How does Ford drivetrain maintenance help save money?

Yes, sometimes it can. First, servicing the drivetrain system can help you avoid more significant repairs. It can also somewhat reduce tire wear.

How do I know if my Ford drivetrain is damaged?

Hear noises toward the back of your Ford Explorer? See fluid leaking? Having issues turning? These could all be signs of drivetrain damage you don't want to ignore. Take action quickly to catch repairs or replacements before something more severe happens.

How often should I come in for Ford Explorer differential service?

Differential service frequency varies from car to car. Double check your owner’s manual and talk with a technician. We generally recommend getting your differential inspected and the differential fluid changed as a part of your regular vehicle maintenance routine since your vehicle cannot function without a differential.

What triggers the malfunction indicator light (MIL) in a Explorer?

The malfunction indicator light — also known as the check engine light — on your Explorer can illuminate for a variety of reasons, including engine issues, electrical problems, damaged sensors, transmission problems, misfires, and faulty connections.

Is it possible to reset the Explorer malfunction warning light on my own?

While it’s sometimes possible to clear a malfunction warning light at home, it’s never recommended. If your Explorer’s check engine light comes on, it’s usually because there is a problem in one of the vehicle’s systems. You should find and address the underlying issue to help keep your vehicle in great shape. By simply resetting the check engine light, you may temporarily get rid of the light, but the underlying problem is still there. It will only be a matter of time before the light comes back.

How worried should I be about a drivetrain malfunction in my Explorer?

A drivetrain malfunction in your Explorer should never be taken lightly. Driving with a malfunctioning drivetrain can put you in danger and lead to further vehicle damage, so it's essential to have a qualified mechanic assess and repair the problem as soon as possible.

Is my Explorer’s transmission part of the drivetrain?

Yes, the transmission is an essential part of your Explorer’s drivetrain. The drivetrain consists of components — like the transmission — that transfer power from the engine to the wheels to move your Explorer forward. Other components in the driver train include the axles, differential, and driveshaft.

1998 Ford Explorer Drivetrain Repair & Service

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Maintain your drivetrain to help maintain vehicle power. Our technicians are trained to perform 1998 Ford Explorer drivetrain services. Schedule your appointment today.

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All About 1998 Ford Explorer Drivetrain Service

Your Explorer’s drivetrain has a very important job. It transmits power from the engine to the wheels. It spans the full length of your Ford, from back to front. It’s one of your Explorer’s most complex systems and includes everything after the engine transmission: differentials, driveshafts, joints, axles, and wheels. When you tune into you 1998 Ford Explorer drivetrain, you help maintain your vehicle’s overall power. You can minimize repairs by following Ford's recommendations for checking and changing differential fluids, and lubricating bearings and gears.

When to Get Ford Explorer Drivetrain Repairs

Drivetrains for front, rear, and all-wheel-drive and 4WD vehicles are quite different, so you don't want to go to just anyone for drivetrain repair. You want to visit Firestone Complete Auto Care. We can fix many 1998 Ford Explorer drivetrain components including the driveshaft, CV axles, and CV joints. Your Explorer might need driveshaft repair if you notice heavy vibrations in your floorboards, clunks when shifting, resistance when turning, or vibration as your vehicle accelerates. It’s difficult to nail down a timeline for drivetrain repair. The system’s parts and pieces don’t have a set expiration date. A lot depends on your driving style and climate. That’s one reason it’s a wise idea to visit Firestone Complete Auto Care at the first sign your Ford Explorer doesn’t drive like it used to.

Is normal to wonder whether or not 1998 Ford Explorer drivetrain repair is expensive. Again, it depends! Some more minor differential repairs, like seal or gasket replacement, are usually pretty affordable. But bigger repairs, like gear or bearing replacement, can be a little more expensive since the labor is much more intensive.

Questions About 1998 Ford Explorer

Drivetrain problems mean driving problems. Get answers to common drivetrain questions and visit your local Firestone Complete Auto Care for drivetrain help.

How does Ford drivetrain maintenance help save money? Yes, sometimes it can. First, servicing the drivetrain system can help you avoid more significant repairs. It can also somewhat reduce tire wear.
How do I know if my Ford drivetrain is damaged? Hear noises toward the back of your Ford Explorer? See fluid leaking? Having issues turning? These could all be signs of drivetrain damage you don't want to ignore. Take action quickly to catch repairs or replacements before something more severe happens.
How often should I come in for Ford Explorer differential service? Differential service frequency varies from car to car. Double check your owner’s manual and talk with a technician. We generally recommend getting your differential inspected and the differential fluid changed as a part of your regular vehicle maintenance routine since your vehicle cannot function without a differential.
What triggers the malfunction indicator light (MIL) in a Explorer? The malfunction indicator light — also known as the check engine light — on your Explorer can illuminate for a variety of reasons, including engine issues, electrical problems, damaged sensors, transmission problems, misfires, and faulty connections.
Is it possible to reset the Explorer malfunction warning light on my own? While it’s sometimes possible to clear a malfunction warning light at home, it’s never recommended. If your Explorer’s check engine light comes on, it’s usually because there is a problem in one of the vehicle’s systems. You should find and address the underlying issue to help keep your vehicle in great shape. By simply resetting the check engine light, you may temporarily get rid of the light, but the underlying problem is still there. It will only be a matter of time before the light comes back.
How worried should I be about a drivetrain malfunction in my Explorer? A drivetrain malfunction in your Explorer should never be taken lightly. Driving with a malfunctioning drivetrain can put you in danger and lead to further vehicle damage, so it's essential to have a qualified mechanic assess and repair the problem as soon as possible.
Is my Explorer’s transmission part of the drivetrain? Yes, the transmission is an essential part of your Explorer’s drivetrain. The drivetrain consists of components — like the transmission — that transfer power from the engine to the wheels to move your Explorer forward. Other components in the driver train include the axles, differential, and driveshaft.

1998 Ford Explorer Repair

Nothing lasts forever. Even your Ford Explorer's many parts and pieces. When something breaks, we're ready. Click on a repair below to learn more about 1998 Ford Explorer repairs.