Front brake grinding and loose steering on a 10-year-old sedan; DIY diagnostics

[JosephHH]

I own a ten-year-old sedan that's been reliable, but I'm starting to notice a faint grinding noise from the front wheels when I brake lightly, and the steering feels a bit loose on the highway. I'm comfortable with basic car maintenance like oil changes and replacing air filters, but this feels beyond my skill level. For more experienced DIY mechanics, what should my diagnostic steps be before taking it to a shop? Is this likely a simple brake pad replacement, or could it point to more serious issues with the calipers, rotors, or even the steering linkage? What tools would I absolutely need to safely inspect and potentially fix this myself, and are there any specific warning signs that mean I should stop and seek professional help immediately?