FAULTBASE
NEWSASKCars
© 2025 FAULTBASE
All rights reserved.
v2.0.0 • Production
ContactPrivacyImpressum
Home/Cars/Ford/Explorer/Sixth Generation (2020-present)/my Ford Explorer's lights keep flickering what could be the issue

my Ford Explorer's lights keep flickering what could be the issue

Ford Explorer Sixth Generation (2020-present)

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

Problem Statement

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

Component
Electrical
Repair Time
2-4 hours

Safety Warnings

  • ⚠Disconnect the battery before working on electrical systems to avoid shock or short circuits.
  • ⚠Allow the engine to cool before inspecting or replacing the alternator.

Symptoms

  • •Flickering headlights and interior lights
  • •Dim lights at idle or during accessory use
  • •Battery warning light illuminated on the dashboard
  • •Unusual noises from the alternator or battery area
  • •Occasional stalling or difficulty starting the vehicle

Diagnostic Steps

  1. 1Check Battery Voltage: Use a multimeter to measure the battery voltage with the engine off and running.
  2. 2Inspect Battery Connections: Visually check for corrosion or loose connections at the battery terminals.
  3. 3Examine Alternator Output: Test the alternator with a multimeter to ensure it is producing the correct voltage (13.5 - 14.5 volts) while the engine is running.
  4. 4Look for Wiring Issues: Inspect wiring harnesses for any signs of wear, damage, or loose connections that could affect electrical flow.
  5. 5Scan for Error Codes: Use an OBD-II scanner to check for any relevant error codes pertaining to the electrical system.
  6. 6Test Ground Connections: Ensure that ground connections are tight and free of corrosion, as poor grounds can lead to flickering lights.

Solution

Solution

1. Preparation

  • Tools Required: Multimeter, socket set, wire brush, dielectric grease, OBD-II scanner.
  • Disconnect the negative battery terminal to ensure safety during repairs.

2. Battery Maintenance

  1. Inspect battery terminals for corrosion. Clean with a wire brush if necessary.
  2. Tighten the terminal connections to ensure a solid connection.
  3. Apply dielectric grease to the terminals to prevent future corrosion.

3. Alternator Inspection

  1. Locate the alternator and inspect for physical damage or wear.
  2. Disconnect the electrical connector from the alternator.
  3. Use a multimeter to check the output voltage while the engine is running; it should be between 13.5 - 14.5 volts.
  4. If the alternator is faulty, remove it using a socket set and replace it with a new or refurbished unit.

4. Wiring and Grounding

  1. Inspect the wiring harness for any visible damage or frayed wires.
  2. Repair or replace any damaged wiring as needed.
  3. Check all ground connections; clean and tighten as necessary to ensure good contact.

5. Reconnect Battery and Test

  1. Reconnect the negative battery terminal.
  2. Start the vehicle and observe the lights while revving the engine to see if the flickering persists.

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

  • Multimeter
  • Socket set
  • Wire brush
  • Dielectric grease
  • OBD-II scanner

Parts Required

  • New alternator (if necessary)
  • Battery terminals (if corroded beyond repair)

Additional Information

Component

Electrical

Repair Time

2-4 hours

Difficulty

medium

Severity

medium

Tools

5 items

Parts

2 items

Related Faults

Discover similar issues

  1. Why does my Ford Explorer 2020 have a rough idle?

    Learn how to diagnose and fix a rough idle issue in your 2020 Ford Explorer with detailed symptoms, diagnostic steps, and repair instructions.

    Component:Engine
    Symptoms
    • •Engine vibrations felt during idle
    • •Unsteady RPM while at a stop
    • +{count} more
  2. How can I fix the Ford Explorer 2021's Bluetooth connectivity issues?

    Learn how to troubleshoot and fix Bluetooth connectivity issues in your 2021 Ford Explorer with systematic steps and required tools.

    Component:Bluetooth system
    Symptoms
    • •Phone not connecting to the car's Bluetooth.
    • •Dropped connections during calls or audio playback.
    • +{count} more
  3. What are the symptoms of a failing timing belt in the Ford Explorer Sixth Generation?

    Learn about the symptoms of a failing timing belt in the Ford Explorer Sixth Generation (2020-present) and how to diagnose potential issues.

    Component:timing belt
    Symptoms
    • •Engine Misfiring
    • •Unusual Engine Noise
    • +{count} more
  4. What are the signs of transmission issues in the 2021 Ford Explorer?

    Learn about the common signs of transmission issues in the 2021 Ford Explorer, including symptoms, diagnostic steps, and repair instructions.

    Component:transmission
    Symptoms
    • •Slipping Gears
    • •Delayed Engagement
    • +{count} more
  5. What should I check if my Ford Explorer 2021 has a loud exhaust noise?

    Learn how to diagnose and repair loud exhaust noise in a 2021 Ford Explorer with detailed steps and required tools.

    Component:exhaust system
    Symptoms
    • •Increased Noise Level
    • •Vibration
    • +{count} more
  6. How can I fix the air conditioning issues in my 2021 Ford Explorer?

    Learn how to diagnose and fix air conditioning issues in your 2021 Ford Explorer with step-by-step instructions and required tools.

    Component:Air Conditioning System
    Symptoms
    • •No Cold Air
    • •Weak Airflow
    • +{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