1999 Pontiac Grand Prix Groaning noise from front end

Tiny
JAMMY54
  • MEMBER
  • 1999 PONTIAC GRAND PRIX
  • 3.8L
  • V8
  • FWD
  • AUTOMATIC
  • 85,000 MILES
When I start the car and initially move it (which generally requires me to steer the car), I hear a groaning noise from the front end. The sound is like a muffled knock or "tock" sound (not a sharp metal-on-metal). The other way to describe the noise is a louder version of someone cracking their knuckles.

I recently had to pass a vehicle inspection for this car in MA. The only things that failed are the RF wheel bearing and RF outer tie rod. I replaced both, and also did the LF outer tie rod while I was at it.

However, the noise has not gone away.

Any clue as to what might be the cause? Or any other tests I can perform to confirm a cause?

Thanks
Monday, August 18th, 2014 AT 7:45 PM

5 Replies

Tiny
SATURNTECH9
  • MECHANIC
  • 30,869 POSTS
So it doesnt make the noise at all right now?It could be the upper strut mount or intermediate shaft. But if the noise went a way I doubt its the intermediate shaft.
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Monday, August 18th, 2014 AT 8:12 PM
Tiny
JAMMY54
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  • 3 POSTS
@Saturntech9:

No, the noise IS STILL there. So it wasn't the outer tie rods. What else in the front end could make those sounds. The best way to describe them is a muffled knocking. A worn bushing sounds right, but which one?
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Tuesday, August 19th, 2014 AT 6:28 PM
Tiny
SATURNTECH9
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So when your moving the steering wheel you hear the noise?Also the noise goes away after first moving the car?
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Tuesday, August 19th, 2014 AT 7:13 PM
Tiny
JAMMY54
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@Saturntech9: Correction! The noise is no longer there. I drove the car extensively today and it was quiet. I think it was those rattly old tie rod ends. I cut the boot off one of the old ones and it was dry as a bone. I don't know why the OEMs have no grease fittings. The Moogs that I replaced them with do.

Anyway, thanks for the help.
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Saturday, August 23rd, 2014 AT 6:22 PM
Tiny
SATURNTECH9
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What happens is the ball sockets get rust in them and they make noise. The reason I believe they don't put grease fittings anymore so they can say there is no maintenance for them.
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Saturday, August 23rd, 2014 AT 8:52 PM

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