Tag Archives: rear axle noise

2020-2022 Ford Explorer Repeated Repair Attempts

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Ford Explorer Axle Problem
Certain 2020-2022 Ford Explorer Vehicles May Still Be at Risk

A critical issue affecting certain 2020-2022 Ford Explorer vehicles has come to light, despite previous repair attempts under recalls 23V-199 or 22V-255. The problem lies in the rear axle horizontal mounting bolt, which may fracture and cause the driveshaft to disconnect. This can lead to a loss of forward power, increased risk of crash and injury, and even unintended vehicle movement.

The root cause of the issue is attributed to a software tool malfunction that failed to upload the correct software update to the vehicle during previous repair attempts. As a result, the underlying condition specified in Safety Recalls 23S16 / 23V-675 and 22S27 / 22V-255 may still exist, putting drivers and passengers at risk.

The Technical Explanation

Affected vehicles were built with a 3-point mounted axle design, which can lead to a fracture of the rear axle horizontal mounting bolt. When powertrain torque is applied through the driveline, it causes axle rotation, exerting a bending force on the rear axle bolt. Repeated peak torque events, typically experienced during launch events, can cause fatigue failure of the bolt. This can result in a loud, grinding, binding, or clunking noise, as well as severe vibration.

The Consequences

If the rear axle bolt breaks, the driveshaft or half-shafts may become disconnected, leading to a loss of forward power and transmission torque to the rear wheels. This increases the risk of crash and injury. Furthermore, if the parking brake is not applied, the loss of primary park torque can allow the vehicle to roll in park, increasing the risk of crash and injury.

The Solution

To correct the problem, dealers will update the powertrain control module (PCM) software. Ford’s number for this recall is 25S22, and the NHTSA campaign number is 25V-166. It is essential that owners of affected vehicles take immediate action to have their vehicle repaired to prevent any potential accidents or injuries.

2021 Porsche Cayenne – Rear Axle Lock Nuts Could Break

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Porsche North America, Inc. (Porsche) will be contacting the owners of certain 2021 Cayenne vehicles because of a problem affecting the rear axle suspension. The Porsche models affected include 2021 Cayenne, Cayenne S, Cayenne Turbo, Cayenne GTS, Cayenne Coupe, Cayenne S Coupe, Cayenne Turbo Coupe, and Cayenne GTS Coupe.

According to the defect report, lock nuts on the trailing arm of the rear axle have not been manufactured according to specifications. The problem could cause a loose thread connection that may allow respective suspension components to move beyond the intended position. If the screw connection fails, the driver could experience a sudden loss of driving stability with a significant change to driving behavior and a loss of vehicle control. Drivers may notice noises and vibrations due to the loosening of the connection, but these warning sings are not guaranteed.

Porsche will instruct owners of affected vehicles to return to their dealers to have the lock nuts replaced. The recall is expected to begin June 2021. Porsche’s number for this recall is AMA9 and the NHTSA campaign number is 21V-271.

GM Expands Recall For Rear Axle Cross Pins

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A recent recall for improperly heat treated rear axle cross pins on some GM trucks and SUVs is being expanded to include another 25,000 vehicles. The original recall included:

  • 2011 Cadillac Escalade EXT
  • 2011 Chevrolet Avalanche
  • 2011 Chevrolet Silverado LD
  • 2011 GMC Sierra LD

GM told the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) that it had expanded the recall because some faulty parts were used in production through to Jan. 3 of this year. The new recall includes:

  • 2011 Cadillac Escalade
  • 2011 Cadillac Escalade ESV
  • 2011 Chevrolet Colorado
  • 2011 Chevrolet Silverado
  • 2011 Chevrolet Suburban
  • 2011 Chevrolet Tahoe
  • 2011 GMC Canyon
  • 2011 GMC Sierra
  • 2011 GMC Yukon
  • 2011 GMC Yukon XL

GM said they know of one incident in which a driver experienced a loss of power to the axle, but are not aware of any crashes or injuries related to the condition. They are urging drivers not to use the vehicles until the problem is fixed.

Chrysler Recalls Dodge Ram Vehicles

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Chrysler Group has announced three recalls that will have almost 145,000 Dodge Ram owners starting their new year by taking in their vehicles for repairs.

The first and largest of the recalls involves about 65,000 2009 Dodge Journey SUV’s for wiring issues. According to a letter sent to the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA), Chrysler found that the front door wiring harness may wear and break making the side impact airbags inoperative. The problem is being blamed on the routing of the wire and poor wire quality used. Cold weather is also a contributing factor.

The second recall involves almost 57,000 2010 Ram 1500 pickup trucks. In response to complaints from customers about a growling or grinding noise coming from the rear axle, Chrysler’s investigation found that the rear axle requires additional axle lube oil.

Finally, almost 23,000 Ram 4500 and 5500 pickup trucks built between 2008-2011 are being recalled for a faulty steering. The problem is being blamed on an improperly manufactured ball stud which may weaken and eventually break resulting in the loss of vehicle control.

Chrysler will begin informing customers of the recalls beginning in February. Owners with additional questions can contact Chrysler at 800-853-1403.