Hey folks, 02 Blazer 4wd 4.3L auto, i notice on the freeway that at 50-60mph there is a distinct roaring noise from the fornt right wheel area. Its the kind of noise that makes you look all around for a loud truck or something, but its actually YOUR CAR! I know this is a vague question, but any pointers on where to begin looking???

THanks!

 

It is possible that your wheel bearing is starting to go bad. Does the noise get any worse when you turn left and better when you turn right?

 

x2...I would say you have a wheel bearing that needs replaced.

 

WOnderful, thankfully we bought the GOld warranty from the dealer, $100 deductible, and unlimited claims.

 

Welp, there ya go. Have them take a look at it.

 

I have a similar issue with a whirring noise coming from the rear passenger area. At about 25mph, it starts to make the noise 68Datsun510 was mentioning. Ironically enough, it goes away at a few miles an hour above or below that, but comes back at different speeds.

Do you think this is also a bearing issue?

 

Yes, it is quite possible that the outer wheel bearing on the rear axle has started to fail. This is not something to let go too far as it can end up ruining your axle shaft.

 

Thanks very much for the reply Kyle. What leads you to think it's an outer as opposed to an inside bearing? If it is outer, I can replace it myself but the inside one I think requires a lot more time.

 

The diff carrier bearings are definitely more complicated to replace.

You can check the outer bearings by jacking up the rear of the truck and rotating a wheel. Feel for up and down play. There will be a certain amount of in and out play and that is normal.

It could also be your u-joints in the driveshaft.

 

Awesome, I will try that this week. Thanks for the help =)