My 2003.5 G A/T now has about 58k on it.
I just recently noticed it but this noise could be around before.
After I start the engine and put the gear in R I hear a thud type of noise followed quickly by a metallic clunk noise. Same goes if I put it in Drive I hear the thud noise as the gear engages followed by the metallic clunk noise. The noise seems to be coming from somewhere in the bottom engine area.

If I start switching between R and D gears the metallic noise after a couple of tries goes away.
So what could it be? Can it be the engine or transmission mounts?
Can someone check on their G to see if it is normal or I need to get it checked.

 

Check your transmission fluid levels right away!

 

OK, but how do I check it? I did not find in the owner's manual.
I looked up a service manual and it asks to use some adaptor to check it.
btw, I did get tranny oil chnaged around 30k by the dealer.

 

So I checked the transmission oil in cold mode with car in Park and idling. The oil level was at the middle of criss cross pattern (which I think where it should be in cold mode).
The oil condition was ok, it was reasonablly clear and pinkish color but getting dark in color. It was flushed about 28k miles ago.

Anything else I should be looking for?

I am thinking it is the tranny or engine mount. Any easy way to confirm if that is the case?

 

I am having the same problem.

 

Ok so I after more research I figured it is the rear axle clunk issue and there is a TSB on it too. Sadly I did not know about it until now, Has anyone gotten the fix for it out of warranty? How much is the charge? If a local shop can do this?

 

*bump*

 

Check your fuel damper.. Start your car up, pop the hood and place your hand on the damper. If you feel a bad vibration your damper is shot. My girls car was making a rattle/thumping sound that increased with speed. Sure enough it was the damper. I order the part and had the dealer install it for 20 bucks. Good luck

 

the rear axle clicking noise is a TSB that will be warrantied as long as you still have a warranty. What you are encountering could very well be the torque converter as it moves when you put it into gear.