Per the forum noise diagnostic quidelines:
A. When does the sound happen?
_ When engine is running
_ When transmission is in some particular gear
_ When turning
_ On throttle
X When braking
_ Over bumps
_ In cold conditions
_ At speed - wind noise
B. Where does the sound come from?
_ Can't tell
_ Drivetrain
X Suspension/wheels/brakes
X Front
_ Rear
_ Body
C. Does the sound vary with some condition?
_ Engine/transmission rpm dependent
X Wheel rpm dependent
_ Air speed/direction dependent
_ Varies according to some other condition
D. Is there a vibration associated with the noise?
_ Feel it through the floorpan or seat
_ Feel it through the steering wheel
_ Feel it through a pedal
E. Does it affect drive-ability? how? (Essay question, 2500 words or less)
No driving issues. The grinding sound comes at a slow light application of the brake, such as when one is getting stuck in traffic. Not apparent under heavy braking, just a gentle, low speed application. Sound is best described as grinding or scraping. I'm wondering if it may be front suspension related (bushing somewhere?) and I just hear it under the right conditions.
The short version is that the front brake pads and rotors were replaced about 15k and and the rears about 5k ago. Brake fluid was flushed about 4 years ago (I know, I know) and bled/topped up at the 2 most recent services. This work was done at a mechanic, as the brake hardware can easily get rusted and/or seized in the Chicago winter environment, so it is one of the few minor things I don't deal with due to the hassle of rusted bolts.
Thoughts?