screeching metal noise

Hi,
I have a 98 CR-V with 108,000 miles and in the past week or so, the screeching is driving me into insanity. Can someone please let me know what I can do or what I can say to my auto mechanic to fix this?

I read the posts regarding strange sounds. Something about a rear differential. But those all occured in the rear. In my case, I specifically hear the noise coming from the LEFT, FRONT wheel/axle area.

At first, it was everytime I steered to the left. Then it just didn't matter anymore. The noise is there without any special provocation. It is LOUD. It is like GRINDING METAL. It sometimes SKIPS but then it lasts on end.

The only way to stop the noise is to fully brake. Sometimes, a hard steer to the right stops it momentarily. It is there on acceleration, on glide, uphill, downhill...any speed.

Any assistance is fully appreciated!

Secondary problem:
My front lights keep flickering. An annoyed driver in front of me though I was high-beaming him and braked multiple times to slow me down. I wasn't doing anything, the lights have a mind of their own. And the maintenance light is on. Is this an electrical problem, fuse, or do I need to replace the bulbs? They are dim unless they do the faux-high-beam flashing. Usually when I go over bumps in the road.

Brakes ?

yes. i just got the car serviced. the front brake pads wore out.
thanks.

screeching metal noise is a sure sound of very bad brakes.... hope it dint ruin the rotors too...

gunnmen01