Begining in the fall of 2003 my 2001 Ford Expedition with the 4.6L engine begain to make a ticking sound at start up (when engine is cold). I've had the vehicle in the dealer several times and they have heard the sound, but they have offered no reasonable explanation of the cause or nature of the problem and the potential damage it may cause. There are several service bulletins, including 03256, that noted this problem.

- Greenville, SC, USA

While driving at any speed the consumer heard a loud noise coming from the vehicle. The vehicle vibrated uncontrollably. The driver was able to maintain control of the vehicle and drove it to the dealer for inspection. The mechanic was unable to duplicate the problem.

- Fontana, CA, USA

Without any indication while traveling 23 mph an explosion occurred. Then, a loud noise came from the front. A technician servicing the vehicle noticed that the 4th spark plug had exploded. Leaving threaded parts inside the engine head, unable to be removed normally, the engine head had to be removed for $1262.02.

- Rocky Mount, NC, USA

Frequently, when I am idle for a few minutes and proceed to pull off or merge into traffic, the vehicle shuts down completely as I try to accelerate. Sometimes I can restart the vehicle immediately and other times I have to wait five minutes. I've reported this problem to the regency Ford dealership (where the vehicle was purchased) 4 times. They are unable to duplicate or fix the problem. I have also make a complaint to Ford Motor Company about this life endangering hazard, but no similar defects were reported from other 2001 Ford exp. I have been told to wait until the problem gets worse to duplicate and correct it. **dimsii IVOQ entry posted after 12/12/02 cut over to artemis**768009

- New Orleans, LA, USA

While traveling on the highway vehicle will shut down without prior warning, and then a few seconds later will restart. Dealership is aware of the problem.

- Los Angelos, CA, USA

While at a stop with the brakes applied, the engine revved. The consumer felt the force of the truck as if it wanted to pull off. The consumer pressed harder on the brake and placed the gear in neutral and at that timed the revving of the engine stopped.

- Portsmouth, VA, USA