Hello all,

First post here. Yes I've used the search bar, and I haven't found my specific scenario... so here it goes.

04 Chevy Tahoe Z71, 107,000 miles, bought used from dealer 1 year ago. Making a growl in the front end ONLY from the left side. However, the noise not consistent, or constant. It can be changed by going between 4 (hi or lo) and 2 hi. It can also be change while doing a slalom type of maneuver in reverse. And for the sake of clarity, i don't mean the sound only changes during these scenarios, but these scenarios can change the sound for days/weeks at a time. It can go from a prominent growl, to almost or even completely silent. The only constant thing in this is that the issue only occurs under left turns.

Speed is also not a factor. It can happen at 1 mph or greater. Also, it definitely makes me think of the front differential, because the growl is a rotating deep sound, but only happens once to every 3 to 4 rotations (guessing) of the wheel. Even slight side pressure to the left on the steering wheel while going down the road will cause the noise.

So to recap: same noise, but varies in severity from pronounced to silent, 4x4 actuation can change this for long runs, only LEFT side/turns/pressure. Changed fluid two months back and was fairly dark, but no inordinate amount of shavings on the plug, and nothing in the fluid. Replaced with royal purple. All other fluids are perfect.

The vehicle has a 5 year 100,000 mile power train warranty purchased at sale. Any suggestions, thoughts, opinions, etc?

Thanks!

 

Check the front wheel bearings for play.
If the abs light is on in conjunction with the noise; it's probably the hub and bearing assembly.

 

I did that (12 and 6 rock back and forth) and seems solid, no abs light. I've dealt with these hub assemblies in the past, and I don't think this is it. I am in the vehicle right now and I put it in 4hi on black top, rolling idle, and back to 2hi. The front end felt very tight, almost like it was still in 4, but the drive train didn't bind up or hop when turning. But there was a very pronounced squealing from the left side, similar to brakes chirping but constant and definitely from the driveline. I could even get out of the vehicle with the wheel turned left, and rock the whole thing back and forth and it would squeak with the rocking.

Then after backing and turning different ways, it just went away and now there is no noise, no tightness, no nothing...except confusion.

 

if its a squeak and not a growl check the backing plates for contact with the rotors. backing plates can flex out when the wheels are turned to the stops.