Help> Tie rod?

[Kevin M]

Recently turned down my stereo enough that I heard loud squeaking coming from under the car. Two different sounds. The first sounds like nails across a chalkboard. Happens on the left side maybe around the front tire. Increases in loudness with speed, but sometimes goes completly away, usually when I'm braking. Almost like the sound when you've worn through the brake pad, but instead of sounding when I brake, it does it the rest of the time.

The second sound I checked while parked. Had my GF move the steering wheel and looked under the car. The sounds was a creaking noise that appears to be coming from the sleeve area of the tie rod off the left front tire.

So, not being a mechanic, but happening to know of you all, what do ya think. Sounds expensive to me, so I could use some knowledge before going to the mechanic. Thanks all, and Happy New Year.

[tabahr]

The squeeling sound as you drive is most likely worn out brake pads. They have a "wear indicator" on them that will squeel when it is worn out. It is common for it to stop making noise when you apply the brakes. There is a far off chance it is a wheel bearing. I've never heard of a 4th gen wheelbearing going bad, but if your car is a 3rd gen, it is a possibility also. BUT, I would put my money on the brake pads.

The other noise could be a ball joint, or a tie rod end. Jack up the car and try to wiggle the wheel around to check for any play in them.

Brake pads are easy to do yourself, and ball joints can be done at home too, if you are brave.