2002 Ford Escape Noisy front steering (popping sound)

RONALD387

MEMBER
2002 FORD ESCAPE
6 CYL
4WD
AUTOMATIC
152,000 MILES

My 2002 Ford Escape makes a "popping-snapping" sound when the steering wheel is moved, and negiotiating uneven surfaces (street gutters). I drive on 100% paved roads with no rough surfaces (Florida).

This Summer we replaced the struts, shocks, brakes, left front inner and outer tie rod ends, and tires. This is only it's third set of tires in 152K miles!

The vehicle's road manners are a good as new. Front end algnment was checked after the strut changeout.

Any ideas?

Thanks,
Bill Eernisse

3 Replies

MATHIASO

MECHANIC
1,209 POSTS

Your cv joint( constant velocity) may be bad causing popping-snapping.
Here is how to test.
Take your car to a empty parking lot and turn right in full circle. If you hear popping noise, that is your left outer cv joint,
turn left in full circle, popping noise, that is the right outer cv joint.
Now drive straight and brake suddently, a cluncking noise indicate that the inner cv joint is bad.
No matter wht side the noise is coming from, allways replace them in pairs.
Let me know after the test.

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Friday, October 9th, 2009 AT 8:04 PM

RONALD387

MEMBER
2 POSTS

10/16/09:

Local Lincoln-Mercury dealer replaced the following:

1. Upper engine mount (failed)
2. Right suspension arm assy.
3. Left suspension arm assy.
4. Spindle rod connecting end (steering)
5. Oil pan gasket (leak)

The vehicle sounds and operates as new. Total cost was $1,964.15.

This is the first repair that was not a wear and tear item since we bought it new in Nov, 2002.

Thanks for your kind assistance!

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Friday, October 16th, 2009 AT 1:07 PM

MATHIASO