I have a fairly loud humming noise when i am driving my 2001 saturn sl1. This occurs when i am driving straight or turning to the left. If i turn to the right the humming noise goes away. (it sounds to me, the driver, that the noise is coming from the front left of the car).

Hi, the likely problem is a worn out wheel bearing. See if it quiets down when turning. If it quiets when turning right, it's the right bearing, and vice-versa. Please let me know if you have more questions, and thanks for using FixYa.

Possible. If you have changed tires lately, make sure they put the right size tires on. If they went up in size by any measure, it could be rubbing on the tire well and thus making the noise. Check the users manual if you have it and check to make sure the tire sizes are correct. Also check your power steering fluid. That would make a humming or moaning noise but it would be noticeable while turning.

the right outer tierodending needs replaced.

jack car just enough to take the weight off the road wheel, then using a tyre iron, see if theres any movement in any bushes,only try this on the flat with bricks under the chassis frame just in case....

id check in the left side front tie rod

when turning left vehicle distributes weight to right front wheel bearing causing load. since u describe a noise in right front while driving straight i would suspect failed right front wheel bearing. see if your noise changes/goes away while turning right that should tell u 4 sure

Could be either a loose belt or you are low on power steering fluid,or the power steering pump could just be worn out.

Wheel bearing worn.

Bad front wheel bearing on the drivers side. When you turn left it shifts more of the vehicles weight to the passenger side and takes the pressure off of the drivers side. Not uncommon but will need attention soon. Hope this helps

did you check front fender liners ? sl is bad about coming lose in front .