Screeching noise from wheel

KIMBERLEY BROWN

MEMBER
2007 TOYOTA PRIUS
4 CYL
2WD
AUTOMATIC
120,000 MILES

So my drivers side wheel has been making a screeching noise while in motion. Sound started while steering left and then, to the right later on. One side or another. Then is slowly started to make the sound no matter which way you steered (over about a month or two) we originally thought it was a rock. We took off the wheel and looked for rocks. We couldn't find any and out the wheel back on. Over the next month is when the noise got louder and louder. No when we took off the wheel, the rotor will wiggle about 1/4 inch forward and back. I don't think it did this before. Anyone have an idea as to whether it is the axle or wheel bearing? We would take it to the mechanic, but we are low on funds and can install the parts ourselves. (Side note: the wheel bearing on the left rear is bad and makes a constant humming sound.) Thanks ~ K

1 Reply

KASEKENNY

MECHANIC
18,907 POSTS

Hi Kimberly,

Definitely sounds like the hub bearing has failed. I included the procedure to test it then to replace it. When you turn you are loading and unloading the bearing and it will make noise. As it gets worse, it starts making the noise all the time, which is what it seems like you are experiencing.

More than likely the bearing in the hub has gotten dirt and grim in there and it just causes it to fail.

Here is a guide that will just provide some more info for you:

https://www.2carpros.com/articles/bearing-hub-replacement

Please let me know if you need more information.

FYI - I would go ahead and get the rear replaced to because they are not going to get any better.

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