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My 2002 explorer had one right front wheel hub/bearing assy. replaced at 60,000mi. Dealer say's that was normal wear and tear???? At that time I could not figure out where the noise was coming from so I went to the dealer. Now I have a similiar noise(90,000mi) and can feel slight vibration in steering wheel when backing out and pulling out slow and then it goes away just after pulling out, say 10mph. I think it's coming from the left front wheel bearing? But, how can I check the bearing?I jacked the left side up but couldn't see or tell if the bearing had play. Someone told me to jack all four wheels up and start car and put in 4x4 and listen as all the wheeels turn. Is this the way to try to find the problem? thanks
Sounds like the same problem I am having. I had the rear bearings replaced because the dealer said that was the problem. $950.00 later still have the same problem. Just dropped it off to have the rear rebuilt ($1600.00). No warranty on the car. I have a 2002 Explorer with 93000. Reason for the first visit was a rubbing when starting out from a stop, only when turning backing or going forward. My rubbing seemed to be coming from the rear end of the car. I will let you know what happens, good luck.
When Ford took the Explorer to independent rear suspension in 02, they exposed the consumer to rear axle bearing problems (by design). The earlier solid axle Ex's have the bearing sitting in oil, just like the trucks, and rarely have a problem. Another Ford Great Idea!!