Are Aftermarket {Chinese?} Rear Driveshafts Much Louder Than OEM?

**SRA** · 12-26-2018, 05:05 PM

A few years ago to pass state inspection our car dealer had to replace both driveshafts before we accepted delivery on our 2001 XC70. I know they didn't replace with Volvo shafts due to the huge cost difference. I have nothing to compare it to as our old 850 wagon is not AWD; but XC seems to be too loud from rear shafts for such a quality car. Anyone have experience with both types of shafts?

**Astro14** · 12-27-2018, 02:59 PM

If you’ve got Chinese rebuilds, and it’s just noisy, consider yourself lucky.

Usually, they vibrate, and then fail rapidly.

You saved some money, but those offshore rebuilt parts are generally garbage. I would buy GKN parts, or OEM. Both will serve you well.

**oragex** · 12-28-2018, 07:22 PM

Im not sure if a rear axle would be that noisy. But a worn haldex it sure may be noisy. These awd were fragile up to mid 2007
Worn tires can also be noisy, same with the wheel bearings

**AKAMick** · 12-29-2018, 08:10 AM

Originally Posted by oragex

Im not sure if a rear axle would be that noisy. But a worn haldex it sure may be noisy. These awd were fragile up to mid 2007
Worn tires can also be noisy, same with the wheel bearings

I agree with checking the wheel bearing hubs, most likely reason for noise from the rear end.

**Astro14** · 12-30-2018, 06:39 AM

Did the noise start immediately after these shafts were installed?

Or has it started later?

If later, I would suspect wheel hubs/bearings, or perhaps tires.

Any chance you can get it on a lift and check those bearings along with tire wear pattern?

**sjonnie** · 12-31-2018, 07:58 PM

Rear drive shafts do not make noise because of the very limited movement in the shaft during normal operation hence they do not wear out. No idea what BS your state inspection station threw at you but you should have simply gone elsewhere. I guess a boot could have failed (but both??) but a new boot would have been the preferred option. In any event, your current problems are either due to the differential or wheel bearings.