The vehicle makes a very load noise when accelerating

2003 FORD EXPLORER
100,000 MILES • 6 CYL • 2WD • AUTOMATIC
Avatar
JPMORRISJR
  • MEMBER
  • 3 POSTS
There is a very loud, low toned noise coming from the front of the vehicle either in right in front of the steering wheel or around the front left wheel. The noise subsides at some speeds and is actually quietest at 80 mph on the interstate. I checked the tires and under the front end but didn't see an obvious signs that something was wrong. My son just drove 600 miles with this condition. The transmission seems fine and everything else seems to work fine except for this loud noise.
May 18, 2014 at 8:21 PM
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.
Advertisement
Avatar
JACOBANDNICKOLAS
  • AUTOMOTIVE REPAIR CONTRIBUTOR
  • 110,190 POSTS
Does the noise change when you make turns?
May 18, 2014 at 8:36 PM
Advertisement
Avatar
JPMORRISJR
  • MEMBER
  • 3 POSTS
No doesn't seem to be impacted by turning.
May 18, 2014 at 8:39 PM
Avatar
JACOBANDNICKOLAS
  • AUTOMOTIVE REPAIR CONTRIBUTOR
  • 110,190 POSTS
It sounds like a hub bearing (wheel bearing), but usually there is a change in tone when turning. For example, if you turn left, more of the vehicle's weight moves to the left side and takes weight from the right. If the right bearing was bad, the noise would be lessened.

Just for the heck of it, in a safe place, drive straight and then turn left and right to see if the noise changes.


Let me know what you find.
May 18, 2014 at 8:42 PM
Avatar
JPMORRISJR
  • MEMBER
  • 3 POSTS
My son has the car so I can't test it right now. He's at college. Would it be safe to drive home to get fixed or should he get it fixed before he heads home? It's about 500 miles.
May 18, 2014 at 8:47 PM
Avatar
JACOBANDNICKOLAS
  • AUTOMOTIVE REPAIR CONTRIBUTOR
  • 110,190 POSTS
That is a hard call for me since I'm not there. Since it is such a long trip, I would really recommend having it checked before driving that far.
May 19, 2014 at 6:07 AM