2002 Ford Explorer noise in rear end

BOB.FAST

MEMBER
2002 FORD EXPLORER
V8
4WD
AUTOMATIC
140,000 MILES

This is my first ime on 2carpros, hope you can help out

purchased as used in 08/2008
my explorer has a grinding dragging noise in rear end(differential?)
new brakes since, problem still there. Suspension been checked (ball joints etc.) And is good
new tires with 5000 kms,
have had it in to the dealer -- they detected torque converter slip and replaced a sensor in transmission. Problem still persists
maintenance records show differential replaced at 47000 kms by dealer for original owner.

there were numerous warning lights on since buying, eg, brake, airbag, seatbelt, O/D. These have disappeared with work done except for O/D. This light comes on after dring for a few minutes and stays on.

what might be causing the noise?

1 Reply

JACOBANDNICKOLAS

MECHANIC
109,885 POSTS

Has anyone checked the rear pinion bearing or removed the differential cover to check inside? Also, are the universal joints good and has anyone checked the wheel bearings?

As far as the OD light, there will be a code stored in the computer that will identify where the problem is coming from. Therefore, the computer should be scanned to identify the problem. Most nationally recognized parts stores will do it for free, so there won't be any money out of pocket to check it.

Let me know about the questions I asked. Something tells me there is an axle bearing or pinion bearing that is bad. One last question, does the sound change with the speed of the car or when turning?

Joe