whining sound coming from gear shift area at high speeds

outrigger777 · Post by **outrigger777** » 14 Nov 2011, 14:45

My xc90 recently developed a mild whining sound from the gear shift area when driving above 65 mph. It's not very noticeable, but it is new. One person has suggested to me that it might be a bearing that connects to the AWD system, and that it might not be a real problem for years. There are no other symptoms--no concern about the transmission, which is shifting smoothly. My major concern is about AWD drive failures on the xc90, which, I've heard, can take the transmission out too. I don't mind the faint whining sound, but does anyone think I might be playing Russian roulette with my transmission if I don't do anything about it? What would you do if it was your car? Thanks.

Post by **fazool** » 15 Nov 2011, 08:51

A very broad interpretation :

It sounds like a bearing issue. Thats a common indication of bearing wear. It is absolutely a problem and must be addressed. It is NOT ok to drive with it like that and it will get worse and worse faster and faster.

MixEngineer · Post by **MixEngineer** » 17 Nov 2011, 10:52

If you have an AWD it's possible it's just the AWD making that noise. I have AWD 2004 2.5 and at around 50-55mph it does this quiet whine. The mechanic said it can be common for the AWD's.

However, if it's a recent development and it's loud, I definitely recommend you at least give the mechanic a call.

If it's a bearing, you may try jacking up the suspected wheel and try turning it. Sometimes you'll be able to feel or hear if the bearing is about to go.

I agree though, don't just sit on it without being proactive.

Let us know what you discover.

outrigger777 · Post by **outrigger777** » 23 Nov 2011, 13:38

The whining noise is very slight, and it seems that it takes speeds over 70 mph to cause it. Took it to my mechanic yesterday, and on the way over I was able to air it out a little (85+mph). I came to the conclusion it must be the tires. My mechanic test drove it, and he said he thought it was the tires also. He said the tires were cuffed, and that xc90's eat tires for breakfast.
The tires only have about 10,000 miles on them with plenty of tread left. They are expensive michelins with a 60,000 mile warranty, and should last a lot longer. Like I said, the whining sound is very slight and only at high speeds, and is something that doesn't really bother me if it's safe and I'm not taking a chance with a catastrophic mechanical failure. (He also said the tires are still safe.)

PS--Don't xc90's handle great at high speeds (85+)? It seemed like I was going 60. I think I would be comfortable at a 100mph.