Constant squealing sound coming from right rear wheel

2010 KIA OPTIMA
52,000 MILES
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BFRYGOPMAN
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When I drive my car at highway speeds after about 15 mins I get a high pitch squealing sound coming from the right rear wheel. When I tap my brakes the sound will stop, but returns a few seconds later. The sound will also briefly stop if I change lanes or turn.
It took my tire off, removed the disc and caliper. When I hand spin the wheel hub it doesn't turn smooth like "butter". There is a slight resistance in the spin and makes a slight noise. I am not a car expert but would have thought that rear wheel hub (a front wheel drive car) should spin 100% uninhibited. It should should spin free and easy without noise yes?
This means that it is a wheel bearing problem correct?
It is still under warranty and I am bringing it in, but want to go in with knowledge so they are going to sell me new brakes for a wheel bearing problem.

Oct 7, 2013 at 11:14 AM
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WRENCHTECH
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Sounds like the brake pad wear sensors telling you the pads are worn out.
Oct 7, 2013 at 11:37 AM
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BFRYGOPMAN
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Both brake pads have plenty of meat on them. The groove in the center of the pads is easily a quarter of an inch deep. The metal wear sensor is not touching the disc.
The disc itself has no grooves.
Oct 7, 2013 at 11:44 AM
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WRENCHTECH
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Then that likely leaves the brake pad itself being glazed and squealing on the rotor. Either way you need to let a professional take a look and find out what the noise is.
Oct 7, 2013 at 11:56 AM
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BFRYGOPMAN
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Why would the wheel hub (with the rotor and caliper removed) spin with a slight noise and some resistance? That does not seem right.
Is this normal. I am asking because I don't know.
Oct 7, 2013 at 12:05 PM
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WRENCHTECH
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I am not there to see or hear what you are talking about so i really can't answer that. They never spin completely without resistance.
Oct 7, 2013 at 12:11 PM