I thought I'd run this one by the cumulative experience on here because I'm stumped.

Every now and then I'm getting a squeal from the car that sounds very much like a bearing. The trouble is, the sound is intermittent. It will appear and disappear when it likes. Sometimes I think it responds to steering (suggesting a front wheel bearing) and at other times it doesn't.
It certainly sounds like a bearing in a rotational kind of way but no hanging-out-of-windows has helped me detect where exactly it's coming from. I thought that once a bearing started to go it would be constant.
By the way the car is a 2010 XS with 30000 miles.
So my question is, does it sound like a bearing? If not has anyone else had anything similar?

Stuart

sure its not a delaminated rear brake pad, quite common At work
At home

"I can't always believe facts I read on the web" - Charles Dickens

winner by default of the tractor vs caravan race

Thanks CG. I'll have a look.

Stuart

Hand brake shoes When I die, I want to go peacefully like my Grandfather did, in his sleep -- not screaming, like the passengers in his car

Thanks Chris. I'll have a look.

Stuart

Have you tried gently applying the handbrake while moving and while it's making that noise to see if it alters/goes away?

Hi Snappa,

yes I tried applying the handbrake whilst reversing down the slope of my driveway. I can't say I've heard anything.
I think I need to have a look around.
Thanks for the reply.

Stuart

Maybe a stone wedged between the disc and the backplate/caliper, does the noise come and go when steering?  MY2014 SD4 XS
Ipanema Sand

MY10 TD4-e GS Manual
Lago Grey Now retired after 8 trouble free years

The noise sometimes stops when cornering. Not always though. I also reckon I only hear the noise when I'm on longer journeys. I'll be taking the wheels off soon to put on winter tyres so I'll check brakes etc.

Stuart

When its making a noise will it stop when you press on the brake lever? 
Hung like Einstein, smart as a horse.

Pressing the brake pedal doesn't seem to have any effect.
It's weird. I heard it on Sunday after an hour's drive and haven't heard it since but it will happen again at some point.

Stuart

My car has been in the dealers since yesterday having the front transfer box replaced, tailgate switch replaced and an inspection of the brakes to determine what might be causing the squeal.
It turns out the handbrake expanders are seized resulting in destruction of the linings. The whole lot needs replacing.
Serves me right for not checking them myself I suppose.