2003 Ford Explorer howling noise coming from rear when crus

The noise from the differential may go away by having it serviced; however, it may stay the same. For now, make sure the differential is full.

The reason I say the noise may not go away is because you may have already done the damage to a bearing. If you fill the differential and the sound still doesn't go away, replacing the seal and refilling it won't change it. The mechanic will need to identify where the noise is coming from.

Is that a big job if the damage is done. Replacing a bearing. I just bought the car so I really don't know how long it's been doing it. Is that something anyone could do or should i take it to ford dealer. Thank You very much

It is hard for me to say. It could be as simple as setting backlash or major part could need replaced.

I wish I could be more specific, but I would need to remove the differential cover and check if that is it and what it is.

Thank You for your help.

You're welcome, but I don't feel like I helped too much. Let me know what they find before they do any work so I can direct you.

Thanks for using 2carpros.com.

Joe

Can you tell if there is any damage just by taking cover off and inspecting. Could axle bearing be causing the noise or is just probably the differential. Thank You

You may find some steel filings in the differential if you remove the cover. And yes, it could be a bearing.