Constant Whine/Squeel From Wheels Similar to Brake Squeel

[Ski Bum]

I've finally gotten fed up with this constant squeel my wheels make at any speed above 15+- mph. The sound is almost identical to the classic brake squeel we've all heard. My brakes do squeel when applied but this sound happens at all times, not just when braking. I havent been able to pinpoint which wheel the sound is coming from. I cant hear it with the windows up but when down the sound reflects off objects on either side of the car.

Could it be the bearings going out? I had a bearing go out in my old WRX and the sound was more of a hum than a squeek.

Would overly worn pads cause a constant squeel like this?

Something possibly related, when I come to a stop I can feel a pulsing from the rotors as if they are warped or there are low spots on the rotors.

Thanks for the help.

 

[EclipseTrbo420A]

Well it does sound like wheel bearings but, before I bought new bearing I would replace the rotors and pads. Becasue for one you need them anyways and two they are cheaper. Good luck.

 

[luv2rallye]

First check if the pad worn low indicator tabs are rubbing against the rotors. Also if the rotor backing plate is bent or something caught in there.

 

[Ski Bum]

Thanks for the advice guys.

I had all 4 wheels off the other days as I was painting my wheels and took the oppurtunity to inspect and clean the hub/caliper/rotor control arm assemblies. I used degreaser and a scrub brush and removed layers of grime and even some rust. There was quite a bit of the nasties around the calipers that came out. After cleaning I inspected all 4 pads and rotors which appeared fine with normal wear. I couldnt however tell which rotor was warped or see any of the wear indicators touching the rotor.

For now I'm going leave things be and deal with the squeel as the pads dont need to be replaced yet but when they do I'm going to replace the rotors/pads/lines and upgrade to the factory "big brake" front calipers. If that doesnt solve the problem then I guess I'll know its a wheel bearing.

 

[DSM90AWD]

Did you check to make sure the dust shields were not rubbing against the rotor? Simple to check/fix with the wheels still on the car.

Easy way to check the wheel bearings is grabbing the top of each wheel give ti a few jerky push/pulls it to see if any play is felt. Should feel a faint "clunk".

I just replaced my rear wheel bearings so know all to well how fun it was

 

[GriffZero]

I had a problem that sounds like what you are having. The thin metal plate behind the rotors was slightly bent and touching the rotor. All I had to do was bend it back with my hand. It's a very bendable piece of metal. It was rubbing against the rotor and sounded somewhat like someone sharpening knives and the brake squeal combined.