What are the common issues with the Ford Explorer's rear suspension in 2020?

Ford Explorer Sixth Generation (2020-present)

Error Codes

2-4 hours

Time

medium

Difficulty

medium

Severity

4 min read

641 words

Problem Statement

Learn about the common issues with the rear suspension of the 2020 Ford Explorer, including symptoms, diagnostic steps, tools required, and repair instructions.

Affected Component

rear suspension

Estimated Time

2-4 hours

Symptoms

•Unusual Noises: Clunking or banging sounds when going over bumps.
•Creaking noises when turning or maneuvering.
•Poor Ride Quality: Excessive bouncing or swaying when driving over bumps or uneven surfaces.
•Noticeable body roll during turns.
•Uneven Tire Wear: Uneven wear patterns on rear tires indicating misalignment or suspension issues.
•Vehicle Leaning: The vehicle appears to lean to one side, particularly when loaded or going around corners.
•Warning Lights: Dashboard warning lights related to the suspension system.

Diagnostic Steps

1
Visual Inspection: Check for damage and inspect for rust or corrosion.
2
Manual Component Check: Check shock absorbers/struts and leaf springs.
3
Alignment Check: Perform a wheel alignment.
4
On-Road Test: Test drive to replicate symptoms and confirm issues.

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

•Basic Hand Tools: Socket set, wrenches, screwdrivers.
•Torque Wrench: To ensure bolts are tightened to specifications.
•Jack and Jack Stands: For lifting the vehicle safely.
•Alignment Tool: If performing alignment checks.
•Diagnostic Scanner (optional): To check for any electronic suspension error codes.

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Back to Generation

Common Issues with the Ford Explorer's Rear Suspension (2020-Present)

The 2020 Ford Explorer, part of the sixth generation (U625), has been reported to have several common issues related to its rear suspension. Below are the symptoms, diagnostic steps, tools required for diagnosis, and repair instructions.

Common Symptoms

Unusual Noises:
- Clunking or banging sounds when going over bumps.
- Creaking noises when turning or maneuvering.
Poor Ride Quality:
- Excessive bouncing or swaying when driving over bumps or uneven surfaces.
- Noticeable body roll during turns.
Uneven Tire Wear:
- Uneven wear patterns on rear tires indicating misalignment or suspension issues.
Vehicle Leaning:
- The vehicle appears to lean to one side, particularly when loaded or going around corners.
Warning Lights:
- Dashboard warning lights related to the suspension system (if equipped with electronic suspension).

Step 1: Visual Inspection

Check for Damage:
- Look for any visible damage to the rear suspension components, including shocks/struts, control arms, and bushings.
Inspect for Rust or Corrosion:
- Inspect for rust, especially if the vehicle is in a snowy climate where road salt is used.

Step 2: Manual Component Check

Shock Absorbers/Struts:
- Press down on the rear of the vehicle to check for proper rebound. If the vehicle bounces more than twice, the shocks may be worn out.
Leaf Springs (if equipped):
- Check for any cracks or broken leaves.

Step 3: Alignment Check

Perform a Wheel Alignment:
- Check for proper alignment. Misalignment can lead to uneven tire wear and vehicle pulling to one side.

Step 4: On-Road Test

Test Drive:
- Take the vehicle for a test drive to replicate the symptoms and confirm the issues. Pay attention to handling, noise, and ride comfort.

Tools Required

Basic Hand Tools:
- Socket set, wrenches, screwdrivers.
Torque Wrench:
- To ensure bolts are tightened to specifications.
Jack and Jack Stands:
- For lifting the vehicle safely.
Alignment Tool:
- If performing alignment checks.
Diagnostic Scanner (optional):
- To check for any electronic suspension error codes.

Repair Instructions

Repairing or Replacing Shock Absorbers/Struts

Preparation:
- Park the vehicle on a level surface and engage the parking brake.
- Loosen the lug nuts on the rear wheels slightly.
Lifting the Vehicle:
- Use a jack to lift the rear of the vehicle and secure it with jack stands.
Removing the Wheel:
- Completely remove the lug nuts and take off the rear wheels.
Removing Old Shock Absorbers:
- Locate the upper and lower mounting bolts of the shock absorber.
- Remove the lower bolt first, followed by the upper bolt.
- Carefully pull the shock absorber off its mount.
Installing New Shock Absorbers:
- Position the new shock absorber in place.
- Install the upper bolt first, followed by the lower bolt. Torque them to the manufacturer’s specifications.
Reinstalling the Wheel:
- Place the wheel back onto the hub and hand-tighten the lug nuts.
- Lower the vehicle and torque the lug nuts to specifications.

Realigning the Suspension

Alignment Check:
- If any components were replaced or adjusted, perform a four-wheel alignment.
- Use alignment tools to adjust the camber, caster, and toe settings to factory specifications.
Test Drive:
- After repairs, take the vehicle for a test drive to ensure the issues are resolved and the suspension is functioning correctly.

Final Checks

Inspect the rear tires for wear patterns and ensure they are properly inflated.
Re-check the suspension components for tightness after a short period of driving.

By following these diagnostic and repair steps, common rear suspension issues with the 2020 Ford Explorer can be effectively addressed, ensuring a smooth and safe driving experience.