On my '00 with 15k miles, I just started noticing a strange noise coming from some area between the diff and right rear wheel. Not a tick, but kind of a "chk, chk, chk" (sort of like when you're trying to get a dog's attention).

Doesnt happen every time. Seems to happen more often when making a sharp, slow right turn and goes away while driving, but will come back on an initial accelaration.

Any info would be greatly appreciated to give me a little insight before making the much-dreaded dealer visit. Thanks

 

Sounds like ypur differential is failing. However, diagnosis over the internet can be waaaaaaaaaay off.

Take it to the dealer.

 

Go read my post in the "under the hood" section the 'Eight ball noise"

Sounds similar - Ive been driving hard - kinda hoping for something to break now rather than later - but its just getting louder. I got a video camera down there but I really need to get the car on a lift and troubleshoot it.

 

Thanks for the replies.

I've been very gentle with this car from day one. If it is going to break this easy, I ought to just drive the crap out of it and enjoy it while its under warranty.

By the way, are the replacement diffs the same or have they been upgraded?

 

I had this problem exactly as you describe and had it fixed. To fix, the dealer need to remove the axle from the diff and re-pack with grease. This solution came from AHM. That has worked for me just fine.