Ford Explorer Steering Knuckle Guide (2016-2025): Gen Differences & Bearing Noises
Your definitive guide to diagnosing humming noises, understanding the critical differences between generations, and replacing the front steering knuckle on your 2016-2025 Ford Explorer.
- The most common failure is the wheel hub/bearing that bolts to the knuckle, causing a humming/grinding noise that changes with speed.
- 2016-2019 (5th Gen) and 2020-2025 (6th Gen) Explorers use completely different, non-interchangeable knuckles.
- Be aware of major safety recalls for the rear suspension (toe links and axle bolts) that can cause loss of control or power.
- A wheel alignment is mandatory after replacing a steering knuckle to ensure safety and prevent tire damage.
Understanding the Two Generations: 2016-2019 vs. 2020-2025
Warning: The Ford Explorer was completely redesigned for the 2020 model year. Steering knuckles and related suspension parts from the 2016-2019 generation are NOT interchangeable with parts for the 2020-2025 generation. Always verify the model year of your Explorer before ordering parts.
Symptoms of a Failing Steering Knuckle or Wheel Bearing
The steering knuckle itself is a robust piece of metal that rarely fails unless it's bent or cracked in a collision or by hitting a large pothole. Most of the time, what drivers perceive as a "bad knuckle" is actually a failed wheel hub and bearing assembly, which bolts directly to the knuckle. Here are the signs to watch and listen for:
- Humming, Roaring, or Grinding Noise: This is the most common symptom. The noise typically starts faint and gets louder over time. It will increase in pitch and volume with vehicle speed. 🎬 Watch: Hear what a bad wheel bearing sounds like while driving.
- Noise Changes When Turning: A key diagnostic clue. If you make a right turn and the noise gets louder, the bad bearing is likely on the left (driver's) side, which is bearing more load. If the noise gets louder on a left turn, the bad bearing is likely on the right (passenger) side.
- Clicking or Popping Sounds: You might hear a clicking or popping noise when turning, which can indicate a worn bearing or a problem with the CV axle that passes through the knuckle.
- Vibration in the Steering Wheel: A worn wheel bearing can cause vibrations that you feel in the steering wheel, especially at higher speeds.
- Vehicle Pulling to One Side: A severely worn bearing or a bent knuckle can cause the vehicle's alignment to be off, making it pull to one side.
- Uneven Tire Wear: If your alignment is off due to a bad bearing or bent knuckle, you may notice the inside or outside edge of one tire wearing down much faster than the rest.
Known Issues, Recalls, and Technical Service Bulletins (TSBs)
While working on the front steering knuckle, it's important to be aware of other major suspension-related recalls for these vehicles.
2016-2019 Models: Rear Suspension Toe Link Recall
Safety Warning: Many 2013-2019 Explorers were recalled for rear suspension toe links that could fracture, leading to a sudden loss of steering control. Symptoms include a clunking noise, unusual handling, or a misaligned rear wheel. Even if you are only working on the front of the vehicle, it is critical to check with a Ford dealer or on the NHTSA website to see if your vehicle is affected by this dangerous and ongoing recall.
2020-2022 Models: Rear Axle Bolt Fracture Recall
The newer 2020-2022 Explorers have a critical recall for a rear axle mounting bolt that can break. Symptoms are a very loud clunk or grinding noise from the rear when accelerating, followed by a loss of power. This can be mistaken for a bad wheel bearing, so it's important to rule out this recall first if you have a vehicle in this year range.
2023 Models: Knuckle-to-Strut Fastener Recall
A small number of 2023 Explorers (118 units) were recalled because the fasteners connecting the right front knuckle to the strut may be loose or missing. This can cause the wheel to go out of alignment, affect steering, and potentially damage the brake hose, leading to a loss of braking.
Buying a Used Steering Knuckle: What to Look For
A used OEM steering knuckle can be a great value, as it's a part that doesn't typically wear out. However, since they are often removed from wrecked vehicles, a careful inspection is key.
- Inspect for Cracks and Bends: Carefully examine the entire part, especially around the mounting points for the ball joint, tie rod, and strut. Look for any hairline cracks or visible signs of bending. A part from a vehicle with a hard front-end impact should be avoided.
- Check Mounting Surfaces: Ensure the surface where the wheel hub assembly bolts on is flat and clean. Any damage here can prevent the new hub from seating correctly.
- Verify Part Numbers: This is the most critical step. Due to the generational differences and potential variations, you must match the OEM part number to your original part or verify it with a dealer using your VIN.
- Plan for a New Wheel Bearing: Even if the used knuckle comes with a wheel hub attached, it's best practice to discard it. The condition of the used bearing is unknown, and the labor to replace it later far exceeds the cost of installing a new one from the start. Think of a used knuckle as the core component that you will build up with a new hub/bearing assembly. 🎬 See this walkthrough on how to remove a steering knuckle.
Compatibility and Part Numbers
2016-2019 Ford Explorer (5th Generation)
These models use a front-wheel-drive based platform. Search results indicate the primary front steering knuckles are the same for both civilian and Police Interceptor Utility models.
- Front Left (Driver Side): BB5Z-3K186-A
- Front Right (Passenger Side): BB5Z-3K185-A
2020-2025 Ford Explorer (6th Generation)
These models use a new rear-wheel-drive based platform. While the base part numbers are shared between civilian and Police Interceptor models, fitment can be specific based on engine (2.3L, 3.0L, 3.3L Hybrid) and drivetrain options. The warnings from the initial prompt about Police-only fitment may apply to specific configurations. Extreme caution is advised.
Warning: For 2020-2025 models, you MUST verify the part number against your vehicle's VIN. Do not assume compatibility based on year alone. Some parts may be specific to Police Interceptor Utility models and will not fit standard civilian trims.
- Front Left (Driver Side): LB5Z-3K186-A
- Front Right (Passenger Side): LB5Z-3K185-A
- Motorcraft Service Part: MEF-534
Replacement Overview & Torque Specs
Replacing the steering knuckle is a job for an experienced DIY mechanic or a professional shop. It requires safely lifting and supporting the vehicle and disassembling most of the front suspension. After replacement, a full four-wheel alignment is mandatory.
Pro Tip: The wheel hub can seize into the aluminum knuckle due to corrosion. Be prepared with penetrating oil and potentially a heavy hammer or air hammer to separate the old hub from the knuckle.
🎬 Watch: Step-by-step guide to replacing the front hub bearing assembly.Below are common torque specifications for a 2017 Ford Explorer (5th Gen). Always verify the correct specs for your specific year and model.
| Component | Torque Spec | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| Axle Nut | 184 ft-lbs | Crucial for proper bearing preload. |
| Wheel Hub-to-Knuckle Bolts | 90 ft-lbs | These bolts hold the bearing assembly to the knuckle. |
| Lower Ball Joint Nut | 111 ft-lbs | Connects the knuckle to the lower control arm. |
| Brake Caliper Bracket Bolts | 100 ft-lbs | |
| Wheel Lug Nuts | 100 ft-lbs |
Cost Comparison
Prices can vary significantly based on location, brand, and the specific year of your Explorer. The labor estimates assume you are replacing one side.
| Part/Service | Estimated Cost |
|---|---|
| New OEM Knuckle | $160 - $350 |
| New Aftermarket Knuckle | $240 - $450 |
| Used OEM Knuckle | $75 - $150 |
| Shop Labor (Knuckle Replacement) | $220 - $415 |
| Total Professional Replacement | $550 - $850 |
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Do I need an alignment after replacing a steering knuckle?
Yes, absolutely. Replacing the knuckle disturbs all the primary steering angles (camber, caster, and toe). A full four-wheel alignment is required immediately after replacement to ensure the vehicle is safe to drive, handles correctly, and does not cause premature tire wear.
Is the steering knuckle the same for FWD and AWD models?
For the front knuckles on the 2016-2019 models, the knuckle itself is generally the same for both FWD and AWD. The main difference in the assembly is that AWD models have a CV axle shaft passing through the wheel hub. For 2020+ models, you should always verify by VIN as drivetrain can affect fitment.
Can I just replace the wheel bearing instead of the whole hub assembly?
No. On modern Explorers, the wheel bearing is a sealed, non-serviceable part of the wheel hub assembly. The entire hub assembly must be replaced as a single unit. This unit then bolts to the steering knuckle.
Should I replace steering knuckles in pairs?
It is not required. Unlike brake pads or shocks, the knuckle is not a wear item. You only need to replace the side that is damaged. However, it is highly recommended to replace wheel hub/bearing assemblies in pairs (both fronts or both rears), as they wear at similar rates.
Helpful Videos
Technical Specifications
OEM Part Numbers: BB5Z-3K186-A (2016-2019, Front Left) BB5Z-3K185-A (2016-2019, Front Right) LB5Z-3K186-A (2020-2025, Front Left) LB5Z-3K185-A (2020-2025, Front Right) MEF-534 (Motorcraft Service Part)
Torque Specs (2016-2019): Axle Nut: 184 ft-lbs, Hub-to-Knuckle Bolts: 90 ft-lbs, Lower Ball Joint Nut: 111 ft-lbs, Lug Nuts: 100 ft-lbs.
We Have This Part in Stock
The information in this article is provided for general reference and educational purposes only. Vehicle specifications, procedures, and part compatibility can vary by production date, trim level, and region. Always consult your vehicle's factory service manual and verify part numbers before purchasing or performing repairs. Safety-critical components such as airbags, seat belts, and braking systems should be installed by a qualified professional.
- Ford Explorer:
- 🎬 Helpful Videos
- 🛍️ Shop This Part
- Understanding the Two Generations: 2016-2019 vs. 2020-2025
- Symptoms of a Failing Steering Knuckle or Wheel Bearing
- Known Issues, Recalls, and Technical Service Bulletins (TSBs)
- 2016-2019 Models: Rear Suspension Toe Link Recall
- 2020-2022 Models: Rear Axle Bolt Fracture Recall
- 2023 Models: Knuckle-to-Strut Fastener Recall
- Buying a Used Steering Knuckle: What to Look For
- Compatibility and Part Numbers
- 2016-2019 Ford Explorer (5th Generation)
- 2020-2025 Ford Explorer (6th Generation)
- Replacement Overview & Torque Specs
- Cost Comparison
- Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
- 🎟️ Get 5% Off