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I have a 2006 Nissan Altima 2.5S that has been making a metallic shh-shh noise. I've replaced the front brake pads and rotors, but the noise continues and is now becoming a distinct grinding noise.

It's difficult to tell, but it seems that the noise is coming from the front of the vehicle and when brakes are applied comes more so on the passenger side of the car. Today I noticed the noise has become louder and more of a grinding sound. The grinding sound becomes more noticable when I turn to the left, with some noise when driving straight and none when turning left.

I've linked to some recordings of the sound. They're both faint, but you can hear it better on the first one.

Recording #1 Recording #2

Pᴀᴜʟsᴛᴇʀ2
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Fireflight
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2 Answers2

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In this case, the sound came from the rear brake pads which had completely worn away down to the metal backing. Once I replaced the rear pads and rotors (which had significant scoring) the sound went away.

Fireflight
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When you are driving in a straight line, the load on the front axle is shared equally between the two front hubs, so any noises will be low. When you turn to the left, there is a weight transfer to the outside wheel(right wheel) and any noises from it will be more accentuated/louder. It is the opposite when you turn right. You need to check your hub bearings by rocking the wheels in the vertical plane with the vehicle raised and securely sitting on stands. Spinning the wheels by hand may also give you enough noise to make a diagnosis. Because changing the hub bearing involves pressing them in and out, this is a repair shop job.

Allan Osborne
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