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I have a 2001 Neon R/T. I see some topics of folks here where there's knocking when they turn the wheel. But I don't see anything about squeaking and groaning, which is what mine is doing. It squeaks and groans when I turn the wheel and when I go over bumps. One mechanic took a look and said something about the ball joint not holding fluid, and he said something about the inner tie rod. This was a long time ago, and I was even less up to speed then than I am now, so I don't remember specifics.

What do you suppose is going on and could this be something I could do without too much experience?

Ball joints will do that if they are worn, or the grease seal has been compromised. Water will get in, and the socket will rust. It could separate and your knuckle/tire may come out and cause you to crash. If it has been doing this for a long time, I would recommend getting either new ball joints/Lower Control Arm bushings, or a whole new LCA assy, whichever is cheaper for you.

Thanks for your reply. I ended up having both lower control arms replaced. The ball-joints and bushings on both sides were really bad.

Strange thing is, I now have considerable torque steer, esp. 2nd and 3rd gear. When I accelerate sharply, the car goes to the left, and when I release the gas, it goes to the right. I know that both inner and outer tie-rod ends need replacing soon, so could this cause the problem? Or is it an alignment issue? When I brake, the car's straight as an arrow; it's only when stepping on and releasing the gas.

If the tie rod ends are worn that's most likely your issue, and until you fix them an alignment will just be a waste of money.

Don't laugh....


Start with your tires. Make sure they are properly inflated.