2001 Ford Explorer: complete transmission failure

Filed Apr 21, 2014 · Transmission · 143,000 miles · NY

For the second time, the vehicle's transmission failed, leaving the vehicle completely powerless while driving. The transmission also failed at approximately 70,000 miles in 2006, again while driving the vehicle in traffic. In both cases, I, as the driver, was nearly involved in accidents with other vehicles because of the complete loss of the transmission power train. The vehicle also gave no warning of the failure prior to these events. It is my understanding that this has been a long-standing design defect with ford explorers, with a high number of vehicles from the early 2000s suffering similar transmission failures. This is both dangerous and, I believe, a defect that could cause injury and/or death.. I also wish to add that this vehicle, which is 4 wheel drive and includes a factory installed towing package, has only occasionally been used for towing a boat (2x per year) and is seldom used in its 4 wheel drive capacity (only on snow covered roads 2-3 times per year). The vehicle has been well maintained. The cost of the repairs in each case was over $2,000.

Filed Nov 8, 2012 · Transmission · VA

Tl* the contact owns a 2001 ford explorer. While driving approximately 45 MPH, the transmission failed to respond with an unusual whining noise. The vehicle was coasted to the side of the road and the engine was turned off. Upon restarting, the vehicle resumed normally. The failure recurred on a separate occasion. The vehicle had not been diagnosed or repaired. The manufacturer was notified of the problem. The failure mileage was unavailable.

Filed Dec 1, 2011 · Transmission · 126,000 miles · NC

Transmission failed without warning. Would not catch 3rd gear and then sounded like a toolbox was scattered under the car. Car successively lost all gears except 1st. Repair cost over $2800.00.

Filed Feb 9, 2009 · Engine · 135,000 miles · FL

Tl*the contact owns a 2001 ford explorer. The contact heard rattling noises in the engine and the vehicle shut off. The vehicle was taken to a body shop and the mechanic stated that she needed a new transmission. The contact got a second opinion and was informed that a new engine was needed. A third repair shop stated that the timing chain and camshaft were the causes of the failure. The contact was informed that the parts were modified and were defective; therefore, entirely new parts were needed. The vehicle has not been repaired. The dealer diagnosed the issue as having engine failure. The failure and current mileages were 135,000.

Filed Jan 15, 2004 · Transmission · 48,500 miles · GA

Transmission failure- no warning-