What Limited Slip Differential Shudder May Sound Like/ The Symptom, Causes and Fixes

In this video I go over what a limited slip differential shudder may sound like and discuss the causes and fixes. I was even able to catch some limited slip shudder audio to share with you.

Limited slip differential shudder can also be described as a growling noise, a chattering noise or a vibration coming from the rear of the vehicle when making turns at very low speeds, usually 1-2 mph. It's caused by the limited slip clutch pack locking and unlocking repeatedly at a fast rate. Typically, in my experience, this is caused by one of two things. One: a differential service has been performed but friction modifier was not added. Two: the rear clutch packs are worn or damaged. Sometimes you can get by with just adding friction modifier to the rear end in the cases where the rear end was serviced and the modifier was left out. Of course if the clutch packs are worn or damaged they will need to be replaced.

Note: The information provided in this video may not be appropriate for every vehicle out there with a limited slip differential. Diagnostic processes and repairs may differ depending. Verify information provided in this video is applicable to your vehicle by doing your own research. I do not guaranty that you will properly diagnose or repair your vehicle with the aid of this video. Furthermore, this video is not a complete "how to" video showing how to properly diagnose and repair this problem. This video is only informational and is meant to share my experience with this particular problem. Use the information found in this video at your own risk.

Disclosure: As an Amazon affiliate I make a commission on qualifying sales.

DISCLAIMER
Barbour's Auto Help is not responsible for any damage or personal injury incurred in the process of performing any auto repairs done by you the viewer. Automotive repair is extremely dangerous. Repair your vehicle at your own risk. It is the viewers responsibility to verify all information and procedures as outlined in YOUR REPAIR MANUAL AND OWNERS MANUAL FOR YOUR VEHICLE. Owning and using a repair manual suited for your vehicle is essential for correctly and safely performing ANY repair to your vehicle. Always wear safety glasses and heed all instructions for use applicable to any piece of equipment you may use. Due to circumstances out of the control of Barbour's Auto Help, Barbour's Auto Help makes no guarantee that by the use of the information given in this video a quality repair will be made. Barbour's Auto Help makes no guarantee that the information provided is totally complete, synchronized and accurate. Verify everything using an appropriate repair manual.

[tenacoutlaw]

Wow ! This is what I have been looking for. I went to many "mechanics" that did not know what was wrong with my truck, Boom in 4 minutes I now understand. Thank you so much for this info. Was ready to just go with a ring & pinion rebuild would have been throwing time and money away.

[clutchsp]

Mine makes a grumble-grumble sound when making a turn from STOP. It goes away quickly after turn and going straight. I feel the noise coming from the rear drive line. THANKS

[tammymccarthy]

Thank you so much I have searched high and low to figure this out.

[mattbeckmann]

It took me a minute to find your video but that's the exact sound that my 2005 Dodge 5.7 hemi is making and I just want to say thank you brother I appreciate you I'm going to do exactly what you're doing have a good day bro

[aquarius]

Thanks!! Very helpful! I have a 2018 Challenger Scat Pack with 56k miles (not driven hard) that started hearing groan from rear end several months ago. Recently had differential fluid changes per OEM spec, however didn’t fix problem. But realized limited slip additive was not put in. Taking to mechanic to have him check clutch packs and also bought some AMSOIL Limited Slip additive if he thinks that’s the solve. I was concerned at first it was wheel bearings…but I only hear when turning at low speeds. Going straight on highway no issue.

[bengilbert]

Thank you so much for posting this video I believe this helped me with my final decision on what is going on with my 06 F150 I failed to add the friction modifier the first time I changed the rear DIf oil and later learned on my own that I was supposed to add that friction modifier but it did not fix the problem it still does it at slow turns to the left or the right and it shakes the truck a little bit it’s kind of a low tone / growling noise, thanks once again for your post

[jdigitalseven]

I had a pinion seal leak found during a new cover/fluid/ gasket installed. I supplied Amsoil fluid and OEM friction modifier. They didn't put in the friction modifier first and most of that probably spilled out. It affected my steering until some was added after new pinion seal...its better now, but new clutch packs are definitely needed still. Had to wait a while to get carbon fiber ones. I should've just done it myself from the start.

[elworthjohnson]

Great.Explain exactly the symptoms that mine is making.So, now I know what may need to be done.

[lydiad]

Thank you so so much!!This has been driving me insane! Been so embarrassed driving my Laramie with this horrible sound! I’m change fluids this weekend with additive and update

[evansveilleux]

very clear explanations, visual and audio

[DadProjectsandTips]

Thank you so much!! Great informational video!!! I've been chasing this issue for a while.

[dsainttr]

Thanks Keith, thus save my friend a lot of money as he was about to buy a new differential.

[lancewilcox]

Best video I seen on this topic...I'm having this problem with my 79 Vette.thanks

[TheJfh]

Finally someone can explain what i have with my crv 2018 ! Is it dangerous to drive a car with this problem ? It does only at very low speed when i turn ?

[mattbeckmann]

I also want to add that there was a lot of videos that were stating other problems and I had a hunch limited slip and I never knew that there was a I can't remember what it's called but I'll look back in your video it's an additive that you add I never added that the last time I changed out my oil and you help me confirm it so all right thanks

[nickd]

Have the same issue, will update when I put in the additive.

[ecasriv]

Always valuable info, thanks! That mosquito wanted 20 seconds of fame, lol

[EddieBateson]

I just recently changed the rear differential gear oil in my 2006 4x4 tundra. I used 75w90 mobil 1 synthetic and included 4 oz of friction modifier as the rear end has a LSD sticker on it. The rear end immediately started producing a clutch chatter so I am confident they are not in need of replacement. Does more friction modifier need to be added?

[JayOhhTheKing]

Omg😂 glad I stayed till the end lol. Great video bro

[elderscroll]

boss thanks for the info can you tell me if the Additive must be added with the diff oil change or else? can you tell the procedure?