Five problems related to car throttle sticking have been reported for the 1997 Ford Explorer. The most recently reported issues are listed below.
Stopped at a stop sign, went to accelerate and the gas pedal was sticking. Then, vehicle lurched forward when the pedal stopped sticking. Contacted dealer, and was told that the throttle body valve was sticking which caused the problem.
Throttle sticking at accleration especially when engine is cold.
Upon purchase in June 1997, throttle stuck in closed position, especially when first starting up. Ford replaced the throttle plate once in approximately August 1997. The replacement throttle plate failed and was replaced by Ford in approximately November 1998. In June 1999, the throttle has again begun to stick and will probably have to be replaced for the 3rd time. Ford has recognized the problem and extended the warranty on this part to 72,000 miles, but it seems that they are still just replacing the part with another defective part.
Throttle would stick. Started vehicle & shifted into drive. Vehicle shot forward. Driver had collapsed backwards. Took to dealer & mechanic could not locate problem. Called manufacturer. & was informed to keep taking vehicle back until problem is found.
The consumer has experienced the throttle sticking and the engine surging after the brakes were applied. The dealership replaced the throttle body, however problem still exists. (attorney for client).