front differential

2000 MERCURY MOUNTAINEER
159,746 MILES • 5.0L • V8 • AWD • AUTOMATIC
Avatar
RAVE2483
  • MEMBER
  • 4 POSTS
When I'm driving strait down the road i hear a humming noise from the front & when i turn left & right it makes a rubbing sound... (like my tires are rubbing the wheel well) but i know thats not it... What could be going on?
May 3, 2016 at 5:36 AM
Advertisement
Avatar
HMAC300
  • ✓Experienced Mechanic
  • 48,601 POSTS
could be a 4wd axle problem like a bearing, a wheel bearing or axle shaft that has worn cv joints.
May 3, 2016 at 8:25 AM
Avatar
RAVE2483
  • MEMBER
  • 4 POSTS
ok, so i'm not gonna be able to get this fixed for a while due to the lack of money, so... This is (AWD) NOT (4X4)...Is there a way i could disconnect the front wheel drive & just have real wheel drive without damaging anything??
May 3, 2016 at 11:06 AM
Avatar
ED-WEEZY21
  • ✓Experienced Mechanic
  • 248 POSTS
No you can not disengage front wheel drive on an AWD vehicle. AWD vehicles drive every wheel all the time. This would also not work if it is a wheel bearing. Wheel bearings always rotate no matter what. They can be a press-in type bearing or a wheel bearing hub assembly which is not pressed in. Typically the hub assembly styles are held in by a few bolts and may or may not contain tone rings or slots for the ABS system. It sounds to me like it is a front wheel bearing but without actually hearing it, I can't say for sure. I hope you can find out the source of the problem and best of luck to you!
May 3, 2016 at 12:06 PM
Join 2CarPros for free, one of the most advanced car repair communities on the internet. From first-time drivers to seasoned mechanics, everyone is welcome to reply, share details, and get better answers. You can add a temporary image or video first; uploads are limited to 20 MB.
Ask a Free Question
Repair Safety Notice: This information is for general instructional purposes only. Vehicle repair can be dangerous. Verify all information, follow manufacturer service procedures, use proper tools and safety equipment, and consult a qualified repair shop when needed.