1990 240 sedan 218K.

Last night i noticed a low pitched grinding noise as i came to a stop in my garage. The noise is only there during the last few feet before I come to a complete stop, or at least that is the only time it is audible. Driving around town today, i noticed that the noise is fairly intermittent, worse/louder the first few times i brake after starting the car up. It seems to get better, sometimes not there at all, as I stop at more traffic lights. A few times, the noise would be there for about five to ten feet as i accelerated. I listened with the windows down...its hard to pinpoint where its coming from. Sometimes it sounds like its coming from the back right, but i'm not definite about that...sometimes it sounds like its coming from right under me. Again, the noise sounds somewhat like worn brake pads, though its not a high-pitched squeal. Its more like a low rumble/grind.

Pertinent information:
-Brake pads and rotors were replaced at 200K (a little over a year ago). No, they were not Volvo factory brakes...(Please do not shoot me)...They were Autozone pads/rotors. A buddy of mine put them on for me. They are supposed to last AT LEAST 25K. I would say that 25% of the miles on my car since they were put on are highway miles...so worn pads, regardless of how cheap they are, doesn't add up.

-Had new tires put on and got a realignment in September. Ever since, i haven't been happy with the handling on the car. It is a smoother ride than before, to be sure, but i feel a lot more play in the steering wheel now at high speeds. I've heard this is a fairly easy fix, maybe someone will have advice. But anyway, i mention it here as maybe it might have something to do with this.

-The weather over the past few days has been extremely cold, in the teens at night, for the first time this year. If it is worn pads, it almost seems a little too coincidental for this to start during very cold weather.

-There is no change in the handling/steering of the car as I brake.

Could this be a suspension or lube problem? I'm not extremely handy when it comes to cars, i can jack it up and take a little look around if need be. If you guys can give me something to go on i'd appreciate it. I'm praying its nothing but a lube issue, and i might be able to live with new brakes...if its an expensive fix this car will (sadly) see the junk yard, even though its running strong. I can get a good deal on a Camry right now, and as much as i want to ride this ol' Swede out, the Yota is starting to sound good. So help me keep from putting this old dog to sleep!

Thanks in advance
roadie
Nashville



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