Jeep Grand Cherokee differential clicking noise issue, possible vacuum leak on cylinder 7 on Jeep Grand Cherokee

Submitted by bellamy1952 · Jun 23, 2025
Published by RepairPal

Problem overview

Some Jeep Grand Cherokee owners report experiencing clicking noises in the differential, particularly when turning, which may be related to CV joints. They have found that rotating the front tires by hand while the vehicle is elevated can assist in pinpointing the source of the clicking sound. Additionally, if the clicking intensifies upon engaging 4WD, this may indicate a differential problem rather than a bearing issue. Symptoms of differential issues can include clunking noises that worsen with 4WD engagement, vibrations, binding, and chattering noises during slow turns, especially to the right. Some owners also describe the sensation of a tire rubbing when turning, accompanied by loud whining noises that do not correspond with engine revs, potentially affecting fuel efficiency. It's crucial for owners to address these differential concerns promptly to avoid further complications. Separately, some Jeep Grand Cherokee owners report potential vacuum leaks on cylinder 7, leading to engine performance issues such as rough idling and misfires, necessitating a thorough inspection by a qualified mechanic to diagnose and repair the problem.

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