How does my Differential look?

Custom88 · #1 (**permalink**) 03-30-08, 07:22 PM

I"m taking my CTS to my local mechanic to get my differential fluid changed out next week because it's starting to whine pretty loud upon deceleration, especially when on an off ramp of the highway. If placed into Neutral while moving, the whining goes away. I checked underneath but didn't see anything obviously wrong. It looks pretty clean to me for a 2005 with 72,000 miles. Does my differential look pretty typical?

nopi08 · #2 (**permalink**) 03-30-08, 07:37 PM

other than looking for obvious leaks no one is going to be able to asses your differential from a picture

. But if its whining bad then its about gone anyways and its just a matter of time now. You should use the money he's charging to replace your fluid towards a new diff. Did you check your fluid level?

Custom88 · #3 (**permalink**) 03-30-08, 07:41 PM

I know no one can tell how "bad" the differential is by a picture, but is the little bit of seepage considered normal/not a problem is the question more or less. I have not checked the fluid level because to be honest with you, I do not see where the drain plug is on it.

nopi08 · #4 (**permalink**) 03-30-08, 09:13 PM

Oh ok....Well unfortunatly the seepage is probably normal but thats only because these differentials are weak and prone to failing. They SHOULD be bone dry. Your car is an 05. There is a recall starting with the 05's regarding the differentials and the seals that might solve your slight leak but if its whining that bad its not going to fix the underlying problem of you needing a new diff.

gaugeguru · #5 (**permalink**) 03-31-08, 03:08 AM

I wouldn't freak out if I were you. Mine has had a very slight whine upon deceleration for the past 20,000 miles (ever since I bought the car used). The whine has not got any louder, in fact, I would say it has gotten more quiet. I have had many passengers in my car but I am the only one to notice a sound. I changed my fluid once and it seemed to get more quiet.