my Ford Explorer makes a loud popping noise when I turn what's wrong

Solution

1. Preparation

• Gather necessary tools and parts.
• Ensure the vehicle is on a level surface and secure with jack stands.
• Place wheel chocks behind the rear tires.

2. Remove Front Wheels

• Use a lug wrench to loosen the lug nuts before lifting the vehicle.
• Lift the vehicle using a hydraulic jack and secure it with jack stands.
• Remove the front wheels to access suspension components.

3. Inspect and Replace CV Joints

• Inspection: Check the CV joints for torn boots and excessive play.
• Replacement:
  1. If damaged, remove the axle nut using a socket.
  2. Disconnect the lower control arm from the wheel hub.
  3. Pull out the CV axle from the transmission and replace it with a new one.
  4. Reinstall the lower control arm and axle nut, tightening to the manufacturer’s torque specifications.

4. Check and Replace Sway Bar Links

• Inspect sway bar links for wear or damage.
• If worn, remove the bolts securing the sway bar links to the sway bar and control arm.
• Install new sway bar links and tighten to specifications.

5. Inspect and Replace Struts/Shocks

• Inspection: Look for leaks or physical damage.
• Replacement:
  1. Remove the top strut mount nuts using a socket.
  2. Unbolt the lower strut attachments from the control arm.
  3. Replace with a new strut/shock assembly.
  4. Reinstall all fasteners and torque them to manufacturer specifications.

6. Reassemble and Lower Vehicle

• Reinstall front wheels and hand-tighten the lug nuts.
• Lower the vehicle to the ground and then torque the lug nuts to the manufacturer’s specifications.