I have this same thread running over in "Under the Hood" then realized that it would go better over here, but couldn't figure out how to move it. So....my driveway is fairly steep so instead of using reverse I just push in the clutch and coast out. When I do this there is a pronounced gear whine from the back of the car, as if the rear end was engaged and attempting to slow me down. This whine also occurs from the rear end when I decellerate from speeds over 40mph. Is this a natural characteristic of the 4WD system, or do I have a fault in the way my Element distributes it's power and when?

I had a chance to contact my local Dealer. Service told me that unless the front wheels slip, all movement with the clutch in should be a "free" coast like a traditional manual front wheel drive. I'm going to keep an eye on it, and if it continues for more than a week, I'll bring it in. Though I am still curious if anyone has heard their rear differential engage during a coast.

I believe I have heard some gear whine also. But I do not know if it is coming from the front or back. I have an automatic. I noticed towards the end of a long trip, about 400 miles, that I was hearing this whine, but it did not seem to go up or down with the speed. The passenger with me sayed they could hear it also. I have not heard it since then though. I believe I will mention this to my dealer.

Also, the day after I heard what sounded like a dry bearing. But again, I have not heard it since then.

It comes during acceleration,deceleration and coasting.
It seems to me to be coming from the driveline, definately not tire or road noise.
Took it to Fairfax Honda and the tech(with one year experience and no Honda training)said it was normal and probably coming from the rear differential. Said he checked and topped off the rear differential fluid.

Noise remains....wil keep an ear on it.

Mark