2004 Explorer XLT Sport V8 4WD engaging in turns

I was wondering if anyone else has the same problem:

I recently purchased (350 miles) a 2004 Explorer Sport V8 with the 4wd auto, 4wd hi and 4wd lo. When I turn the truck in 4wd auto, on pavement, and proceed slowly, the 4wd constantly goes in and out causing the truck to jerk. You can hear it engage and disengage. It will go in and out of 4wd about 5 times when making a 90 degree sharp turn. I took it back to the dealership and they told me that this was "common". If this is "common", I don't think that I want to be a Ford owner. It is really annoying.

Please let me know if anyone is familar with this issue. Also, If you know who to contact (other than the dealer) such as Ford Corp. office, please let me know. Thanks in advance for your input.

Reply to
Mike
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BS. Take it back and tell them to fix it. This is, in no way, common.

Let them know you'll involve your attorney general if they refuse to do anything about it. Maybe your local news would enjoy dragging them through the mud. Reporters seem to like doing that.

Check the ford website. I'm sure all the contact info is there.

Reply to
Richard

It is also dangerous. I have a '97, 5-speed. The 4WD engages during turns on dry surfaces. In one instance, it snapped the drive shaft within the transmission right in the middle of oncoming traffic in an intersection, stopping the vehicle and necessitating replacement of the tranny, transfer case and clutch. Within months it was doing it again. A mechanic I trust tells me that he believes either the Explorer's computer or the 4WD wheel sensors are faulty and telling the 4WD drive motor to engage. Every Ford dealer I have spoken with has a different answer. I am still looking for answers myself.

Reply to
steve300

I agree .... BS!!!! Do yourself a favor and start documenting the crap out of this. Also, insist that the dealer give you a service receipt each time they look at the vehicle. Keep a very detailed journal of all your conversations with the dealer and FordMoCo. Start researching the Lemon Laws in your state. Also find the web site for your state's Attorney General, Motor Vehicle Administration, and the Better Business Bureau. They usually have specific forms and requirements for Lemon Law claims. Most states require that an auto manufacturer correct a single problem within 3 or 4 attempts, or any number of problems within a certain period of time (usually 30-45 days). BUT, you only have a certain period of time (usually

12-15 months) or mileage (usually before 12-15k miles) from the date of your new vehicle purchase to take avantage of the Lemon Law. FordMoCo must then either replace the vehicle, or refund your money (less an allowance for usage).

Google Lemon Law AND [your state] and you'll get all kinds of stuff.

I've been there - done that - and won. Had a problem with ABS and TCS on our 2003 Accord EX V-6 that couldn't be resolved. The vehicle spent 45 days in the garage over a 9-month period. After Honda MoCo found out I was serious, had documented EVERYTHING, and had informed the Attorney General's office and BBB, they went out of their way to replace the vehicle for us.

It's lots of work, but well worth the effort.

Good luck!

Reply to
Custers

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Had a 2002 V8 4x4 4wd, same setup as you describe. I had a similar problem that "felt" like the 4wd turning on/off during tight turns. Slow sharp turns either forward of backing.

Went to the dealer a couple of times thinking it was the rotation sensors but it turned out to be, are you ready for this, Air in the power steering system!

That's right. They bled the power steering system and the problem never happened again.

Only happened when the wheel was turned lock to lock and tires moving. Don't know what to say, but that solved the problem.

Good luck!

Reply to
Harlan

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