Hey guys I'm looking for a diagnosis/opinion on an ongoing issue. Here's some background: I'm not sure if it's a recurring problem for other people, but my '06 SS loves to eat up CV joints. I've already replaced the right one twice, and I'm afraid the left one is starting to go. My question is two parts. First of all, I'm wondering how to tell when a CV joint is getting ready to go out. The first two literally gave me one stoplights warning, with a loud vibration. Also, does a manual transmission cause more wear on a CV joint from occasional iffy shifts? Here's the major part, possibly, hopefully connected. For a long time, Ive had some sort of rubbing/vibration/drone/grinding. It sounds like a cross between loud tire noise and a grinding or rubbing. It almost always has a distinct on/off pattern, about one second on, one second off, consistently. It doesnt start until exactly 47 miles per your, and is drowned out by 53-55. It is most audible in high gear at low rpm, 45 mph or so, going uphill. If I pop it out of gear and let off the clutch and coast, I can still hear it faintly, but not nearly as pronounced as when I'm under power. The first time I replaced my CV joint, it seemed to get better for awhile. My girlfriend had a good description of the sound, saying it sounded like something was rubbing then pulling away, over and over.
I'm out of ideas, i would REALLY appreciate any input and suggestions.
Thanks so much, Adam winston

 

Sounds like a wheel bearing possibly going bad, or a tire issue since it's so speed specific. Try running the car with the front wheels off the ground (if you aren't sure how to do this, take it to someone who is so you don't kill yourself), and look/feel around for vibrations or contact. If it goes away with the car off the ground, try having the front tires road-force balanced. This will show any broken bands or poorly made tires that could cause this type of issue.

 

Good morning Adam,

While I can't assist with any technical diagnoses over the internet, if you have questions about warranty/recall items, or would like assistance in working with a dealership, please let me know.

Sarah
GM Customer Service