 2006 Escape rear differential shreads to pieces
NEWER ESCAPE OWNERS: CHECK YOUR REAR DIFF!
Noticed excessive noise coming from rear of my wife's Escape, especially under load conditions (on gas or breaking vs. coasting). Pulled rear diff leveling plug out for a look and found ground up metal shavings. Took it into the dealer and it needs a whole new rear differential.
According to FORD, the warranty on rear diffs is only 3/36. And, even though it was properly full of fluid, and showed no signs of water penetration (clear, not white or foamy) they are refusing to provide any warranty assistance. Rear differentials should not self destruct on 2 year old Escapes, regardless of 59,000 miles on the odometer. It's a part that should NEVER break, but did. It clearly had a flaulty part installed in the factory or was put together wrong. Don't know how they can ignore that FACT. The excuse FORD is sticking to is 1) it's out of warranty (mileage), 2) no recalls or formal assistance programs for escape rear diffs, and 3) that since I've never had the vehicle in the dealer for service, ever, (I do all my own service, oil, filters, belts, etc) that they have no history with with vehicle and will provide no assistance. I am a lifelong ford owner, as is all of my family, but I think after this incident, this will sadly be our last Ford. Any comments or advice would be appreciated. Thanks. | 
