Hyundai Repair: 2004 sante fe clunk and then metal on metal grinding noise when backing up, sante fe, changing directions

Question
hello, my 2004 sante fe with 45000 kilometers makes what appears to be a metal on metal grinding noise when reversing after a cold start.  the noise seems to disappear when the brakes are applied and changing directions even for a few feet.  also there seems to be a minor clunk sound just before the noise. any ideas before i bring it to the dealer. thank you for your time and prompt attention on this matter....

Answer
You're at about the right mileage for your brake pads to be worn out, so I'd suspect that your grinding is from the brake pad wear indicator, especially since you say it goes away when the brakes are applied.  

As for the clunk, I don't really have any ideas.  If it seems significant, it's best to have it checked.