Transfer Case Whine or Rumble Noise

WARNING: This page is about a different car, the 2017 Cadillac ATS. However, it is still accessible from the selected car via links, so may be relevant.

Cause	Correction
Definition: a faulty AWD system component or internal transfer case component that causes a whine or rumble noise. Compare the noise to a similar vehicle to see if a normal condition. Identify the source of the noise using chassis ears and refer to the appropriate service manual section. Note specifics such as when the noise is present. Note if the noise relative to vehicle speed, is noisy on turns, or other specifics. If the source of the noise is the transfer case, inspect for the correct fluid level. Inspect the drain plug for large metal deposits. Small metal flakes and fine metal dust on the plug magnet are to be considered normal. Review the Symptoms - Transfer Case and perform the necessary inspections.
Propeller Shaft Loose Or Damaged	NOTE: A whine or rumble noise that increases as vehicle speed increases may be caused by a loose or damage propeller shaft. Inspect and repair the propeller shaft as required.Refer to Symptoms - Propeller Shaft .
Tire Pressure Uneven	NOTE: A whine or rumble noise that occurs when performing slow speed turns in AWD may be caused by low or uneven tire pressure. Check the tire pressure and adjust as required to the value recommended by the label on the vehicle. Road test the vehicle
Tire Noise	NOTE: A whine or rumble noise that increases as vehicle speed increases may be caused by tires with an uneven wear condition or of different sizes. Reference the vehicle owner's manual and inspect for the correct size tires in the correct locations. Refer to Owner's Manual. Inspect the tires for excessive or uneven wear. Rotate or substitute tires and retest. Tire and Wheel Inspection
Front Or Rear Axle Bearings Worn	NOTE: A whine or rumble noise that increases as vehicle speed increases may be caused by worn axle bearings. To determine if the noise is front axle related, remove the front propeller shaft and retest. Repair or replace the axle as required.Front Wheel Drive Shaft Replacement - Right Side , Front Wheel Drive Shaft Replacement - Left Side , Rear Wheel Drive Shaft Replacement - Right Side (LGX, LTG)Rear Wheel Drive Shaft Replacement - Right Side (LF4, LCV) , Rear Wheel Drive Shaft Replacement - Left Side (LCV, LF4)Rear Wheel Drive Shaft Replacement - Left Side (LTG, LGX)
Transmission Rear Output Shaft Bearing Worn	NOTE: A whine or rumble noise that increases as transmission output shaft speed increases may be caused by a worn transmission output shaft bearing or other internal transmission components. Repair or replace the transmission as required.Symptoms - Automatic Transmission
Transfer Case Fluid Level Low	NOTE: A whine or rumble noise that increases as transmission output shaft speed increases may be caused by a low transfer case fluid level. Fill the transfer case to the correct fluid level and retest.
Transfer Case Bearings Worn	NOTE: A whine or rumble noise that increases as transmission output shaft speed increases may be caused by a worn transfer case internal bearing. Replace the bearings as required.Transfer Case Disassemble , Transfer Case Assemble
Transfer Case Gear Wear Or Gear Damage	NOTE: A slight whine noise that occurs a 35-40 mph should be considered normal. Compare to another similar vehicle. NOTE: Normal transfer case noise can be described as a slight noise heard only at a certain speed or under unusual or remote conditions. For example, the noise tends to reach a peak at speeds from 56-64 km/h (35-40 mph) depending on road and load conditions, or on gear ratio and tire size. This slight noise is in no way indicative of trouble in the transfer case assembly. Test drive and compare to a similar vehicle to determine if this is a normal operating condition. Repair or replace the transfer case as required. Transfer Case Disassemble , Transfer Case Assemble