1997 Ford Explorer: harsh or hard shifting

Filed Aug 11, 2005 · Suspension · 133,000 miles · WI

Over rough pavement or entering ramped driveways at an angle, vehicle rocked side-to-side more than normal, with an occasional "clunk". Inspection revealed a bolt holding the anti-roll bar to the upper control arm had rusted and failed, rendering the anti-roll bar non-functional. Given the propensity of this type of vehicle to roll over if driven improperly, this failure increases the risk / decreases the rollover threshold.

Filed May 19, 2005 · Suspension · ND

1997 ford explorer lower ball joints on explorer, both sides, left and right, had a clunk when going over dips in road. Ford did not find the problem. The problem was there from new, I have 57,000 miles on the explorer. The problem was found at firestone when rotating the tires and getting ready for a front end alinement. I was told that the ball joints were bad on both sides . Nothing has been done. I talked to ford, they say the warranty is gone and will do nothing, but will turn it over to the engineers

Filed Mar 14, 2002 · Transmission · IA

My vehicle developed a clunk in the rear end which I assumed was a problem with the rear differential. When I took it to my mechanic he found there was a problem in the transfer case. After repairing the transfer case he then found that the problem originated in the transmission and that it was a costly repair. I would not have thought much about this except for the fact that he had another ford explorer with the same problem in his shop at the same time. I contacted ford motor company about this problem but they deny ever having this problem or having any dealerships reporting this type of defect.

Filed May 24, 2000 · Transmission · MD

While driving on highway started slowing down and heard a clunking noise. When let go the gas pedal, all 4 wheels locked up. Also, cv joint on the front driveshaft had separated.

Filed Mar 25, 2000 · Engine, Transmission · MI

Engine "ticks" primarily at cold startup. Problem becoming more prevelant however, now it occurs also at a warm startup. Engine also "hisses" at low speeds to idle. Rear end leaks fluid and also shudders at high speeds. "clunking" noise often heard and felt from rear end when vehicle stops.