Can Ford drivetrain maintenance help me save money?

Yes. Servicing the drivetrain system can help you avoid more significant repairs. A bad drivetrain can put more stress on other vehicle components.

What are the symptoms of a damaged Ford drivetrain system?

Your Ford Explorer drivetrain might be damaged if you notice strange noises from the rear of your vehicle, see fluid leaking, or have issues turning.

How often will I need 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.

Why is my Explorer malfunction indicator light (MIL) on?

A multitude of problems can activate your Explorer’s malfunction indicator light (better known as the check engine light), including issues with the engine, transmission, sensors, electrical system, or connectors.

Can my Explorer malfunction warning light be reset at home?

Resetting a malfunction warning light at home may be possible sometimes, but it is never recommended. The check engine light is commonly triggered by a misfire, fault or malfunction in one of the vehicle's systems. It is important to identify and fix the underlying problem to ensure the safety and reliability of the vehicle. Resetting the check engine light without addressing the underlying issue may temporarily remove the warning, but it will not fix the root cause of the problem.

How concerning is 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.

2003 Ford Explorer Drivetrain Repair

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Don’t let drivetrain problems drive you crazy. Drive to Firestone Complete Auto Care for 2003 Ford Explorer drivetrain service and repair. Schedule an appointment today.

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What Does the Drivetrain Do In Your 2003 Ford Explorer

Your Explorer drivetrain transfers power from your engine to the wheels. It runs the full length of your Ford, from the axles to the transmission. It's one of the most complex systems in your Explorer and is made up of everything after the engine transmission: driveshafts, axles, joints, differentials, and wheels. When you maintain the drivetrain in your 2003 Ford Explorer, you help maintain your vehicle's power. Follow Ford's recommendations for lubricating bearings/gears and checking/changing differential fluids to minimize repairs over time.

Ford Explorer Drivetrain Repairs

Drivetrains for front, rear, and all-wheel-drive and 4WD vehicles are not all the same. You don't want to go to any random shop for drivetrain repair. You want to come see the technicians at Firestone Complete Auto Care. We can help repair all of your 2003 Ford Explorer drivetrain components including the driveshaft, CV axles, and CV joints. Your Ford could be crying out for driveshaft repair if you notice heavy vibrations in your floorboards, clunks when shifting, resistance when turning, or vibration as your vehicle accelerates. There isn’t necessarily a concrete timeframe for when drivetrain repair will be needed. There’s no expiration date on the system’s pieces and parts. Your driving style and climate can have a lot to do with how the drivetrain system ages. Your best bet is to visit Firestone Complete Auto Care when you first notice a problem with how your Ford Explorer drives.

How much does it cost to fix your 2003 Ford Explorer drivetrain? Minor differential repairs, like seal or gasket replacement, can fall in the more affordable category. Big repairs, like gear or bearing replacement, require more labor and can therefore be more expensive.

Questions About 2003 Ford Explorer

When you have drivetrain problems, you have driving problems. Check out our top 2003 Ford Explorer drivetrain Q&A below, and visit your nearest Firestone Complete Auto Care with any drivetrain concerns.

Can Ford drivetrain maintenance help me save money? Yes. Servicing the drivetrain system can help you avoid more significant repairs. A bad drivetrain can put more stress on other vehicle components.
What are the symptoms of a damaged Ford drivetrain system? Your Ford Explorer drivetrain might be damaged if you notice strange noises from the rear of your vehicle, see fluid leaking, or have issues turning.
How often will I need 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.
Why is my Explorer malfunction indicator light (MIL) on? A multitude of problems can activate your Explorer’s malfunction indicator light (better known as the check engine light), including issues with the engine, transmission, sensors, electrical system, or connectors.
Can my Explorer malfunction warning light be reset at home? Resetting a malfunction warning light at home may be possible sometimes, but it is never recommended. The check engine light is commonly triggered by a misfire, fault or malfunction in one of the vehicle's systems. It is important to identify and fix the underlying problem to ensure the safety and reliability of the vehicle. Resetting the check engine light without addressing the underlying issue may temporarily remove the warning, but it will not fix the root cause of the problem.
How concerning is 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.

2003 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 2003 Ford Explorer repairs.