1996 Ford Explorer: ball joint or control arm failure

Filed May 7, 2003 · Steering, Suspension · PA

We purchased our vehicle used in 1999 with 33000 miles. 6 months after the purchase we needed a new transmission, another new transmission last year (2002), new ball joints, and now we are being told the rack and pinion needs to be replaced. Ford has not offered any recalls on this part but I have seen other complaints regarding this. My vehicle is constantly shaking (feels like I am going over rumble strips) when I am over 30-40 MPH. We also just had our vehicle aligned and it is out of alignment again because of this problem.

Filed Nov 26, 2002 · Suspension · 50,000 miles · NC

Consumer stated problems with the ball joints. Manufacture was contacted and stated that they will pass the information to the engenieers but has been 8 days and he has not heard about them. *ts the rubber boots fell apart causing dirt and water to enter the ball joints. Consumer is aware of other complaints on the internet regarding this condition. However a month has pasted and consumer has yet to hear from manufacture.

Filed Apr 18, 2001 · Brakes · GA · crash

Brake and accelerator pedal too close together. During an emergency stop, brake pedal was depressed to its limit. Due to the spacing between the brake and accelerator along with the height of accelerator pedal, both were depressed at once causing a substantial increase in the stopping distance. This in turn was the main reason for a recent collision and several past near missed accidents during emergency braking. Wiper control arm and fluid dispenser does not work on occasion. This part has been replaced once in the past under warrantee. Second part is acting the same as the first.

Filed Jan 12, 2001 · Steering, Suspension · PA

I never contacted ford to make a complaint because I thought my suspension was falling apart due to towing and bad roads in my area.. Then I get a recall for end links... But they refuse to pay for addition damaged related to the sway bar links. I'm not looking for payment but I think that it should be looked into by someone. I have almost rooled the vehicle many times because of the end links breaking and I am a very unhappy consumer. The parts were replaced twice and the ball joint once, the ball joint failed when the end link failed the second time. I might add I was a ford lover at one time, and I own many classic fords, but I will never buy a new ford again, nor will any of my family members. I just feel that the conser gets ripped off by big business like in my case, I'm forced to pay for damage done to my vehicle that was caused by the manufacturer. What a joke, henry ford is rolling in his grave. What a shame that a company doesn't care about the people that line thier pockets with money. I would like to that you for reading this. Sincerly john bugdonovitch.

Filed Feb 16, 1999 · Suspension · VA

Lower ball joint failed to operate at 44,000 mail of wear; dealer/mfr notified and refused to replace/repair unless cost goes to consumer.

Filed Jan 22, 1998 · Steering, Transmission · CD

Power steering made a squealing noise due to a defective power steering rack. Also inner tie rods and cv boot malfunctioned.

Filed Mar 18, 1997 · Airbags, Suspension · MI · 1 injury

The upper control arm broke, causing wheel to come off/accident/injury.