Common Ford Explorer Mercury Mountaineer Problems
Вставка
- Опубліковано 3 жов 2024
- In this episode of the common problems series for your viewing pleasure I give you "Common Problems for Ford Explorer and Mercury Mountaineer Vehicles". I take an in depth look at the most common problems associated with these vehicles along with helpful tips for repair and servicing. This video primarily deals with 3rd and 4th generation Explorer/Mountaineer vehicles. In the video I refer to specific repair videos which are linked below.
Strut Mount Noise Video: • Ford Explorer Noise Wh...
Power Window Wiring Video: • Ford Explorer No Power...
Front Suspension Repair: • Ford Explorer Ball Joi...
Rear Wheel Bearing Repair Video: • How To Replace Ford Ex...
Shifter Repair Video: • Ford Explorer Stuck Sh...
P0401 Repair Video: • Ford Explorer - Mercur...
Defroster Vents Wont Work Video: • Ford Explorer Mercury ...
Brake Repairs and Differential Pinion Seal Video: • 1 Hour + Special W/Sho...
Subscribe now to The Car Doctor Channel
Haha ”doesnt mean pull over and smoke a fat joint” your videos just keep getting better! Educational and fun at the same time. Keep it up Tim
Haha, I almost left that line on the cutting room floor. Thanks for watching!
Definitely fire up a fatty before working on Exploder's, I find it helps while I curse the engineering flaws.
04 4.0 Explorer XLT. I take good care and keep it well maintained. Never lets me down. I feel two things are true; 1.) If you take care of something and replace things as necessary- you maximize its lifetime. 2.) You can say anything has common issues and obsessively focus on them, or just fix them- because nothing in life is a 100% guarantee.
⁹⁹⁹⁹the most 0
Great Video! I have a 2003 Ford Exploder 4x4 with 214,000 miles. You nailed most of the maintenance issues we have had with this vehicle. Although no engine or timing issues as yet we Replaced transmission at 194k miles. I would add a few...the extremely difficult diy parking brake assembly, the easy repair cruise control brake pressure sensor, lift gate cracks and hinge replacement, plastic vacuum hose assemblies under the hood which of course crack. Etc. etc.....HOWEVER, did I mention we have 214k miles. Likely near $50k to replace so I will keep saving a $600+ payment with my Ford Exploder!!
My brother owned a 2001 Ford Explorer and he had terrible problems with overheating, slipping transmission and rattles, leaks...it was the worst vehicle he ever owned. Your doing a great service by pointing out some issues on that dude.
I have a '04 Mountaineer and it had many of these problems after 130k miles. I will look into the other problems that you mentioned because I'm sure that they will be next. Thank you for the valuable info. Great post.
Any updates
thank you! i have a 2008 merc mountaineer 4.0 that we purchased with 180k. it has 200k on it now and we're hoping for 300k. we get it serviced every 4k mi. so far it is running great. personally i hate the AWD because of the mpg and the road noise. so far it has been good and the maintenance has been less than a car payment. thanks again, this info is helpful for the maintenance plan.
Wow... other than the dozens of common problems you mentioned it looks like the Exploder is a superbly engineered machine! Ford.. you have done it again, and your reputation for "fix or repair daily" stands firm.
Dave Allen first and second generation explorers are much better than these shit boxes
Great video. I own a 2003 4.0 Explorer with 285k, bought it brand new and right on the money I've experienced most of those issues. I am getting ready to replace timing chains for the 4th time, I'm on my 4th set of wheel bearings, 2nd transmission and 2nd catalytic converter
Deeeeamn 4 timing chains? Is that two times of service cause there is two chains? Lmao gotdamn that's a lot
Lol he doesn't believe in full synthetic oil
@@adamxenon829 synthetic since day one. Not long after the original post, a chain snapped. At that point I called it quits. But the engine bottom was solid. Those plastic timing chain guides are design to break. And one of the chains is on the back of the engine, so no choice but to pull the engine out.
My '02 explorer has the 4.6 V-8 which are famous for leaking oil around the oil filter adapter which bolts onto the side of the block. Being a 4x4 with power steering, there was no way to get at the bolts holding it on so i had to drop the front differential to change the leaky gasket. While it was out, i resealed the diff and replaced the U joints, tie rod ends, front struts, CV joints and stub axles, rotors, calipers and pads, sway bar bushings, and anything else which needed it. Once it was all back together, I did the rear axle including new clutches in the locking rear end. It's like a new vehicle again with 378k on the clock! Oh yeah, to replace the front driveshaft seal in the transfer case, I had to drop the transfer case and split it to get at the seal. It's a labor of love.
I got an 06 about two years ago and it’s been the best vehicle/suv I’ve ever owned and it’s about to hit 200k miles and I’ve had any problems with it yet so it’s been a good one
Same! Second owner of an 06 4.0. Like it more than my newer Toyota Highlander
Thank you for the video. I think you covered everything I have ever had to fix/replace lol
Somewhere along the line, Ford replaced the plastic timing chain guides with metal, after so many complaints about plastic disintegrating and ending up in the engine. I have a 2010 4x4, which I was told has the metal guides. Mine was a company lease, with 200k mostly highway miles. It does run and shift great. Turned-in company leases can be a good value, as they have usually been well-maintained and haven't been subjected to the wear and tear of in-town driving. You're right about the thermostat housing. Mine is leaking a bit, so I need to get after it. Coolant sitting on top of the engine block is another sign of this issue. Easy fix. And you're right about the wheel bearings, too. You're also right about the shifter issue. I would just add that there is a pin in the mechanism that moves in and out, allowing the shifter to either move or lock in place...activated by the brake pedal solenoid. I assumed the little circuit board in the white plastic case was the cause of my problem, when it was actually the pin that had broken inside the shifter (it is attached to the actual lever). When it breaks at the attachment point it can work it's way out and won't retract...locking the shifter in park (and not allowing you to remove the key from the ignition..and draining your battery). I'm not aware of a good fix for this, short of replacing the entire shifter console unit. I pushed the pin back in, and for now it shifts fine. This won't last, but at least I know what the problem is when it happens again. With removal of 2 screws, one can lift the console cover enough to push the pin back in. Mine has been fine for several weeks now after doing this.
I like my 2010. It's in great shape. It's quiet inside and runs smoothly... but there is some strange engineering going on with these Explorers. Lots of plastic in places where metal would have meant better reliability. I have a 1999 4Runner 4x4 with 338k on it. Runs like a Swiss watch and the build quality is far superior. I'd drive it to California tomorrow. I wouldn't feel so confident in my Explorer.
Very happy with my 09 4.6L. No issues other than the wheel bearings as mentioned.
I have a 03, Explorer Sport, no major issues so far; running strong with 239k! :) thank you for the vid. Ill be on the lookout.
My 2004 Explorer has 130,000 miles on it currently. So far everything has been rock solid except for the front wheel bearings which are just starting to rumble. I ordered a set of Moog replacements and will replace them soon. Many of these problems are lack of maintenance related issues. I have no leaks or wet spots around the rear diff, actually no leaks anywhere at all. I did have to replace the thermostat housing around 100,000 miles. Super easy and open access. I change all of the fluids regularly. Engine oil, trans fluid, transfer case, rear diff, coolant, power steering and brake fluid. I usually chang the engine oil every 8k with 5-w30 mobile 1 synthetic or whatever synthetic is on sale. I always make sure to use an OEM Motorcraft oil filter. I do a transmission pan drop and fill with filter every 30,000 miles and only use OEM Motorcraft Mercon V trans fluid. For the front and rear diffs I use fully synthetic 80/140 gear oil and the transfer case gets Mercon trans fluid. Never use Mercon V in the transfer case. Oh yeah, original brake rotors all around and not warped. I'm easy on my brakes and use the O/D overdrive off for engine braking whenever I'm going down a steep hill to conserve the brake pads. Especially when towing.
This post is 4 years old. Use what oil you want to use
We had problems with the Air Conditioner. When the vacuum lines get brittle and break it prevents airflow control for the main and lower vents keeping the air on the windshield only. Also, the EGR vacuum lines and A/C vacuum control lines are controlled by a check valve. If it fails it's an easy, inexpensive fix some mechanics won't tell you about.
407,000ish kms on my 4.6 2002 explorer here east coast Nova Scotia. Happy Sunday.
The 5.0 litre V8 on the 2000 model has been really solid. Always runs, never had a check engine light. If you have a light foot you can get over 20 mpg. Step on it and you will get about 18.
Let me know if you want to sell it
@@jeff-wv8te I now have 235k miles on that Explorer and the rear brakes are in need of replacement. All highway miles. Those are original pads from new. The emergency brake cable must have been hanging up as those brake shoes are entirely gone. (Rear disks with built in shoes for the emergency brake). Not sure how that happened as i never, ever use the emergency brake. The passenger side rear axle seal was also leaking oil into the brake. Other side ok. So I have it all apart and have all the new parts including new brake cables. Will be replacing both axle seals while it's apart. I have a 2010 Explorer 4.6 V8 that I drive while the old one is being repaired.
@@northdakotaham1752 great. Ive owned a 5.0, 1997 and 1999 mountaineer. Now i own a 2000 5.0 mountaineer with 248k miles. Good truck except door and window controls and dome light (door ajar) electric always messes up after 100k miles so i just rewire switches as theu ware out. I have a 2003 explorer 86k miles, with a 2004 4.6. I cant figure out why my CHT sensore keeps shutting my vehical off. Tgats why i am searching yputube videos today. Have a good week.
I'll put this on do not buy list, thanks for the info.
Thanks Tim, this should help a lot of people!
2004 4.0 here. I have 200k+ miles. Issues I have had is the thermostat housing twice, trailing arms twice, EGR valve, front & rear wheel bearings, muffler+rear tailpipe above rear end+ clamp before muffler rusted in pieces. Just did intake gasket, valve cover gaskets, EGR valve, coilpack, wires & plugs. Improved performance now but problem that I still have is rough idle. I am guessing probably a vacuum leak somewhere. I know idler pulley is making noise. Oh and another thing is charging system light flickers on & off & beeping over & over again driving you nuts going down the road. I just seen people talk about the plug on the alternator doesn't make the best of connection so you have to tweak the prongs a lil. I will do that tomorrow. But as for a vacuum leaks have you seen any common issues that I may want to look at for the rough idle?
It can happen to any vehicle ,it is part of life. My 02 ford explorer 4.0 has 168,000 on it and runs great.
Thanks for the video. Definitely scratched a used Explorer off my list of used SUV's to buy. Man, what was thinking?
I you thinking of one i get the 4.6 v8 6 speed. Yes the 4.0 v6 5 speed is sluggish and hesitant and once had that coolant leak from the thermostat from a 2006 model, currently haver a 09 4.0 and before that an 06 with same engine.
I have two Explorers and an Aviator,
2003 Explorer awd 4.0 190,000
have owned this 5 years and 50,000 miles
have replaced brakes only and one front axle. Plus regular maintenance, oil changes transmission fluid.
Currently needs axle seal replaced and upper control arms front due to rust, but all joints are solid.
2004 Explorer 4wd 4.0 has 309,000 has been well maintained bought used recently. have all maintenance records. plus what I have done
4 wheel bearings were replaced
brakes all around 3 times.
8 sets of tires.
Rear differential has been resealed two times. It is getting timing chain slap now, probably needs engine pulled out and timing done. burns no oil shifts great.
Transfer case shift motor has failed two times. fuel pressure monitoring sensor failed before.
All electrical switches in both Explorers work windows work never had the doors apart. no issues. all options work as designed
The 2003 aviator 2wd 4.6 v8 181,000 has had a bad water pump in the past needs a wheel bearing runs and drives great. power steering pump is noisy. annoyingly the paint has worn off lots of buttons inside and some switches need replaced. door ajar switch failed on driver door needs replaced.
I LIKE WATCHING THIS GUY BECAUSE I WORK ON CARS ALOS AND SEE THE SAME THING
We need more people like you in mew hampshire
You’re too kind. I’m sure there are some great techs down there.
In fact my friend and I were thinking so.etime next year of moving to Alaska we just haven't decided what area would best fit our needs but my friend has a2015 f250 super duty with an 8ft fisher mm2 plow which can come 8n handy in alaska
great show easy to listen too. did my bearings after humming.
Great video Tim. When I first met my old lady, she had an 02. I can’t lie, it was almost a dealbreaker on a second date. Fortunately, her cooking skills made up for her poor vehicle choice. 😂
She sounds like a keeper!
Spot on Doctor! My 04 at 163,000 had most of these problems. I have been babying the tranny for 3 years now. Not to mention the chipped paint and rust on the roof and the ominous crack below the rear wiper! But dammit, I love her.
Damn my 05 Mountaineer has the damn crack too, blown out CV's and the tranny shift indicator wont go to park, although still engages. Yesterday all 4 windows stopped working. In the shop now for a wheel bearing and the CV's, hoping the windows in the main switch coz the fuses look fine. Love the truck though! hahaa
@@yardwaste2greattaste903 Check out the video on the windows he did. The wires between the driver's door and the body are a common problem and easy to fix.
I've replaced a few of the thermostat housings. Ha! shift lock solenoids, quite a few stories on those like one towed from another shop where the frustrated mechanic apparently used brute force when it stalled in traffic and broke the whole assembly. (Exploder, isn't that correct? I've been calling them that for years). There is an actual slot in the lower cover where you can push a key up in to release it.
Nice!
LOL I have Two 2006 explorer EddieB in my driveway, One is always running :)
one has 206k and the other has 223k, I love this truck and the gas mileage for a 5000lbs solid truck I get 22+MPG on both with nothing aftermarket added!
I just had an issue Cyl 3 misfire it turned out to be the Coil Pack
did I say I love this truck, I have been all over the country in it
Are those V8 or V6
@@Trucker2083 4.0 V6 with the 5r55s tranny
2006 233k miles , original motor , just recently replaced the transmission, I over hearted the motor like 2 x lol and still runs strong as shit with no leaks . Been driving it everyday since 2010 when I bought it
My 4.0 has 220k runs great its all about taking care of your stuff my olds bervada 4.3l blew up at 150k
Some time you take care and they will fail on you just because, I have a 1998 explorer with only 126k miles on it been on the family since 45k miles , really well take car off , but the timing chain failed , so is not always "if you"
@Super Hero timing chain gonna fail at some point the best explorers are 91 to 99 efi engines i got 5 of them
Help! My exploder Exploded! It damaged the charging system, fuel pressure rail, the transmission, the airbag and the tire pressure sensor
Thanks Tim. We have the same one as the gray one. We had to have the rear end replaced under warranty and again later because according to Ford, if all four tires are not EXACTLY the same circumference, it will destroy the rear end. It apparently locks both wheels together because it thinks you need better traction. This is a problem when you are trying to back out of a parking space. It can also try to force it in to four wheel drive a 65 Miles per hour. BTW, we also experienced most of the other things you talked about. On the other hand it now has 290 K miles on it.
I have an 03 XLT with the 4.0 and 158k miles, it has every single problem you mentioned except for the timing chain (fingers crossed) but it refuses to die!
Same here 2003, I got the timing chain problem tho lol but sob just doesn't stop man.. Ive had it like that for the last 30k miles, it just hit 200k this week. My 2014 Dodge on the first failure I had to junk it... I dont know if I would classify this car as "non reliable", I mean.... somebody that gets shit done no matter what sounds reliable af to me 🤷♂️
Everything you listed I’ve replaced on my 03 lol even the transmission. But one thing that’s also very common is the A/C actuator door assembly, when faulty you can’t change the temperature of your A/C
That one is easy to replace tho.
The vacuum actuated air distribution and recirculation doors are the real pain. The entire dashboard needs to come out.
I've had to do it twice on mine.
We had the same problem on an '02.
Im having it in my 98 mountaineer
Love your videos Tim me and the guys at the shop are still laughing when you say Ford exploder😂👍 greetings from Milwaukee Wisconsin God bless you❤
I just finished doing my own Chain/Guide installation on the 4.0L SOHC and have named my Explorer "The Car From Hell"!
He cracked me up with the #420 code!!!
Ive had to do the hubs and thermostat housing also the vacuum lines going to the egr. Not major repairs, I was able to do them myself without a lot of headache. Overall good car no major issues
Always pick the 4.6L V8! At least if something fails you can actually fix it without removing the entire engine!
Unfortunately most explorers came with the 4.0L V6.
AH4600 I have 2 2005s with the 4.6, love them both
teflon won I own an 06 4.6 I love it
Yeah, that rear timing chain is a bitch! WTF were Ford's engineers thinking?
@@andrewhatton1606 I test drove one and fell in love with it. An 06 v8 mounty. It isn't perfect but I think it is better than a lot of competition. The v8 and its trans could be another carmaker vs the 4.0.
alb12345672 they really get up and move. Exhaust tune and intake and pulleys wake up the 2v
The vehicle that someone calls a Ford Exploder isn’t an Explorer. It’s was a Ford Freestyle.
I own a 2004 Explore watching your video is déjà vu everything that you discussed in your video I've already had a problem with I replaced on my vehicle. The thermostat housing leaked on vacation we barely made it to the repair shop, matter fact we had it towed did not want to overheat the engine. The transmission has been rebuilt, the differential has been rebuilt, all for struts replaced. And here's one for the books, the harmonic balance blew a part, lucky the fan belt could ride on the metal part just enough to safely get us to a shop. Also upper control arm bushings wore out, Ford only supplies it with a new control arm. I got 119,000 miles, and my mechanic says you know after hundred thousand miles you start having trouble, I told him no problem. All these problems I have with my car all happened between 30 and 80,000 miles.
Great video, just bought one of these heaps from the Auction for $600.00 bucks, pretty car, Not a scratch on it, so I wondered what was wrong, seems fine, but computer was reset, clearing codes, and emissions which still has not completed, an ominous sign.
Sell it get a 97 model efi engine best explorer ever made 4.0 no timing chain problems
Nice review in the explorer..wish I. would have watched this before I bought mine..
Tim, have to say, wow. Great style of videoing the variant of vehicles that covered the common problems that you working on. I like that a lot! Great coverage on the thermostat issues and other things as well. Now I'm aware of it :) great job, Tim! Many thumbs up from me, bud!
Thanks Josh! Hope I wasn’t too harsh about the vehicles. They seem to hold up fairly well.
@@ThecardoctorTV none at all, Tim! You explained the common issues that helps new buyers to be aware and teach other mechanics to fix it. It sure helped me a lot to know when I fix explorers etc
I have a chance to buy a 1998 Mercury Mountaineer for $ 1,000. But, after only seeing one-third of your video, I am RUNNING AWAY. Your video reminded me of why I hate these modern, over-engineered vehicles with their $ 400 security key fobs. I better get back to doing the brakes on my 1965 Ford Galaxie where all you need to diagnose a problem is - is there air, is there spark and is there fuel.
I have a. 1998 Ford explorer. Three hundred thousand. Miles. On it. No. Repairs. Only. A. Starter replacement. Best. Vehicle. I've ever. Owned.
Hi. I hear there is another common issue I would like to see a vid on. My 09 explorer had a rear door glass ajar even though it was closed and the interior light would not go out. I was forced to pull a fuse from under the dash to turn it off. It would be great if you could post a vid covering the diagnosis and repair of this issue.
Thats quite interesting cause I thought my door was vibrating loosely as I shut it.
Turns out the seal(perfectly fine unless its stretched) for my window is not staying on.
Good luck with your issue
Great video. Question any problems with when you driving it drive loosely. Just some times. Feel like tires gone come off. What seem to be the problem
You didn’t mention the rear differential pinion bearing issue. They had a recall on the entire carrier assembly
Other issues on the 4.6L V8- Sway bar bushings and end links. Don’t buy MOOG - lasted 3 months. Go with Napa. Radiator, heater hose, electric fan, O2 sensor and wiring. Just to name a few.
I have a 2002 explorer from new only 75,000 miles but rear differential sounds noisy no leaks? Any ideas first thought was rear axle bearings but mechanic said all the noise was from rear differential? Help?
There is a technical service bulletin
Had a 02 😆 what hunk of junk had everything you mentioned in this video happen to it lol and I had the timing chain rattle on start up
On my 05 the heater hose, the one with the tee that goes back to the rear heater core, ruptured on a hot day. This was sort of a pain to fix because not only did the Ford factory CD rom not mention anything about this hose except that when you're removing the engine you need to take the heater hose out. The Haynes manual had no mention of it either, so I basically just had to unscrew the clamps on the 3 ends of the hose configuration, take the whole thing to AutoZone and find the same guage hose and plastic tee piece and just build a clone of it. There's no replacement part, just get the hose and the tee and make sure your clamps are tight as shit.
Another stupid issue is that the duct that directs cabin airflow from defrost position to the front vents is connected to an actuator by a shitty, highly breakable piece of plastic. When this breaks it leaves the duct in a weird position and the vent pressure is heavily reduced. Unless you connect the duct to the actuator by either removing the entire front dash or removing the glove box and squeezing into the side of the dash - you'll have virtually no air blowing out of the vents. A quick fix would be to shove something under the duct to hold it up or down so that there's no air leakage but to really fix it you need to skillfully drill a hole into the duct where the plastic broke off and ziptie that to the actuator.
If your gear selector locks there is a button under the steering column just push it in. If your alarm goes off randomly spray door latches with WD 40
My 97 Mercury Mountaineer with 5.0L engine is a keeper. Check engine light has been on for 5 years, but the manager at Tires Plus told me to ignore it. The odometer has been stuck at 125K miles for 10 years. I only drive ~6K/yr. It takes a 7" round air filter, not the square one. Except for the driver's seat, it's in mint condition.
I have a 97' as well and thats why I'm here but I'm curious to know common issues with our year and model. If you find any or know of any, comment it here and let me know! Trying to keep it in good condition. My odometer stopped reading as well haha!
Don't forget the Ford 5R55 transmissions with the built in servo problems and broken reverse bands!
Recently had to replace a rear brake line on my 1999 Ford Explorer SOHC 300,000 miles. Only major problem in over 20 years of ownership, knock-on-wood.
Wow, now I know why they call it the Ford Exploder! Thanks for the tips.
I'm so hurt with the "Ford Exploder" comment ahaha! I just recently got an 03 Explorer and LOVE it!! Almost nothing wrong with it other than the side mirrors part than you mentioned (which I can fix). Although I do have a serious question: I was looking to get a K&N Air system on mine like the one in this video. Why do you NOT recommend it for these vehicles and what would "proper servicing of it" look like to you (someone with far more experience in car mechanics)? Thanks!
Had to think about the P0420 line - LOL good one!
Hello, great info. What about an o8 mercury mountaineer w/ a 4.0
That info applies to these models as Well? And how difficult it is to replace the rack and pinion on my 08 mountaineer? Thank You. Hello from Sonora Mexico.
Great information sir, helped me so much when deciding on a used 06 Explorer. Thanks for your superior video and help! Have subscribed for sure.
Hey Tim, I'd suggest doing a vid on the parts of Fords that aren't problematic...but that would be a very short video. :D.
Probably why he hasn't done one -- there aren't any parts that are not problematic ;) Btw, I have a 2009 Ford F150 and have had my share.
Haha, that’s funny. Sad but funny. Aloha buddy.
You just gave a great video idea. “Hey welcome back to the channel. Here’s a video about all the things that are not problems with Fords....Short pause. I hope this video was helpful thank you for watching. The end. Haha.
Lol! Brilliant! Thanks, Tim!
Explosion 💥 funny 😆
Thank you for sharing your knowledge
My 2004 Mountaineer Premier V8 literally started falling apart at 70k miles. It was 2011 and I took very good care of it. This happened just after the extended warranty ran out. I had the front end parts replaced with a different style, per dealer. Two months later it was in a grapefruit sized hailstorm. It should have been totalled. Not worked correctly after the extensive repairs.
Thanks Doc! Very informative as always.
Got one 255k engine strong. Sure bearings ball joints, struts
She still rocking
There's probably enough "cold air" year-round in Alaska... to not have to worry about having a cold air intake. =)
Back in the day I rigged up a few hot air intakes to help prevent carb venturi icing in certain conditions. One time I used a cut up hip wader wired to the air cleaner and above a header to keep my 63 Fairlane 289 going. The venturi looked like two balls of ice when it stalled out in a remote stretch of Alaskan road. I guess the issue is no longer with the advent of EFI and throttle bodies except for a few that circulate coolant through them probably for similar reasons.
@@ThecardoctorTV You're right... I forgot about throttle body icing. I'm gonna have to make sure my water injection meets low temperature specs... otherwise it'll turn into an icy mist under boost. LOL
No mention of valve cover seal failure. Pretty common.
“We don’t recommend the Dorman (thermostat housing), it will leak right out of the box” 😂😂
It should be criminal for that junk to be sold!
I've sold a bunch of Dorman thermostat housings and never had a problem with them.
@@deangruber1 never noticed that it was the same vehicle you were working on
I've had most of the same problems on my '05. (Covered under warranty). You forgot about the fuel rail pressure sensor going out. I've done them on a few explorers/mountaineers.
And what about those nice plastic heater hose tee fittings that always fall apart? (For the rear heat optioned vehicles)
What's are the symptoms of a bar fuel rail pressure sensor going out ?
@@luismota1329 everyone that I have done were found through a check engine light.(PO193).
But I've never let it go long enough to notice any performance issues.
(maybe a decrease in mpg)
Yes those aren't going to last ten years in any vehicle. They should cover them with something. For Christ sakes I have one that dangles on passenger side valve cover in between AC curved lines just under tb snout. It goes into firewall with a seemingly 3/16" rubber line into a ninety that goes into an egr looking canister. I know it must be giving me heat lmao..maybe thats were I'm getting the exhaust smell...lmao so tiny soooo tiny
@@420Brew I believe the line you refer to is a vacuum line that operates the blend door for the air flow through the vents.
About once a year right around the cooling season, I have to go in and re-connect that line. Common symptom is the a/c will default to the defroster upon stepping on the gas (low vacuum) and the go back to the dash vents when the vacuum returns.
2002 ford explorer 325,000 miles..change oil, transmission fluid,battery brake fluid, power steering fluid...it will last...
Changing the fluid on a high milage transmission is a hot lead enema!!!
Flushing the trans is even worse!
That fresh trans fluid will do soooo much damage to the seals etc that you will have absolute trans failure in 500 to 1000 miles!
CONGRATULATIONS!!!
Thats an exception,not the rule. These cars are notoriously unreliable
Apparently they don't have annual vehicle safety and emissions tests required where you're from.
@@dexterlovejoy2855 that is completely untrue... if you think changing the fluid will cause damage, the transmission is already damaged and is being masked by metal particulates in trashed fluid. If a transmission is maintained and fluid is changed regularly, changing it with high miles won't hurt anything.
@@JM811Cars you obviously have never had a high mile transmission.
If you've been changing the fluid every 20K, you won't have the adverse effects as much. This is why mechanics will recommend drawing out a quart and adding a quart if you really feel its dark tranny fluid. Even then, just because it's dark doesn't mean it's dirty or burnt.
Just discoloration from old seals. It doesn't effect the performance of the fluid. This is where jackasses go full blown idiot and do a fluid change.
VERY EXPENSIVE MISTAKE!!!
Just because you believe it's ok to do this doesn't make you right!
Mine just can't go over 10 mph, the fix, throttle body and MAF where shot runs like new 👍🏽
I had a lot of problems with warped rotors in the front, but after putting on those High Performance Slotted Rotor that resolved those problems. I do get a noise from the left front wheel when turning it sharply to the left in residential intersections. It might be from rubbing the engine splash pads. I don't know.
I have a 2000 5.0 V8 Mountaineer with a p0304 code oil leaking in the front...no crank no start sometimes and a clicking sound before it cut off
One great review !
Thanks pops.
I have three Explorers and i had haft these issues including the transmission servo failing causing
The OD light on which is also common. Im no mechanic but I've fix all these issues thanks to youtube and the fact that I dont trust mechanics.
The statement about not trusting mechanics, that's a very true statement.
which servo did you replace?
@@kingzzzmen7242 There are only one. The fix was a Servo sleeve repair kit. The problem is the servo shaft which is steal rubs on the aluminum housing cause pressure lost. Its a common issue with those transmission after 90k and sometimes sooner. I trans shop will not install the kit and I want to many but would rather always do rebuild it instead. If you hit me up I will give you full info.
Danie James whats your email
Danietec06@yahoo.com
Thanks for the video, Tim - you played the Exploder's greatest (s)hits! I've had an `03 since new and have had to deal with most of these issues now that it's got 125k on the clock. In fairness, though, it wasn't until the last year or two that I've had to do anything except routine maintenance on it. I'd say they're built to be traded in before 100k, as that seems to be when you need to decide if you want another car payment or the pay-as-it-breaks plan. Being an Exploder owner who wrenches his own ride, I skipped the roscoe and opted for the fatty - my back might hurt and my knuckles may be bloody, but damnit, I'm still laughin. lol
So glad I watched this before purchasing a 2010 Explorer "cream-puff"... Will avoid like the plague!
haha, they aren't too bad. You could certainly do worse. Take care
Thanks I'll do that after I change out chain guilds.
Sport trac only has 83k miles
Stater replacement on 2002 Ford explorer
I have a 2000 Mountaineer and had brake shoes and rotars replaced and on my way home there was a mild dip in the road (65mph) and all of a sudden the front end started shaking like crazy, i de-accelerated and at 50 mph it settled down. I have no idea what is wrong with it. I called my mechanic he said no clue but then called me back and said "DON"T DRIVE IT" have it towed in the morning, so i had it towed the same night to the shop who done the work and he said everything under the front end looks good and everything is tight. Another opinion from the tow truck driver said the tie rod(I have photos of both sides) on the passenger side was in bad shape(my mechanic said)nothing is wrong with my tie rods. He did say the rack & pinion is leaking a little bit but nothing is wrong with it and he said he drove it down the road at 70 mph and there was no shaking. So, for my own peace of mind i am having the inner and outer tie rods replaced, have it aligned and hope for the best. Any idea what you think it may be? Thanks, Ruby
what about the 2005 ford explorer 4.0 front differential 3.55 8.8 problems along with the passanger side cv axle problems? please show a video with these issues?
I bought a used 03 4.0.....and I've had it for 2 years it's nice and drives like new....only thing I've done was change the front wheel hubs.....I'd drive it to California from Florida with no worries.....gotta maintain y'all's vehicle's especially changing the oil on time and replacing oil filter with a good one or the oil passages get gunked up causing oil not to circulate promptly on startup which will give you timing chain noise at start that will eventually break the guide's......but if you already have the noise at start but goes away a short time later......you can hold accelerator to the floor and crank a few times till you get oil pressure then start normally and your timing chain won't slap
My 2006 mountaineer was amazing until about 120,000 miles. Front bearings and rack and pinion went. But other than that, I loved that thing!
lol
My 2003 ford f150 4.6 has a #2 cylinder misfire how should I go about it diagnose and fix I hear so many different things I trust u and your advice thank u in advance
I got a code PO461 for 2002 mercury mountaineer but need some guidance on repairing it. Is there a video that can help with that?
Errr, al 4.6l motors are V-8's. 0:48
@Mike H he said " a 4.6 liter and even a V8. Just helping to clarify, especially since he is presenting this as a teaching video. Down boy...
@Mike H sorry, "all"
@@thomcasey2005 any idiot could understand what you meant except the idiot above who wanted to be a dick! LOL!!
The Car Doctor, first time here. Like to know what's your view on a 2006 Mercury Mountaineer Premier Sport Utility 4D 167K miles
You're scaring me with all of the problems that are known for the FORD :(
Bet🎃
Every car, truck, SUV has known issues. The best way to avoid many of them is proper maintenance. I work in the auto parts business side of this industry and in my opinion Ford and GM have a lower cost of maintenance while Mercedes-Benz and BMW are the most costly. Fail to do the maintenance and they all will cost a lot.
@@deangruber1 Benz is piece of junk never buy a Mercedes unless you want to flush your money down the towelette. What do you think of the NEW fords that are being made? Maintained as in oil change? Much respect to mechanics
My '07 Mountaineer is locking and unlocking like it is possessed. It is also causing the horn to beep like I am locking the car. Any ideas what the problem is?
I have a 2003 mountaineer , & mine does the same , Took it to the Ford Dealer & they said my vehicle Security module is Failing & to Replace it . Went on eBay , it's sell for $ 30.00 . I am still waiting on it to come in the mail , so , I can Replace it out . Let's see what Happens . Also , Since then my Vehicle has been Intermittent Dying out when Driving . Very Unsafe--
@@MM-qq9ox please let me know how it goes. This would be awesome if I could fix my car for $30
I have a 2002 mountaineer and the ignition went bad.i put a new ignition on with coded keys.mow they say I have to tow it to a dealership to get it programmed to the car .I don't want to do that.id there a way to have it programmed where it sits? Please help
Tim
Great video one exploder issue with the 02 up wide body is the tip in rear diff whine noise/ max air door broken, blend door broken, actuator popping, anywho being a retired ford tech i delt with many of these. The 4.0 sohc engine is a fantastic engine but like the 3.6 gm engines where timing chain problems are an issue and folks listen people are stupid gm is a stupid company because running a engine 8 thousand miles between oil changes is ludacris. You do this you can expect chain issues. I am old school still stuck with 3000 mile oil changes, 60,000 mile trans flushes, annual coolant flushes says a lot keeping a healthy cooling system in alabama heat. Explorers are plauged with issues but if serviced like any other vehicle can give many trouble free miles. Yes do not use the dorman pos thermostat housing, there is now available and can be found on ebay an all aluminum thermostat housing which i put one on my 04 my wife drove to 590,000 miles with no trans or timing chain issues till the end it jumpped time but still running but rough (travelling hospice nurse) i bought it at 28,000 miles off lease from ford. Yes we had hub bearings, rear end whine (stopped that with a switch to 80/90 dino dope and gobbs of key lock graphite ((May not work for everyone try at your own risk))-), front end components oh transmission servo bore bushing kits installed for delayed gear engauge 5r55 tranny but never a total trans rebuild. other than that it was tough as nails. She's in a 2019 edge sport i bought off lease now hope it will do as well as the explorer.
Muy interesante y completa la información... Muchas gracias...
I like ya mr. Mech a nick!
You do a damn good job! Especially at explaining the prob.... and diagnoses...
When ot comes to this particular vehicle, it is worthy of you to throw in the different scenarios 66⁶6
My 1996 Ford explorer Eddie Bauer Edition 4.0 2wd Automatic kept snapping pioneer flexplates. I looked online no hp aftermarket flexplates. A couple years after abandoning the truck I had problems with a different Ford I bought a 2000 Escort SE. The flexplates broke on it also I replaced, then the new one bent. Finally I called Pioneer the flexplates company a couple of times. The flexplates in both vehicles were 1/16" steel. Finally I found out Pioneer doesn't heat treat the flexplates. That's one reason they break easier. So I heat tempered the one I put in the Ford escort and it never broke but the ignition switch in the steering column caught fire and burned the dash up and steering column. Now I am saving up for another vehicle. The third one in six years. I am not buying a Ford next time.
You better dont
05 sport trac bad ground my cable is melting on alternator. Can't locate the bad ground Can't find schematics anywhere. Please help! Thanks for the videos.
Hey I just picked up a 2002 mercury mountaineer and the windows don’t work so I picked up the power window relay and can’t find where it goes or what the issue is
I'm not sure you're being fair to the Explorer. Overall, these are pretty good cars in the 4th gen. You may be skewed by mostly seeing cars when they have a problem. But there are lots of 200K Explorers out there with only expected maintenance. They might not be a Tacoma, but no one ever asked them to be. The car at the light - not an explorer - or "exploder'. When people are thinking about buying a 10 yr old Explorer, this video makes them think they're looking at $10K in repairs, which isn't even remotely accurate in most cases. If you want to do a video like that, do one on Mercedes.
He's actually being very kind. I've had the luck of owning this POS brand new. Ford sold this vehicle at a lower heavily discounted price than a comparable GM or any other suv in it's class to entice buyers knowing that they would make their money back in repairs further down the road. My transmission went out only 1k miles after the abysmal 36k warranty and then again 90k later. My father is a mechanic , so i was able to repair this garbage relatively cheap up until the plastic chain guides went out @165k even with full synthetic oil changes @ regular intervals. Changing everything from the compressor, engine, transmission x2, almost all suspension components , wheel bearings, radiator, blend doors, window switch, lift gate applique, hinges and the list goes on, most under 150k miles....I know this vehicle like the back of my hand. Ford manufactured this vehicle to deliberately fail in order to make money on the repair side. I truly feel sorry for the customers who had lacked the expertise to repair it themselves and had to spend their hard earned money to keep this Ford scam running. You don't have to take my word for it , I suggest you go over to carcomplaints.com and take a look at which vehicle tops the list @ #1 as the worst vehicle . That website will give you detailed recollections of how much of a nightmare this vehicle really is from thousands of people. If you're planning to purchase this vehicle used please do your own research !
@@michaelmilbrath2062
The one at the light was a Ford Freestyle - I had one before the Explorer - I loved it - great gas mileage compared to the explorers - no issues at 175,000 except for the AC Compressor...but someone rear ended it and totaled it 🙄
Well said! This car, except the timing chain issue and a weaker transmission, is as good as a Toyota 4Runner! As to the timing chain, 4.7L 4Runner needs to do timing belt as well; and the newer 4.6L has a timing cover leak that needs the whole engine out to repair! So far, i don’t see the Ford Explorer to be so bad!