Oh, good, a new noise! It has warmed up a bit, so I put the windows down. Don't ever do that...

When I turn left I hear a metallic squeal or grind. (It sounds similar to worn brake pads.) It doesn't matter if the brakes are applied, with gas applied, or coasting. It's not very loud. As soon as the steering wheel gets close back to center the noise stops.

Note: The sound happens when the wheel is rotating with the steering wheel turned to the left. It not while actually turning the steering wheel.

Any common areas to look at for this one?

 

I had a Ford Explorer once that did that. The brakes were near, and possibly beyond, the end of their life, and there was one inside pad that when the wheel was turned, the pad somehow had just enough 'play' or looseness sitting in the caliper that the noise/wear tab would briefly contact the rotor when the wheel was turned. Especially noticeable when wet.

I assumed you already checked for bearing wear.

 

Wheel bearing, wheel hub replacement

 

I just did this repair last month, and last year on the right side. The first one cost me $500. The second was about the same at a different shop.

 

I jacked up the front and turned both wheels. All I could hear is brake pad drag. They sounded the same, even with the steering wheel turned. The brakes do look almost worn out, so I guess I'll start there and have everything inspected.

 

Yep, when 1 side goes I replace both.

 

Just a follow-up on this: I had the brakes inspected and the front brakes are wasted. That was the source of the noise. I think I could hear the scraping mostly when turning because the inside of the wheel is more exposed and allows the sound out of the wheel well. By now the brakes are worn enough that I could hear a muffled noise going straight.