need some advice....
 

First off want to say hi as this is my first post but I have read several others and everyone here is very helpful and easy to understand. Now, I have a 08 GMC sierra z71 and it has been a great truck. The other day on my way home as I entered a gradual right turn, I heard a loud griding noise. You should know that I am NOT a mechanic And vehicle maintenance escapes me other than the basics. When I heard the noise, I got home and parked the truck. I started searching the internet for answers and found you guys. Based on other threads, I've learned it could be the hub ass'y. My first question is how do I find out for sure what the problem is, and since I am currently working out of town, how long can I drive it before it becomes dangerous, and finally any and all advice on a fix would be GREATLY appreciated. Thanks guys and I look forward to hearing what y'all think.

Pattycake,

Welcome to the forum. Others much smarter than me will chime in shortly.

How many miles on your 08 Sierra? The first thing that comes to my mind is a worn brake pad. May only start to show during a turn. Any noise when braking?

Hubs will cause noise problems typically at different speeds, not typically during hard turns (in my experience- I have replaced about 6 of them on GM vehicles).

Post any more information you can, lets find out why the noise is happening and what the fix is.

Let's also rule out the simple possibility something like a stick might be in the wheel well rubbing the wheel as you turn.

I have 80000 miles and have not had a problem since I bought it a year ago. The noise is more metal on metal and only happens on right turns. The steering is fine, don't feel any pull or anything and the brakes seem fine. I actually thought I imagined the noise because there was no indication of any problems. Should I try to grease the bearings. Is it safe to drive?

I have visually inspected both front wheels and while I'm not a mechanic, I didn't see anything out of the ordinary.

wether its safe or not is really hard to say. i wouldnt let it go too long

Problem is that being out of town, I have two choices. Either risk it on the highway-2 hour drive home, or try to fix it myself. Since I can't feel anything in the steering or brakes, I'm hoping it might be minor.

i obviously cant suggest anything over the internet, but every gm i even had made the noise for at least a few weeks until i could get the bearings from rock auto or amazon. if you just started hearing it i dont think i would worry about it till i got home

I thank you very much for the advice

I agree you are probably okay for a 2 hour ride home.

Since the noise comes when you turn left, if it is a problem with a bearing the bad bearing will be the front right one. A left turn puts the most pressure on the right front bearing. Can you tell if the noise is coming from the right front? By the way, driver side is always left side of vehicle, and passenger side is always right side of vehicle.