98Q45 strut question

[ptople]

My 98 Q45 /Oct. build/ 117,000 makes a noise in the left front strut area when I turn and backup or pull forward.. my son watched the strut and says the spring is turning at the top plate. We tightened the strut nut.. but is this an indication that the spring is weak? Can i just replace the top plate.. or am I into major$$$$$ territory?ptople

[NightRiderQ45]

Sounds like the strut mount is bad. You can get an OEM mount from Joe for a little over $40. Does it make a "clunk" noise when you hit a bump on the road?

[maxnix]

@ 110K+, probably time to replace shocks, inserts, and a lot of rubber.

[ptople]

It does make a clunk sound.. but only when backout of a parking space or turning the wheel to move ahead.

[maxnix]

It does make a clunk sound.. but only when backout of a parking space or turning the wheel to move ahead.

In other words, when you drive it?

Your suspension is talking to you. Are you listening?

[oldmako]

My car had the exact same issue. Maxnix is right in that with that mileage your front end needs attention. Unfortunately it needs very expensive attention.

If one strut mount and or bearing is broken, the other is soon to follow. To replace them requires that the strut be removed and disassembled. There is no sense in doing that work and reusing the old 117K strut.

There are a few makers of aftermarket strut mounts, bearings and bellows and while you can save a few bucks there, but good luck finding a suitable strut replacement from any source other than the dealer. I elected to use replacement strut cartridges versus the whole strut and saved some cash.

The good news to all this is that the car feels terrific now.