Mercedes-Benz Tech Tip: Howling Noise From Rear At 50-70 MPH

Mercedes-Benz Tech Tip: Howling Noise From Rear At 50-70 MPH

Vehicle owners may complain of a howling noise in the drivetrain in the area of the rear axle between 80 km/h and 110 km/h (50 mph to 70 mph). The cause could be resonance in the drivetrain stimulated by the meshing of the gear set in the rear axle differential (drive pinion/ring gear).

Figure 1

Model: 2013-’14 S-Class (W222)

Complaint: Possible howling noise in the drivetrain in the area of the rear axle between 80 km/h and 110 km/h (50 mph to 70 mph).

Cause: Resonance in the drivetrain stimulated by the meshing of the gear set in the rear axle differential (drive pinion/ring gear).

Figure 2

Remedy: The replacement of any other components is not effective. A test drive must be performed. For an accurate analysis and localization of the noise, use the “Chassis Ear” noise diagnosis kit (SI 58.40-P-0036A). If the rear axle differential can be clearly identified as the reason for the fault, then check at the left side shaft, whether a rotary mass damper (see Fig. 1) has been installed on the left inner joint. If a side shaft without rotary mass is installed, order a side shaft according to parts list (see Fig. 2).

Courtesy of ALLDATA.

You May Also Like

Jaguar Air Ride Diagnostics

The 2004-2009 Jaguar XJ8 and XJR were the first and last Jaguars with four-corner air ride suspension.

The 2004-2009 Jaguar XJ8 and XJR were the first and last Jaguars with four-corner air ride suspension. The system used in both does more than just control ride height – it optimizes the air pressure in the bladders and the valving in the dampeners to achieve the best possible ride and handling. 

Servicing Mercedes-Benz ADAS Systems

A great piece of advice is not to erase codes to see if they come back.

BMW Water Pumps

Take a closer look at this water pump, how to replace it efficiently, and what other components should be replaced with it.

BMW ADAS Systems Lane Departure Operation and Calibration

ADAS systems have changed throughout the years.

Audi ADAS Calibration

The 2018 Audi A8 is one of the most advanced ADAS systems on the road. Proper calibration is critical.

Other Posts

The March Digital Edition Is Ready To Read (For Free)

The March issue of ShopOwner includes technical and management content from ImportCar – available now.

Porsche TPMS

Porsche was the first manufacturer to use TPMS on a vehicle in 1986 for the 959 supercar.

Understanding BMW 12V Lithium Ion Battery Technology

Let’s face it, modern vehicles are more dependent on electrical systems than ever before. These days, it seems that you can’t turn on a heated seat, turn on a light, or roll down a window without one or more control units communicating with one another.  Related Articles – Audi Alignment & Calibration – BMW Diagnostics:

The January Digital Edition Is Ready To Read (For Free)

The January issue of ShopOwner includes technical and management content from ImportCar – available now.