GM Service Manual Online
For 1990-2009 cars only

Checks

Causes

DEFINITION: A final drive noise is a whine or hum that is most noticeable under light throttle acceleration or turns on deceleration

TEST: Drive the vehicle on a section of smooth highway in 3 different speed ranges: 32-48 km/h (20-30 mph), 48-64 km/h (30-40 mph) and 64-80 km/h (40-50 mph). Determine the speed range when the noise is the most noticeable. When the noise is the most noticeable, shift the transmission into neutral and back into drive. If the noise stops when the transmission is shifted into neutral and returns when shifted back into drive, replace the final drive components listed in the table below.

When the noise remains constant in both drive and neutral, DO NOT SERVICE THE FINAL DRIVE. Additional noise diagnosis is required. Refer to Symptom Diagnosis .

    • Final Drive Carrier Assembly
    • Final Drive Sun Gear
    • Final Drive Internal Gear

Mis-machined or damaged