2017 Explorer Tick and leak

[Bamamedic9]

Hello peeps, new poster here. Hoping you geniuses can give me a hand.
My 2017 Explorer, all of the sudden had a coolant smell. Checked the coolant and it was low. Topped it off, then happened again. I have a small leak somewhere I cant find. The next issue the right side of the motor has developed a tick that starts when you crank it and doesn't go away. Faster you go quicker it goes. Wondering if it is a lifter or something like that. Anyone else have these issues? Fixes recommended or should I just go ahead and take it to the shop? Thanks for your guys' help.

 

[peterk9]

Welcome to the Forum.
Do you have the 3.5L V6 engine? If so, the engine has an internal water pump. There is a good possibility that it could be a leaking water pump. If it is, STOP driving it now. Check the oil on the dipstick to see if seems to be contaminated (milky). The coolant may be leaking into the engine as well as from the weephole. I believe that is on the right side of the engine.

Water pump failure leads to dead engine

I hate being the guy that joins only to have his first post be about needing help, but I’ve been lurking here for the better part of a year and now have a depressing reason to reach out for assistance. This is long, so the summary is 1k miles over warranty, water pump failed without any check...

www.explorerforum.com

Water pump failure leads to dead engine

Not many FWD Limited models. Most were AWD. I can honestly say this has probably helped the longevity of your vehicle by not having a PTU all together. They definitely do not last 200k miles. I would look at the water pump age more than miles. How long ago was it replaced? Did you use OEM...

www.explorerforum.com

If the water pump is leaking the "tick" would be the least of your worries, if it isn't related.

Peter

 

[mguy13sport]

On the transverse engines the transmission bolts to the right (back) of the engine. The water pump is located on the left side. You need to check all the fluids including the transmission fluid.