I was driving home from work last night and felt this sudden quick vibration and slight thump in the front, and steering. then a few minutes later something in the front end started making this loud chirping/squeeling/grinding sound. Something related to the wheels, as it changed pitch with speed. I have no clue what it could be, but i'm scared to death to drive it
Yeah it sounds to me like a wheel bearing and I would NOT attempt to drive it. I had one burn up on me one time and ended up having to replace the spindle as well as the bearings.