My 04 GT (2054 miles) started making a creaking sound when I turn the steering wheel to the left. It does not do it when I turn it to the right. I scheduled a shop visit for monday, but it's killing me. I just want to know if this problem is major or minor. I noticed it when I was at a stand still and turning the wheel. Anyone have any ideas? Thanks everyone...

 

No it won't be anything major at all, nothing to be afraid to drive for.

 

most likely a bad bushing..drive it like you stole and when the wheel falls off you can sue MD!

 

I cant remember how many left side struts i've put in newer GT's and MAch 1's.

 

It makes me cringe when people crank and turn their front wheels at a stand still. That puts so much stress and pointless wear on all steering componants.

 

I know the feeling...
I get on everyone's case that drives our company pick-ups to always be moving when turning the steering wheel, even if they're just crawling along. Usually the 1st time I say this to someone, I get a dumb-founded look in response [sm=smiley29.gif] And almost all of them will say, "it's got power steering, doesn't it?" [sm=smiley5.gif]

Turning the wheels while sitting in one spot will add more wear and tear on the ball joints of the vehicle.
Case in point...one of the garages I go to says he changes ball joints in the 1997-2003 style Ford pick-ups about every 40,000 miles. He had customers with under 100,000 that have had the ball joints replaced 4 times!! And they still don't get it!!! Move when turning the wheel!!

My pick-up has over a 137,000 on it, and I had to replace the lower ball joints at 90,000. The uppers are still there, and it just passed inspection.

People---DON"T TURN THE WHEEL SITTING STILL!!!! [sm=icon_blah.gif]

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Yeah, I get people looking at me like I'm stupid whenever I bring it up. There are times when you don't have much of a choice, but avoid it at all costs and you'd be surprised how long your power steering, ball joints and rod ends last.