Squeaky Strut or bad ball joint?

[164guy]

Hello Everyone,


Ever since warmer temps hit 3 weeks ago I noticed that when I turn left the suspension makes this squeaky rusted chain on bolt sound. Now when I go over bumps it also makes this loud squeaking rocking sound.

I have pushed the left front portion of the car down and it pops back up and stays but it I hear the corresponding squeak from the bottom of the car. And this is everytime I push it down manually. So what does everyone think? I would presume to think its either a rusty strut or a ball joint.


Thanks,
164guy

[ChazzyD]

Clicking or popping sounds when turning usually is a CV joint gone bad, but that doesn't sound like your description of the sound. Does you car have Polyurethane bushings? Those will make squeaky noises going over bumps. If your car does not have Poly bushings, I would check your swaybar endlink bushings. If you live in the rustbelt, you may want to check your lower spring perches for rust. Beyond that, you should check fasteners for proper torque. When your lower balljoints go, they will begin to make bumps feel like you are hitting them harder than usual and if bad enough may even made a bit of a thud sound on impact.
Charles

[john.harrill]

I, too have the squeak, but mine seems to be the result of the car not being driven in 11 months. I replaced the struts and lower A-arms and their bushings (stock) about 2 years ago.
At the time I parked it in June of 07, there were no unseemly noises coming from the front suspension......

[Alfissimo Int.]

Check that all bushings including sway bar end link are tight.
Could be a combo of lower strut bearings and lower control arm bushings expanding in the heat and rubbing on the mounting sleeve/shaft.
But I am not leaning towards the bearing.
I am sort of looking at the end link loose and or worn bushing that is and the link is moving up and down and the threaded end may be rubbing.
But to clarify the LEFT side= drivers side correct?

Jason

Quote:

Originally Posted by 164guy Hello Everyone, Ever since warmer temps hit 3 weeks ago I noticed that when I turn left the suspension makes this squeaky rusted chain on bolt sound. Now when I go over bumps it also makes this loud squeaking rocking sound. I have pushed the left front portion of the car down and it pops back up and stays but it I hear the corresponding squeak from the bottom of the car. And this is everytime I push it down manually. So what does everyone think? I would presume to think its either a rusty strut or a ball joint. Thanks, 164guy

[164guy]

Thanks everyone I'll definitely check that. I had the swaybar bushings replaced before winter hit here but I think that could be it. I rubbed my hand around the lower (driver's side) control arm bushing and its intact. I am using regular bushings and not polyurethane so I guess thats not it. I'l keep you posted on what I find.


Thanks!