Grinding noise

[99ggp]

I have a 1999 GP SE 3.1L, 115,000 miles. Recently I noticed that when I back out of a parking spot (steering to the right only), something is making a grinding noise. I only hear it when I back up. Also if I let my car sit a few days, sometimes there is some slight sqeaking from the front wheels but this quickly goes away. This doesnt always happen but Im assuming that the wheel bearings may need replacing sometime in the near future. Could the wheel bearings be causing the grinding noise or is it something else?


Thanks for any help!

[GTP Dad]

Anything is possible but I would check the brakes first. It is possible that there is a build up of dust inside the rear drums that is making this noise. Also there is a possibility that the front brakes are dragging in reverse. If it only does it in reverse however, I really wouldn't worry about it although you may want to clean the rear drums with some brake cleaner after removing the dust. It is also possible that the shoes need replaced. If you have rear discs check to make sure they are not dragging on the rotor and clean them as well.

[99ggp]

Thanks for the advice.

I replaced the front discs and had the rear discs turn down and replaced all brake pads a little over a year ago. When I recently rotated my tires I checked all discs and all rotated freely.

I only hear the grinding noise when the steering wheel is turned and im reversing. I dont hear it when I back up straight. This makes me think it may be something other than the brakes.

Any ideas?

Thanks!

[richtazz]

have you looked to see if anything is rubbing? Check the inner fenderwell area as the front end geometry will change slightly while reversing.

[StevePT]

Your tire could be rubbing on the plastic wheel-well liner for the front wheels. I'd have someone stand next to the car and you back it out slowly with the wheel turned and see if they can see where the noise is coming from.

Either way, it sounds like something is rubbing.