I would have them go over the ball joints(upper and lower) and tie rod ends with a fine tooth comb.
Seeing as I don't think you have a 4matic it is not the front drive axle.
Amazing that they released the car to you. The tech should have taken it for a test drive
then would have noticed it was not fixed. I would also ask them why it was released to you.
Why didn't the tech test it at all speeds under your initial reason for bringing it in?

 

Noodles,
Sorry it is a 4matic.

Would that change your theory at all?

Not sure why they released the vehicle. They said they did take it out.

Could it still be the ball joints?

 

The lower one makes more of a clunk that tricks a lot of people so I am not sure.

With it having a drive axle and front diff there are more possibilities. I would have the
service adviser or manager take a ride with you and make sure they understand and
acknowledge the problem. It is either a another suspension part or something going
on with that drive axle. I doubt it is the front diff, but it can not be ruled out. I saw one
with a bad bearing on the passenger side so it could happen on the driver's side.
One thing that should be understood by the dealer is that you are not taking it home until
the problem is resolved. It is low miles and under warranty. They are getting a second
chance to make it right. I am sure you have better things to do with your time than
babysit a dealer shop that is supposed to have trained techs to get it right.
Sorry this is happening to you. When I was in the business as an adviser and then manager
I always drove a finished car even if the tech said he did. I caught a lot of cars that had
to go back to the tech. I was not popular with the mechanics but we had the highest
index in the state at David Hobb's Honda back in those days.

 

I have not the knowledge of Noodles .. but have been dealing with a similar issue.
Wheel bearings.. that being said driving a car with bad wheel bearings will cup your tires and destroy your rotors.. All three of these things will cause a groaning noise. Goodluck my friend.

 

Check the ride height sensor mechanical linkage as this can cause this noise also.

 

My service advisor has now identify the notes . he believes the left strut and the strut top are causing the noise. He has ordered the parts. I'll keep you updated.

 

Thought I'd give you guys an update. The front struts of my car have been replaced. I got the vehicle back today. The sounds have been much improved however they are still slightly there. Its weird that its less evident but still exists. I'm going to drive the car for a week or two and going to take the vehicle back so we can reasses the situation.