I have a grinding noise in the front left area of my 2004 volvo s40, it does need new breaks but im almost sure the sound isnt coming from the breaks. I'm thinking about purchasing a new cv joint tonight but i just want to be sure as I'm not the most knowledgeable person when it comes to vehicles. Any help would be greatly appreciated!

 

Does it make a clicking noise on tight turns? That would be the CV joint.

 

need more info.
does it grind when braking, accelerating, when you ease of gas? Does the sound become louder as you drive faster?
Has any work been done recently that would have required removing the wheels?

 

Its almost like a creaking sounds when i make tight turns such as, when i back out of my driveway. No clicking, it doesnt happen when im turning fast but mostly when im taking turn at street lights or as I said, backing out.

 

It could be a dry bushing like a tie rod end or even the sway bar mounting bushings. CV joint maybe but sliding under and checking to see if you have a ripped boot and it's slung grease out would tell. If the boots good it's very unlikely the joint is damaged.

 

Wheel bearing comes to mind.Could also an old tire make rhythmical cracking noise which can only be heard at low speeds.

 

Same here, wheel bearing is the normal suspect with a grinding sound. Drive the car for a bit and then check if that wheel is hotter than the other side. A grinding wheel bearing will heat up more than a good one. You are looking for an obvious difference in temps.

 

If the creaking seems to be coming from up high I would guess the upper strut bearing.

 

pull the wheel off and check the brake rotor for gooves (inside and out) and pad thickness. then look at the axle boots for any leaks or tears. next I'd look at the spring - s40s like to snap the last 3 inchs off (top) which can kill the strut bearing or bottom (which can make noises). +1 on all the other suggestions. Bearing can be hard to feel but as noted can change sound with load (ie turning left or right), road speed and temperature (just starting up vs after 10 minutes).