Got in my car yesterday started to drive off slowly and heard this metallic grinding noise. I thought oh **** my brakes are sticking ( they have plenty of life). I applied the brakes and it quit. Well this morning I am hearing a low level whine or hum especially at 45-50mph. Could it be a wheel bearing or axle??? Thanks in advance.

Sam

 

i believe there is a TSB for rear axle noise/grinding. search for it.

 

I searched and its for a clicking noise. Mine sounds like a metallic grinding. I can also hear a humming noise at 45-50 mph.

 

That's not the axle click issue.

 

Something is either sticking out on your rear wheel or not installed properly. I would jack the car up, take the wheel off and inspect carefully. Check your brake caliper, pads and rotor as well.

 

Thats what I am thinking. It is going in today.

 

My mechanic informed me that I need rear brakes and the rotors resurfaced. He said they are about shot (pads). Still weird as to why I was hearing this grinding noise when the brakes were "not" applied. It was only late yesterday that the brakes made noise. I was guessing the calipers were rubbing?

 

Yes that is kinda weird but good to hear your mechanic have found the culprit. Perhaps a retainer clip from the brake assembly was not clipped in right, thus sticking out to the wheel spokes and making a grinding noise until the brakes are applied. That's just my guess, hope you get it resolved soon. Are you planning on sticking with a new set of OEM brake pads or an aftermarket brand?

 

They replaced with stock pads or similiar pads. **** they cost like $63 for the set. I didn't want something that would wear faster if aftermarket does indeed do that?

Funny I think I am hearing a new sound now and it sounds like metal tingling or that metal bouncing off metal sound. Does not sound serious but I can hear it only if I have windows down at slow speed.