This is actually for a friend's car that is exactly the same model as mine (99 4cyl LX 4dr). Car has 105k miles. Recently he had been experiencing some kind of a grinding sound from the front, so I took it for a spin to see what's going on and here's what happening -

There is grinding type of sound that seems to be coming from the left front wheel. Its barely noticeable when accelerating, slightly noticeable after coasting for a few moments, a little more noticeable when braking and very noticeable when the steering is turned slightly right. No change in sound when turning left. By 'turn' I don't mean a corner, but even just a slight change in direction like a bend or curve in the road.

So what do you think might be the problem ? Bearing ? Tire ? Brake ?

 

Check your wheel bearing

 

probably bad axle

 

Thanks for your replies.
If its the bearing, what's a typical fix for it - replace or re-grease ?
I haven't checked the boots properly yet but a quick visual did not indicate any problem. Can a bearing just go out like that ? This is a gently used car.

 

My money is on the bearing aswell.. Would have to get it replaced.. Wheel bearings are "pressed" in using a hydrolic press..

 

Replace the bearing. You cant "regrease" like the old days. Its a sealed roller bearing