Removal and Replacement

2012 Ford Escape 4WD L4-2.5LSECTION Removal and Replacement



Axle Assembly

Removal and Installation

1. With the vehicle in NEUTRAL, position it on a hoist.

2. Index-mark the driveshaft flange and the pinion flange.

3. NOTE: Support the driveshaft.
Remove and discard the 4 driveshaft-to-drive pinion bolts and position aside the rear driveshaft.

- To install, tighten the 4 new bolts to 40 Nm (30 lb-ft).


4. Remove the rear halfshafts.

5. Position a suitable transmission hydraulic jack to the axle housing. Securely strap the jack to the housing.





6. Disconnect the active torque coupling electrical connector.





7. Remove the 4 differential housing-to-front insulator bracket bolts.
- To install, tighten to 90 Nm (66 lb-ft).






8. Remove and discard the LH front insulator bracket-to-subframe bolt and rotate the bracket aside.
- To install, tighten the new bolt to 90 Nm (66 lb-ft).


9. Remove and discard the RH front insulator bracket-to-subframe bolt and the bracket.
- To install, tighten the new bolt to 90 Nm (66 lb-ft).


10. Remove the 3 LH side insulator bracket-to-rear axle differential bolts.
- To install, tighten to 90 Nm (66 lb-ft).






11. Lower the rear axle assembly.

12. To install, reverse the removal procedure.
RENDER: 1.0x

NO RELATED

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When to See a Mechanic

Stop DIY work and contact a certified mechanic immediately if any of the following apply:

  • You smell fuel, burning insulation, or see smoke.
  • Brakes feel soft, pull hard to one side, or make grinding noises.
  • The engine overheats, stalls repeatedly, or misfires under load.
  • You are missing required tools, torque specs, or safe lifting equipment.
  • You are not confident in the next step or safety outcome.