GM Service Manual Online
For 1990-2009 cars only

Noisy in Drive

Cause

Correction

Inspect for the proper gear oil levels prior to performing system diagnosis.

Loose propeller shaft mounting bolts

Tighten the bolts as required. Refer to Propeller Shaft Replacement in Propeller Shaft.

Worn propeller shaft constant velocity joint

Replace propeller shaft assembly. Refer to Propeller Shaft Replacement in Propeller Shaft.

A worn propeller shaft constant velocity joint may create a "clicking", "grinding" or "snapping" type noise.

Worn or loose center bearing assembly

Replace the center bearing assembly as required.

A worn center bearing assembly may cause vehicle vibration or a "grinding" or "squealing" type noise.

Worn universal joints

Replace the universal joints as required.

A worn universal joint may create a "clicking" or "snapping" type noise.

Worn axle shaft constant velocity joints

Replace/repair the constant velocity joints as required.

A worn axle shaft constant velocity joint may create a "clicking", "grinding" or "snapping" type noise.

Transfer Case Noise

Refer to Diagnostic Starting Point - Transfer Case in Transfer Case - NVG 900.

Worn or damaged axle mounting bushings (side)

Replace the bushings as required.

Refer to Differential Housing Support Bushing Replacement .

Bushing may be clocked incorrectly. The bushing relief slots must be in the 12 o'clock and 6 o'clock positions when installed for the V6, and in the 3 o'clock and 9 o'clock positions when installed for the L4.

A worn bushing may create a "clunk" type noise during acceleration or deceleration.

Worn or damaged axle mounting bushing (rear)

Replace the bushing as required.

A worn bushing may create a "clunk" type noise during acceleration or deceleration.

Loose rear mounting bracket

Tighten bracket bolts as required.

Loose or damaged prop guard

Repair or replace as required.

A loose dust shield may contact the propeller shaft assembly and create a "scraping" or "grinding" type noise.

Bearing noise within the axle assembly

A "grinding" or "roar" type noise will increase or decrease relative to the vehicle speed.

  1. Check for the proper fluid level. Fill as required.
  2. If the noise continues, repair or replace the unit as required.

Gear set "whine" noise within the axle assembly

A "whine" type noise will increase or decrease relative to the vehicle speed, approximately 50-60 mph.

  1. Check for the proper fluid level. Fill as required.
  2. Repair or replace the unit as required.

Shutter or moan at slow speeds or slow turns.

A shutter or moan type noise in slow sharp turns.

  1. Fluid may be contaminated with an incorrect fluid type.
  2. Replace fluid. Fill as required. Test drive under normal operating conditions.
  3. Replace the clutch pack.