I have a '97 Explorer that has a rattle or knock that I can feel and hear coming from somewhere between the left front wheel and the steering wheel. It is the worst when going under speeds of 10 mph, and if I'm driving over 30 or 40 mph it won't happen. It is like something is loose and knocking around. It is not very loud, but noticeable. It happens on smooth roads more than bumpy roads. It is worse when going slowly or decelerating down a hill. I've had it in the shop several times for this over the last couple of years, and they can never find anything wrong with it even though they take everything apart. At one point they replaced the left upper control arm and the sway bar links. Each time after they have taken everything apart, it is better like something was tightened, but it evenutally comes back after a week or so. It also seems to be worse when it is hot outside (that's just a hunch - I don't really know this for sure). Does anyone know what this might be? My warranty is up next week, and I would like to get this fixed if it is something covered by that before then!
'97 Explorer Rattle in Front Driver's Side Wheel
Jun 14, 2004
7 Replies
Has anyone taken the time to road test the car and verify the noise? I see too much tendency for young techs to rip into something without knowing what it is they're looking for.
Both times in the shop, the tech said they road tested it. They usually had to take it out several times before hearing (and feel) what I am talking about.
I had a similar noise once. A friend had helped me do some work on my ride and he had neglected to tighten the bolts on the brake caliper. I had taken it to a shop and it was put on a lift but the tech couldn't find anything. I only figured out what it was after I had taken the wheel off and had my head under the fender for 15 minutes.
I had a rattle like that in our Camry, it baffled several auto shops, turned out to be the bonnet.
Bees?
Bill Funk Change "g" to "a"
I'd love to hear the fix for this. I think I have the same thing on my '96. For mine, it's worse in the cold - I normally start noticing it in the Fall. Same also about slow speeds, going down hill, especially with the brakes on (will have to check the caliper bolts like a post mentioned). Once it warmed up this summer I really don't notice it any more. Have had the dealer take a look as well as the alignment shop, both say nothing found. During this period did end up replacing upper and lower ball joints (due to wear), and upper control arm bushings (lowers were not replaced with the ball joints, kind of wish I had), sway bar links (recall), but the sound is still there. Have poked around in there myself and can't find anything that feels loose. Not sure why temperature makes a difference either. Did see a TSB once about kevlar pads in the torsion bar adjuster wearing through and causing suspension noise that seems to have no known source, but I haven't looked into that one yet (after all, it won't start bugging me again until this Fall).
I have a similar reciprocating noise from the driver's side front wheel. Sounds kind of like gravel in a hubcap. It might be brake related as the noise seems to stop upon application of the brakes. The Ford tech said everything looks normal. Could the front hub not be completely disengaging in "Auto 4WD"? Thanks.
Steve R
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