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2002 Mazda Protege ES with 32K
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Could also be bearings, but probably not at 32K. Brake parts themselves aren't expensive. Brake jobs often are. It's a huge money maker. The job is not at all difficult but the first time might be traumatic, and they are your brakes. Front pads plus turning the rotors (if needed) would cost ~$20-30. Shop sale prices usually start at $99/axle plus bonus things you may or may not need. Some are much more expensive. Do you know _anyone_ who could walk you through the job? Any TFPers in your area? Wrench party!
BTW, some brake squealing or grinding can be morning rust removal. Surfaces get a layer of oxidation after sitting overnight in humid conditions. It'll scrub off the first few miles but can sound nasty until it does. When it happens is backwards to your description but your mention of rain and other cars makes me mention it.
Noises are tough to diagnose remotely. If the noise starts after you've driven for awhile then you may have a sticky caliper slide. This lets a pad stay in contact with the rotor which then glazes the material from the continued friction. When that happens you can often deglaze with a few 40-0MPH 90% stops. If it won't go away, or it keeps coming back then they need to come out anyway. You might get away with sanding the glazed pad (it'll look shiny) or just replace them. Pads are cheap. Either way, do a careful cleaning/lubing of the caliper floating surfaces. May as well use anti-squeal on the pad backs.
Like I said, check friends for a little help. It goes quickly if you have another pair of hands and another car for when you forget to buy that last part.