1997 Ford Explorer: windshield wiper failure

Filed Apr 12, 2019 · Driver assistance, Electrical · 175,000 miles · OR · crash · 1 injury

My lights don't work stabilizing bar is bad,speed control dose not work security key code not working,door controls do not work.wiper work sometimes.ball joint are bad, tires wearing bad,,bushings are very bad.transmission is starting to slip,all wheel drive does not work, it grinding sound.heaf light only brights work.

Filed Mar 5, 2010 · Visibility · CA

Have experienced periods when the windshield wipers do not operate when the control is on. Has occurred when first turning on the control as well as when changing from a different speed setting on the control. No regularity in the occurrence, seems to be random. This has occurred many times during my ownership since 2000. I was checking the database and found an entry on this problem under "defect investigations" so I am adding my experience to your records.

Filed Feb 4, 2008 · Lights, Transmission · 56,000 miles · MI

Tl*the contact owns a 1997 ford explorer. The contact attempted to open the windows, but was unsuccessful. The windshield wipers, interior lights, and the 4x4 also failed to operate. The dealer has not diagnosed the vehicle. There were no warning indicator lights prior to the failures. The contact is unable to drive the vehicle due to the safety risk involved. The current and failure mileages were 50,000. Updated 03-04-08

Filed Jan 28, 2004 · Visibility · 58,000 miles · TN

The rear windshield wiper motor has gone bad in my 97, 4wd, ford explorer for the second time. It has 93,000 miles, it was replaced the first time at 58,000 miles. This is due to a maunfacturers defect and should be reviewed for consideration as a national recall or covered by ford as a out of warranty repair. This is a hazard to allow it to remain unrepaired the cost should be paid by ford.

Filed Oct 12, 2003 · Electrical · 52,100 miles · NJ

The vehicle automatically popped into 4x4 mode without warning. When that happened the vehicle made a loud grinding noise and stopped in the middle of traffic. *nlm the vehicles wipers also became inoperable. The windows could not be opened. The interior lights failed. It was later determined that all these failures were as a result of a faulty gem module. The module has been recalled in canada. *ts

Filed Jan 2, 2003 · Lights · GA

Consumer is the original owner of the vehicle and stated has had to replace multi-function switch 3 times in 5 years. Switch controls functions of head lights, wipers, high/low beams, etc. The most recent failure occurred while driving. The consumer noticed smoke emitting from switch and steering column that filled up the entire cabin. Had to pull over to avoid a collision.

Filed Aug 16, 2001 · Lights, Visibility · PA

On the first occasion, the headlights would go out when the turn signal was turned on. The vehicle was out of warranty(over 36,000 miles) so we had our regular mechanic repair, but we asked to keep the replaced part. The most recent problem (only 11/2 years& approx 8000 miles later)was that the windshield wipers would not work. This time we took it to a ford dealer. The service manager mentioned that there had been a problem with this part and that ford had made an upgrade, but no recall had been enacted. Again we asked to keep the replaced part (both are ford parts#13k359). If there are any questions regarding this claim, please leave message on home phone, or contact diane rutt between the hours of 9-5 at 717 336-7534.

Filed Mar 8, 2001 · Electrical, Lights · NJ

Faulty gem module caused malfunction of the windshield wipers, 4x4, lights and power windows. Nlm

Filed Dec 4, 2000 · Visibility · NH

Windshield washer will not spray fluid. Safety concern as visibility can be impaired, especially in the winter. Have seen ford discussion groups that this is a common problem, possibility related to excessive grease in the electrical contacts of the wiper and washer spray switch.

Filed Sep 28, 1999 · Visibility · NJ

Pe99049, windshield wipers malfunction, causing poor visibility which may result in a crash. High mode goes too slowly, and the low mode goes too fast. Please provide further information.

Filed Sep 17, 1999 · Visibility · MA

While driving in a rain storm with windshield wipers on high speed, consumer thoughtthat blades came loose, but instead it was the arm connector to the motor tha tloosened. Contacted the dealer to have vehicle serviced.

Filed Sep 9, 1999 · Visibility · CA

Windshield wipers intermittently become inoperable in rainy weather conditions. Please give any further details.