Hey guys. 2004 Edge 4x4 here. In the past week or so, my front (possibly left) tire has started squealing. It's only audible if I have my window down and will disappear / drown out over 40mph.

At first I thought it was my brakes, because it would only do it after braking for a short time, then stop. Now it's doing it constantly, and the only way to get it to quit is to turn to the right. Straight or left causes it to make noise.

Any thoughts on what it could be? I'm guessing wheel bearing, but need to tear it apart. Also, I've never worked on a front end with 4x4 before (auto hubs). Any pointers on replacing the bearings on a 4wd vehicle?

Any help is much appreciated!

 

That's what mine seemed to do when the drivers side bearing went. Lift up the front end, grab the tire at the top and bottom and see if there is any movement.

If it is the bearing it's simple to replace. Take off the tire then crack the CV axle nut loose, take off the caliper and rotor then it's just the 3 bolts on the back of the hub. If the CV axle doesn't want to come out just grab a puller and it'll pop off. Then just put it all back together!

 

I was in need of changing out the pads anyway... so I took the tire off... broke a ratchet trying to loosen the caliper bolts (cheap ratchet anyway, but I'm done until I get a new one). I do have just a bit of movement in the tire, so it must be the bearings, right?. Gonna have to pick up a set of those as well...

 

Have a look behind while someone else moves the tire for you, just to make sure that's where the movement is!

 

No need to replace what isn't broken if that's the case!

 

Unfortunately it's just me at home, otherwise I would. Ah well... bearings aren't that expensive anyway. Worst part is going to be dissecting the wheel. Like I said, I've never worked on 4wd before so I'm sure I'm in for a treat.

Edit: Also, is there anything other than the bearings that would squeal and be silenced by turning in one direction only?