squeeking noise

[E Kap]

I previously asked questions about a squeeking noise in my 1999 C4. Most people thought it was the front hood release, but adjustments did not help. When I drive slowly and go over bumps, there is a sound that I think sounds like the suspension/shocks/? is squeeking. Also, when stopped and I turn my wheel right and left, I can get the same sound. Power Steering fluid is normal. Car is running fine and handling fine. Recently got the weeks aligned. Any suggestions?

Eric

[Loren]

I would bet on the front swaybar bushings. They are known to do that.

[E Kap]

Thanks Loren, I will have my mechanic check them.

[E Kap]

Well, I took my car to a mechanic I trust and finally found the problem. The right side had a failing lower ball joint. He ordered and replaced the lower control arm. He actually replaced both sides, concerned the left side would go soon. The ball joint and the control arm were available as a unit. Cost $900 including installation for both sides. Fixed the problem. No more annoying squeeking sounds. So, if anyone has a squeeking sound that occurs with vertical suspension movement and eventually also occurs when you turn the steering wheels right and left after driving the car about 30 minutes, check out the lower ball joint.

Eric

[kgoertz]

Sorry that I missed this earlier. I had the same problem on my 02 C2. The suspension would squeak over bumps but only when it was hot (driving 30 minutes or more). Eventually it started squeaking when turning the steering wheel.

The problem was also the lower ball joint. Replacing the lower control arm fixed the problem.