Five problems related to steering tie rod assembly have been reported for the 1998 Ford Explorer. The most recently reported issues are listed below.
Power steering gear box is leaking. Both the gearbox and tie rods need replaced. Only 75,000 miles on the vehicle.
Consumer hears a grinding noise when slowing down and applying or releasing the brakes. Vehicle was taken to the dealer and inner tie rod had deteriorated from wear and tear. The part was replaced.
Consumer stated vehicle experiencd premature wear of the front ball joints and tie rods, dealer has been notified.
Tie rod on front passenger side broke in half causing Explorer to drift over into another vehicle.
There was squeaking noise coming from front of vehicle as if shocks were going bad in vehicle. In March, dealership informed her that there was nothing wrong with vehicle. On may 11, 2001- after the warranty expired, dealership informed consumer that following components needed to be replaced: both upper ball joints, right outer tie rod , and alignment. Please provide any additional information/attachments.