2012 Ford Explorer: harsh or hard shifting

Filed Jul 1, 2025 · Steering, Suspension · TN

Clunking noise coming from rear possible tow link, clicking noise coming from steering even when vehicle not moving

Filed Sep 30, 2022 · Body, Suspension · 139,000 miles · OH

The contact owns a 2012 Ford Explorer. The contact stated that while driving approximately 55 MPH, he heard an abnormal snapping sound then a clunking sound coming from underneath the vehicle. The traction control and the ABS warning lights were illuminated. The contact was able to get the vehicle back to the residence while driving approximately 10 MPH. The contact stated that the front subframe was corroded, causing the subframe to fracture and the wheels were pushed outwards in opposite directions. The contact had taken the vehicle to a certified mechanic who replaced the subframe. The manufacturer was made aware of the failure. The approximate failure mileage was 139,000.

Filed Feb 14, 2020 · Seat belts, Steering · 60,800 miles · WA

The front strut tower mounts are bad. This is on every 2011-2015 ford explorer I have seen. It makes a bad clunk sound everytime the wheel is turned.

Filed May 21, 2019 · Transmission · 75,000 miles · NC

Experiencing hard shifts with a thud. Happens when the vehicle is slowing down then when I accelerat there is a delay then a thud when it finally shodts into gear. Apparently I'm not the inly one from what ive heard. I wish ford would fix this issue. I have taken it to garage but they were unable to determine the issue.

Filed May 9, 2017 · Suspension · 55,000 miles · OH

Front strut bearings clunking/ failed. Needed replaced. 55,000 miles. Strong odor of carbon monoxide when accelerating or following large trucks.

Filed Jul 20, 2016 · Engine, Fuel system · 61,500 miles · OK

While driving down the highway my explorer made a loud clunk sound and then the wrench symbol appeared on my dashboard. Then the gas pedal quit working, and we had to roll off the highway avoiding being hit by other traffic. I had to stop and restart my car 5-6 times before the gas pedal would work again. This has happened 5 times in the past two months, and when I called to have it serviced they told me the wrench light had to be on for them to identify the problem. But I cant go anywhere when the wrench light comes on and a tow truck will not tow a car with it running for me to get it to the dealership to be tested. This is a safety issue that other people are having. The throttle body is going out on many explorers after 55,000 miles. Is it going to take deaths before this is a recall?

Filed Jun 28, 2015 · Steering · 650,000 miles · GA

Steering making clunking noise when you turn steering left to right most of the time to the right

Filed Jun 28, 2015 · Steering · 65,000 miles · GA

When turning steering wheel left to right it makes clunking sound sound comes from under car most of the time to the right