I'm having a problem under braking and sometimes in reverse. I hear a pop / crunch but the odd thing is there doesn't seem to be any rhyme or reason to when it happens. It's becoming more frequent and I'm worried that something is just going to come apart on me.

**edit** - I also get a creaking and crunching noise sometimes when I turn the wheel to it's left limit. Rarely happens to the right side.

I've asked this question before and gotten different answers from struts / strut mount plates, ball joints, tie rods, etc. How can I isolate what the culprit is so I don't **** away a bunch of cash I don't have trying to fix this problem. I had the ball joints, tie rods, and struts all replaced in the last year, so I'm really lost for the answer here.

Any and all insight is appreciated. Thanks.

 

There really is no way for me or anyone else to diagnose your problem over the net, but if I were in your shoes, I would take it to a simple and reputable auto place and have them do a vechicle inspection. It usually runs 35 bucks or so.
I say this because it can be any combination of suspension items or worse. When was the last time you had your suspension lubed?

 

Another option to try which gets posted around here and costs nothing if you get under the car yourself (and have a suitable torque wrench, socket, extension bar) is to check the 6 bolts on the K-member.
The advice was to tighten them to 120 foot pounds.

Mark.

 

I shot some grease into the fittings probably two months ago, so I'd hope that it's still oozing around in there.

I probably should take it and have someone look at it. I just have a problem with most of the shops around here. Either they have no competent techs or they'll gouge the hell out of you. Plus, I like working on my car myself; at least then I know what really got done, and it was hopefully done right.

Another thing I noticed today was that the inside and the outside of both my front tires have been completely worn bald! This is news to me, but it obviously didn't happen overnight. As soon as it quits raining I'll check the psi's, but what else could contribute to that problem?

 

Ahh, thats easy, You have a camber problem. There are a few things that can contribute.
1. spring sag, or worn struts.
2. You need a front end alignment.
3. You lowered your car, and did not adjust your camber.

This isnt a huge dilemma but it is treatable. Goodluck!

 

I almost forgot, inside and outside could be a sign that your tires do not have enough psi. If pressure is too low, you will not wear out the middle you will wear out the sides, and if over inflated you will wear out the middle only. Hope this helps