One problem related to steering pinion shaft has been reported for the 2004 Ford Explorer. The most recently reported issues are listed below. Please also check out the statistics and reliability analysis of the 2004 Ford Explorer based on all problems reported for the 2004 Explorer.
All four seals where leaking including pinion seals. Clunking noise 40 to 50mph when you let go of the gas ,holds back,heater gauge+mph gauge don't work most. Of the time. Paint chipping away all over. Replaced all seals 5 times +yoke cvhalf shaft. Replaced front differential still making the noise. Poor lighting at night. It has a miss fire gave it a tuneup and still is doing it. Radio volume won't turn down it goes louder when turning down.