2005 Ford Explorer Wheels Problems

“Noticed a grinding or humming noise in the front right tire. Turns out I needed both left wheel bearings replaced and the right rear is also going bad according to my mechanic. Now a month later, the same problem again. From my research, this is a very common problem w Ford explorers and people have had the wheels seize on them, someone is going to lose their life.”

“Hello while driving down the highway, the upper ball joint in the drivers side front broke and caused damage to the axle, tire, and wheel. This caused issues with control of vehicle and could have cause a much greater accident than what occurred. I was able to avoid a major accident, partially due to the low speed at the time, however had this occurred while I was on the interstate or on a crowded highway, this could have had exponentially worse outcomes. I have been told by numerous mechanics that the ball joints are an issue for Ford explorers and this isn't my first issue with them myself. …”

“While pulling into the driveway of a gas station heard a thump from the rear passenger tire/rim. When leaving the gas station noticed a vibration which became increasingly more violent. While rounding a curve 4 out of 5 lugs sheared (causing the lugnuts and centercap to fly off).”

“At 55mph the rear lugs on the passenger side sheared off causing the tire to fly off. Brought the vehicle to a safe stop off the highway and had it towed to a Ford dealership. Was told this was a common problem for the 2002-2005 Ford Explorer.”

“2005 Ford Explorer xlt rear wheel studs shear off, wheel falls off while driving, no warning. Has happened three times 1st time 9/22/08 rear passenger side wheel fell off. Travel speed approx. 25mph. All five studs sheared off. Towed in had repaired. Cost $442.00 including purchase of a new wheel. 10/1/08 heard a slight chirp in drivers side rear so I removed center cap and found two sheared off studs still attached to the center cap. …”