Rear Differential Symptom Diagnosis

WARNING: This page is about a different car, the 2011 Suzuki SX4. However, it is still accessible from the selected car via links, so may be relevant.

REAR DIFFERENTIAL SYMPTOM DIAGNOSIS REFERENCE CHART

Condition	Possible Cause	Action
Gear noise	Deteriorated or water mixed lubricant	Repair and replenish referring to REAR DIFFERENTIAL OIL CHANGE .
	Inadequate or insufficient lubricant	Repair and replenish referring to REAR DIFFERENTIAL OIL CHANGE .
	Maladjusted backlash between drive bevel pinion and gear	Adjust as prescribed referring to REAR DIFFERENTIAL DISASSEMBLY AND REASSEMBLY .
	Improper tooth contact in the mesh between drive bevel pinion and gear	Adjust or replace referring to REAR DIFFERENTIAL DISASSEMBLY AND REASSEMBLY .
	Loose drive bevel gear securing bolts	Replace or retighten referring to REAR DIFFERENTIAL DISASSEMBLY AND REASSEMBLY .
	Damaged differential gear(s) or differential pinion (s)	Replace referring to REAR DIFFERENTIAL INSPECTION .
Bearing noise	(Constant noise) Deteriorated or water mixed lubricant	Repair and replenish referring to REAR DIFFERENTIAL OIL CHANGE .
	(Constant noise) Inadequate or insufficient lubricant	Repair and replenish referring to REAR DIFFERENTIAL OIL CHANGE .
	(Noise while coasting) Damaged bearing(s) of drive bevel pinion	Replace referring to REAR DIFFERENTIAL INSPECTION .
	(Noise while turning) Damaged differential side bearing(s) or axle bearing(s)	Replace referring to REAR DIFFERENTIAL INSPECTION .
Oil leakage	Clogged breather plug	Clean .
	Worn or damaged oil seal	Replace .
	Excessive oil	Adjust oil level referring to REAR DIFFERENTIAL OIL CHANGE .
	Loose differential carrier bolts	Replace or retighten .