I have a 2004 2.5 awd x type, I have a metallic noise like metal in a washing machine, sounds like its coming from the off side front, can only hear it at low speeds and not over bumps, car brakes ok and doesn't pull.

your thoughs are appreciated

 

wattie, does the noise change pitch/loudness when you either:

-turn the wheel side to side
-accelerate
-drive forwards and then back up, then go forwards again......
-gently apply the brakes (just enough to let the pads touch the rotor, but not apply any significant stopping force)

The noise that you are describing can be caused by a lot of things. Odds are, your most likely cultprit is going to be either a loose band holding the rubber boots to the front CV shaft or the CV joint itself is toast. Granted, it can always be possible that you have a chipped tooth or something of the sort in the transfer case (granted, I would think this would get worse with speed).

 

tried a few things, the noise doesn't change when braking or turning, I can hear it in neutral at low speed, it goes away with speed, the wheel bearings are noisy but not much, its going into the garage wed, me and a mate bought it to drive to Romania and back with rust2rome group , we got it for 300, just want it fully functional before we leave, already replaced the transfer box, rear arm and expansion tank, your feedback is most welcome.

 

the o/s/f wheel bearing was badly breaking up causing the metallic noise at low speed, luckily an easy fix.