AWD, intelligent 4WD, Rear-End issues?

2015 FORD ESCAPE
4WD • AUTOMATIC
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RACHELEMONHOLLEN
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  • 3 POSTS
I desperately need help. The rear-end is popping and grinding. I've done everything I know to do and I need help or ideas.
Aug 2, 2026 at 7:06 PM
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JACOBANDNICKOLAS
  • Experienced Mechanic
  • 110,240 POSTS
I certainly hear it. What all have you checked? Have you checked to make sure there isn't a faulty CV joint that is causing the noise? Also, have you checked to make sure nothing is failing with the brakes? Is the differential fluid full and clean? If you apply the brakes, does the sound change?

Let me know.

Take care,

Joe

Aug 2, 2026 at 8:32 PM
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RACHELEMONHOLLEN
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Cv joint? No issues with the brakes as far as I can tell. The sound does not change when I hit the brakes but the sound is only like that when I am driving and giving it gas. If I let up off the gas the sound almost goes away but if I put the car in neutral it goes away completely.
Aug 3, 2026 at 4:14 AM
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STRAILER
  • Experienced Mechanic
  • 55,214 POSTS
Stop driving the car please. There is a big problem with it. It sounds like one of the CV drive axles has locked up, I would put the car in the air (jack or lift) and spin each one of the rear wheels so you can locate the noise, the sound is coming from the rear correct?

This video can help you lift it.

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=xLFn_bMkZc0&pp=0gcJCaMLAYcqIYzv

Let me know
Aug 3, 2026 at 2:08 PM
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RACHELEMONHOLLEN
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Yes, 100%. But once I let up off the gas or put it in neutral even while moving. All of the sounds stop, almost like there are no issues and when the little information thing pops up by the speedometer and says 4-wheel temporarily suspended. (Or whatever it says the 4-wheel is out for a minute). The car is perfectly fine without any noise at all.
Aug 3, 2026 at 3:28 PM
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STRAILER
  • Experienced Mechanic
  • 55,214 POSTS
Yes, this can be because no power is being transmitted through it. I am just saying that kind of noise should not be let go, it can cause larger issues. I would check the CV axles first. There is a chance the differential fluid needs to be changed out because the clutches are binding up, but I would make sure the CV axles are okay first.
Aug 3, 2026 at 4:44 PM
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