why does my Ford Explorer shake when I accelerate

Ford Explorer Sixth Generation (2020-present)

Error Codes

2-4 hours

Time

medium

Difficulty

medium

Severity

3 min read

457 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 engage the parking brake before performing repairs.
•Disconnect the battery before working on electrical components.

Symptoms

•Vehicle shakes or vibrates during acceleration
•Uneven tire wear
•Steering wheel vibration
•Noise from the drivetrain or suspension
•Poor handling or stability
•Possible check engine light illumination

Diagnostic Steps

1
Inspect tires for uneven wear and proper inflation.
2
Check wheel balance and alignment.
3
Inspect suspension components for wear or damage.
4
Scan for error codes using an OBD-II scanner.
5
Examine driveshaft and CV joints for damage.
6
Test engine mounts for excessive movement.

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

•Tire pressure gauge
•Tire inflator
•Lug wrench
•Alignment equipment
•Socket set
•Pry bar
•Torque wrench
•OBD-II scanner

Parts Required

•Tires (if worn)
•Suspension components (if damaged)
•Engine mounts (if worn)

Related Faults

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Solution

1. Preparation

Gather tools and parts.
Park the vehicle on a level surface and engage the parking brake.
Disconnect the battery if necessary for electrical inspections.

2. Tire Inspection

Sub-steps:
1. Visually inspect tires for uneven wear patterns.
2. Measure tire pressure using a tire gauge and inflate to the manufacturer’s specifications.
3. Rotate tires if uneven wear is detected.
Tools Required: Tire pressure gauge, tire inflator.

3. Wheel Balancing and Alignment

Sub-steps:
1. Remove the front wheels using a lug wrench.
2. Take the wheels to a professional for balancing.
3. Perform a wheel alignment using alignment equipment.
Tools Required: Lug wrench, alignment equipment (if DIY).

4. Suspension and Drivetrain Inspection

Sub-steps:
1. Inspect all suspension components (control arms, bushings, struts) for signs of wear or damage.
2. Check driveshaft and CV joints for any signs of excessive play or damage.
3. Replace any worn components as necessary.
Tools Required: Socket set, pry bar, torque wrench.

5. Engine Mount Inspection

Sub-steps:
1. Visually inspect engine mounts for cracks or separation.
2. Use a pry bar to check for excessive movement in engine mounts.
3. Replace any damaged engine mounts.
Tools Required: Pry bar, socket set.