ML350 BT Mid-section rumbling/grating noise
Thread Starter
Newbie
Joined: Jan 2010
Posts: 8
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From: UK
12 ML350 BT, 57 w211 E CLass estate, 59 CLC 280 Sport
ML350 BT Mid-section rumbling/grating noise
Just developed a new phenomena with my 2012 ML350 Bluetech. Strange rumbling/grating sound from somewhere under the mid-section of the car starting at about 25 mph and getting worse until 55 mph, then quieting a bit but still there up to 70 mph. Haven't tried it beyond 70 mph since the noise started. Also getting a slight vibration/grinding sensation through the steering wheel especially at around 60 mph.
Initially I thought this was a wheel bearing but the noise doesn't vary when turning in either direction and the sound seems to be coming from under the centre console between the seats (vary hard to pin it down the a specific location.
Dealer looked at this during a recent service and says it could be a UV joint on the prop shaft or Transfer box problem, going in for more intensive investigations for a couple of days next week.
Anyone had a similar experience? Anyone with thoughts on what it could be?
All suggestions gratefully received!
Initially I thought this was a wheel bearing but the noise doesn't vary when turning in either direction and the sound seems to be coming from under the centre console between the seats (vary hard to pin it down the a specific location.
Dealer looked at this during a recent service and says it could be a UV joint on the prop shaft or Transfer box problem, going in for more intensive investigations for a couple of days next week.
Anyone had a similar experience? Anyone with thoughts on what it could be?
All suggestions gratefully received!
Junior Member
Joined: Jan 2014
Posts: 63
Likes: 0
From: MN
12 ml350 bluetec, 08 bmw 135i, 12 F250 PSD
Could be the front differential. Had ours replaced at 40k miles. It started out as wheel bearing type sound and then the steering vibration. If the dealer drains the diff fluid and they find metal shavings, you'll be getting a new one....hopefully your still under warranty as the cost is around 4k.
Thread Starter
Newbie
Joined: Jan 2010
Posts: 8
Likes: 0
From: UK
12 ML350 BT, 57 w211 E CLass estate, 59 CLC 280 Sport
Thanks for the input Audimotion, were you able to isolate the noise to one side or the other when you had the problem? Still under warranty, so hopefully the problem will be fixed soon!
Junior Member
Joined: Jan 2014
Posts: 63
Likes: 0
From: MN
12 ml350 bluetec, 08 bmw 135i, 12 F250 PSD
Isolated the noise to the front end/mid section, but not side to side as the differential is center mounted.
If your getting a slight humming sound and a buzzing feeling through the steering wheels as you feather the throttle on and off....it probably is the differential.
If your getting a slight humming sound and a buzzing feeling through the steering wheels as you feather the throttle on and off....it probably is the differential.
