Questions and Answers
Creaking Caravan
Q. Vincent, we own a 1995 Grand Caravan. runs great, A/C compressor replaced @ 140,000, rebuilt transmission @ 150,000. So far the only major repairs. Van is now at 160,000 with a steering problem. Our mechanic evaluated the ordeal and says its the steering rack?
Current symptoms: while turning at slow speeds (into a driveway, or in a parking lot) the steering is making a cracking/breaking noise that is very evident from inside the van, and even more so from the outside. Mechanic lubed all steering joints but this has not solved the problem. Our mechanic is very good, specializes in Mopar, Plymouth, Dodge, and has never seen this problem in the steering. While the van is on the lift, there is no cracking/breaking while steering. Could there be a suspension problem, putting stress on the front end causing hard steering. Especially on cold days vehicle has hard steering (50%), and at the same time while at high speeds 45 mph+, it tends to over steer. Could you be of assistance with our situation?! Are we looking at an expensive repair?! We have be driving the van for 2 months under this condition and it does not seem to be getting worse. Is it safe to drive?!
I really appreciate your time in reviewing our repair question.
A. I have seen this a number of times. There is a very good possibility the noise is coming from the strut tops. The fact the noise is louder from the outside would seem to bear this out.
On the top of your front struts is a large rubber bushing. Inside this bushing is a bearing, since this is also a pivot point for the steering. What happens is the bushing and bearing wear out causing the noise you describe. A lot of times this happens after you replace the front struts. The tops are easy enough to replace, but I would leave this to a professional because it requires compressing the coil springs.
