my Ford Explorer is pulling to one side when driving what should I do

Ford Explorer Fifth Generation (2011-2019)

Error Codes

1-3 hours

Time

medium

Difficulty

medium

Severity

3 min read

549 words

Problem Statement

Learn how to diagnose and fix pulling issues in your Ford Explorer. Step-by-step guide with symptoms, diagnostic steps, and repair instructions.

Affected Component

Suspension

Estimated Time

1-3 hours

⚠️ Safety Warnings

Important safety information - read before proceeding

•Always engage the parking brake and use wheel chocks before lifting the vehicle.
•Allow the vehicle to cool before working on suspension components to avoid burns.

Symptoms

•Vehicle pulls to the left or right during straight driving
•Uneven tire wear or bald spots on tires
•Steering wheel is off-center when driving straight
•Vibration in the steering wheel
•Noise from suspension components when driving over bumps

Diagnostic Steps

1
Inspect tire pressure on all four tires to ensure they are at the manufacturer's recommended levels.
2
Check for uneven tire wear patterns that may indicate alignment or suspension issues.
3
Perform a visual inspection of the suspension components (struts, shocks, control arms) for signs of damage or wear.
4
Test drive the vehicle on a flat, straight road to confirm the pulling direction and note any changes in handling.
5
Use a tape measure to check the front wheel alignment (toe adjustment) against factory specifications.

Solution

💡 Expert Tip

For complex repairs like this, consider taking photos at each step. This helps if you need to reverse a step or consult with a mechanic. Also, keep all removed parts organized - you may need to reference them during reassembly.

Verification

After completing the repair, verify that the issue has been resolved:

✓Test the affected component to ensure it functions correctly
✓Check for any error codes or warning lights
✓Monitor the vehicle for a few days to ensure the issue does not recur

Prevention Tips

To prevent this issue from occurring again:

•Follow the manufacturer's recommended maintenance schedule
•Address warning signs early before they develop into major issues
•Use quality parts and fluids recommended for your vehicle
•Keep detailed records of all repairs and maintenance

Tools & Equipment Required

•Tire pressure gauge
•Air compressor
•Jack
•Jack stands
•Lug wrench
•Alignment rack or alignment tools
•Socket set
•Torque wrench
•Suspension tool kit

Parts Required

•Replacement tires (if necessary)
•Suspension components (if worn or damaged)

Related Faults

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Diagnostic Steps

1
Inspect tire pressure on all four tires to ensure they are at the manufacturer's recommended levels.
2
Check for uneven tire wear patterns that may indicate alignment or suspension issues.
3
Perform a visual inspection of the suspension components (struts, shocks, control arms) for signs of damage or wear.
4
Test drive the vehicle on a flat, straight road to confirm the pulling direction and note any changes in handling.
5
Use a tape measure to check the front wheel alignment (toe adjustment) against factory specifications.

Solution

1. Preparation

Gather necessary tools and parts.
Ensure the vehicle is parked on a flat surface and the engine is off.
Safety: Engage the parking brake and use wheel chocks.

2. Tire Pressure Adjustment

Tools Required: Tire pressure gauge, air compressor
Use a tire pressure gauge to check the pressure of all tires.
Inflate or deflate each tire to match the manufacturer's recommended pressure found on the driver's door jamb.

3. Tire Rotation (if uneven wear is present)

Tools Required: Jack, jack stands, lug wrench
Loosen the lug nuts on all tires while the vehicle is on the ground.
Use the jack to lift the vehicle and secure it with jack stands.
Remove the tires and rotate them according to the recommended pattern (front to back and side to side).
Reinstall the tires and tighten the lug nuts to the manufacturer’s specified torque.

4. Wheel Alignment

Tools Required: Alignment rack or alignment tools
Take the vehicle to a professional alignment shop for a four-wheel alignment.
Ensure that all alignment angles are adjusted to the manufacturer's specifications.

5. Suspension Component Replacement (if necessary)

Tools Required: Socket set, torque wrench, suspension tool kit
If any damaged components are found during inspection, replace them as necessary.
Follow the manufacturer's specifications for torque values during installation.