So this is my first post here, I do apologize if this has been covered but I cannot find anything exactly like it anywhere. My front end in my 2003 durango 4x4 sxt is making a grinding noise when I drive. It seems to be coming from the front drivers side. It is loudest at about 45 mph and gets quieter after that. Also, if I turn left, the noise stops COMPLETELY. If I turn right it stays the same, no louder, no quieter. Any ideas on what this could be? I can't very well get it fixed on labor day weekend and would like some ideas on what to expect. Thanks for any and all help!

Edit: It also makes a clunking noise occasionally when putting it into drive, I have seen that this would probably be the U-joint, but would they make a grinding noise also (it begins at about 20 mph by the way)

Here's a video, sorry all I have is my phone, hope you can hear what im talking about
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=wsATd...e_gdata_player

 

Welcome to DF
Sounds like you may have a bad wheel bearing, I recommend replacing both if that is the problem.

 

Usually a clunk at low speed turning followed by a vibration is a bad CV joint. It could also be a wheel bearing but I am guessing a CV half shaft. Once you get the nut broke loose, wheel off, brakes, wheel bearing, disconnect the tie rod, you can turn it out enough to pop the CV out. Either way you should see what's going on.

 

I believe (atleast the only time I hear it) it only "clunks" is occasionally when I put it into drive from park / reverse. It's more likely to do it after I have driven for a while. But my main issue is the grinding noose while driving. The one that magically stops when I turn left lol. I'm not terribly handy with cars so I will probably be taking it to get looked at Tuesday (computer engineering major but no mechanical background).

 

But any idea about cost? If I did need to get cv joint(s) replaced what would the cost be?
And if I just needed new wheel bearing hub(s) approximately what the cost should be? Just don't 100% know about these things and don't want to be "had" when I go to get it fixed

 

That you would need to check with your local parts house if you are doing the job. Or you'll need to have an estimate from your local shop.

 

I see,

Well I agree with Mater Tech as it sounds like a wheel bearing on the drivers side. If you have the bearing installed you probably going to run $350 installed or so. If you do it maybe $80 but it depends if it is front ABS or not. With front ABS the part is like $120.