Growling & Whining the same?

[kamiller42]

I have an '02 Explorer with a V8. From 0mph, I hear a growl coming from the back. I don't hear it when the vehicle is moving say 20mph or higher. Is this the same issue I am reading about in regard to rear differential bearings going out?

I was going to buy a new vehicle, but then decided to simply fix the problems which annoy me about my '02. I fixed the cracked rear panel below the window, paid to fix the rear a/c compressor and its thumping, and was going to have the black panels refinished (they are peeling). I figure I would re-invest in the Explorer. Reading the problems about rear differentials and transmission problems makes me wonder if I should risk investing any more in the Explorer. It sounds like serious problems costing me $$$ are coming my way.

If I have a rear differential problem, how would it be to fix? How long does the fix last? There's a TSB on it. I guess that doesn't mean I get the fix for free or heavily discounted, eh?

 

[Nevea'sExplorer]

I don't know of too many people with a rear differential problem, at least enough to be worried about it. But any type of fix should get you an easy 100k out of it, all dependent of your driving habits of course.

If the truck is worth repairing is all dependent of how much you like it and how well you take care of it. If you beat the hell out of it then something is always going to be going wrong. But if you take good care of it then it should last you a long time if you fix the problems correctly and not mickey mouse things. Paying $400-$500 every 6 months is better then paying $400 every month for a new truck in some people's eyes. It's all dependent on you and what you wish to live with.

 

[Anna's 2002]

IMO they do have a normal rear end noise. They are not the quietest ride. I was worried about mine but it turned out to be a rear wheel bearing that went bad. No shimming,shaking etc. Might have them checked.