97 Explorer 4WD dash lights

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Oct 29, 2002 | 01:58 PM

TJM

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97 Explorer 4WD dash lights

Does anyone know why my 4WD and 4WD LOW dash lights are coming on a blinking about three times and then going off. This pattern repeats continuously while underway. I have not found any mention of this in the owner's manual. I have not changed the setting of the 4WD in months (until now to see if that would have an effect). I'm concerned that fluids may be low or something else needs attention right away.

Thanks for any ideas.

Oct 29, 2002 | 03:35 PM

kirkje

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97 Explorer 4WD dash lights

I have a 96 XLT 4WD. Mine did the same thing after a took the dash board part and forgot to plug the connector back on of the 2WD,4WD, 4WD Low selector switch. Your connentor might be loose or it is not getting power. I hope this helps.

Oct 29, 2002 | 03:44 PM

reberhardt

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97 Explorer 4WD dash lights

Your lights are flashing because your GEM (Generic Electronics Module) has detected a fault with your 4x4 system. There are far too many different things to list here that will cause the lights to flash. The sequence of the flashes is giving you a 2-digit code. It is called a Lamp Flash Count (LFC). There will also be a code set in your PCM that an NGS Star Testor or equivalent can read. You will need to know the codes and their meanings to adequately troubleshoot this. One of the more common causes for what you described though is a faulty speed sensor on the transfer case (you have 2).

Oct 30, 2002 | 06:23 PM

TJM

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97 Explorer 4WD dash lights

kirkje - Thank you for the suggestion. It just so happens that I did remove part of the dash recently in an effort to repair a problem with the radio. The 4WD lights did not begin to flash immediately after that but I could have nudged the connector and it came loose later on. I wouldn't be surprised if that did happen. The flashing began this past weekend right while I was driving on some of the worst roads I've been on in years. I have not yet fully reinstalled the radio so I will investigate when I remove the dash parts again.

Oct 30, 2002 | 06:33 PM

TJM

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97 Explorer 4WD dash lights

reberhardt - You've given me much to think about for which I'm appreciative. While the model years and design are different, I'm going to first check the connector as kirkje suggested. Better to start simple and work my way up in complexity (and expense!) I'll then move on to code diagnosing if necessary.

Would the equipment you refer to that diagnoses the code be available at any modern repair shop?

The common cause you suggest, a faulty speed sensor, sounds expensive to repair. In your experience, is that the case and what would cause it to go bad other than simple age. The vehicle has ~117,000 gently driven miles on it.

Thanks again for your most helpful explanation.

Oct 30, 2002 | 08:11 PM

reberhardt

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97 Explorer 4WD dash lights

Yes, definately if you recently had the radio bezel off, start there. If the connector comes off the back of the 4x4 switch, you will get the 4x4 lighst flashing.

Actually the speed sensors aren't bad, especially the rear one. It can be replaced in 5 minutes. The front one takes more time since it is behind the transfer case shift solenoid. I have seen prices on the sensors from $40 to $70 each. If it is a bad sensor, the code should point to it. A diagnostics scan will run about $75 at the dealer which is in addition to the repair costs. Most larger automotive repair facilites should have the equipment to read GEM fault codes including some smaller ones. These scanners start at about $3000. Most generic OBD-II scanner is not capable of reading GEM fault codes. Ask the shop before leaving your vehicle so they don't stick you with a diagnostics fee after finding out they can't pull the codes.

Oct 31, 2002 | 12:00 PM

Opera House Works

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From: Cincinnati

97 Explorer 4WD dash lights

I bought a used 97 Explorer cheap with thqt problem. Drained the transfer case and only a pint came out. Supposed to be 1 1/2 quarts. Rear seal was leaking. Filled it up, disconnected the battery to reset the computer and it has been fine for a year.