Over the past 2 weeks I have been hearing a creaking sound when I get in and out of my car. I looked through the forums and read something about the control arms. Today I looked at those and they seem to be fine, though while I was under the car I saw another part that looks worn out and when I had another person apply weight to the drives side I could feel the vibration coming from this part. I have not been able to identify this part and was hoping for some help. Also I was wondering if this part being bad could cause a creaking noise. It only happens on the drivers side, when I get in or out of the car and when going over bumps with the drivers side wheel. Thanks for the help!
I'll post some pictures of what I think is the cause of the creaks.

 

presumably the part you have doubts about is what's lit up in the pictures, yes?

I see "outer tie rod".

 

Ya, sorry if I wasn't clear on that. Are the symptoms correct for a damaged outer tie rod?

 

Can you get someone to get in and out of the car while you're looking/listening under the area?

The bigger, the better!

 

Appears the tie rod bushing is gone. Due to that your outer tie rod could be clunking the steering knuckle.

I installed ES bushings several years ago with no cracking




Your local auto store could have them in stock or order them. The PN is 913101R.

After inserting new bushings grease them up via the zerk fitting on the tie rod.

 

Ha, it looks like it wasn't that part at all. The lowest part of the control arm that connects to the wheel area has a rubber cushion on it that is wearing out. I lubed it up as a double check to see if that was it and the creaking stopped (for now). I'll look the part up and see if I can order it soon. Thanks for all the help, I love how I can always count on the org for help!

 

Is that a relatively easy job to do?