Front Suspension Creaking/Knocking (2001 SE)
 

I'm getting a creaking sound front the front/left side of the suspension when turning the steering wheel. It sounds like an old wooden ship that creaks as it moves in the waves. It is most prevalent in the parking lot while backing into a space of pulling out of a space.

Before all this, it all started about 6 months ago with a knocking sound (not creaking) from the same front left when making sharp right turns at speed, especially on freeway on ramps loops. Interestingly it goes away if applying the brakes during those turns.

The struts and strut mounts were replaced with KYB about 3 years ago for a firmer ride.

RE: Front Suspension Creaking/Knocking (2001 SE)
 

Any noise when going over bumps. Is the knock kind of like a pop and in time with the wheel speed?

RE: Front Suspension Creaking/Knocking (2001 SE)
 

Yes, but it's more like a clunking sound over bumps whether traveling straight or turning. The larger the bump (like speed bumps) the more noticable the clunk. The knock sound on the driver's side is from right-hand turns only and occurs in line with bumps as small as freeway surface dips. Wheel speed makes no difference.

RE: Front Suspension Creaking/Knocking (2001 SE)
 

Check the sway bar bushings and end links (the part that goes between bar and lower suspension arm). The bushing itself is often a source of knocks and squeaks when going over bumps, less so for the link.

PS: The bushing may look OK when inspected but makes a big differance when changed plus they are very low cost.

And check the links at the bottom of this page as the titles seem related to your problem.

RE: Front Suspension Creaking/Knocking (2001 SE)
 

Thanks very much! That makes total sense as a possibility. When I get a chance to get under there this weekend, I'll look into it. Meanwhile I'll get some prices out of curiosity.

When I get under there, maybe I'll spray some silicone just to see if there's a temporary change in the sounds. I understand that probably doesn't help if the parts are worn.

I am a little handy as I replaced the stock rear sway bar with a thicker TRD bar a few years ago. It uses polyurethane bushings which require white grease.

RE: Front Suspension Creaking/Knocking (2001 SE)
 

Out of curiosity, would you recommend the original stock rubber bushings or the aftermarket polyurethane like the ones from "Energy Suspension"? I would just be concerned about the possible need to keep re-lubing with lithium grease.