Creaking front end - any ideas?

[lordluvitt]

Hello,

I have just replaced the front shock absorbers on my 98 C180 (W202) as there was a lot of instability whilst cornering and a bit of a creaking sound. I still need to get the tracking done to finish the job but the stability has noticeably improved. However, the creaking sound has gotten worse - much louder than before, in fact embarrasingly loud.

Can't see any obvious damage to other components - they were all checked before making the initial shock absorber fault diagnosis. Any ideas what could be the fault of the creaking? It occurs on both sides.

 

[television]

Ball joints is a number one for this, very cheap from MB

 

[lordluvitt]

Ball joints is a number one for this, very cheap from MB

I was afraid you'd say it was the ball joints. I've just done a search on the forum for this problem (which I should have done first to be honest) and there are suggestions that it may be the anti-roll bar bushes in need of some lube. I'll give that a go first (nice and easy) and then move on to the ball joints if there is no improvement.

 

[wireman]

BALL JOINTS
BALL JOINTS
BALL JOINTS

If you dont fix 'em your wheels will fall off maybe soon.

Do not lubricate the anti roll bar bushes they will be damaged by most greases etc.

 

[lordluvitt]

BALL JOINTS
BALL JOINTS
BALL JOINTS

If you dont fix 'em your wheels will fall off maybe soon.

Do not lubricate the anti roll bar bushes they will be damaged by most greases etc.

Ball joints it is then. The lube suggested on other threads was a silcone spray that should be okay with rubber.

Thanks for your help Wireman and Television.

 

[kth286]

lord

Another common problem with your model is seizing of the lower wishbone bushes. Normally the near-side ones go first as they get more abuse.

The dealers often have to saw the bolts off them when replacing.