why does my Ford Explorer Fifth Generation (2011-2019) vibrate at high speeds?

Ford Explorer Fifth Generation (2011-2019)

Error Codes

2-4 hours

Time

medium

Difficulty

medium

Severity

3 min read

572 words

Problem Statement

Learn how to diagnose and fix high-speed vibrations in Ford Explorer (2011-2019). Step-by-step guide with diagnostic procedures and repair instructions.

Affected Component

Suspension

Estimated Time

2-4 hours

⚠️ Safety Warnings

Important safety information - read before proceeding

•Always use jack stands when working under the vehicle.
•Ensure the vehicle is in gear or park mode with the parking brake engaged when lifting.

Symptoms

•Vibration felt through the steering wheel and/or floorboard
•Noise increase coinciding with vibrations
•Steering wheel may shake or feel unsteady
•Vibrations become more pronounced above certain speeds (e.g., 55 mph)
•Possible uneven tire wear observed

Diagnostic Steps

1
Inspect tires for proper inflation and visible damage or wear patterns.
2
Check wheel balance by taking the vehicle to a tire shop for balancing diagnostics.
3
Examine suspension components for wear, including bushings, ball joints, and tie rods.
4
Inspect driveshaft and U-joints for signs of wear or damage.
5
Review alignment settings and perform a wheel alignment if necessary.

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

•Lug wrench
•Jack and jack stands
•Tire pressure gauge
•Torque wrench
•Socket set

Parts Required

•Tires (if damaged)
•Suspension components (if needed)
•U-joints (if needed)

Related Faults

Share this solution

Comments

No comments yet

Be the first to share your thoughts

Back to Generation

Diagnostic Steps

1
Inspect tires for proper inflation and visible damage or wear patterns.
2
Check wheel balance by taking the vehicle to a tire shop for balancing diagnostics.
3
Examine suspension components for wear, including bushings, ball joints, and tie rods.
4
Inspect driveshaft and U-joints for signs of wear or damage.
5
Review alignment settings and perform a wheel alignment if necessary.

Solution

1. Preparation

Gather necessary tools and parts.
Park the vehicle on a level surface and engage the parking brake.
Ensure the vehicle is cool before starting repairs.

2. Tire Inspection and Replacement

Sub-steps:
1. Remove the wheel covers or hubcaps if equipped.
2. Loosen lug nuts using a lug wrench without completely removing them.
3. Lift the vehicle using a jack and secure it with jack stands.
4. Remove the lug nuts and take off the tires.
5. Inspect each tire for uneven wear, bulges, or punctures.
6. If damaged, replace tires with OEM or quality aftermarket options.

Tools Required:

Lug wrench
Jack and jack stands
Tire pressure gauge

3. Wheel Balancing

Sub-steps:
1. Take the vehicle to a tire shop equipped with a balancing machine.
2. Remove the tires from the vehicle and mount them on the balancing machine.
3. Follow the machine's instructions to balance each tire.
4. Reinstall the balanced tires onto the vehicle, ensuring correct torque on lug nuts.

Tools Required:

Torque wrench (for lug nuts)

4. Suspension Inspection and Repair

Sub-steps:
1. Inspect all suspension components for visible wear or damage.
2. Replace any worn or damaged components such as bushings, ball joints, or tie rods.
3. Reassemble any removed components and ensure all fasteners are properly torqued.

Tools Required:

Socket set
Torque wrench

5. Driveshaft and U-Joint Inspection

Sub-steps:
1. Inspect the driveshaft for any signs of damage or bending.
2. Check U-joints for play or wear; replace if necessary.
3. Reinstall any parts removed during inspection, ensuring proper torque specifications.

Tools Required:

Socket set
Torque wrench