Hey guys, I have a 2004 Lexus LS430 and it has about 118,000 miles. When i am at about 40 and above there is the loud noise coming from the front wheel like something is rubbing, faster i go louder it gets. It doesn't affect drivability of the car, but i don't know what it is. I just replaced my rotors thinking it was them along with my breaks. It brought the noise level down very little. I don't know what to do. Any advice? Bearing?

 

My first guess would be wheel bearings.

 

Are they able to be bought at the local part store? difficult to replace?

 

At that mileage, most likely the wheel bearing(s). To isolate which one, test the right front bearing by making left turn and listen for sound; test left front bearing by turning right and listen for sound. Too bad you'll have to re-do work you did to replace rotors. The hardest part of the job is punching (hammering) out the old bearings that can get crusty in place. Use a heavy hammer with punch tool and wear gloves.

 

If you've been having the problem for a ling time then definitely check your rotors as well.

Machine them if they still have life in them, or new ones off of Sewell.

That's a classic wheel bearing issue. Replaced mine a month ago after hitting a curb when it snowed.

I definitely have defects in my rotors and I should have something done about it this weekend.

 

The OP just replaced rotors and brake pads ...

 

Also, check the backing plate that's behind your rotors.

It's a piece of sheet metal that can easily be bent and make contact with the rotors, I know I've made that mistake after working on the brakes and it will have a noise like you're describing. I just bend them back away from the rotor.

The fact that you just did the rotors and you now have this noise tells me it could likely be that.

 

Thanks for the help guys. I hope the local parts store has the wheel bearings.

 

Suggest you don't buy the cheapest bearings ...

 

This. Timken is a good brand, Autozone carries them.

 

Appreciate it guys, i'll check it out tomorrow morning. When i turned left it got louder.

 

Appreciate it guys, i'll check it out tomorrow morning. When i turned left it got louder.