When I am slowing down in my 2001 Chevy Trailblazer, 184k miles, I hear a metal on metal noise in the front axle area of the vehicle. It is not the brakes as the noise does not occur when pushing the brakes. It is just a general squealing/metal grinding noise in the front axle area of the vehicle. Sounds fairly centered in the front, not in any particular wheel well.

I am just looking for suggestions of what it could be.

 

Have you visually inspected the front brakes?

 

Is it a 4x4? or 2wd? If 4x4 check the passenger side disconnect. Also this site focuses mostly on the S10 model Blazers. For more focused info try Trailvoy. It is focused on the Trailblazer/ GMC Envoy. I've got both. They can give you more info. But seriously, I had my 4x4 disconnect bad. It was like that when I bought it. They tend to wear fast. If you have a 2wd possibly check the bearing hubs. Just because it "sounds" centered doesn't mean anything in those. But yes also check the brakes thoroughly. Make sure there is good pad on them.

 

I've had a sticking caliper cause metal on metal sound while slowing down, couldn't really hear it while accelerating or coasting, but it went away when brakes were applied...

 

Yep, could still be brakes. Also, check the dust shields.

George