Hi all,

Long time lurker, first time poster. Just recently bought an 08 Freelander 2 from a local garage. Test drive highlighted what myself and the salesman thought was a wheel bearing that needed replacing, sounded like a ghost was sat over the back left end. He said they'd get it fixed and put it through a full MOT when I bought it. Simple.

A week later I pick it up, passed the MOT with no issues at all, but the noise is still there. They advised that the garage (separate to the dealer) took a look at it and advised the wheel bearing was fine and it was actually to do with the differential. They said they'd done a full flush and that the noise would likely clear in 200 - 300 miles. I've got no reason to not believe what they'd been advised and the car runs fine and has a full service history. My question is, does this sound right or is it something I need to get checked out?

The noise only really appears when I'm doing between 25 - 50mph and then eases off, my internet searching has not led me to any conclusions. Any help is greatly appreciated.

Would have thought if the rear diff has been worked on it will show an immediate fix. Not in 200 or so
miles.


I wonder if they have used some kind of stop leak additive?

https://www.wynns.eu/product/engine-stop-leak/

If you’ve lurked long enough you’ll be aware that the rear diff is a potential problem with these cars . You are looking at around £800 to a £1000 to get it sorted out properly . At the same time get the Haldex serviced whilst it’s easily accessible. If it was me I’d take the car back to the seller and get your money back . It sounds like the “ flushing “ is just a bit of nonsense to string you along. The cost of replacing the diff would probably take most of the profit on a car that is pushing 12 years old . I’m extremely sceptical of garages that work for dealers , they do as they are told , not what is needed . 2009 GS Auto Zermatt Silver - Sold June 21 after 10 years of ownership

2016 Subaru Outback SE 2.0 diesel SE Premium Lineartronic Sold 2024 after 8 years and 80k miles . Best Car I ever owned !

2023 Toyota Hilux invincible X 2.8 Auto .

Is there a drain plug on your diff? If not, I’d be interested to know how they did this 'flush'. You can reject a car within the first 30 days for a major fault - make sure they don’t string you along past that point. Past: FL2 TD4 HSE Auto
Evoque SD4 Dynamic Lux Auto
Present: Audi A3 S Line.

Thanks for the replies, taking it to a mechanic i've used before tomorrow morning. He was quite blunt and said either they've missed something stupid or it's a lemon. We shall see!

Did you get your issues fixed with the rear diff?

Just curious - as I also had a similar issue with mine -- and ended up rebuilding the rear diff once everything came apart.

And I don't think replacing the fluid (or adding additive) would fix worn bearings.

Yes it will get better in 2 to 300 miles interprets as go away for a bit and we’re hoping you get used to the noise.

DrLuzon wrote:

Thanks for the replies, taking it to a mechanic i've used before tomorrow morning. He was quite blunt and said either they've missed something stupid or it's a lemon. We shall see!