Hello! I am going to replace my front brake pads for my Chrysler 2007 Sebring. There was a grinding noise that just started and right now it is very intermittent, so it means it's time for it to be switched out completely before I have major brake damage. Is it difficult to change out brake pads? I am on a budget and from the research I saw it appears that it's not too difficult.

A grinding or rumbling noise can also be symptoms of a wheel bearing or constant velocity joint in a driveshaft. A worn wheel bearing can also cause a 'whistling' sound (as can a worn CV joint).

A grinding noise with brakes is either worn pads causing metal to metal contact on the brake disk/rotor, or the brake backing plate catching on a spinning rotor ... or a loose/missing anti squeal brake shim (they stop the pads from rattling and vibrating).

However, as you say a mechanic has looked at the brakes and can't find anything wrong .. I think I would begin to suspect a wheel bearing or constant velocity joint on the driveshaft (front wheel drive cars).

get is service now before the grind wrecks more parts.
id not drive it, at all , may be to shop.

brakes need replacing/serviced, or the wheel bearings are worn/faulty

Hi, i would chk your rotor on the wheel your hearing the noise from. Sounds like a brake pad has worn out and is chewing your rotor. That can cause all your issues. Hope that helps

this could be a brake issue, BUT it sounds more like a wheel bearing that is starting to break apart. I would stop by your local brake shop and get a 'free' brake inspection. they will tell you if it is the brakes or if it a bearing that needs to be replaced. if it is a bearing that is going out make sure you find a mechanic that specializes in Chrysler repair,, this will keep the repair costs down and the turn around time will be around 6 to 10 hours. don't go to the dealer enless the vehicle is still under warranty.
if it turns out that it is a brake disk/pad issue -- the brake shop that you took the car to will be able to do a full disk turn and brake pad replacement in under 1 hour and will only cost around 75 to 100 dollars.

c...

Check CV Joints and AXEL BEARINGS This is Common

I doubt you going to get a code from the transmission. Im surprised that shop you have it taken to cant tell you what is the problems. If you have high miles as 100k chances are the tranny is worned and need service or replacing. Transmission rearly grind or make a grinding noise, the brakes will make the grinding noise due to the worned pad as metal rubbing on metal, have all breaks check. If the van is 5speed, yes I can see the tranny will make a grinding noise VS automatic transmission. I would take it to another shop and get another opinion or take it to the dealer which they usually charge 70-75 buck to have it diagnose. If tranny need replacing check ebay to junk yard, is lot cheaper and as good than having it rebuilt.

You need your brakes replaced all around.

you have air in your brake lines

Sounds like the pads are worn out and are grinding on the rotors. You will likely have to replace the pads and rotors.