W204 Creaking front suspension

[Gnasher141]

When reversing off of drive into road, the front suspension creaks and when I reach the slight kerb drop, it feels like it kicks out with a clonk.

I suggestions on what it could be? I’ve replaced the drop links.

 

[st13phil]

Pretty much any of the suspension joints, the top strut mount or the strut itself.

 

[markjay]

Is the steering wheel straight when this happens?

 

[Gnasher141]

Is the steering wheel straight when this happens?

No usually have a bit of turn to the left

 

[Gnasher141]

I’ve had 4 wheel alignment carried out, but when on full lock the camber does look excessive??

I’ll try to post picture tomorrow

 

[Gnasher141]

Does this seem excessive camber on full lock?

 

[markjay]

The typical weak points on the W204 front suspension are the 'hydrobushes' (they crack and leak), the top strut bushes, the top strut bearings, and the drop links. Sorry I can't be more specific....

 

[Gnasher141]

The typical weak points on the W204 front suspension are the 'hydrobushes' (they crack and leak), the top strut bushes, the top strut bearings, and the drop links. Sorry I can't be more specific....

Thanks Mark
Where are the “hydrobushes”?

 

[Gnasher141]

Hi Mark

I believe this is within the control arm.

Is it easier to buy the complete arm? I don’t have access to a press to be able to push them in/out.

 

[st13phil]

Does this seem excessive camber on full lock?

No. But then again I could post a picture of my mug of tea and ask if people thought it had too much or too little milk in it

Sorry to be blunt, but there's absolutely no point in continuing to guess what the suspension issue is that you have on your car. It needs to go on a lift and all the joints be checked for deterioration / excessive play by someone who knows how to check them.

 

[markjay]

Hi Mark

I believe this is within the control arm.

Is it easier to buy the complete arm? I don’t have access to a press to be able to push them in/out.

I had the bushes replaced, but given the amount of work involved in pressing the old bushes out and the new bushes in, I'd say that in hindsight I should have probably just replaced the complete arm.