Just bought my son a 1996 960 sedan with 163K on it. The 6-cyl engine runs great. The only issue seems to be what I would describe as a "shudder" that seems to come from the right-rear when accelerating from a stop. It makes a subtle noise that's kind of hard to describe and you probably wouldn't notice it if you weren't driving.

Could this be an axle issue? If so, any recommendation on what to do?

Thanks.

 

It might be the center driveshaft carrier bearing bad or misadjusted.

 

There can be a few quirks with these cars and one of them is what you describe. The angle of the drive shaft is critical, and what is happening is the rear end is sagging a little, which is changing that angle a little.

The car came with self leveling shocks in the rear, and with age they will drain down over extended periods of non use, such as overnight. With driving they'll pump up to the correct ride height. That might be a source of the shudder. If the shocks are worn that is.

Also the trans mount at the tail is a soft rubber, with age it can harden and cause the shudder too. And as suggested the center bearing, can also be source, but they will usually make some noise when driving at a constant speed.

I will always notice that vibration when suddenly I have two or three passengers in the back seat.

DanR '94 964 350,000 miles (116,000 on the new engine)

 

Mine is the same way, with a few people or a load in back it always has a little shudder right at the get go