I started having an annoying squeaking noise in my 2000 Maxima SE last week. It happens while backing up and driving, but only when the wheel is turned about 45 degrees to the left. It seems like something needs lube because it sounds like a dry bearing, but it definitely DOES NOT sound like the brakes are wearing out. What could be the problem? The car has over 100,000 miles.

 

i think someone mentioned in here once that it had to do with the bushings and they needed replacement. my 2k3 does the same thing, additionally makes this horrendous creaking noise when going over a bump with a high amount of turn on the wheel (+1.5turns) They're supposedly cheap and easy to replace yourself. I'd be interested in seeing what others have to say

 

Check your bump stop caps if they are worn. If the caps are not worn then it could either be a worn wheel bearing or loose axle nut.

 

bump stop worn through, or brake dust guard touching. One or the other are 99% it....

 

What you say is 100% prototypical of control arm bushings being worn. The bushings are not easily replaced and nor are they meant to be. The arms should be replaced. Bump stop irish? You mean that piece of cheap plastic? Get your control arms checked out by a nissan dealership as they could be done. I am starting to think Irish needs a refresher course on the maxima. 99% sure huh?

loose axle nut has nothing to do with it.

MaximaServJ : IF your car makes that horrible squeeking noise when the wheel is turned over bumps you might as well go ahead and order new arms and sway bar end links because your arms are most likely beat as well.

Additionally for those who don't know Nissan issued a RECALL for transverse links for certain vin #s of 5.5gens. The recall instructs the dealership to replace the control arms with new ones, covered by nissan.

 

Maybe it's a loose nut behind the wheel
JK if it only happens at approx 45 deg it shouldn't be steering stops. Probably right with the control arms, or poss sway bar mount bushings squeeking if its over bumps.

 

stopped by mechanics today, he said it's my rear brakes that need to be replaced when he heard the sound... but i could have sworn it doesn't sound like typical brakes but he was 100% sure... will keep you posted if it was something else. btw, now I can hear the sound with wheel in any position, not only 45 degrees

 

Not for nothing but 90% of general mechanics know anything about our cars. Go to a dealership and ask to speak to the MASTER TECH. That is a guy who has been working on Nissans for usually 20+ years and knows them inside out. I am not bias as my brother in law was a general practice mechanic for 10 years before becoming a helicopter mechanic for the Army and at this point my knowledge of Nissans is far greater than his. Rear brakes have nothing to do with a front end squeak. Yes cars are cars, but knowing a specific brand is the difference between a 20 minute diagnosis and $1000 later still guessing. If you are having lie angle issues with Titleist brand clubs you do not go to walmart for a custom fit.