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1997 Ford Explorer steering problems

33 complaints (2% of all complaints for this car). 3 crashes reported.

owner complaints
33
of this car's complaints
2%
crashes
3
recalls
0

Which part fails

  • Rack and pinion
    6
  • Linkages: tie rod assembly
    5
  • Hydraulic power assist system
    5
  • Linkages: knuckle: spindle: arm
    3
  • Steering wheel/handle bar
    2
  • Linkages: rod: relay: connecting
    1
  • Hydraulic power assist: pump
    1
  • Hydraulic power assist: power steering fluid
    1

At what mileage

Complaints by mileage at the time of the problem.

0k-25k
25k-50k
50k-75k
75k-100k
100k-125k
125k-150k
150k-175k
175k-200k
200k+

Ford Explorer steering problems in other years

19911995200020052010201520202026

Specific symptoms reported on the 1997 Ford Explorer steering

Phrases found in the owners' own descriptions, so one complaint can mention several symptoms.

Pulling 14Power steering loss 8

Related recalls

No recalls on record for this model year.

Related investigations

Steering knuckle separationsOpened July 6, 1999, closed October 29, 1999

There is no summary currently available

PE99045

What 1997 Ford Explorer owners say

Most recent owner complaints, unedited.

Filed Aug 15, 2010 · Steering, Suspension · 196,000 miles · NY

Multiple issues with vehicle when turning either right or left vehicle comes to a complete stops then a very loud bang is heard, told it was hub but replaced hub and still happens, was also told it was u-joint on drive shaft have yet to replace it have not notified dealer as of yet.

Filed Jun 30, 2003 · Steering · WV

Consumer states that while driving at any speed and with no warning steering bolts are lose and it is causing the steering wheel to jump around, making it hard for consumer to steer the vehicle. Dealer notified.

Filed Sep 9, 2002 · Steering, Transmission · PA

Tranfer case will lock up four wheel drive. And there was difficulty in steering. See service bullentin 99-14-2.

Filed Jul 29, 2002 · Body, Steering · SC

The keyless number pad on vehicle quit working, then the remote for anti theft system quit working and finally the automatic door locks quit working

Filed Jul 22, 2002 · Steering · MI

While traveling 10-15mph on highway and without prior warning, consumer was turning left approching her driveway and the steering wheel became hard to turn. Dealership was aware of problem. *ak consumer states that the rack and pinion part of the steering unit failed. Ford motor company repaired the problem.

Filed Jun 11, 2002 · Steering · CO · crash

The steering column knuckle that holds the two-piece column together (under the dash) was improperly maintained or manufactured. One of two assembly pins was missing causing the steering wheel to free-spin, resulting in complete steering loss.

Filed Sep 25, 2001 · Steering · DE

While making a slow turn to park there was a loud noise. Vehicle stopped , consumer tried to back up, but again vehicle did not move. Consumer saw left front wheel was tilted to one side. Had vehicle towed to dealer who noticed the front steering knuckle had broken.

Filed Aug 22, 2001 · Steering · CA

When turning there would be moaning noises. No effect on steering ability. Took vehicle to first dealer, and mechanic could not locate cause. At an independent mechanic was informed inner tie rod was causing moaning noises.

Filed Jul 2, 2001 · Steering · MI

While driving 25 MPH consumer lost steering control and vehicle dropped to right side. Dealer is replacing broken right tie rod. In oct 1997, left tie rod had broken.

Filed Jun 6, 2001 · Steering · AL

When truning the steering it would get hard in different places.

Questions about the 1997 Ford Explorer steering

Does the 1997 Ford Explorer have steering problems?

Owners have filed 33 complaints about the steering of the 1997 Ford Explorer, 2% of all its complaints.

At what mileage do 1997 Ford Explorer steering problems start?

Not enough complaints include the mileage to tell.

Was there a recall on the 1997 Ford Explorer steering?

There is no recall for this problem on this model year.

What year does the Ford Explorer have bad steering?

The Ford Explorer model years with the most steering complaints are 2013 (837 complaints), 2011 (743 complaints) and 2016 (532 complaints).

Other 1997 Ford Explorer problems

Tires 668Acceleration 202Engine 202Suspension 105Transmission 104Brakes 96Visibility 90Electrical 80Fuel system 56Seat belts 54Body 50Seats 38Locks 32Airbags 27Lights 22Wheels 12Driver assistance 4

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