2002 Maxima 214K mi developed a grinding noise in the front similar to the noise when the brake pads are depleted and the metal backing goes against rotor. The problem is that I changed the pads and rotors a year ago and they still look new. Also, the noise happens whether I apply brake or not, and the "wowing" sound is related to the revolution of the wheel. I thought it may be a worn out hub bearing but I don't feel any play in the wheel when the car is lifted. The original CV boots are still intact. Any ideas?

 

How about your wheel bearings?

 

Check the splash shields. They can magically bend and then scrape on the rotor.

If not...bearing.

 

You might not feel play from the hub bearings with it lifted. Drive down a straight road and gently swerve the car to the left and right. If the noise goes away or changes when you swerve one direction it's a wheel bearing. If not, it's most likely something else.

Tires can also cause noise like this, or even worse, if they're old or worn funny. Try swapping the rear tires up front to see if there's a difference.

 

My vote is for wheel bearings.

 

Ok, thanks. I will recheck the hub and tires first. Since I don't have a bearing press, if I want to fix the bearing myself, do you think the places like Pep boys be able to pop out the old bearing and push in a new one if I buy it from them and take the knuckle/hub to the store, for a fee perhaps?

 

I'd call around to make sure they can do it first. The bearings can be a bear to remove even with a press.

 

Call them I think they would have a press.
Harbor freight has a sweet little bearing kit too you don't really need an actual press.