2004 Ford Explorer made loud noise toward middle of vehicle
Asked by Tim Sep 06, 2018 at 09:02 AM about the 2004 Ford Explorer XLT V6
Question type: Maintenance & Repair
I have a 2004 Ford Explorer that made a loud noise toward the middle of the
vehicle and could not drive after. I had to coast to stop. My suspicion is
transmission as I've had to replace the transmission 3 times in this vehicle.
What is best way to determine the issue?
3 Answers
Could be transmission, transfer case (if 4 wheel drive), drive shaft, u-joints, differential or axle problem. I would start by checking the fluid and condition at the transmission, transfer case (if 4 wheel drive) and the differential. Have someone put it in gear, engine running, and carefully look under the vehicle to see if the drive shaft is turning. If the driveshaft is turning with the engine running and the wheels ON the ground then the problem is likely at the rear end. If drive shaft is NOT turning then it is likely the transmission or transfer case.
It's a 2 wheel drive. Thanks for information. I'll drive over to where it's parked and check those items mentioned.
Take a close look at the transmission fluid, if it is brown or black it is not a good sign.
