2004 Dodge 4X4 quad cab 2500. When is a pull or turnning to the left the rear differetial has a gringing sound. Started making this sound at about 45000 miles. Have contacted dealer to have is checked. Will followup after dealer visit.

- Columbus, MS, USA

2004 Dodge Ram [xxx] quad cab slt. There is an obvious noise coming from the rear of the vehicle, best described as a loud whine. It occurs while accelerating or decelerating at low RPM's and only when the vehicle is cold and the temperature outside is cold as well. The colder it is outside, the louder the whine noted from the rear end. After approximately 5-10 minutes of driving, the noise steadily diminishes and then eventually completely disappears. Took vehicle to the dealer and had it inspected during routine maintenance. Maintenance technician advised that it was normal and was probably the pinion gear. Took the truck back again as the temperature got colder and the whine got louder. They let the vehicle sit overnight and test drove it the next morning and, this time, heard the obvious whine. I was advised that there are no recalls or tsb's issued as of yet, but it is a problem that DaimlerChrysler is investigating. The printout from dealer connect stated that it is a rear propeller shaft center bearing noise issue-"especially when cold." They also stated that a tsb or other notification may be issued after engineering review of the reported problem. It has been assigned a "solution number" of [xxx]. I just wanted to report the problem to NHTSA so that appropriate follow up can be done and help expedite a recall notice if warranted. Updated 07/24/2012 information redacted pursuant to the Freedom Of Information Act (FOIA), 5 U.S.C. 552(B)(6)

- Elizabeth City, NC, USA