dukenukemx

My sisters MDX makes a grinding noise when it accelerates from a stop. Doesn't happen when moving at a decent speed or a highway. I can't figure out what the cause of the problem is. I checked the catalytic converters and none of them rattle. The CV axle boots don't look ripped or leaking. The only thing I can thing of is maybe the front struts are bad because they make a slight clunk when hitting bumps. I made a video so maybe someone can help me.

https://youtu.be/tZrew_v60aw

justnspace

iTrader: (1)

very odd, never heard that sound before

perhaps a driveline issue!? or something to do with shawd?

dukenukemx

I thought it maybe a bad CV axle but I tried pulling on them with my hand and nothing seems to move. I've already changed the front right last year so that can't be it. I looked at the axle yoke for the drive shaft to see if there's any play and nothing. Hopefully nothing with the transmission. I did change the transfer case oil yesterday with gear oil as that hasn't be done. What I'm going to do is order new front struts and change them since I know they're not in great shape. You hear this clunking noise when hitting a bump like the strut mount has gone bad. Maybe that'll fix the problem?

justnspace

iTrader: (1)

yeah, cv axle wont sound like that. cv axle will sound more like a clicking sound

but your noise DID happen on a turn, so perhaps it is a CV axle?

dukenukemx

It happens going straight or turning, but it's easier to make when turning. It doesn't happen when I'm moving at a good speed. It won't happen on the highway and it doesn't happen above 20 MPH. It's as if the engine needs to strain against the car hard in order to make the noise.

justnspace

iTrader: (1)

just full disclosure; I dont have an MDX.
just going on my automotive knowledge.

I think we can rule out the CV, because you didnt see any abnormalities during your visual inspection and it def. doesnt sound like a CV clicking.

csmeance

06 mdx doesn't have SH-AWD just the VTM-4 system. I'd venture into believing there is an issue with the differential inside the transmission or the transfer case.

justnspace

iTrader: (1)

^ as that would make a grinding noise, as perhaps a tooth broke

dukenukemx

Is that the transfer case looking thing in the back of the trans? I think someone changed it at some point because it looks newish. My sister bought it used years ago so who knows what the previous owner did to it. Are these known to have issues on MDX's?

csmeance

I'm not sure if it's a common issue, but a lack of fluid changes can destroy any type of differential/transfer case. I'm not that familiar with the 1G MDX but I'm guessing yes, after the trans should be the transfer case.

justnspace

iTrader: (1)

i'm thinking the same. not a common issue but can happen to any car

justnspace

iTrader: (1)

Aftermarket axles will cause a grinding noise at the same points you described
https://acurazine.com/forums/3g-tl-p...mptoms-989325/

helping out this guy and I immediately pinpointed it to the aftermarket axles he used. then I immediately thought of you.
Perhaps your sisters MDX has aftermarket axles.

kvault

did you ever figure out what was going on? My daughters MDX is having the same exact issue.