I started hearing a clunk sound if I went over a bump while turning left. This got me poking around behind the left front wheel where the sound seemed to be originating from. There is a lot of play in the axle's inner joint which I believe is the source (boots are actually fine). I also noticed up and down play from where the axle enters the transmission and am now worried about the diff bearing. I was reading about it on the forums and it seemed a major indicator was leaking fluid which I don't have. Could the bearing still be shot? How can I be certain?

Its a 2003 Automatic GLE.

 

Resolving noise & suspension related issues can be a endless money pit due to all the different parts involved. And hard to diagnoise through the internet.

IMO, you should go to a mechanic you trust who can inspect your car, take it for a drive & get their advice on what needs to be fixed.

Plus most mechanics won't charge for a estimate!

 

Thanks for the reply. That's what I am going to end up doing. I just need to find the trustworthy mechanic as I moved recently.

 

The diff bearing issue is related to the 5 speed transmission only if I'm not mistaken.

I think in certain positions the axle joint will have a little play, not to sure but I can check tomorrow as I'm working under the car. I'm not so sure a CV axle would cause a clunk going over a bump.

 

Wait, when you talk about the axle inner joint, are you talking about in-and-out play? Because that's perfectly normal, it's supposed to slide in and out as it adjusts the axle length during turns.

 

Oh yeah if the AXLE is supposedly shot, get one with vibration dampeners or you'll regret it. Or fix the old ones if you can.

 

Its definitely an up and down movement as opposed to an in and out. I'm going to get to the shop this week to sort it out. I was trying to get a better idea first of possible problems. Thanks for the input guys.

 

I had a very similar if not identical problem. I never noticed any noise but my axle seal was leaking (auto trans). I could wiggle the axle up and down at the inner joint. I was worried about the differential, but I replaced the axle and seal and no more play.

 

Depending on what the mechanic says, I may just throw a new axle in and see how it is. Should the seal be replaced even if it is not leaking with the axle?

 

I would advise you to replace the seal. If the axle shaft is moving where it goes into the differential, that seal is getting pretty worn. Don't pinch pennies and have to take the car apart to replace the seal later on.