My 2003 Ford Explorer XLT V8 5.4l had a dry oil stick, added 5 qts of oil, drove it for the evening and all of a sudden a really loud knocking started. Did it blow a piston?
Asked by HiresHouse Aug 17, 2016 at 12:15 PM about the 2003 Ford Explorer XLT V8 4WD
Question type: Maintenance & Repair
The engine still starts after a long crank. The knocking is coming from deep
inside the engine. Is it worth fixing?
6 Answers
It likely has a ruined crankshaft or rod bearing...or several. Pistons and or cylinder walls could be scuffed also. If it is knocking and was run very low on oil the end result will not be good.
Are you sure that your Explorer has a 5.4 engine? Or this this an Expedition? No matter the above still applies.
HiresHouse answered 8 years ago
It is a V8 . . 4.5L I think . . regardless, would the cost of repair cost more than $1,000?
If it is a V8, then it is a 4.6 L. You might consider a used engine from a salvage yard (that can be somewhat of a gamble unless you get a warranty) or a rebuilt engine. I think just in labor alone you are looking at over a grand.
HiresHouse answered 8 years ago
Thank you. I assumed as much . . given that we just spent $700 in repairs and gave it to our 17 year old, I am not willing to do much more.
I don't blame you. You could maybe consider a used or rebuilt engine, but unless you can install it yourself you are still looking a a rather large repair bill of $2,000 plus. Best of luck with it.