I have an 01 XC70 with about 124K on it. There is a light grinding noise coming from the rear end of the car. The faster you go the faster the noise is the slower you go the slower the noise is. This car does not have a rear drive shaft attached to it and has not for some time now. Any suggestions or recommendations on where to start??

 

I have the same car with same miles and same problem. I am replacing the rear wheel hub/bearing assembly. Drive the car and turn left (placing pressure on the right) and still hear it, then it is the right side. Turn right sharply and the noise stops then you are sure. I found the parts at FCP Groton for $99 plus $3 per hub bolt (there are 4 of them) that I was told to replace as well. I just started taking mine apart but see that the bolts look fine.

 

I am aware of the bearing possibility. This noise is definitely coming from the Diff. It is being looked at tomorrow. I am really hoping for something easy like bearings or E-brake pads.....I will post back tomorrow and let you know.

 

After going to the shop and being filled full of,well you know the routine, I decided to come home and investigate this problem further. To my surprise, the lug nuts were all loose on one of my rear wheels. I tightened them and have not heard any kind of a rear end noise since. Makes sense now since this noise developed so fast. The big question now is who, probably me, but it is fixed now and that was my goal!