'00 LS w/ steering noise

[rd snake]

'00 LS has a weird steering noise (70K).

When I turn the wheel left I hear a creaking noise. I also hear it when I turn it right but not as much as turning to the left.

I checked the front end for any loose steering/suspension, everything was tight.

It seemed I felt the noise on the left side outer tie rod end. Funny thing is that car quest/napa does have a listing for outer tie rod ends (they list inner tie rod ends). The local dealer also has to order the part. Which tells me, not too many people replace them.

I just wanted to make sure their isn't any weird TSB's on noise for the LS's before I toss some tie rod ends on it.

Kevin

 

[budpytko]

Sounds like the infamous front ball joint noise of Ford's. Prob have to replace complete lower control arm as the ball joints have been intergal for a number of years.

 

[Rick Esposito]

the ls is like no other ford...if the steering wheel is squeaking when you turn it and it sounds like it is coming form inside the steering column then its the steering rack....they have to rebuild it. (I had mine rebuilt...03 ls v8 46000 miles)