It doesn't sound like a cv joint. In fact, both of them look great. While driving my 87 Subaru, I hear a faint ticking, er light knocking from the front passenger wheel. both front rotors and brakes were replaced about 5 months ago. Whatever it is, I don't want it to get worse. I even recently stopped by discount tires for a little check up. Tires were already balanced, wheel bearings are good and no flaws were found in the actual tires,(Brand new studdable as of December 2014. What the heck is going on?!

did you check your dust shield backing plate ? 

does the noise change based on steering or accelerating or braking?

 

brakes need inspected:
pins sticking

rust or black brake build up on metal pad clips hanging a pad

pads too tight and hanging - some need filed down on the ears to fit snug

brake dust shield is bent

 

axles - are they aftermarket?

if you're time rich you can swap axles from one side to another - if the issue moves with the axle it's axle related.

Check that the axle nut is tight.

Nothing stuck in your tire tread? Pebble, nail, etc.

just cuz the axle boots aren't ripped doesn't mean they are immune to being suspect. 

It was the axle nut. Thank you!

nice hit!

 

doesn't he need to be certain the washer is installed correctly (they only go one way - concave or something)?  or get a new one?
EA's have a funky axle nut situation but it's been a long time for me.....?

Once they come loose the cone washer cannot be trusted. They arent really meant to be a reusable part. There is also a good chance that the hub is compromised. In other words it will probably come loose again and require deeper repair. Next time ur at the junkyard grab a hub or two. i always try to keep a couple instock since Ive run into this a couple times now.

it is a new axle nut that was replaced a few months ago.