5th gen explorers

[Digitalgp]

Hello, some of you may or may not know me as I mainly hung around the 2006-2010 section, but I am unfortunately having to move on from my 2007 Explorer Limited.

With that said I do have an oppertunity to purchase a 2012 Explorer xlt at a great price. It’s just a basic almost bare bones one. Test drove it already. There is a knocking noise coming from the passenger side front. Being told it’s some kind of bushing it needs & it will need tires probably towards the end of winter. Other than that drives solid and appears almost like new. Would just take some getting used to.

I am all too familiar with the issues that plague the pre-gen, is there anything I should be aware about on these?

 

[peterk9]

Welcome to the 5th Gen Forum.
This thread may help with some issues. https://www.explorerforum.com/forum...pick-up-inspection-used-ex-check-list.314373/ Check out post #24 for more possible issues.

Peter

 

[Digitalgp]

Thank you Peter. The first post was good info, but post 24 was more what I was looking for. I have heard of the exhaust fumes issue on these. I didn’t notice any on this particular one I drove. Is that fixed now or still an ongoing issue?

I have heard of some issues with the electronic power steering rack going out & issues with the timing chains failing. Is that common on these? Also are the transfer cases an issue on these? I know they were on the older Mazda cx9’s and these seem mechanically similar.

Just hoping im making the right decision and not going to run into more major expenses

 

[peterk9]

The exhaust issue is/was a hit or miss issue. I didn't notice it on either my 2011 or 2017 Explorers but then I very seldom put the peddle to the floor. I also didn't have power steering issues. Earlier models had PTU seal leaks. PTU failures did occur but I don't think timing chains were a common issue. The PTU only holds a very small amount of fluid and members have chosen to change it every 30k miles. There is a thread on that.

Peter

 

[Odrapnew]

The clunking in the front you mention is likely the control arm bushing. Somewhat common.
Does it sound/feel like it coming from the floor?
I replaced both my front control arms about 2 months ago due to the clunk and it's back to being silent.
I did the work myself so it cost me ~$300 for both sides + $60 for a front alignment.