1998 Ford Explorer: engine knocking or ticking

Filed Dec 27, 2005 · Engine · GA

I own a 1998 ford explorer. This vehicle has been making an awful knocking/rattle in the engine on start up. It has been doing this for about 6 months now. Unable to diagnose problem due to it only does it on cold start ups, once the engine has warmed up it tends to stop. However, after a cold start up it will rattle (sounds like a diesel engine), the rattle increases as I accelerate, however once vehicle has ran for about 10 miles it will go away. If vehicle is parked for an extended period of time then started up again then the noise will return.

Filed Jun 10, 2004 · Tires · TN

While driving 65 MPH, a loud knocking noise was heard from the rear. The driver was able to pull over. The driver noticed that the driver's front tire separated from the wheel. The driver wa able to change the tire. Firestone lt p18575r14 #dot vnj7791. The driver contacted the firestone to make a appointment for replacement of the tires. Please fill in additional information.

Filed Sep 20, 2003 · 76,000 miles · AZ

Issue: ford explorer has fuel cut off switch directly below the glove box against the passenger side pillar (directly above the carpet on passenger size) approximately 1 foot above floorboard. Passenger may be able to knock the connector or switch loose, causing fuel shut down and loss of power in the vehicle. Connector is on bottom of switch; cable runs directly below carpet and can be tugged loose with enough force (connector is standard ford locking blade type). Incident occurred on interstate 10 w in los angeles on the interstate 5 north on ramp. Heavy traffic caused wife to straighten legs and kicked the connector loose at 60 MPH. Vehicle lost total engine power and stalled in traffic. Vehicle was towed to dealership once before this incident. Fortunately it was in a parking lot. Dealer mentioned issue was resolved after plugging switch back in. Resolved issue using cable ties, but a more suitable recall should be done to ensure other owners do not encounter the same situation. Recommend a plate or fastener that makes it impossible for plug to come loose when hit with foot or other objects. Also recommend repositioning switch to rear of vehicle, or underneath rear seat on newer models, if it has not already occurred. Discussed this with a friend who recommended I file a complaint, even though it occurred almost a year ago. *jb thank you.

Filed Jun 18, 2002 · Electrical · UT

Immediatly after starting vehicle there was a loud explosion under the hood, then a knocking sound. Vehicle was towed to dealership, a spark plug had blown out, causing damage to engine.

Filed Sep 21, 2000 · Suspension · VA

While driving the vehicle it has a lot of creaking and knocking noises coming from under the front of explorer, you can feel the knocking through the steering wheel. Have not found anything broken.

Filed Sep 2, 1999 · Suspension, Transmission · OH

Vehicle would lock into and out of 4-wheel drive rapidly on dry, smooth pavement for no reason ,causing vehicle to lurch and lag ( jerking ) and causing front left wheel hop and vibration. Dealership has removed the 4 wheel drive capabilty of this vehicle to reslove the problem instead of repairing. The originally equipped 4 wheel drive explorer is now only 2 wheel drive. Indicator lights on dash now continuously flash providing somewhat of a drivers distraction. Also vehicle has a loud squeal in front end at speeds from 1 thru 40 MPH which one failed repair attempt has been made. Also vehicle engine has loud mechanical engine noise ( knocking and banging ) in upper engine area.