[1bigfish]

We have a 2009 Outback 2.5I that is pretty noisy. Sound like tire noise or rear differential noise. Any knowledge of rear differential noise or problems?

 

[mrk610]

Could also be rear wheel bearing noise. How many miles ,has the car been properly maintained was the rear diff fluid ever changed. Also are the tires same make tread and installed same time.

 

[tdelker]

Almost certainly a bearing. You should still be under warranty.

Tom

 

[canubaru]

the rear diffs almost never go bad and then only when they run out of oil.

 

[idosubaru]

rear bearing or tires.

easy way to nail it down is to sit in the rear hatch/trunk area while driving the car - bearings are left/right, differential is notably centrally located.

rear differential failure is almost unheard of on Subaru's...if you hear of it, you can suspect it's misinformed or incorrect and you'll usually be right.

 

[cardoc]

^ LOL

The easy way to find out is to take it to a tire store and have the tires checked. While its off the ground, ask if you can check the bearings. With the wheel on, grab the strut spring with one hand and rotate the wheel with the other. If it vibrates, bearing.

And look at the brakes while the wheels are off.