I have just purchased a 1998 Subaru Legacy Outback. It runs like a dream, but has one problem.

Sometimes, when driving very slowly (stop and go traffic), the right front wheel squeeks. it does NOT squeek when the brakes are applied, just when moving. And it doesn't do it all the time.

should I have the brakes checked, or could it be something more serious like a wheel component or even an axle?


thanks for any help.

Odds are it IS the brakes. As they wear, they vibrate more, and at such a high frequency so as to make a squeak. when you apply the brakes, they become more stabilized in their calipers, and while they still may vibrate, its at a much different (and lower) frequency.