I have a 99 SE auto limited. It has 30k miles and has just developed a high pitched noise in the front on the driver side. It is not the brakes. It does not change when I stop. It changes pitch as I go faster. I think it may be a bearing or axel.

Any ides???

Thanks

 

Hmm...weird, I got the same noise on the same side, but it goes away when I stop. Honestly, I have no idea what it might be. Looking for answers myself.

 

1) Verify that all wheel lug nuts are tight.

2) Raise the car. If you have a floor jack you can raise the entire front end at once, and test both front wheel bearings. No need for jackstands, as you will not get under the car.

3) Grab the top of the tire (12 o'clock) and push away from yourself and pull toward yourself. Yank it to and fro in this fashion several times. If there is noticeable free play or an audible "clunking" sound, the wheel bearing is probably damaged.

4) Attempt to spin the wheel. If it spins freely but makes ugly sounds the bearing may be damaged. If it won't spin at all the brake may be dragging. This could indicate a sticking caliper.

5) Remove the wheel. Make a careful visual inspection of the brake and surrounding parts. See if...
- the stamped sheet metal baffle plate has been bent and is touching the rotor
- a pebble or other foreign body has become trapped and is rubbing against the rotor