FAULTBASE
NEWSASKCars
© 2025 FAULTBASE
All rights reserved.
v2.0.0 • Production
ContactPrivacyImpressum
Home/Cars/Ford/Explorer/Fifth Generation (2011-2019)/why does my Ford Explorer's exhaust smell like rotten eggs

why does my Ford Explorer's exhaust smell like rotten eggs

Ford Explorer Fifth Generation (2011-2019)

Severity: mediumDifficulty: medium2-4 hours
3 min read
484 words

Problem Statement

Learn how to diagnose and fix the rotten egg smell from the exhaust of your Ford Explorer. Step-by-step guide with symptoms, diagnostics, and repair instructions.

Component
Exhaust System
Repair Time
2-4 hours

Safety Warnings

  • ⚠Disconnect the battery before working on electrical systems.
  • ⚠Allow the exhaust system to cool completely before inspection or repair.

Symptoms

  • •Strong sulfur or rotten egg odor from the exhaust
  • •Check engine light illuminated
  • •Decreased engine performance or power
  • •Poor fuel economy
  • •Emissions test failure

Diagnostic Steps

  1. 1Scan the vehicle's OBD-II system for any trouble codes related to the catalytic converter or fuel system.
  2. 2Inspect the catalytic converter for physical damage or signs of overheating.
  3. 3Check the condition of the fuel injectors for clogs or malfunctions.
  4. 4Test the fuel pressure to ensure it meets manufacturer specifications.
  5. 5Examine the air intake system for leaks or blockages that could affect the air-fuel mixture.

Solution

Solution

1. Preparation

  • Gather necessary tools and parts.
  • Ensure the vehicle is parked on a level surface and the engine is cool.
  • Disconnect the negative battery terminal to prevent electrical issues.

2. Inspect and Replace the Catalytic Converter

  • Inspect: Visually check the catalytic converter for signs of physical damage or excessive heat discoloration.
  • Remove:
    • Use a socket set to unbolt the exhaust flanges connecting the catalytic converter to the exhaust system.
    • Remove any heat shields or brackets if necessary.
  • Replace:
    • Install the new catalytic converter in reverse order of removal.
    • Ensure all bolts are tightened to the manufacturer’s torque specifications (generally around 30-50 lb-ft).

3. Replace Fuel Injectors (if necessary)

  • Remove:
    • Disconnect the fuel lines and electrical connectors from the fuel injectors.
    • Use a socket set to remove the fuel rail and injectors.
  • Install:
    • Install new fuel injectors, ensuring the O-rings are lubricated.
    • Reattach the fuel rail and reconnect the fuel lines and electrical connectors.

4. Check and Adjust Air-Fuel Mixture

  • Inspect: Examine the air intake system for any leaks or blockages.
  • Adjust: If equipped with an adjustable fuel pressure regulator, set the fuel pressure according to the manufacturer specifications.

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

  • OBD-II scanner
  • Socket set
  • Torque wrench
  • Fuel pressure gauge
  • Screwdrivers

Parts Required

  • Catalytic converter (if damaged)
  • Fuel injectors (if faulty)
  • Gaskets and O-rings for the installation

Additional Information

Component

Exhaust System

Repair Time

2-4 hours

Difficulty

medium

Severity

medium

Tools

5 items

Parts

3 items

Related Faults

Discover similar issues

  1. why does my Ford Explorer Fifth Generation (2011-2019) battery die after sitting for a few days

    Learn how to diagnose and fix battery issues in Ford Explorer 2011-2019. Step-by-step guide with symptoms, diagnostic steps, and repair instructions.

    Component:Electrical
    Symptoms
    • •Battery warning light illuminated on the dashboard
    • •Difficulty starting the engine after the vehicle has been parked
    • +{count} more
  2. my Ford Explorer makes a popping noise when turning what could be wrong

    Learn how to diagnose and fix popping noise when turning in Ford Explorer. Step-by-step guide with diagnostic procedures and repair instructions.

    Component:Suspension
    Symptoms
    • •Popping noise when turning
    • •Possible clunking sound upon acceleration or deceleration
    • +{count} more
  3. my Ford Explorer makes a whining noise when turning what's wrong

    Learn how to diagnose and fix whining noise when turning in Ford Explorer. Step-by-step guide with diagnostic procedures and repair instructions.

    Component:Steering
    Symptoms
    • •Whining noise while turning the steering wheel
    • •Difficulty in steering or increased effort required
    • +{count} more
  4. my Ford Explorer makes a whining noise when accelerating, what's wrong

    Learn how to diagnose and fix whining noise during acceleration in Ford Explorer. Step-by-step guide with diagnostic procedures and repair instruction...

    Component:Transmission
    Symptoms
    • •Whining noise becomes more pronounced during acceleration
    • •Noise diminishes or disappears at idle
    • +{count} more
  5. my Ford Explorer makes a popping noise when I drive over bumps what is wrong

    Learn how to diagnose and fix popping noise in Ford Explorer suspension. Step-by-step guide with diagnostic procedures and repair instructions.

    Component:Suspension
    Symptoms
    • •Popping or clunking noise when driving over bumps
    • •Possible rattling noise during regular driving
    • +{count} more
  6. what does it mean when my Ford Explorer ABS light comes on

    Learn how to diagnose and fix the ABS light issue on your Ford Explorer. Step-by-step guide with symptoms, diagnostic steps, and repair instructions.

    Component:Brakes
    Symptoms
    • •ABS warning light illuminated on the dashboard
    • •Reduced braking performance or longer stopping distances
    • +{count} more

Share this solution

Comments

Sign in to share your thoughts

Sign In

No comments yet

Be the first to share your thoughts

Back to Generation