I have a 2003 Outback w/ 75K, automatic transmission. I bought it used- have had it for 5 months. When I accelerate from a stop, there is a groaning noise coming from the rear (axle- tires) area. It's a low noise- not high pitched whining. It last a second or two as I accelerate then goes away, and the the car runs fine otherwise.
It happens when the wheel is straight or turned. And it happens when I am forward gear or reverse.
If I haven't driven the car for a day or two, then the noise is less apparent. But then if I am starting and stopping a lot, it seems to get louder as the day goes on.
I have an appt for service later this week- any idea what this might be?