Whining noise coming from the passenger side of the car

2008 FORD KA
93,000 MILES • 1.3L • 2WD • MANUAL
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JACK 1888
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The noise is rhythmic, and the volume increases as I accelerate. The noise continues while the car is moving both in and out of gear, it is not specific to any single gear.
The noise only starts when I go above 15MPH and stops when the car goes under 15MPH however it also doesn't do this every time I drive the car.
So far, I have ruled out the wheel bearing and the power steering.
May 7, 2022 at 12:20 PM
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JACOBANDNICKOLAS
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Hi,

First, this vehicle isn't offered in the US, but I will try my best to help.

If the sound starts at 15 MPH, then my first suspect would be a wheel bearing. Since you are hearing it on the passenger side, see if it gets louder when turning left. See if there is a change in the volume or tone.

Also, if it is loud enough, record it and upload it for me to hear.

I did a little research and found the bearing is a press-in bearing. I attached a pic below that I found online.

Let me know if you notice any changes when turning.

Take care,

Joe

See pic below.
Image (Click to enlarge)
Attached Media
May 7, 2022 at 9:51 PM
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JACK 1888
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Hi, sorry for the late reply.

Thanks for your answer, I've not been able to record the noise.
I do have some more information, I took the car on a long journey yesterday, there was no noise at all for the first 1½hours then it began again, however now the whine only begins when the car reaches 30MPH and stops when I go below 30MPH, originally it was 15MPH.

If it were the bearing would the whine not be present whenever the wheel is moving regardless of speed, or could it be due to the bearing heating Up?

Also, the car is front wheel drive if that helps to explain this.
May 10, 2022 at 8:16 AM
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JACOBANDNICKOLAS
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Hi,

A wheel bearing noise can change with conditions and how it is worn. I can't say for sure, but at this point, it is my first suspect.

Have you noticed any change in the sound when making turns?

Let me know.

Joe
May 10, 2022 at 7:08 PM
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JACK 1888
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No, the sound seems the same regardless of if I'm turning, the only change is it get faster and louder the faster I go.
May 12, 2022 at 4:37 AM
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JACOBANDNICKOLAS
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Hi,

What you describe sounds like a wheel bearing. Usually, they will change pitch when turning. However, sometimes they don't.

I wish I could hear it. The next thing that would be done is to lift the wheel off the ground and check for up and down, side to side, and in and out play in the wheel.

I apologize that I can't be more specific. I'm not familiar with the model and have nothing to reference.

Let me know if you are comfortable checking for play.

Take care,

Joe
May 12, 2022 at 7:21 PM
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JACK 1888
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Hi Joe,

Thanks for your advice.

I've just had the car looked at and it was indeed to do with the bearing. Turns out the bearing needed greasing.

Thanks
May 14, 2022 at 1:32 AM
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JACOBANDNICKOLAS
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Hi,

You are very welcome. I'm glad you found the issue and it wasn't expensive to fix.

Take care of yourself, and please feel free to come back anytime in the future. You are always welcome here.

Joe
May 14, 2022 at 7:44 PM