Probably against my better judgement, I replaced all four of my struts on my 98 GLE w/ Monroe struts (better ones, but still cheap). I also replaced the strut bearings and mounts. Now I have terrible squeaks in the front corners (sounds like the top of the strut) and it really doesn't handle that much differently.

Is my problem the cheap struts? Or, are there other things that could affect ride handling? Tires are 50%, bridgestone, h rated. How do I check tie rod ends/ball joints?

Thanks,

 

Did you clock the assembly correctly?
The word OUT stamped on the upper spring perch must face outwards or be in line with the struts lower mounting flange.
Did you torque down the center nut once the car was on the ground?

Monroe is a descent replacement strut.
If you were after a better ride, Tokico would have been a better choice.