drivetrain problem
7.0
pretty badTypical Repair Cost:
$2,300.00
Average Mileage:
96,000 miles
Number of complaints:
4 complaints
Most common solutions:
- not sure (4 reports)
Helpful Websites About 2002 Ford Explorer thumping noise when turning
2008May 19
Explorer XLT V6
- Automatic transmission
- 110,000 miles
I'm sure in my case it was not the rear differential. My Explorer was making the roaring noise like bad tires do and also had a vibration feeling in the steering wheel when first accelerating or when backing up or turning. Ford closed their dealership downtown Chicago so I took it to a highly rated independent shop. Since I had a new transmission installed at around 50K miles, I suggested maybe the U joints were bad. The auto repair shop owner said it was definitely the rear end. Cost to repair $1900. When I picked up my truck, the bill had jumped to $2300 because while replacing the rear end, they found a broken spring which they took the liberty of replacing. I was advised that the rear end would settle down in 100 miles or so. On the drive home it was like nothing was done. Same noises, same vibrations only I'm $2300 poorer.
2008May 01
Explorer XLT V6
- Automatic transmission
- 94,000 miles
I am totally worried about the distinctive growling noise when turning my front wheel especially at starting out! Ford should address and cover this problem I believe it could be the transfercase or differential maybe the transmission? I had the car at the dealer Brien Ford in Everett and they didn't hear a thing? What's happening here? Sure would like to know ! Also when I go around corners or over bumps my back up warning signal starts beeping-I am not happy!!!!
2006Sep 01
Explorer XLT Unknown
- Automatic transmission
- 80,000 miles
My daughter gave me a 2002 Explorer XLT. Since I got it, every single time I turn a corner the back end goes thump, thump, thump. It feels like it needs some kind of lubrication, but my husband has checked it and everything's full that should be. It wasn't until I read all the other comments that I considered the 'whining' a problem. I thought it was related to the type of tires I have on the car. My husband already changed the brakes, thinking that may be the problem. Next would be buying new tires, but I don't think, after reading everybody else's comments that that would solve my problem.
I am disturbed by the mention of the rear wheels suddenly locking up and causing an accident. I often drive my little grandson around and am horrified of anything happening to him. Has anybody found out exactly what the problem is; how to fix it short of taking out a second mortgage. My husband can do just about any repair, but there seems to be quite a few different diagnoses and I'd just as soon put my money into a solution, rather than another guess. Also, has anybody started any action against Ford, i.e. a class action law suit?
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A D V E R T I S E M E N T S
2008Aug 02
Explorer Eddie Bauer
Took the truck to the dealer because the front end was grinding and the truck was getting terrible gas mileage. Dealer soaked me on a brake and bearing job. Now that the front end is cleaned up the massive shaking from the rear differential is isolated. I don't have the cash to replace a rear end right now but have been assured that as long as the fluid is topped off, the differential clutch slipping is just an annoyance. I'll say. Every time I take a slow turn it feels like the truck is trying to buck me. I thought differentials were supposed to last the life of the vehicle; especially tow packages that have never been used to tow (We thought we would get a trailer someday but two more kids later and it's still a future plan.)
Tom J.
Friendswood, TX, USA
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