Questions and Answers

Mazda 626 Starting To Creak Q. I have a 1993 Mazda 626 with a 4 cylinder engine, automatic transmission, power steering, and just shy of 104,000 miles. Several months ago, shortly after I had my CV joints replaced, I started hearing a creaking sound whenever I turned the steering wheel. The sound is there whenever I turn the wheel, it doesn't matter if I'm driving or standing still.

I've had it looked at by two different mechanics and gotten two different explanations. The first said I needed new front struts and strut mounts. The second said I had bad bearings in my front axle and I needed a new axle. Who should I believe?

Thanks for your help,
Dan

A. My money would be on the strut and strut tops. If you look at the picture below, you see the Damper Mounting Base (strut top) and the associated bushings. These bushings are what's, most likely, causing the creaking sound. If you spray some WD40 or Liquid wrench in around the top nut and on the bushings, the noise may go away. Give it a few sprays over a week. If it is still there then you can either replace them or live with the creak.

If you are due for new struts, then now would probably be the time to get them along with the tops.