How to Change the Starter on a Ford Explorer
by Gregory CrewsUpdated July 05, 2023
The Ford Explorer uses an electric starter to turn the crankshaft and start the truck. The starter can actually be removed beforehand and brought to most automotive parts stores for a bench test. The bench test will determine if the starter is faulty or not. Replacing the starter is not complicated, as it is easily accessible under the truck, mounted between the engine and the transmission.
Things You'll Need:
- Socket wrench
- Socket set
1. Ensure the truck is on a flat and level surface
Ensure the truck is on a flat and level surface. Raise the hood for access to the engine compartment.
2. Locate the battery on the driver side of the engine compartment
Locate the battery on the driver side of the engine compartment. Disconnect the positive and negative cables with a socket wrench.
3. Crawl under the passenger side
Crawl under the passenger side of the Explorer to locate the starter mounted between the engine and the transmission. The starter is secured by two bolts.
4. Unbolt the nut on the stud at the top of the starter
Unbolt the nut on the stud at the top of the starter to release the positive cable. Slide the lead off the stud.
5. Loosen the two bolts with a socket wrench
Loosen the two bolts with a socket wrench. Place the wires that are bolted to the bottom bolt to the side.
6. Pull the starter down from the engine compartment
Pull the starter down from the engine compartment. Replace with the new starter. Start both bolts by hand. Ensure the negative lead wire is pushed onto the bottom bolt before tightening. Secure both bolts with a socket wrench.
7. Unscrew the stud on the top with a socket wrench
Unscrew the stud on the top with a socket wrench. Push the remaining lead onto the stud. Tighten the nut over the lead with a socket wrench.
8. Connect the positive and negative cables
Connect the positive and negative cables to the battery with a socket wrench. Close the hood once the battery is connected.
9. Start the truck
Start the truck to ensure it starts correctly.
Tips and Warnings
Take the old starter back to receive the "core" credit. The "core" charge is added to the bill of the new starter to ensure that the old starter is returned to the automotive parts store.
Use caution working on an electrical component. Always isolate the battery to prevent electrical shock.
Video showing how to replace a starter on a Ford Explorer:
Comments on this video:
- Good viewing from camera and good instructions
- Good instructions once you got to the starter but you never showed how and where you get to this very difficult to access part.
Writer Bio
Gregory Crews has been in the film industry for three years and has appeared in more than 38 major motion pictures and 16 television shows. He also writes detailed automotive tutorials. His expertise in the automotive industry has given him the skills to write detailed technical instructional articles.
