My asr, I think those are the letters, anyways the traction control on my 01 z28 makes a noise like metal sliding on metal that seems to come from under the pass side. You can hear it when ever it comes on. Today in Mi there was a pretty good snow storm and I didn't have the radio on so that I could consentrait on the road more. Well the first time the asr kicked in I heard it and thought wtf? If the radio is on to my normal levels you can't hear it but when all is silent you can. So I don't know if it did this before since I always listen to the radio. Is it normal? Thanks.

 

Thats normal, it sounds like a grumble of gears grinding. It's like that in all cars with traction control.

 

Oh good, thanks. I just bought the car and every little noise makes me paranoid that something is wrong.

 

I don't know if this is anything to do with your problem, but my 97 B4C w/ASR made some funny noises.
My mechanic said with the car having over 100k miles it might not hurt cleaning the rear differential and installing new oil and friction modifier. I had him do it and corrected the problem.
In talking to the GM shop foreman at local Dealership, about my 2000, he said it doesn't hurt cleaning it with brake parts cleaner (auto zone) as the cleaner dries with no residue. he said this is common with ASR or Limited slip like in my 2000.
I did my 2000 last week and was a snap to do.
If you do this don't forget the friction modifier or gear oil with it in it!
good luck!!!

 

Do mine yearly as well, however the noise is normal when the ASR is working.

As for the friction modifier, I believe all 99+ cars do not need it... they changed the type of traction device from 98 to 99 and eliminated the need for the friction modifier. I still toss it in mine since I have some laying around, as it tends to help quiet down the gears a teeny bit, but I believe it isnt necessary.