LF Wheel Grinding/Roaring Noise

[gmiller]

Thanks for this great site, everyone. Hopefully I can get some opinions on what might be going on.

I'm working on a 2003 PT with 94,000 miles on it. Today, I replaced both front brake rotors and front brake pads in an effort to get rid of a nasty grinding/roaring noise from the left front wheel area.

The sound started happening after exiting off the interstate suddenly, and there is no vibration or pull on the steering.

The brakes definitely needed worked on, and I figured that I had solved my problem, but on the test drive afterwards, the sound came back as strong as ever. It definitely comes from the left-front wheel, and sounds much louder inside the car. The sound is similar to a grind on the rotor, but from everything I've gathered that's not the case. (It can't be ruled out, though)

From what I gather, this could have something to do with a variety of things including the wheel bearing, the hub, the lower control arm bushings, etc. However, I don't know how to make an accurate guess.

Which part in the front suspension would make the horrible grinding noise? Could this be as deep as a CV boot/joint or transaxle?

I plan to find a shop for a free estimate to look at it this weekend, but if anyone has any ideas, let me know.

Thanks!

[slartyblarfast]

You will need to replace the wheel bearing. It's a good idea to both while your there.

[gmiller]

Originally Posted by slartyblarfast

You will need to replace the wheel bearing. It's a good idea to both while your there.

I always thought a wheel bearing sounded more like a "hum" or as my dad puts it, a "Cessna taking off".

Would it cause the nasty grinding sound, too?

[ucantcme]

Yup, your hub bearing needs replacing. I had both of mine, and my control arm bushings fixed within a month of each other and my car has been flawless since - No noise .

[03TurboGT]

Originally Posted by gmiller

I always thought a wheel bearing sounded more like a "hum" or as my dad puts it, a "Cessna taking off".

Would it cause the nasty grinding sound, too?

Yeah it deffinately sounds like that!! Had to replace mine at 95k. Too bad a plane ticket is cheaper!