Truck goes clunk in reverse

[Drakkon]

Yesterday my truck (05 dodge dakota v8 2wd) started making an ominous noise - kinda a clunk followed by a whirring noise when I put my truck into reverse after driving for a while. Has never done this before and at almost 60K miles. I've heard everything from a bad differential to something up with transmission.

Any insight around these parts as to what I might hear when taking it in for service? Its still under warranty luckily but i still like to know what might be going on.

 

[Demon-Xanth]

Check your transmission fluid level first. Make sure you're just not low. I'm assuming you have a 5 speed auto which would make it a 45RFE.

 

[radioouman]

Have you changed your differential oil?

 

[Drakkon]

Transmission fluid looks okay...still pinkish and not down at all

Differential oil is probably due for a change...haven't changed it in like 30k but levels are okay

 

[Demon-Xanth]

Is the whirring when you are stopped, or when you are moving as well?

 

[Drakkon]

Only noticed it when stopped and the truck has been put into reverse from drive, and once put it reverse it goes away after i start backing up.

 

[Demon-Xanth]

The whirr isn't coming from your rear end then. If the whir was coming from your rear end while you're not moving, then you wouldn't be able to go anywhere

 

[radioouman]

True. Sounds like transmission noise to me. Have you ever changed transmission fluid? If not, you are way overdue. ATF+4 lasts longer than ATF+3, but 60k miles on ATF+4 is too much. You may have low fluid pressure in your tranny due to a partially clogged passage or sticking valve in the valve body. Or sticking solenoid. Go get your fluid changed.

 

[Drakkon]

I might take it to get a tranny fluid change this weekend then as appointment at dodge dealer isn't until Monday. I have not changed the tranny fluid as most of those miles are highway miles but you are probably right that it is due.

 

[radioouman]

I probably wouldn't take it to Jiffy Lube either. Take it to a transmission place or a trusted mechanic. Just to make sure that you get ATF+4 in there.

 

[thedarkwolf]

Could be a bad engine or trans mount.

 

[waffleironhead]

Where does the sound come from? Driveshaft u-joint?