13 problems related to automatic transmission column shift have been reported for the 1997 Ford Explorer. The most recently reported issues are listed below.
Tranfer case will lock up four wheel drive. And there was difficulty in steering. See service bullentin 99-14-2.
While driving steering was stiff, and consumer could hear a grinding noise in front end of vehicle. When making a turn felt like wheels were going to lock up. Vehicle was towed to a Ford dealer, and they stated that front and rear sensor in transfer case had gone bad. Consumer stated that on may 4th problem reoccurred. Please provide any further information.
Transfer case failed with no reason. The 4 wheel drive is never used. When being fixed they found chuncks of metal in the transfer case. It appeared to be defective. Ford is is denying this.
- wheel drive high and low activated while driving at 30mph causing the steering to lock which resulted in a crash.
4-wheel drive activated while driving at 30mph, causing the steering to lock which resulted in a crash.
Vehicle has been taken in 4 times - some parts replaced -dealer can not find problem. Ford motor company contacted not resolved. Vehicle 4- wheel drive low and high lights blink while driving then the vehicle will not go into 4 wheel drive. After you turn off car and restart the system resets and 4 wheel drive works. This problem could be dangerious and could cause an accident if 4 wheel drive does not work and this would also probably include auto 4 wheel drive mode for slippery conditions.
Transfer case went out traveling between speeds of 40-60 mph, no pulling power in gear.
While driving vehicle would automatically go into 4- wheel drive. Cannot drive on dry payment when in 4- wheel drive. Vheicle is heavy going for steering. Dealer reset computer & could not find anything wrong.
While driving along at 25-3m mph in rain, and after engaging 4-whhel drive, vehicle flipped over on its top.
4 wheel drive indicator light flashes.
While traveling 55 mph with snow on pavement consumer heard noise under vehicle. All 4 wheels locked up, causing truck to rollover. Manufacturer has been notified. Please provide further information.
Transfer case bearing broke while driving, causing excessive shimmering and shaking, driver lost control and the vehicle went off the road immediately. After repairs, main driveshaft bearing failed with same result.
Vehicle would make a "grinding" noise while accelerating and stopping. A dealership and independent mechanic concluded that noise was coming from transfer case, v8 engine, automatic transmission, all-wheel drive. Please provide any additional information / documentation.