Groaning noise when making tight turns in parking lots

A groan or binding feeling during tight, slow turns can come from the all-wheel-drive system, especially if the rear drive unit fluid is old or not the correct type. In tight turns, the inner and outer wheels travel different distances, and the rear unit's clutches have to slip smoothly to allow that.

Other possibilities include power steering or CV joint noises, which usually come from the front, or a worn wheel bearing.

We recommend having a shop confirm where the noise comes from and check the rear differential fluid condition and service history. If a fluid change is due, use only the fluid type your owner's manual specifies for the AWD system; the wrong fluid can cause exactly this kind of noise.