2002 GMC Yukon Differential fluid doesn't seem to be the pr

Tiny
RDH79
  • MEMBER
  • 2002 GMC YUKON
  • V8
  • AWD
  • AUTOMATIC
  • 137,648 MILES
After driving approximately 20 minutes (usually takes at least this), my GMC Denali begins to make an odd "popping" sound when I turn right or left while in drive or reverse. For example, while circling in a parking garage, turning into a driveway or even a parking spot, etc. If I cut the wheels all the way, it acts as if I have the brakes on instead of just going around in a circle like it should. As the driver, you can hear and feel the "pop". It almost feels as though I am driving on a flat tire or that something is binding. I have been told the sound is not evident from the outside of the car. Something is "popping"/"grinding" and I cannot figure it out. The last visit I made to the auto repair shop was comprised of changing front and rear differential fluids and transfer case fluids (GM Gear Lube and Auto Trak Transfer Fluid), but two days later, the problem came back. This was on 6/22/2009. Any suggestions?
Tuesday, August 4th, 2009 AT 11:48 PM

6 Replies

Tiny
JACOBANDNICKOLAS
  • MECHANIC
  • 108,164 POSTS
Is it a clicking sound or a clunk? Also, it sounds like it is in 4wd. THat will cause it to bind on a dry surface when turning.

Let me know.
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Monday, October 5th, 2009 AT 1:04 PM
Tiny
RDH79
  • MEMBER
  • 3 POSTS
It is more of a knocking sound. Definitely not a click. It is an AWD Denali so it can't be in 4WD as there is no option to select that.

After the car heats up, it is very noticeable. For example, driving down the highway for an hour and then exiting to get gas - when I try and turn into the pump, it knocks when I turn the steering wheel. Putting the sound aside, it feels like I am turning on a flat tire if you can imagine that feeling.
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Monday, October 5th, 2009 AT 1:29 PM
Tiny
JACOBANDNICKOLAS
  • MECHANIC
  • 108,164 POSTS
Now I understand. It's all time 4wd. Are there any sounds associated with this other than when you turn? It may have something to do with a CV joint. I would check that to make sure they are tight and not loose. If they are bad enough, they could make a knocking when turning. Also, have you checked steering components such as ball joints? And finally, have you checked for a bad wheel bearing?

I just reread your original posting. Start with the CV joints. I think the problem may be there.

Let me know what you find.
Joe
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Monday, October 5th, 2009 AT 8:56 PM
Tiny
RDH79
  • MEMBER
  • 3 POSTS
Thanks for your response
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Tuesday, October 6th, 2009 AT 11:09 AM
Tiny
JACOBANDNICKOLAS
  • MECHANIC
  • 108,164 POSTS
Let me know what you find. It may help others.
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Tuesday, October 6th, 2009 AT 1:23 PM
Tiny
SALT910
  • MEMBER
  • 1 POST
Did you ever figure out the problem? I'm having the same issue.
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Friday, June 3rd, 2011 AT 2:13 PM

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