My car was making grinding sound about three weeks ago. It happened when I was driving slowly or in reverse with wheel slightly turning to the left.
At first, I thought it is caused by some stones or sands accumulated near to the wheel. Madison is winter now and people put lots of sand and ice on the road.
I am aware my front brake is almost worn out, but I never thought it will be the problem, because the sound only occurs when driving without braking. If I brake, the sound will goes away even though the car hasn’t come to a full stop.
Finally, the technicians diagnose my car and determine the brake pad, which should be replaced, is the cause. They exchange both brake pads and rotors for both front wheels. The total cost is about $300.
I also have the brake fluid system flushed and wheel aligned. Each of them cost about $90. The costs are fare in US. The labor constitutes most of expense. Hope that I could have these done myself later.
The most weird thing is that I do not notice much difference of the brake after those things are done. Ideally, the brake should feel more firm and could stop more quickly. I have contact them for a double-check on the next Monday.
Despite of these, I do feel the effect of wheel alignment. Now the driving is more stable and turning is more smooth.