why does my Ford Explorer shake when I'm driving at high speeds

Ford Explorer Sixth Generation (2020-present)

Error Codes

2-4 hours

Time

medium

Difficulty

medium

Severity

3 min read

518 words

Problem Statement

Discover the causes and solutions for Ford Explorer shaking at high speeds. Step-by-step guide for diagnosing and fixing suspension issues.

Affected Component

Suspension

Estimated Time

2-4 hours

⚠️ Safety Warnings

Important safety information - read before proceeding

•Always ensure the vehicle is securely supported on jack stands before working underneath.
•Allow tires to cool before inspection or handling.

Symptoms

•Vibrations noticeable in the steering wheel or throughout the vehicle
•Increased shaking when accelerating or maintaining high speeds
•Potential noise accompanying the vibrations
•Uneven tire wear visible upon inspection
•Difficulty maintaining a straight line while driving

Diagnostic Steps

1
Inspect tire condition and pressure; look for uneven wear or damage.
2
Check the wheel balance; use a wheel balancer to determine if any wheels are imbalanced.
3
Examine the suspension components for wear or damage, including bushings and shocks.
4
Test for alignment issues; perform a four-wheel alignment check.
5
Look for any drivetrain issues, such as worn CV joints or U-joints.
6
Scan for any error codes that might indicate electronic stability control or traction issues.

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

•Jack
•Jack stands
•Lug wrench
•Tire pressure gauge
•Torque wrench
•Wheel balancer
•Socket set
•Alignment machine

Parts Required

•New tires (if necessary)
•Suspension components (if worn)
•CV joints or U-joints (if damaged)

Related Faults

Share this solution

Comments

No comments yet

Be the first to share your thoughts

Back to Generation

Diagnostic Steps

1
Inspect tire condition and pressure; look for uneven wear or damage.
2
Check the wheel balance; use a wheel balancer to determine if any wheels are imbalanced.
3
Examine the suspension components for wear or damage, including bushings and shocks.
4
Test for alignment issues; perform a four-wheel alignment check.
5
Look for any drivetrain issues, such as worn CV joints or U-joints.
6
Scan for any error codes that might indicate electronic stability control or traction issues.

Solution

1. Tire Inspection and Replacement

Sub-steps:
- Jack up the vehicle and remove the wheels.
- Inspect each tire for uneven wear, bulges, or punctures.
- Replace any damaged tires with new ones that match specifications.
Tools Required: Jack, jack stands, lug wrench, tire pressure gauge.

2. Wheel Balancing

Sub-steps:
- Remove the wheels and take them to a tire shop or use a wheel balancer.
- Attach weights to the wheel as per the balancer’s readings.
- Reinstall wheels and torque to manufacturer specifications (usually around 100-120 ft-lbs).
Tools Required: Torque wrench, wheel balancer.

3. Suspension Component Inspection

Sub-steps:
- Inspect shocks, struts, and bushings for wear and damage.
- Replace any worn components with OEM or equivalent parts.
- Reassemble any components removed for inspection.
Tools Required: Socket set, pry bar, torque wrench.

4. Wheel Alignment

Sub-steps:
- After ensuring tires are balanced and suspension is in good condition, take the vehicle to an alignment shop.
- Adjust camber, caster, and toe settings to vehicle specifications.
Tools Required: Alignment machine (typically requires professional service).

5. Drivetrain Inspection

Sub-steps:
- Check CV joints and U-joints for play or damage.
- Replace any faulty joints with new components.
Tools Required: Socket set, pry bar.