2000 Chevy Suburban Rear Differential

EDT3106

MEMBER
2000 CHEVROLET SUBURBAN
V8
4WD
AUTOMATIC
151,000 MILES

I noticed a funny whining noise form my Suburban. Took it in for a service check and it was determined it needed a complete rear differential. To make this worse we just purchased the car a week prior. We bought an extended warranty form the dealership. The warranty company will not cover it because they are saying it was a preexisting condition. My question is, is it unsafe to drive around on a bad differential? We also tow a boat with this. I need help. I know it has to be fixed but I want to know if the dealership is liable for this by selling us an unsafe car?
What do you think?

1 Reply

02REDCAMARO

MECHANIC
65 POSTS

I would definitely NOT use this vehicle to tow anything until it is repaired. This is a potentially unsafe situation. It could leave you stuck on the side of the road. You might check the fluid level, it may be low. Why did they say that the diff needed replacement? Worn gears? If may just need seals or bearings, and maybe the whole diff can be saved. Too bad the dealer won't fix it, if you bought it 'as is', the dealer probably isn't liable. Otherwise, I would look for a boneyard replacement, just make sure that the gear ratios are the same, the seals are good, and maybe the boneyard will give you a warranty/guarantee.