Need help with my '02 auto 4X4

[Fencewatcher]

Just bought a 2002 Explorer 4-door XLT with a 4.6L V8 and the auto 4X4 option. 18,000 miles, leather seats (inc. 3rd row), 6-CD system, etc.. I have to say that I am extremely proud to have such a nice vehicle, even though something seems very wrong with the 4X4 system.

There are 3 options to drive the vehicle in. 4X4 low... for creeping, 4X4 high... for off-road use, and 4X4 auto... for everyday driving.

The service manager at a San Diego Ford dealership (how much many 4X4's Explorers do you think they sell?) told me that the 4X4 auto system was NOT a full-time all-wheel drive, but a instant-on when needed type of system. The truck is supposed to drive in normal 4X2 mode until wheel slippage is detected, then it kicks into 4X4.

Well, it sounds cool, especially since it is my wife's primary driver, but we've had it 4 days and notice that the 4X4 kicks on an awful lot. Mild hills, flat highways (?), and worst of all, turning in or out of a parking space activates the system. Of course, you all know what it feels like to turn sharply with the 4X4 in!

I am extremely concerned. The service manager didn't even look at it, but told me that the system was very sensitive. Mismatched or worn tires could cause it to kick in, as well as when you turned the wheel as tight as it will go.

I think this is BS. Ford wouldn't have designed a system so jumpy that I can't back out of a parking spot without the truck lurching and bucking as the 4X4 kicks in and out... would they? Heck, I can barely turn & pull into my garage!

I made an appointment at a different dealership for tomorrow, but my wife is the one taking it in. I'm concerned that a lazy service department will tell her that it is working as designed and just not to turn as sharp.

Does anyone have any experience or knowledge about this system? Is there any way to adjust the sensitivity of the system? Honestly, if this is the way it is supposed to work, then I just want to disconnect the auto thing and rely on switching the 4X4 on & off myself!

 

[Jason_25]

Check to see if there is an update out for whatever computer controls the 4x4. 4x4 Harshness on 2nd gens can be cured occasionally with a computer update, I'm assuming the same thing can be done with a third gen.

Also, you might have them scan the computer for any codes the 4x4 system may have thrown.

Another possibility is a faulty speed sensor. Normally the computer can detect this error though.

 

[TPLYNCH]

May be a problem with the GEM too. It may need to be reflashed.

 

[IAmTodd]

Definitly sounds like a problem.

Hope ya like the 4.6....i love it

 

[dansrja]

2003

got 2003 WITH the same system. I can't tell when/if it auto shifts. Maybe in the snow but normal driving conditions...no.

 

[hockeytodd]

2002 explorer

Hey, I have a 2002 explorer the toredor red, 3rd row seats, XLT, 4 dr. Mine is the 4.0 I have the 4x4 version. That guy is full of crap. It's constant 4 wheel drive. 3 buttons to the right of steering wheel. 4x4 auto, 4x4 high, and 4x4 low. It's constant 4 wheel drive. If I were you I'd start going to another shop. Hey good choice of vehicle !!

 

[Jason_25]

Re: 2002 explorer

Originally posted by hockeytodd
Hey, I have a 2002 explorer the toredor red, 3rd row seats, XLT, 4 dr. Mine is the 4.0 I have the 4x4 version. That guy is full of crap. It's constant 4 wheel drive. 3 buttons to the right of steering wheel. 4x4 auto, 4x4 high, and 4x4 low. It's constant 4 wheel drive. If I were you I'd start going to another shop. Hey good choice of vehicle !!

Actually he's not full of crap. The system only kicks in when needed. It is NOT constantly in 4 wheel drive. The AWD's are though......