I just took a 300 mile trip this weekend and the front end has shaking at 70 to 80 mph. Sometimes when I turn there is a popping noise. I am thinking of some of the fixes that may need to be done but wanted to check to see if there are some problems areas that some others may have experienced. I am thinking to check these parts in this order, if you have any input, please reply.

• Wheels and tire
• Shocks
• Wheel Bearings
• ???

Thanks.


I have 84,000 miles on it.

 

Might be a CV joint. Bad ones usually pop when making a turn.

 

Most vibration problems are tire balance. The pop noise would be something different. You may have 2 different problems. These cars were famous for bad steering shafts causing a pop felt through the steering column while turning at slow speeds or while slowing down.

 

Thanks guys, I will be buying 2 new tires this weekend to eliminate the wheels and tire issue (bought 2 new ones and out them on the back a week ago). If it is still shaking it will be something else. How do you check to see if a CV joint is bad? Look for a busted boot and grease coming out? The wheel bearing I believe can be checked by putting the wheel in the air and feeling for play. The struts, visually inspect is all I know to do, it doesn't feel like the strut is bad when driving but I have read on here that is assists in turning. Thanks again.

 

Checking out the front suspension, I noticed the rack and pinion was popping and moving. Not sure if something broke or bolts came loose. Is this a common problem? I will report back with my findings.

I don't like to throw money at auto repairs and I am not a full time auto mechanic, that's why I use these forums. Thanks.

 

It was caused by a loose sub-frame bolt. Not the rack and pinion unit. Couldn't do it myself, needed a lift. $180.00. I saw the bolt when I put the car on jack stands but could not get to it to tighten it.