about 30-45 ft-lbs).

4. Perform Wheel Alignment

After replacing components, use an alignment machine to ensure proper wheel alignment.
Adjust as necessary to meet manufacturer specifications.

5. Reassemble and Lower Vehicle

Remove jack stands and lower the vehicle with the hydraulic jack.
Ensure all tools are cleared from under the vehicle.