I have a 2003 Outback w/ 75K, automatic transmission. I bought it

used- have had it for 5 months. When I accelerate from a stop, there

is a groaning noise coming from the rear (axle- tires) area. It's a

low noise- not high pitched whining. It last a second or two as I

accelerate then goes away, and the the car runs fine otherwise.

 

It happens when the wheel is straight or turned. And it happens when I

am forward gear or reverse.

 

If I haven't driven the car for a day or two, then the noise is less

apparent. But then if I am starting and stopping a lot, it seems to

get louder as the day goes on.

 

Any idea what this might be?

AFter youy stop the car, bounce on the back of it. It may be a suspension noise.

Is the noise a groan or a sqeek?

 

nipper

Did you say there was a clunk?

There is a TSB decribing clunk while AWD cluch engages as normal. Not sure about groaning.