Metallic rubbing when turning right

[MattB]

My 2001 I30 is making a noise from the driver's side front wheel when I turn right. It's a noticable but not loud sound of metal rubbing on metal. When I turn left or hold the wheel straight, there is no noise. Any suggestions as to what to look at first would be greatly appreciated.

[loystock]

If it's a clicking sound, most likely due to a failing CV joint (as a result of broken/cracked CV boot).

If it's a grinding sound, then possibly an impending bearing failure. But such noise can be heard whether turning or driving straight. Make sure your lugs nuts are tight (@ 80 ft-lbs). You can also check for play - safely jack up the affected side then grab the tire at 6 o'clock and 12 o'clock position and move inward/outward...there should be no/minimal movement if bearing is good.

Another possibility is problem with the brake which usually generates a higher pitched sound. This can be due to worn brake pads and/or warped/corroded/very thin rotor. Remove the wheel and check brake components for out of spec condition.

[MattB]

It's definitely not a clicking sound. It's not quite a grinding sound either...it really sounds most like rubbing, as if something is slighly out of position. If the bearings were going bad, wouldn't the noise occur when turning either direction?

[loystock]

It's definitely not a clicking sound. It's not quite a grinding sound either...it really sounds most like rubbing, as if something is slighly out of position. If the bearings were going bad, wouldn't the noise occur when turning either direction?

The 2nd paragraph in my earlier response answered your last question.

So problem is now most likely with the front brake system, though other possibilities exist. Remove the wheel and make a thorough inspection of the pads (2mm minimum thickness, anything less will trigger pad warning), rotor (24mm min. thickness), the shims, pad return lever, caliper, etc. If you have a dial gauge and stand, measure the runout - 0.07mm max (or 2.8 mils max), with lugnuts installed. A warped or very thin rotor may become wobbly, generating such noise during turns and even during straight line driving.

[Fezzik]

If its only making the noise when you just have have fully turned the wheel to the max then it could be the bump stop plastic has broken off and the metal stub is rubbing against metal.