2005 Ranger Front Wheel Bearing Failure @ 30K Miles
 

The front bearings failed on my 2005 Ranger Edge 4x4 at 30K & 32K miles, and were replaced by a certified Ford dealership. Vehicle is not driven much (5K miles in last 2 years); all city driving/no off road.

Are wheel bearing failures common on 2005 Rangers (and Explorers)? Should I expect the rear bearings to also fail.

I am new to the forum and appreciate your help. Thanks.

Not sure about this being common, but bearing failure that early "shouldn't" be common. Bearings can last double if not triple or more those numbers if kept greased. The 4x4 bearings, if I'm not mistaken, are sealed, so unless the seal was broken or impact occurred, I'd lean towards bad bearings vs any fault on your driving.

If the center CV axle nut is not torqued properly when the bearing is installed, premature bearing wear can result. If they have to be replaced again, you can do them, and make sure the center nut is torqued properly

That's not much before one of mine went on my '07... I didn't have to do it again or the other one though.

I got 82k out of one

I hear periodically about people having problems with wheel bearings on Rangers but I am still on the original bearing with over 148,000 miles. They show no signs of being worn and the truck has served its share of off-road duty. So, I don't think it could be considered a common failure.

Ball joints are another thing that some people have a problem with but I am still on my originals. Although, I do think they are approaching the point of needing replacement. The boots on the upper ball joints have cracked. I pumped a little more grease in them and sealed with silicone. That should extend their life a few more miles.