2001 Protege Front Suspension Issue

[bowiefan]

I have a 2001 Protege that has developed a front end creaking sound while turning and also a popping, clunking sound while going over uneven pavement or bumps. I jacked up the car and tried to wiggle the sway bar links but they seem pretty tight. The car has 173,000 miles and the links were replaced at 90,000 with OEM product. Even though the links seem pretty tight, could that still be the problem or is it more likely to be something else. A local mechanic looked at it and said the suspension probably had some rust build up in various areas due to age and that as long as the rust didn't break free, it was ok to drive it as it is. He said that the creaking and clunking is normal with that many miles. That sounded like horse manure to me. I would appreciate any suggestions on what it could be. Thanks.

 

[03protolx]

if you replaced them at 90k, you're almost to another 90k on the second set of links. these cars eat sway bar links. ive had 2 sets on mine in about 30k miles.