Pontiac Tech Tip: Grinding and/or Growling Noise in Park on Incline

Pontiac Tech Tip: Grinding and/or Growling Noise in Park on Incline

Owners of some vehicles equipped with Hydra-Matic front wheel drive transaxles may comment on a grinding and/or growling noise that is noticeable when standing in PARK on a hill or slope with the engine running and the parking brake not applied.

Affected Models:
2007 and prior Pontiac passenger cars and light trucks with Hydra-Matic front wheel drive (FWD) automatic transmissions.

Service Information:
Owners of some vehicles equipped with Hydra-Matic front wheel drive transaxles may comment on a grinding and/or growling noise that is noticeable when standing in PARK on a hill or slope with the engine running and the parking brake not applied. Under these conditions, the weight of the vehicle puts a load on the parking pawl which can create a “ground-out” path through the drive axles, front struts, springs and spring towers. Normal engine noise can be transmitted to the passenger compartment through the “ground-out” path.

Owners concerned about this condition should be advised to apply the parking brake prior to shifting into PARK. This is the recommended procedure described in the owner’s manual. Applying the parking brake first will put the load of the vehicle on the rear brakes rather than on the parking pawl.

Refer the owner to the appropriate owner’s manual for additional details and instructions.

Courtesy of Mitchell 1.

For more information on Mitchell 1 products and services, automotive professionals can log onto the company’s website at www.mitchell1.com.

You May Also Like

Auto Pros Visit Interstate Auto Care, Madison Heights, MI

For Bill Nalu, business is more about fixing cars – it’s about connecting with people on a personal level.

In this episode of Auto Pros On The Road, Joe Keene and Jacqui Van Ham visit Bill Nalu at Interstate Auto Care in Madison Heights, MI.

Bill Nalu and his team of five skilled technicians at the Auto Value Certified Service Center pride themselves on what they call "aggressive hospitality." Because to him, the business is about more than just fixing a car. Family-owned and operated, the shop began with an attitude of first being in the service business; second an auto repair facility. The primary focus has been, and continues to be, the ever evolving needs and wants of every customer.

Can the US Electric Grid Power Electrify America?

The electric grid is aging, and its infrastructure is outdated.

Opus IVS, CARS Co-Op Network Join Forces

New partnership enhances diagnostic capabilities and strengthens mechanical programming skills to the repair professional.

Albemarle, Ford Form Strategic EV Production Agreement

Albemarle will supply 100,000+ metric tons of battery-grade lithium hydroxide for about 3 million future Ford EV batteries.

EV Battery Charging: What You Need to Know

As EV owners begin to look for qualified service shops, a charger will be an advertising beacon at your shop.

Charging EV car

Other Posts

AAM to Supply e-Beam Axles for Future Stellantis EV

The future program will feature both front and rear e-Beam axles that include AAM’s integrated 3-in-1 e-Drive technology.

Wrenchers Doubles Repair Tool & Equipment Offering

More than 25,000 lifts, tools, and equipment from 39 brands available online or by phone.

Myers Tire Supply Introduces MTS Xpresstm

The innovative solution to consolidate purchases and control inventory costs.

Experiencing What the Tool Industry Has to Offer

ETI held its annual ToolTech conference April 17-19 at the Hyatt Regency Tamaya Resort in Santa Ana Pueblo, New Mexico.

Sandia Mountains