2002 4x4 front end noise

[rlamarche]

My '02 Explorer Limited 4x4 has a front end noise that sounds like a growling bearing. Worse when the steering wheel is turned slightly left or right of center. Noisest at about 45 mph. 4.6L V8 - 90,000 miles. Any ideas?

 

[dpost01]

My '02 Explorer Limited 4x4 has a front end noise that sounds like a growling bearing. Worse when the steering wheel is turned slightly left or right of center. Noisest at about 45 mph. 4.6L V8 - 90,000 miles. Any ideas?

I have the same problem right now with my 02 Explorer. I thought it was the brakes/rotors, so I changed them; no change.

All I am left with is the bearing/hub
CV joints
Differential

I am having my bearings/hub replaced next week. O'Reilly wanted $179 for a new one, but I got them brand new from ebay for $81 with shipping.

 

[EasyRhino]

Wheel bearing failures are common on these. The bearings are only replaceable in a complete hub assembly. Your symptoms may indicate a front wheel bearing. Factory sets are 150-200, after market less but quality varies. Some Chinese replacement units have apparently only lasted a few thousand miles, so watch out for those. I replaced both of mine (only one was bad) with new factory units at about 75K miles, now at 100K miles, no more problems. It's not a bad do it yourself job, about 1-2 hours per hub (fronts only - rears are harder), but not for those without some skill, experience, and tools.

 

[jrford]

Wheel bearing failures are common on these.

x2

 

[6704GTO]

x3
Jack front end and pull on tire. It shouldn't give.

 

[clarks2001]

which way do you pull? pep boys told me that if you pull left to right motion, its bearings and up and down its something else (forget what it was). I got the roar noise from my front passenger side and almost sure its a bearing.