2003 Exploder Transmission/Rear end

37k miles on 2003 Explorer XLT V-8. A few months ago took it to the dealer for possible transmission noise and rear end noise, they changed some bolts that were oversized at the factory and appeared to solve proble. Now, the tranny seems loud and occassionnaly "hangs in 1st" before releasing into 2nd. I also have a hum coming from the differential or rear end when excelerating while already driving on the road. If I'm at 50mph and take my foot off the gas, there is no noise but by slightly accelerating without increasing speed I get a distinct humming noise from the differential/rear end. Anyone having the same problems or know a solution?

37k miles on 2003 Explorer XLT V-8. A few months ago took it to the dealer for possible transmission noise and rear end noise, they changed some bolts that were oversized at the factory and appeared to solve proble. Now, the tranny seems loud and occassionnaly "hangs in 1st" before releasing into 2nd. I also have a hum coming from the differential or rear end when excelerating while already driving on the road. If I'm at 50mph and take my foot off the gas, there is no noise but by slightly accelerating without increasing speed I get a distinct humming noise from the differential/rear end. Anyone having the same problems or know a solution?

If you check around the internet car sites you will find that many 2002 on explorers are having transmission shifting issues and rear differential issues.

If you do not have an extended warranty, you MAY still be able to get one off the Ford warranty website. You would have to do it BEFORE you take the car to a dealer for those problems. You are just over the 36k so I am not positive. You can buy the warranty online if you meet the requirements.

The transmissions can sometimes be fixed with some new solenoids or valve body work, but just as often they get replaced with a reman unit.

There is a pretty new TSB out about differential noise. If you got the diff noise, they have a parts kit to rebuild them.

These are not recalls, so if you are out of warranty the coin comes out of your pocket. If you can sneak in a Ford extended warranty I would do it cause the diff repairs and the transmission repairs will more than pay for it. If you get the warranty, wait 4 to 6 weeks before you go to the dealer so they won't say you had a pre-existing issue and deny your claim.

Thanks, think I'll sell it and take the $500 I save from the extended warranty and buy an ad in the local paper, maybe that will get Ford's attention.