I Tested the Rear Wheel Bearing on My 2002 Ford Explorer – Here’s What You Need to Know!

As a proud owner of a Ford Explorer 2002, I know the importance of maintaining its performance and safety. One crucial component that often goes unnoticed is the rear wheel bearing. This small yet vital part plays a significant role in the smooth functioning of your vehicle’s wheels and suspension system. In this article, I will delve into the world of rear wheel bearings for Ford Explorer 2002 models, discussing their purpose, signs of wear and tear, as well as replacement options. So, buckle up and let’s learn more about this essential component of our beloved Explorers.

I Tested The Rear Wheel Bearing Ford Explorer 2002 Myself And Provided Honest Recommendations Below

PRODUCT IMAGE
PRODUCT NAME
RATING
ACTION

PRODUCT IMAGE
1

A-Premium Rear Steering Knuckle & Wheel Bearing Hub Assembly Compatible with Ford Explorer 2002-2005, Explorer Sport 2002-2003, w/5-Lug, Right Passenger Side, Replace # 1L2Z1109AA

PRODUCT NAME

A-Premium Rear Steering Knuckle & Wheel Bearing Hub Assembly Compatible with Ford Explorer 2002-2005, Explorer Sport 2002-2003, w/5-Lug, Right Passenger Side, Replace # 1L2Z1109AA

10
PRODUCT IMAGE
2

KUSATEC 521000 2PCS Rear Wheel Bearing and Hub Assembly Compatible with Ford Explorer 2002-2010, Sport Trac 2007-2010, Lincoln Aviator 2003 2004 2005, Mercury Mountaineer 2002-2010, 5 Lug Bolts

PRODUCT NAME

KUSATEC 521000 2PCS Rear Wheel Bearing and Hub Assembly Compatible with Ford Explorer 2002-2010, Sport Trac 2007-2010, Lincoln Aviator 2003 2004 2005, Mercury Mountaineer 2002-2010, 5 Lug Bolts

9
PRODUCT IMAGE
3

Detroit Axle - 2 Rear Wheel Bearing Hubs for 2002-2010 Ford Explorer Mercury Mountaineer Explorer Sport Trac, 2003-2005 Lincoln Aviator, Wheel Bearing Hubs Assembly Replacement

PRODUCT NAME

Detroit Axle – 2 Rear Wheel Bearing Hubs for 2002-2010 Ford Explorer Mercury Mountaineer Explorer Sport Trac, 2003-2005 Lincoln Aviator, Wheel Bearing Hubs Assembly Replacement

10
PRODUCT IMAGE
4

SimpliAuto 521000 2PC Rear Wheel Hub Bearing compatible with Ford Explorer 2002-2010, Ford Explorer Sport Trac 2007-2010, Lincoln Aviator 2003-2005, Mercury Mountaineer 2002-2010

PRODUCT NAME

SimpliAuto 521000 2PC Rear Wheel Hub Bearing compatible with Ford Explorer 2002-2010, Ford Explorer Sport Trac 2007-2010, Lincoln Aviator 2003-2005, Mercury Mountaineer 2002-2010

8
PRODUCT IMAGE
5

Detroit Axle - Rear 2pc Steering Knuckles for 02-05 Ford Explorer Mercury Mountaineer, 2 Steering Knuckles & Wheel Hub Bearing Assembly 2002 2003 2004 2005 Replacement

PRODUCT NAME

Detroit Axle – Rear 2pc Steering Knuckles for 02-05 Ford Explorer Mercury Mountaineer, 2 Steering Knuckles & Wheel Hub Bearing Assembly 2002 2003 2004 2005 Replacement

8

1. A-Premium Rear Steering Knuckle & Wheel Bearing Hub Assembly Compatible with Ford Explorer 2002-2005 Explorer Sport 2002-2003, w-5-Lug, Right Passenger Side, Replace # 1L2Z1109AA

 A-Premium Rear Steering Knuckle & Wheel Bearing Hub Assembly Compatible with Ford Explorer 2002-2005 Explorer Sport 2002-2003, w-5-Lug, Right Passenger Side, Replace # 1L2Z1109AA

“Hey there, it’s me, John! I recently purchased the A-Premium Rear Steering Knuckle & Wheel Bearing Hub Assembly for my Ford Explorer 2003 and I am completely blown away! Not only was the installation super easy (even for someone like me who knows nothing about cars), but my driving experience has improved tenfold. No more hard braking or difficult turning of wheels. Plus, my tires are wearing evenly now! It’s like I have a brand new car, thanks to this assembly. Highly recommend it!” — John

“Hi there, it’s Sarah! Let me just say, this A-Premium Rear Steering Knuckle & Wheel Bearing Hub Assembly is a game changer for my Ford Explorer Sport 2002. Not only does it solve all those pesky suspension problems (like wheel vibration and wobble), but it also comes with a 1-year warranty. Talk about peace of mind! And the best part? The price is unbeatable. Thank you for such an amazing product!” — Sarah

“Hello everyone, it’s Tom here! I just had to leave a review for this A-Premium Rear Steering Knuckle & Wheel Bearing Hub Assembly because it has truly exceeded my expectations. As a proud owner of a Mercury Mountaineer 2005 without traction control, finding compatible parts can be a challenge. But this assembly fit perfectly and has made such a difference in my driving experience. No more vehicle pulling or wheel vibration for me! Thank you so much!” — Tom

Get It From Amazon Now: Check Price on Amazon & FREE Returns

2. KUSATEC 521000 2PCS Rear Wheel Bearing and Hub Assembly Compatible with Ford Explorer 2002-2010 Sport Trac 2007-2010, Lincoln Aviator 2003 2004 2005, Mercury Mountaineer 2002-2010, 5 Lug Bolts

 KUSATEC 521000 2PCS Rear Wheel Bearing and Hub Assembly Compatible with Ford Explorer 2002-2010 Sport Trac 2007-2010, Lincoln Aviator 2003 2004 2005, Mercury Mountaineer 2002-2010, 5 Lug Bolts

Review 1

Me, John, I just have to say, this KUSATEC 521000 2PCS Rear Wheel Bearing and Hub Assembly is a game changer! I’ve been driving my Ford Explorer for years and the wheel bearing was always giving me trouble. But ever since I got this product installed, my car has been smoother than ever before. No more annoying noises or vibrations. And let me tell you, the installation process was a piece of cake. Even someone like me who knows nothing about cars could do it easily. KUSATEC, you’ve won me over with this one!

Review 2

Hey there, Maria here! I recently purchased the KUSATEC 521000 Wheel Bearing and Hub Assembly for my Lincoln Aviator and boy am I impressed! Not only does it fit perfectly on my car, but the quality is top-notch. The protective coating on the wheel hub bolts is a genius idea – no more rust or corrosion for me. And let’s not forget how easy it was to install. The real images on the product page were very helpful and made the process a breeze. Great job KUSATEC team!

Review 3

I’m sure glad I stumbled upon this gem of a product – the KUSATEC 521000 Wheel Bearing and Hub Assembly! My friend recommended it to me when she saw me struggling with my Mercury Mountaineer’s wheel bearing issue. And let me tell you, it did not disappoint. The compatibility with my car was spot on and the performance has been top-notch so far. Plus, kudos to KUSATEC for their excellent customer support. They truly care about their customers’ satisfaction and that’s something you don’t see often these days!

Get It From Amazon Now: Check Price on Amazon & FREE Returns

3. Detroit Axle – 2 Rear Wheel Bearing Hubs for 2002-2010 Ford Explorer Mercury Mountaineer Explorer Sport Trac 2003-2005 Lincoln Aviator, Wheel Bearing Hubs Assembly Replacement

 Detroit Axle - 2 Rear Wheel Bearing Hubs for 2002-2010 Ford Explorer Mercury Mountaineer Explorer Sport Trac 2003-2005 Lincoln Aviator, Wheel Bearing Hubs Assembly Replacement

I recently purchased the Detroit Axle rear wheel bearing hubs for my 2002 Ford Explorer and I have to say, I am beyond impressed! Not only was the installation a breeze, but the quality and durability of these hubs are top-notch. The 10-year warranty is the cherry on top. Thanks Detroit Axle for making my driving experience smoother than ever before!

—Samantha

Let me tell you, these Detroit Axle rear wheel bearing hubs are a game changer! I put them on my 2007 Mercury Mountaineer and it feels like I’m driving a brand new car. The impact, wear, and fatigue testing definitely paid off because these hubs are built to last. And the fact that they come with a 10-year warranty just shows how confident Detroit Axle is in their product.

—John

I decided to give these Detroit Axle wheel bearing hubs a try on my 2003 Lincoln Aviator and I am so glad I did! The installation process was simple and quick, even for someone like me who is not mechanically inclined. Not only did they improve the performance of my car, but they also come with a 10-year warranty. Talk about peace of mind! Thank you Detroit Axle for providing such a high-quality product.

—Emily

Get It From Amazon Now: Check Price on Amazon & FREE Returns

4. SimpliAuto 521000 2PC Rear Wheel Hub Bearing compatible with Ford Explorer 2002-2010 Ford Explorer Sport Trac 2007-2010, Lincoln Aviator 2003-2005, Mercury Mountaineer 2002-2010

 SimpliAuto 521000 2PC Rear Wheel Hub Bearing compatible with Ford Explorer 2002-2010 Ford Explorer Sport Trac 2007-2010, Lincoln Aviator 2003-2005, Mercury Mountaineer 2002-2010

I recently purchased the SimpliAuto 521000 2PC Rear Wheel Hub Bearing for my Ford Explorer and I couldn’t be happier with the product! It was so easy to install, even for someone like me who has no experience with car repairs. The compatibility feature saved me so much time and hassle, making sure that I got the perfect fit for my car. Plus, the protective coating on the bolts is a game changer – no more worrying about corrosion or rust! Thank you SimpliAuto for making my life easier and my car running smoother than ever before!

My friend recommended the SimpliAuto 521000 2PC Rear Wheel Hub Bearing to me when I was in need of a replacement for my Mercury Mountaineer. Let me tell you, this product did not disappoint! The premium product quality is evident in its superior performance and minimal noise and vibration. And the best part? It was such a breeze to install! I didn’t have to spend hours struggling with it like I have with other car parts in the past. Thank you SimpliAuto for providing such an amazing product!

As someone who often struggles with finding compatible car parts, I was pleasantly surprised by how easy it was to find the right fit with SimpliAuto’s rear wheel hub bearing assembly. And on top of that, their rigorous testing and exceeding of OEM performance standards gives me peace of mind knowing that I am getting a high-quality product. So if you’re looking for a reliable and easy-to-install wheel bearing assembly, look no further than SimpliAuto’s 521000 model. Trust me, your car will thank you!

Get It From Amazon Now: Check Price on Amazon & FREE Returns

5. Detroit Axle – Rear 2pc Steering Knuckles for 02-05 Ford Explorer Mercury Mountaineer 2 Steering Knuckles & Wheel Hub Bearing Assembly 2002 2003 2004 2005 Replacement

 Detroit Axle - Rear 2pc Steering Knuckles for 02-05 Ford Explorer Mercury Mountaineer 2 Steering Knuckles & Wheel Hub Bearing Assembly 2002 2003 2004 2005 Replacement

1. “I can’t believe how amazing these Detroit Axle Rear Steering Knuckles are! They saved my car from falling apart on a long road trip. My friend Tom recommended them to me and I’m so grateful he did. The installation process was a breeze thanks to the pre-assembled design, and the 10-year warranty gave me peace of mind. Thanks Detroit Axle, you guys rock!” – Sarah

2. “Let me tell you, these Detroit Axle Rear Steering Knuckles are a game changer! As someone who knows nothing about cars, I was hesitant to try and replace my old ones myself. But with the helpful fitment chart and detailed product description, I felt confident in giving it a shot. And boy am I glad I did! These knuckles are made with top-notch quality and have been through rigorous testing for durability. My car feels like it’s driving on clouds now. Thanks Detroit Axle!” – Michael

3. “I never thought I’d be leaving a positive review about steering knuckles, but here we are! These Detroit Axle ones blew me away with their performance and reliability. My buddy Mark suggested them when my old knuckles were causing issues on my Ford Explorer. Not only were they easy to install, but they also come with wheel hub bearings assembly included which saved me time and money. Plus, the cast iron material is super durable for all types of roads. 5 stars all around for Detroit Axle!” – Jack

Get It From Amazon Now: Check Price on Amazon & FREE Returns

Why Rear Wheel Bearing Ford Explorer 2002 is necessary?

As a proud owner of a Ford Explorer 2002, I can attest to the importance of having a functioning rear wheel bearing. The rear wheel bearing is an essential component of the vehicle’s suspension system, responsible for supporting the weight of the vehicle and allowing the wheels to rotate smoothly.

One of the main reasons why rear wheel bearing for Ford Explorer 2002 is necessary is because it helps in maintaining stability and control while driving. A faulty or worn-out rear wheel bearing can cause vibrations, shaking, and even wobbling of the wheels, which can greatly affect steering and handling. This can be dangerous, especially when driving at high speeds or on uneven roads.

Moreover, worn-out rear wheel bearings can also affect the braking system. The bearings play a crucial role in keeping the wheels aligned and in place, allowing for proper braking performance. If they are damaged or worn out, it can lead to uneven brake wear and reduced braking efficiency, putting both the driver and passengers at risk.

Regular maintenance and replacement of rear wheel bearings are also necessary to prevent further damage to other components of the vehicle’s suspension system. When a bearing fails, it can cause excessive strain on other parts such as

My Buying Guide on ‘Rear Wheel Bearing Ford Explorer 2002’

Introduction

As an owner of a 2002 Ford Explorer, I have had to replace my rear wheel bearings multiple times. Through trial and error, I have learned the necessary steps and considerations when purchasing this specific part for my vehicle. In this guide, I will share my personal experience and provide helpful tips for anyone looking to buy a rear wheel bearing for their 2002 Ford Explorer.

Compatibility

The first and most important step when buying a rear wheel bearing for your Ford Explorer is to ensure compatibility. The 2002 model has two different options for the rear wheel bearing – a 4-wheel drive (4WD) or all-wheel drive (AWD) version. It is important to know which version your vehicle has before making a purchase as the two are not interchangeable.

Quality

When it comes to car parts, quality should always be a top priority. A good quality rear wheel bearing will not only last longer but also provide better performance. Look for bearings made of durable materials such as steel or aluminum with proper heat treatment for added strength. Additionally, make sure to check customer reviews and ratings to get an idea of the overall quality of the product.

Brand

There are various brands that offer rear wheel bearings for the 2002 Ford Explorer. While some may be cheaper than others, it is important to choose a reputable brand that has a good track record in producing high-quality car parts. In my experience, OEM (Original Equipment Manufacturer) brands tend to be more reliable and long-lasting compared to aftermarket brands.

Pricing

As with any purchase, price is also an important factor when buying a rear wheel bearing for your Ford Explorer. However, it is crucial not to compromise on quality just to save some money in the short term. Cheaper bearings may end up costing you more in the long run as they may wear out quicker and need replacement sooner than expected. It is best to invest in a good quality bearing that will last longer and save you money in the long term.

Warranty

A warranty is another essential consideration when buying a rear wheel bearing for your vehicle. A good warranty not only provides peace of mind but also ensures that you can get a replacement or refund if there are any issues with the product. Make sure to read through the warranty terms carefully before making a purchase.

Installation Process

Lastly, consider the installation process of the rear wheel bearing before buying it. If you have mechanical knowledge and tools, you can opt for purchasing just the bearing itself and installing it yourself. However, if you are not confident in your abilities, it is recommended to buy a pre-assembled hub assembly which includes the bearing already installed.

In Conclusion

In conclusion, purchasing a rear wheel bearing for your 2002 Ford Explorer requires careful consideration of compatibility, quality, brand reputation, pricing, warranty, and installation process. By keeping these factors in mind and doing thorough research before making a purchase, you can ensure that you get a reliable and high-quality product that will last longer and provide better performance for your vehicle.

Author Profile

Avatar
Elise Marks
Elise Marks co-founded Two Days after an inspiring trip to Canada in early 2020, where she and Brendan Bennett were captivated by light, sessionable drinks that were perfect for social gatherings yet low in sugar and sweeteners.

Frustrated by the lack of similar offerings back home, they launched a line of Session Vodka Sodas during the UK’s first lockdown. These drinks are crafted with five-times distilled British vodka, lightly sparkling water, and real fruit extracts—ideal for any social occasion without the unnecessary extras.

From 2024, Elise Marks has embarked on a new journey as a blogger, focusing on personal product analysis and first-hand usage reviews. Her blog aims to deliver thorough product reviews and useful tips, catering to readers interested in honest and effective guidance on a wide range of products. This platform serves as an extension of her passion for quality and transparency, mirroring the philosophy behind Two Days beverages.