Symptoms:

When turning the steering wheel I hear a "creaking/groaning" noise from engine bay...

This doesn't normally happen when the engine is cool, but definately happens when the engine is warm/hot.

Turning the wheel either direction results in pretty much the same noises.

Power steering fluid is good.

New drop links on the strut/sway.

New upper strut bushings and spring hats.

Replaced the hubs/bearings about 10K ago.

Bouncing the car and "listening" makes it appear as to if it is coming from below/rear of engine near the firewall; however, I have no definitives for this.

Prognosis?

Personally, I think it's the sway bar bushings. Can you change those? VADIS says they are vulcanized to the bar... and that you need to go through hell to replace the whole bar.

Any thoughts?

Thanks.

 

Control arm bushings good?

 

Appear to be in good order with no significant signs of wear. Wouldn't explain the heat thing either...

 

could the noise be from the power steering pump? my 2000 is fine when cold but after driving a bit the groaning sound starts, I plan on replacing the pump this weekend, hope this helps.

 

I had the exact same situation. Thought it was my power steering pump, changed it out, no changed. Turned out when I replaced the struts, spring seats etc, the inexpensive IPD part (I think it was the sping seat/with a bearing/big rubber thing) that had a bearing that failed and groaned when the car warmed up, never when it was first starting out. Replaced the spring seat/bearing/bushing part with OEM and all has been well for about a year.

 

Thanks for the information... guess what... I have those same IPD parts... I am going to put a stethoscope on it... will let you know!