Explorer jumping into 4WD LOW for no reason

[TJ378]

My 2002 4.6L Explorer frequently jumps into 4X4 LOW for no obvious reason. It happens when the car is static at lights or parked and I then have to go through the clearing process to return to the AUTO mode.

I am thinking it is a sensor issue as I get no additional noises or indications that would make me think it is mechanical.

Has anyone experienced this and/or know what the problem and solution is?

 

[Eddie Bauer05]

What is the " clearing process" you reference ? my 2005 engages in and out of 4wd. I have changed out all 4 brake rotors and pads, put 4 brand new tires mounted and balanced and measured, set pressures to stock psi and still has problem of engaging in 4wd all on its own !!!

 

[TechGuru]

Are you sure this is what is actually happening because a lot of conditions have to be met in order for it to be able to change over. For example BOTH neutral switch AND brake pedal switch must be triggered at the same time. If you're in drive at a stop there is going to be too much tension on the transfer case for it to shift over to low, there would be lots of grinding if it did. The engine would rev up like you shifted from D to P then there would be grinding as it trys to go from N to low. (there is a hidden N in the transfer case between Hi and Lo). Also the light on the Low button is on solid when it's in Low and so is the dash 4x4 low light.

 

[Eddie Bauer05]

it reacts exactly as you say with the exception of grinding... it does rev high and then will come to a complete stop.... if i turn the wheel to the left or right hard it will begin to move forward. the 4 high light comes on solid.... after a bit of left to right driving, the ABS and traction control light illuminate and it begins to drive normally. i was able to get her home but not having any luck with it now after i changed brakes and tires.

 

[TechGuru]

Since you have traction control I would take it to a shop, that just adds way too much complexity to it.

If you have ForScan I'd scan it first for codes (including ABS codes).

 

[Eddie Bauer05]

Gonna take it to Ford on Monday for diagnosis i know I'm gonna get beat up pretty bad however I only paid $600.00 for a relatively mint 2005 Eddie Bauer Edition Explorer. Thanks for your replies !! I will let you know what the problem is.