Problem Reports
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1997 Ford Explorer Problems
Worn Timing Chain Cassettes May Cause Rattling Noise From Engine
A rattling noise from the engine may indicate that the timing chain cassette is worn. Our technicians tell us that installing an updated cassette and timing chain tensioner should correct this concern.
Rear Wiper May Not Fully Contact Rear Window
The rear window wiper may not fully contact the rear window. Our technicians tell us that replacing both the wiper blade and wiper arm will generally correct this issue.
Vacuum Leak From Intake Manifold O-Ring Gaskets
The intake manifold O-ring gaskets commonly leak, causing stalling and poor idle quality; the Check Engine Light will illuminate.
Dry Excluder Seals May Cause Squealing in Front Wheels Under 30 MPH
4wd vehicles may develop a squealing noise coming from the front wheels when driving below 30 mph. This is generally caused by dry excluder seals, lubricating the seals will commonly correct this concern.
Heater Stuck on Hottest Setting Due to Broken Heater Blend Door
A failed heater blend door or actuator can cause the temperature control for the HVAC system to stop working. A clicking sound from the dash area would commonly indicate an actuator fault. If the heater gets stuck on the hottest setting, the heater blend door may be broken requiring replacement of the heater box to repair the issue.
Rear Wiper Not Working
The rear wiper may stop working. This could be due to a rear wiper motor that has failed requiring replacement.
Rough Idle When Cold Due to Upper Intake Manifold Gasket Leak
The Check Engine Light will illuminate and the engine will idle roughly when cold. There are updated upper intake manifold gaskets to resolve the problem.
Loud howling noise from air intake
Both V6 and V8 ford engines from various years sometimes experience a very loud low pitched moan or howl that sounds as if it is coming from the air intake area..
The culprit is the Idle Air Control Valve. (I.A.C.).
It is possible to remove and clean the IAC with the proper care but it is not advised to do so...Although it may work for a short time, it will eventually fail again and possibly force you to call a towing service when you le...