Transfer Case Growl or Grinding Noise

WARNING: This page is about a different car, the 2010 GMC Sierra. However, it is still accessible from the selected car via links, so may be relevant.

Cause	Correction
DEFINITION: A faulty internal transfer case component that causes a growl or grinding noise in the transfer case while the vehicle is turning. Review the Symptoms - Transfer Case and perform the necessary inspections.
Planetary differential	Inspect the planetary differential pinion gears for the following conditions: Chipped, bent or deformed teeth Pinion gear bushings worn Pinion gear thrust washers missing Seized or binding pinion gears Refer to Transfer Case Cleaning and Inspection . Inspect the planetary differential for deformation. Refer to Transfer Case Cleaning and Inspection . Replace the planetary differential assembly if faulty. Refer to Transfer Case Disassemble and Transfer Case Assemble .
Sun gears	Inspect the sun gears for the following conditions: Gear tooth failure Worn or galled thrust surfaces Refer to Transfer Case Cleaning and Inspection . Replace the sun gears if faulty. Refer to Transfer Case Disassemble and Transfer Case Assemble .
Thrust washer	Inspect the thrust washer for seizure to the planetary differential. Inspect the thrust washer for galling. Replace the thrust washer if faulty and the mating component if damaged. Refer to Transfer Case Disassemble and Transfer Case Assemble .
Planetary differential not timed properly	Inspect the planetary differential for being timed properly. Refer to Transfer Case Assemble . Properly time the planetary differential gears. Refer to Transfer Case Assemble .