So this crazy noise started on Friday and is now pretty bad. I can't figure out what it is.

Symptoms:

-a rumble/grinding sound when laterally loading the right front wheel while turning
-it

 

Sounds like a wheel bearing to me. Better hope it's not the EPS. It looks like the only repair is replacement.

 

What if you get both front wheels off the ground and turn the wheel (someone else).
You could listen with the stethoscope at the steering rack to pinpoint a noise?

If it all safe start engine IN NEUTRAL and turn wheel again to listen.

 

Those are some good suggestions.

 

Could still be wheel bearing. Turning left loads the right front wheel bearing. It may only make noise when loaded.

PS. It could also be a bad ball joint.

 

OK...

So I've got:

bad ball joint
bad wheel bearing
steering rack bearing
motor mounts



this sucks.

 

Raise the car, grab opposing edges of each wheel and try rocking it to see if and where anything is loose. You should be able to feel worn bearings also.

 

Yeah, I'm going inspect the left side also as I haven't done that yet. It just seems so apparent that the sound is coming from the right. Oh, and there is no detectable loosenss in the right wheel when raised off the ground and shaken like you describe.

 

Have you inspected the front lower arm on that side? Autocrossers seem to blow that rear lower compliance bushing on the back of the lower control arm. If it's blown, moving the steering might make the lower control arm flop around.

 

It looks fine apon casual observation...

I pulled a large chunk of rubber out of the right side motor mount today at lunch. I'm coming to the realization that this is not a new car anymore. It's kinda sad but I'm determined to restore all the rubber bits since I don't have a car payment on this bish anymore.

I'm going to dig deep into it tonight. I'll be sure to follow up with this thread because it will be useful in the future especially after I find the cure.