Front differential clicking

Can you get a recording of the noise so that we can hear it? Clearly it is making the noise when moving so it is something inside the differential and the most likely thing we are going to have to do is take the cover apart to see what is happening.

I assume you have the full time 4WD?

If this is the case, have you changed any tire recently?

If so and you have not changed all 4 at the same time then you may be damaging the diff and transfer case as the tires need to be the same circumference.

Please see below for the detail on the front differential. I suspect the clicking is the bearings but we need to dig a little further and a video will help with this. Thanks

Hi,

Where is the leak coming from? Also, is there anything that makes the noise worse, go away, or change? For example, does it get louder when making a sharp turn or on acceleration?

Let me know if it is full-time AWD or part-time.

Also, check the front driveshaft universal joint and slip joint for play or damage. I attached a pic below to help locate them.

Here is a link that explains how to check one:

https://www.2carpros.com/articles/how-u-joints-work

You will need to remove it to properly test it. Here is a link to help with that process. Note that the link shows it being done on the rear. The front is very similar.

https://www.2carpros.com/articles/how-to-remove-a-drive-shaft

Let me know what you find.
'
Joe

Thanks.
I will check today.

Hi,

Sounds like a plan. You know, I need you to check one other thing. Where the front driveshaft connects on the transfer case is a CV joint connection. Make sure none of the rubber boots are damaged. That can be the noise as well.

I attached a pic below showing a new one. Also, the second pic shows the joint I am referring to.

Let me know. I just replaced one of these on a Grand Cherokee. It sounded like a clicking/crunching sound.

Joe