screeching wheels

My wheels screech...

When I'm going straight, and also noticeably more when I'm turning or going slow.

Is that the hub? Or is there a chance it might just be the brakes?

Can you describe the "screech" better? Is it like a sliding/dragging tire, or is it more high pitch like metal on metal? Does the sound change or go away when stepping on the brake pedal. Are any of the tires showing uneven wear?

Sounds are very difficult to diagnose via verbal descriptions, so the more detail you can offer, the better we'll be able to offer suggestions.

-Rod

It's kind of like a really high squeal... umm, kind of like when a pulley one the engine is making noise, except it isn't as consistent and is louder.

When I brake I think it goes away a bit, which is why I think it might be the hub... or do the brake where indicators go away when you brake?

If you have aftermarket pads with brake lining wear indicators (unusual for Fords) then that sound would often go away when braking. However, if your screech is due to a rust lip on the rotors or other brake wear issue, you might get the symptoms you describe. The thing to do now is have the brakes inspected for wear, both front and rear.

As soon as you start to hear sounds that may be associated with brakes, it's a good idea to get them inspected. It will help make sure your car is safe to be on the road and probably save you money by catching issues before they damage rotors or other brake hardware.

-Rod

I just took a look, it looks like the pads are gone... so I'll have to do that later this week.

I don't the last time this car had its brakes done because it wasn't driven for a long time...

It's recommended to also change rotors, not just turn them right?

I read some where that you'll end up doing it soon because the rotors will wear down faster than the pad...

If the pads are worn enough that they are causing metal-to-metal contact, chances are the rotors cannot be safely turned/machined. You should plan to replace them.

Did the pads wear evenly? If not, be sure to inspect, clean and lubricate the brake hardware. You should also consider replacing the brake hoses as well as flushing the brake system as preventive maintenance.

-Rod

I'll find out more this weekend I guess...

Thankfully I have Friday off from school, so I shouldn't be driving it *too* much before I fix it.