Jerk/Jump Sensation with Growl/Groan Noise, Shudder, Bind From Rear of Vehicle While Turning (Drain/Refill Rear Differential Fluid)

Some customers may comment on a jerk or jump feeling accompanied by a growl/groan noise, shudder or bind from the rear of the vehicle while turning.

This may be caused by slip/stick of the posi-traction clutch plates. As plates slip and stick, a jump or jerk feeling occurs accompanied by a growl or groan noise.

1. Remove the rear differential fluid using the procedure provided in SI.

Important: DO NOT add any limited-slip additive (friction modifier). With this new fluid (DEXRON® LS Gear Oil 75W-90), it is no longer required to add friction modifier. If a friction modifier is added, it will cause the fluid to lose some of its friction reducing properties as well as reducing seal life.

2. Fill the differential with DEXRON® LS gear oil, P/N 88862624 (in Canada, P/N 88862625).
3. Follow the procedures in SI for the 8.6 in axle on the Saab 9-7X 4.2L and 5.3L models. The lubricant levels should be between 0 mm to 10 mm (0 in to 0.4 in) below the fill plug opening.
4. Follow the procedures in SI for the 9.5 in LD Axle on TrailBlazer SS and Saab 9-7X Aero models. The lubricant level should be between 15 mm to 40 mm (0.6 in to 1.6 in) below the fill plug opening.
5. Once the differential fluid is changed, the vehicle must be driven in 8-10 tight figure eight maneuvers to allow the fluid to be worked into the clutch plates.

Important: If the noise condition is improved by this procedure but is not completely eliminated, it may be necessary to perform the procedure a second time.

Notice: There will be some vehicles where the damage to the clutch packs from wear or moisture will be too extensive to be fixed by this procedure. In this case, replace the rear differential center section (differential gear case), which includes clutch plate and springs.

For vehicles repaired under warranty, use:

For vehicles repaired under warranty, use: