Grinding noise

97 escort lx wagon

Whenever I turn all the way to the left and drive in reverse there is a pretty loud grinding noise. I checked the CV boots but I couldn't find any tears. Any suggestions?

I suggest you don't turn all the way left and drive in reverse anymore! :P

Hmm... only happens when to the left, and not when going forward? Can you tell if the sound is coming from a wheel or more toward the center? Hard to tell with the info given if you have a steering or transmission problem. Isolate the sound and we might get somewhere.

First things first, check your power steering fluid and visually inspect the steering rack for anything loose... including the rack itself where it mounts on the firewall.

Have someone stand outside the car while the sound is made to try to isolate its source. I wonder if it only happens in reverse that the tire or something else is rubbing on something maybe. When you narrow down the location of the noise, take a look behind the tire, rotor area, axle, etc. for signs of rubbing and wear. I have had one of the plastic splash shields in the wheel well come loose and rub on the tire only when the tire was in a certain position. This could be found possibly without the first test. I've also had stuff get stuck between the rotor and the rotor guard/shield.

I think it is a CV joint that's gone bad. Take it to a shop and ask them to get in it and do what you have done to diagnose the problem. They shoulld be able to peg it for you. If not, you are at the wrong garage.