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Clunking and Creaking.

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Old 03-03-2011, 10:10 PM
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Default Clunking and Creaking.

Back again with some more front suspension noise. I just got my tuition refund money so I'm looking at some new Monroe Quick Struts, but I want to make sure that'* the problem before I pull the trigger.

First noise is a dry, rubbery creaking sound that comes from the right front and happens while turning, especially to the left. Perhaps a bad strut bearing/mount?

Second noise is a "thud" or "clunk" from underneath the middle front of the car (I think...). This noise only happens when going over small bumps or potholes. Is this also a sign of a bad strut, or maybe the ball joints? Sway bar links/bushings are good, so that'* probably not it.

As far as I know, all struts/springs/etc are original with ~145,000 miles on them.
What does everyone think? Get the new struts or no?
Old 03-03-2011, 10:13 PM
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could very well be struts or ball joints
Old 03-03-2011, 10:17 PM
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I would look over the sway bar and the end links. These can make a lot of noise when turning and going over bumps.
Old 03-04-2011, 11:41 AM
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I took another look around this morning, checking everything out once more. I'm convinced both noises are the struts. My dad seems to think the same, he had the same clunk sound on his car when the struts went a while ago. So, I'll order them tonight after work and maybe post some pics of the install if anyone would like to see.
Old 03-11-2011, 11:40 AM
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The new strut assemblies arrived yesterday, and I plan to throw them in this afternoon. I will update after the test drive
Old 03-11-2011, 01:48 PM
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have fun, hopefully your working inside today.
Old 03-11-2011, 01:58 PM
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pics or it didnt happen
Old 03-11-2011, 04:37 PM
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Any tips to get these bolts out? The nut is off, it just wont budge out of there. (I have no air tools, they are on my "get soon" list though.)



I am in the garage today, thankfully. It'* snowing and windy again.
Old 03-11-2011, 06:00 PM
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Hit it with a big hammer. Those are splined bolts and do not turn.
Old 03-11-2011, 09:35 PM
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Rubber creaking sound especially while turning left? Driveshaft is going to let go soon. Just happened to me a few months back.


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