Hello
I have a 2004 Ford Explorer XLT with only 49,000 miles and I have been told, along with some research that the rear differential is going out. There is a whooping sound from the rear. This is a costly fix. Has anyone had this happen to them? I heard that it’s not necessary to get it fixed unless the whooping sound is annoying. Can it cause further damage or is it dangerous to drive? Kind of worried because I have 2 kids. Any adive would be great.
Thanks,
Chad
if it goes out the car will just stop moving and should cause much damage depending on what goes in your differental. it shouldn’t be dangerous. if you have four wheel drive i say drive it till it goes out then when it goes out you can still get home!
Ya unless it locks up. have you ever pulled the E brake on a car doing 60 REAL FUN!!!!!
Could very well be rear axle bearing noise you are hearring and NOT rear diff noise. 
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Could very well be rear axle bearing noise you are hearring and NOT rear diff noise.
Thats what I would say too…. a whirring noise is typically a bearing noise. Have you done a rear diff service ever ??? Sometimes fresh fluid does wonders….
I highly doubt your rear end would “lock up” if something let loose… usually they grenade, especially at higher speeds. I have seen a axle come out the side completely though
big G 
Not tire noise is it?
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