Looking for some advice

mamasmurfmamasmurf Member Posts: 1
edited November 2015 in Ford
Hello All -
I own a 2003 Ford Escape 4x4. It has 204,000 miles on it.
My mechanic has recommended that I replace the rear differential and wheel bearings and brakes. He says the differential is beginning to show signs of failing. The total repair would be around $1600 for all three things.
I have owned the vehicle for three years. I bought it with around 140,000 miles on it and it has been a reliable vehicle thus far, but is starting to show signs of wear. (Owned a 2002 model before which before it was totalled in an accident - had 190,000 on it.) We maintain and repair minor things pretty good but not excellent. It is starting to burn oil (about a quart every 3-4 fill ups). I don't want to drop the $$ into it and have the tranny fail 2000 miles down the road or something else major.
As money is tight, I know that I would not be able to find another 4x4 for $1600 -so I am looking for input... Would you make the repair?
If not, thoughts on a 4x4 replacement model?
If I use it to drive just locally (60 mile radius in the snow covered country) and the differential fails - is there danger other than being stuck?
Thanks!

Comments

  • bdymentbdyment Member Posts: 573
    You are pushing your luck if you go for the repairs. Too many miles on the Escape. As you said it is burning some oil now. This can only get worse. If the differential fails, I would think the Escape is done.
  • keganm94keganm94 Member Posts: 1
    Sell it, then buy one with under 130000 miles. Trans axles for one aren't cheap. And if they fail, they break and usually one side of the car will have the tire pop our something along those lines. Then your rear end would slide everywhere. No traction control whatsoever. More likely an accident. Get rid of it
  • thecardoc3thecardoc3 Member Posts: 5,824
    keganm94 said:

    And if they fail, they break and usually one side of the car will have the tire pop our something along those lines. Then your rear end would slide everywhere. No traction control whatsoever. More likely an accident. Get rid of it

    There is no evidence to support these assertions.

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