What is the suspension problem with the Ford Explorer 2022?
The most commonly reported suspension issue for the 2022 Ford Explorer involves rear-suspension components, especially worn toe-link bushings and stabilizer bar links, which can cause clunking noises and a harsher ride.
The Explorer uses a front MacPherson strut suspension and a multi-link rear suspension; when components wear or are damaged, drivers may notice noise, roughness, or changes in handling. Ford has issued service notices and recalls in some VIN ranges to address suspension-related problems, and owners should check the NHTSA recall database and Ford's service bulletin notices for their exact vehicle.
How the suspension is designed for the 2022 Explorer
Front suspension
The front suspension on the 2022 Explorer relies on MacPherson struts with lower control arms. Key wear points can include upper strut mounts, bushings, and ball joints, which may produce creaking or clunking noises, especially when crossing speed bumps or potholes.
Rear suspension
The rear suspension is a multi-link independent setup featuring toe links and stabilizer bars. Components such as the toe-link bushings and stabilizer bar links are areas where wear or damage can develop, potentially leading to toe misalignment, noise, or a less settled ride.
Common symptoms reported by owners
The following symptoms are frequently cited by drivers and may indicate suspension wear or failure:
- Clunking or banging noises from the rear (or occasionally the front) when going over bumps
- Harsh or abrupt ride quality, especially on rough roads
- Pulling to one side or uneven handling, sometimes with changes in steering feel
- Uneven tire wear or noticeable changes in alignment
- Visible looseness or play in rear suspension components during inspection
Experiencing one or more of these symptoms should prompt a professional inspection to determine whether suspension parts are worn or damaged and whether a warranty or service campaign applies.
Causes and components involved
To understand potential failures, it helps to know the specific parts that commonly wear or fail in the 2022 Explorer’s suspension:
- Rear toe-link bushings
- Rear stabilizer bar (sway bar) links and related bushings
- Rear control arms and associated bushings
- Ball joints, tie-rod ends, and related steering linkage components
- Front strut mounts and related hardware
- Shocks/struts and springs, if subjected to heavy use or rough roads
Wear can arise from normal mileage, driving conditions, and the heavy workloads some Explorers encounter, such as towing or carrying full loads. In some cases, service bulletins or recalls address specific defective parts or assemblies in certain VIN ranges.
What to do if you own a 2022 Explorer
If you own a 2022 Ford Explorer or are considering a test drive, take these steps to address potential suspension issues:
- Check for any active recalls or service campaigns on your exact VIN via the NHTSA database and Ford’s recall/coverage pages.
- If you notice unusual noises, a harsh ride, pulling, or shifting handling, schedule a professional inspection promptly.
- Ask the dealer or a qualified shop to inspect rear toe-link bushings, stabilizer bar links, control arms, and strut mounts for wear or damage.
- If the vehicle is under warranty or a service campaign, have repairs performed with OEM parts to ensure proper fit and performance.
Owners should document symptoms, maintenance history, and any previous service notices when visiting a dealership, as VIN-specific coverage can vary by model year and region.
Summary
The 2022 Ford Explorer’s suspension concerns are most often linked to the rear toe-link bushings and stabilizer bar links, which can cause clunking noises and a rough ride, though front suspension components can also contribute to handling complaints. Design features like a MacPherson front setup and a multi-link rear setup mean different parts may wear over time. If you experience symptoms, check for recalls and service bulletins, and have a qualified technician inspect the relevant components to determine whether replacement or adjustment is required.
For the most accurate, up-to-date information, consult Ford’s official service notices and the NHTSA recall database for your specific VIN.
Are there any recalls on the Ford Explorer 2022?
Summary: Ford Motor Company (Ford) is recalling certain 2022 Explorer and Lincoln Aviator vehicles. The fuel filler tube may detach during a crash. As such, these vehicles fail to comply with the requirements of Federal Motor Vehicle Safety Standard number 301, "Fuel System Integrity."
What is the major recall on the Ford Explorer?
Ford Motor Company has issued multiple recalls for the 2021 Ford Explorer to fix problems ranging from faulty airbag fasteners to rear suspension issues. The latest Ford Explorer 2021 recall stems from a defective rear axle horizontal mounting bolt.
What type of suspension does the Ford Explorer have?
As with the Ranger, the UN46 Explorer has a Twin I-Beam (4×2) or Twin-Traction Beam (4×4) coil-sprung front independent suspension and a leaf-sprung solid rear axle.
What year to stay away from Ford Explorer?
You should generally stay away from 2002–2006 Ford Explorers due to widespread transmission failures and other issues like engine and suspension problems. Other years with significant problems include 2016, with a large recall involving faulty fuel tanks and suspension components, and 2020, which had many recalls and customer complaints.
2002–2006 models
- These models are widely considered the least reliable, with a major reputation for transmission failures that can be very expensive to fix.
- Owners also reported engine problems (like timing chain and head gasket issues), suspension wear, and electrical malfunctions.
Other years to approach with caution
- 2016: This year had a recall involving faulty suspension components and a fuel tank.
- 2020: This model year had a high number of recalls and complaints, including issues with the transmission, power loss, and a potential rollaway defect.
- 2008: This model year is also listed by some sources as a year to avoid due to low owner satisfaction scores and recalls.
