Seven problems related to front suspension lower ball joint have been reported for the 2001 Ford Explorer Sport. The most recently reported issues are listed below.
Realized both lower ball joints were bad, not sure of exact date went bad just purchased vehicle as "Ford certified" but Ford will not cover repairs .
While driving consumer heard a loud noise coming from the front end. Dealership replaced in October, 2003 the lower ball joint. Five months later, needed to replace the upper and lower ball joints.
2001 Explorer Sport had bad ball joint on front passenger suspension.
Lower ball joints in 2001 Ford explorer bad at only 46,000 miles.
Both lower ball joints and right upper control arm have been replaced on the consumer's 2001 Ford explorer on 3 different occasions. Updated 02/07/06.
Lower ball joints had to be replaced at 46000 miles. Totally cupped and ruined the tires that they had just put on the vehicle from the tire recall.
Front ball joints failed at 36400 miles. Clunk in rear of vehicle as it stops, from 6000 miles.