1997 Ford Explorer suspension problems
105 owner complaints filed with NHTSA name the suspension on the 1997 Ford Explorer — 6% of all complaints for this model year.
What owners report
“Tl* the contact owns a 1997 ford explorer. The contact stated while driving 50 mph, the vehicle started to shake abnormally, the contact was unable to drive in 4 wheel drive. The contact stated the check gauge warning light was illuminated. The vehicle was taken to an independent mechanic where it…”
filed May 3, 2021
“My lights don't work stabilizing bar is bad,speed control dose not work security key code not working,door controls do not work.wiper work sometimes.ball joint are bad, tires wearing bad,,bushings are very bad.transmission is starting to slip,all wheel drive does not work, it grinding sound.heaf…”
filed Apr 12, 2019
Verbatim excerpts from complaints filed with NHTSA. Reports are not independently verified.
Related recalls
- VEHICLE DESCRIPTION: SPORT UTILITY VEHICLESCampaign 00V402000 · Nov 28, 2000
Related service bulletins
Various noise issues from the rear leaf springs while driving. *tt
16735 · Service Bulletin/Repair Instructions · issued Apr 1, 2003
Suspension problems in other Explorer years
| Year | Reports | Share |
|---|---|---|
| 2025 Explorer | 3 | 3% |
| 2024 Explorer | 3 | 16% |
| 2023 Explorer | 13 | 13% |
| 2022 Explorer | 11 | 4% |
| 2021 Explorer | 15 | 4% |
| 2020 Explorer | 35 | 3% |
| 2019 Explorer | 10 | 3% |
| 2018 Explorer | 21 | 3% |
| 2017 Explorer | 56 | 3% |
| 2016 Explorer | 73 | 3% |
| 2015 Explorer | 82 | 5% |
| 2014 Explorer | 102 | 6% |
Other reported problem areas on the 1997 Ford Explorer
Counts are unique NHTSA complaints naming this component group. Complaints are unverified owner reports; mileage is computed only from complaints that included a usable odometer reading.