'02 differential problems

[red96camaro]

My girl's '02 explorer has had rear end noises for about a thousand miles and I finally got her to take it in to Ford. They say the rear differential needs to be replaced and quoted $1500 to rebuild it with labor telling her it's a steal. First, this doesn't sound like a great price to me. Is it?

Also, how long could she continue to drive on it if she lives with the noise? Any telling?

I see differentials going on the net for 400-500, is this a difficult job? I'm slightly mechanically inclined but have never worked with rear ends.

Thank for the help.

 

[tower]

http://www.explorerforum.com/forums/showthread.php?t=156065

 

[red96camaro]

Thanks for the link. After researching I see this isn't something I want to attempt myself. Looks like the only option is to try and get the price down.

 

[IZwack]

My girl's '02 explorer has had rear end noises for about a thousand miles and I finally got her to take it in to Ford. They say the rear differential needs to be replaced and quoted $1500 to rebuild it with labor telling her it's a steal. First, this doesn't sound like a great price to me. Is it?

Also, how long could she continue to drive on it if she lives with the noise? Any telling?

I see differentials going on the net for 400-500, is this a difficult job? I'm slightly mechanically inclined but have never worked with rear ends.

Thank for the help.

The price of course depends on what the problem is and which part(s) need to be replaced. Having said that, a reputable shop should be able to rebuild one axle for around $500.00-$600. The price should go down to maybe $450 or so if all you do bring them the differential - in other words, you remove it from the vehicle and you reinstall it. Of course this is just labor cost cauz I have no idea what exactly is wrong with your differential. Not having heard what the symptoms are, I would probably bet on the pinion bearings -- those are the typically the first ones to wear out. A rebuild "kit" typically runs under $100 so if you find a good shop, you can just bring the axle and suply them the rebuild kit.

 

[tower]

Thanks for the link. After researching I see this isn't something I want to attempt myself. Looks like the only option is to try and get the price down.

I could have done it myself but for the 1200 it was just easier to have Ford do it. Good Luck