Seven problems related to suspension torsion bar have been reported for the 1997 Ford Explorer. The most recently reported issues are listed below.
When the vehicle was parked, the torsion bar snapped.
While traveling at 25 mph or less I hit a slight bump and heard a very load bang. The front left drivers side of the vehicle abruptly dropped, the vehicle swerved into the opposing lane and tend to roll. Luckily there was no oncoming traffic and I quickly stopped. The Ford dealer replaced the torsion bar and acknowledged that this was a very dangerous failure. However they refused to cover the repair cost. The repair cost me $171. 67. Due to their refusal to cover a significant safety issue and other media coverage of Explorer problems, I sold the vehicle this week.
Front torsion bar broke while consumer was driving at 20 mph, and almost lost control of the vehicle. Failure not related to road conditions.
The sway bar broke, which caused a noise.
Vehicle leans to the left, vehicle taken to dealership, adjustment to torsion bar made, did not appear to correct problem, vehicle taken back to dealership, owner was told bar or underlying springs need to be replaced. Cj.
Front sway bar broke, could puncture tire. Manufacturer will be notified. Please provide further information.
Alldata. Com and other sites show a safety recall for this vehicle year/model for the front sway bar. However, upon numerous requests to the service dept. At said dealer, they say it doesn't affect our particular vehicle. But, our vehicle's sway bar has been making a popping/squeeking noise almost since it was purchased. We want Ford to cover the replacement, before a serious accident occurs.