grinding noise only at low speeds

Also, the noise stops at speeds higher than about 40. We next thought low power steering fluid, but it doesn't have a reservoir; the wheel bearings, but it's not only when turning and doesn't get louder with speed. Now we're lost. We were also told the cv joint had small minor leak, and the mechanic who inspected it recommended a transmission flush.

Sounds like the noise is in the transmission side cover which contains the belt input and output shafts sheeves/pulleys bearings. I have replaced tons of them for the same symptoms you have.Its a very expensive repair.So is the noise coming from the transmission?Any codes in the transmission computer?

I don't think that sounds quite like my problem, sorry. Everything for the transmission checks out fine, just the recommended flush. The way it is, I would SWEAR the brakes or callipers aren't releasing, more a rubbing sound than a grinding. I apologize for the poor word choice. But everyone one says the brakes are fine. Maybe power steering? I can feel the vibrations through the steering wheel. I'm not saying that what you said is wrong, just doesn't quite fit I guess. But I thank you and any further suggestions would be greatly appreciated :)

Wheel bearing wouldn't fit the bill the faster you go the louder the noise would be.The power steering is electric motor on the steer column inside I have never seen that cause a noise on those.Also the brakes if they were dragging the faster you go the louder the noise.Even tire noise the faster you go the louder the noise.Let's try this drive it when you hear the noise put it in neutral see if the noise changes?

The noise decreases when in neutral, but is still there, and definately sounds like something rubbing.

If the noise changes in neutral then sounds like the noise is in the transmission. Can you hear it when you not moving?

Nope, purrs like a kitten. The noise also stops after about 20 minutes of driving at higher speeds, even when I drop down to 25 or less, where I'd normally hear the sound. But if the car sits long enough to cool, the noise is back. Also, when I'm going in reverse, there's no noise except if I turn the wheels sharply, like when parking. Say it is something with the transmission, how worried should I be driving it?

If it is in the transmission it will get worse and the transmission will rail at some point.Your going to have to have someone put it up on a lift and spin the wheels on the lift with the wheels off the to see if it is in the transmission. You can try have it flushed as per the manufacture bulletin. Sometimes it works and sometimes it works but the noise comes back.