Just wanted to share my quick story to maybe help fellow B5'ers diagnose drivetrain noises. About a week ago I noticed a hum at highway speeds from the rear that would decrease frequency at lower RPM's and then stop completely around 10 MPH. After prodding around in the back I noticed grease on the inner lip of the passengers rear wheel which I know means a failing CV boot. I was able to re pack until I get around to rebuilding it and the noise is gone...

I honestly thought I was doing another rear wheel bearing as that was just what it sounded like. Turns out a dry CV joint can make a bit of a whine noise...

 

Thanks cnigro. I wouldn't have guessed that from the noise you describe.

 

That's why I figured I'd mention it. Never really had a cv joint make this kind of noise before. I'll be rebuilding the axle in the spring but a few shots of grease and the noise is gone.

So Mtroxel, what was the straw that 'broke the back' of your 96? Ive been contemplating a used B6 but my 96 still runs strong at 245,000.

 

At 220,000 the auto tranny had to be rebuilt (3 times). It was never right. Then had to pull the dash and do a heater core. I was fixing it every two weeks till at 271,000 the oil cooler O-ring blew and left me at the side of the road in January at -5 degrees. Not that big a deal all by itself, but that was just it. By early Feb I had the one in my signature.