Excessive Noise - Front Left

[grahamchet]

Hi Everybody,

For some time I've had a noise which seems to be coming from the front left. A consistent hum but relative to road speed and not engine. It's gradually been getting worse. I took it to a local garage two weeks ago and he was sure it was the tyres. I changed all 4 as they were near the limit but it did not work. Previously it was only audible above 40 mph but in the last few days it's got worse and now apparent at any speed. In long sweeping left hand bends it improves but otherwise it's always there. I am off to another garage on Monday as I think something is going to give. Any ideas so I can point the garage in the right direction?

Thanks in advance

[zollaf]

sounds to me like a wheel bearing. often difficult to pinpoint as there won't always be play in it, just a rumble. if you jack the wheel up and spin it as fast as you can by hand you might be able to see if its louder than the other side, or by supporting the car well with both wheels off the ground and taking precautions, you can stick it in gear and let the engine spin the wheels up so you can hear it better.

[grahamchet]

Zollaf,
You're right it's difficult. I can't feel anything through the steering wheel which I thought I would if it was a bearing/driveshaft.

Thanks

[zollaf]

you don't usually feel anything through the steering. normally the bearing gets a bit dry and rough, possibly a bit corroded. they can still feel nice and smooth when you spin the wheel but you can normally hear them grumbling away.