Whine from front transfer case?

Tiny
BHAMDOC1973
  • MEMBER
  • 2014 LEXUS IS 250
  • 6 CYL
  • 4WD
  • AUTOMATIC
  • 187,000 MILES
I believe its coming from there. Tires and suspension have no issues. If I remove the front drive shaft will I be able to drive it to see if the noise goes away so I can narrow down the issue? I do that with bmws to determine if the transfer case up front is bad
Sunday, December 14th, 2025 AT 10:41 AM

5 Replies

Tiny
KEN L
  • MASTER CERTIFIED MECHANIC
  • 54,272 POSTS
Yes, you can remove the front prop shaft and do a short diagnostic drive to see if the whine disappears. If so the noise goes away these cars had a problem with the differential main bearing for the ring gear, it is a little to small in my opinion.

Short drive only (5-10 miles max)

1. No hard acceleration
2. No high-speed freeway runs

You might get a warning light, just ignore it. Let us know how it goes
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Monday, December 15th, 2025 AT 1:14 PM
Tiny
BHAMDOC1973
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I see. Why no hard acceleration. Is that gonna do anything
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Monday, December 15th, 2025 AT 2:05 PM
Tiny
KEN L
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Yes, this will cause the traction control to throw codes due to tire slippage.
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Tuesday, December 16th, 2025 AT 9:46 AM
Tiny
BHAMDOC1973
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Oh I see
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Tuesday, December 16th, 2025 AT 9:59 AM
Tiny
KEN L
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Yep, let me know if the noise goes away without the front driveshaft installed.
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Tuesday, December 16th, 2025 AT 10:10 AM

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