I can't figure out the problem. I have an 04 E320 4-matic and this problem literally occurred after going through some slush of snow on the highway. It sounds like it would be the left wheel bearing but I don't think it is at all. When I'm driving straight or left whether accelerating or coasting, then there's no noise but if the steering wheel is slightly to the right, I get a grinding rubbing noise only when accelerating, barely any noise if coasting not to mention I get the noise at all speeds, even at 5mph. I had the car on the lift and literally everything looked fine, Cv axles, no play in the wheel bearing, front drive shaft is fine. Anyone have a similar problem?

 

Road conditions may be a coincidence, when was the last time TC was serviced.

 

Yea but the noise is coming from the front, isn't the transfer case behind the trans?

 

Check CV joint , not with the car off the ground , it must be in approx. normal height so the axle is near to driving position, probably joint bearing, IMO

 

CV joints meaning CV axle?

 

yes the joint between the two axle shafts, when in normal drive position it wears in that place when you raise to check for clearance you tighten up the joint, best to raise onto block then lower car so CV axle is relaxed, sometimes hard to diagnose cv, high mileage just replace

 

Go on empty lot, make full turn and slightly press gas pedal in circle.
Than repeat the other direction.
Increased noise will point to CV joint.

 

are you sure your fender liners are in tact and in the correct locations?