I've got a very loud creak & squawk sound coming from front end. Makes the sound whether you're driving or coming to a stop or at a complete stop in park and you wiggle the suspension.

I've used a mechanic's stethoscope and it sounds like it's the lower ball joint. The ball joint does not have zerk fittings for lubricating them. One year in a cold January my car wouldn't pass inspection for ball joints so I had them done. Have not realized that they have not been lubricated everytime I go for an oil and lube job.

So, can a dry balljoint creak loudly?

I have an mp3 file of the creaking squawking sound, but I do not see how to attach the file to this post.

 

I guess its possible. I'd also check if the bushings for the anti-sway bar might be the culprit. A squeak associated with that oftentimes will go away when it is wet out.

How long ago were the ball joints installed?

 

Yes, they can squeak if they go bad.

 

been awhile, 6 or 7 yrs? I don't drive much though, 3k miles a year?

I just figured the ball joints were being greased all this time.

 

Still that is 20k miles and so they are probably shot.

 

They can make a lot of noise.

 

If they are creaking the are most likely bad, or need to be greased at least.

 

Some ball joints don't have a grease fitting, but do have a small hex bolt which can be removed. Then you insert a grease fitting in that threaded hole. Now it can be lubed. Maybe there was no internal damage and the noise was due to lack of lube.

 

Lots of front end parts can squeak, especially on a car that sits. If your only complaint is the noise just spray some wd40 or whatever you prefer on everything but the brakes under there. Bounce on the bumper and spray until it's quiet.

 

Jack of a wheel and check for play while holding onto 12:00 and 6:00. Use a pry bar if needed.

Creaking could also be the control arm bushings.