Left front suspension noise 2004 Vue w/VTi

[saturnchemist]

I am a little scared (an so is my wallet) about an intermittent creaking in the left front suspension of a 2004 Vue 4cy front wheel drive with VTi. The car has 34K miles and is good condition.

Is this an ominous sign?

I am hoping it a bent strut, but my wife claims she hasn't run anything over. The car tracks straight and doesn't dive when braking.

Are there warning signs of an impending VTi failure?

Thanks

[BuckeyeBud]

Need some additional info in order to provide better answer.

Does the noise happen when turning or going straight?
Does the noise happend when going over a bump?

I went through the same questioning. I wound up changing the sway bar links (1 on each side). There was a pivot that was very stiff and would make a noise when making a right hand turn.

[kodak_jack]

It's not anything you or your wife did, it's the front suspension bushings or strut mounts. Unfortunately, the struts springs are involved with the strut mounts,so, they should be done by a person who knows how to compress the springs. An 04 might need new struts by now anyway. I assume it's out of warranty. Have both sides done at one time.

[ssicarman]

If it is a moaning creaking noise then it is likely the front sway bar strut linbks siezing up. If it is more of a rubber on metal creaking noise then it could be the upper strut mounts.
Any warrenty left on the car?