Symptoms
- Creak or knock heard from the top of the front wheel area when turning
- Noise most noticeable at low speed or parking lot maneuvers
- Sometimes a slight looseness felt in the steering
Likely causes
- CommonWorn strut mount bearingThis bearing lets the strut and wheel pivot together when steering; once worn, it creaks or knocks.
- PossibleDry or cracked strut mount bushingThe rubber portion of the mount can dry out and creak under load.
What to do
- Have a helper turn the steering wheel slowly while the car is stationary and listen near the top of the strut tower under the hood.
- Check for visible cracking in the rubber portion of the strut mount if accessible.
- Have a mechanic test the mount for play and noise with the car on a lift.
- Replace the strut mount, which is often done alongside strut replacement if the strut itself is also worn.
- Recheck for the noise after replacement by repeating the low-speed turning test.
Tools and parts
Strut mountSearch: “strut mount for [your car model]”
When to call a pro
If the strut itself is also getting old, many shops recommend replacing the mount and strut together to avoid doing the job twice.
Safety
Generally low risk
Generally low risk for a careful person. Stop if anything looks different from what this guide describes.