Jeep Cherokee clunking noise when turning and transitioning between coasting and power after rear differential replacement on Jeep Cherokee

Submitted by Vehicle Owner · Jun 23, 2025
Published by RepairPal

Problem overview

Some Jeep Cherokee owners report experiencing a clunking noise when turning and transitioning between coasting and power after replacing the rear differential. This noise could be linked to unresolved issues with the front drive shaft, transfer case, or differential, indicating that the rear differential replacement may not have addressed the underlying problem. Additionally, loose control arms have been noted as a potential cause of clunking at low speeds, prompting owners to check the tightness of control arm bolts. Problems with the power steering system, including a faulty power steering rack or hoses, may also contribute to these noises during turns. Furthermore, issues with components like u joints and CV Centering Yokes can result in clunking sounds when engaging or turning. Accurate diagnosis of the source of the clunking noise is crucial, and if the issue persists post-replacement, further inspection of these components is recommended to effectively resolve the problem.

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