There are only a few checks for rear end. Put the vehicle in gear. Do you hear a clank? This loud noise could be the drive shaft universal joints, which are located on each end of the driveshaft connecting the transmission to the rear differential. If you are able to rule out the universal joints, or U-Joints as they are commonly know, the gears in the rear end could be worn. Unfortunately, to diagnose the rear gear wear, the housing has to be opened and is not something most used car shoppers can undertake. Have a certified technician diagnose the problem.

Now that you have finally left the driveway, as you are accelerating, listen for a humming or clanking noise from rear end. This is especially true when you are on the highway and accelerate then immediately decelerate. For a rear end with worn gears the symptoms will be as follows: A whining or humming noise at a steady speed or at coast down. Bad universal joints, sometimes give you a vibration at high speeds in either the floor or body of the car. They can also give you a squeak on acceleration. These components also have seals and bearings that need to be inspected for leaks and wear. A rear end differential uses a special fluid to lubricate the gears. This level should be checked periodically, like any other fluid in the vehicle.