Hyundai Repair: squealing/smell from rear wheel well - 2003 Sonata, rear caliper, metal shavings

Question
Hello,

I have a 2003 Sonata with 97,000 miles. A couple of months ago I replaced the rear brake pads as they were worn. Now, on occasion, while driving I will hear a repetitive squeak from the rear passenger side. Squeak will stop during cornering. Not exactly like the brake wear sensors, but not much different either. After stopping and getting out of the car, there is a very strong smell, almost like an electrical overheat (kind of sour smelling). This smell is coming from the rear passenger wheel well.

This does not happen on every trip. Nor does it seem to matter the length of the trip. Sometimes it happens, sometimes not.

Today I pulled the rear caliper to inspect. Pad wear looks about right, and even, for the usage since the last change. Rotor looks fine too.

Also, not sure if I'm imagining this or if it is coincidental, but when i hear the squeak, sometimes it feels like I drove onto rough road. Kind of like if you drive onto the shoulder warnings, but not nearly as pronounced. Lasts only a few seconds and then the ride is smooth again.

Could it be a rear bearing? Why would it be intermittent?

Oh, one other thing. There is a flexible line running back there. Presumably the emergency brake line? But it appears magnetic as there were metal shavings collected on the top, where it is bolted on. Not sure if that is normal or not.

Ideas?  

Answer
It sounds like the wheel in question may have a binding caliper or pads.  You'll want to check to be sure that the caliper slides move freely and that the pads are not jammed in the caliper bracket.

If you've got ABS, you'll have a magnetic wheel sensor back there.  Chances are the shavings are in the neighborhood of the sensor.