Strut bushing problem...I think?
 

I have a '91 323 and lately have been noticing a creaking noise coming from what seems to be the front end struts. My local tire shop checked the strut and springs and thought they were fine, but think that the bushing may be the problem. Are there any better performance bushings for this suspension or does anyone else have a different idea as to what the problem may be. The noise is pretty much only heard when hitting bumps in the road, and sometimes when shifting from 1st to 2nd gear quickly. Any comments, ideas would be much appreciated.

'91 323 (soon to be a 1.8L DOHC 323)

It might be bushings. The only better bushings are those that come on the ZX-2 (they're made of metal, not plastic). Or, with coil-overs and camber plates, they come with different bearings, but not really quieter or more durable. Of course, the problem is that the ZX-2 bushings are 2mm larger, and will only work with ZX-2 struts. Do a search as there have been lots of discussions on them here, including one in the last week with parts numbers and everything.

I have the same exact creaking noise. I don't notice it when going over bumps, but mainly when I'm starting off in 1st then shifting to 2nd. It could be the left strut bearing. I'll find out soon when I replace the struts, mounts, and bearings with my new KYB's. Another thing I noticed about the noise - when I'm sitting in the driveway (not moving or shifting), turn off the key, I hear the noise as the engine stops. That leads me to believe it may be a motor or tranny bushing. What's really interesting is that the noise completely went away last weekend after I cleaned and detailed my engine compartment. I really hosed it down good from the top and underneath. Apparently, I got whatever bushing is bad wet enough to stop the noise for a while, but it's gradually starting to come back.

I have the exact same problem - the car creaks like an old bed spring when letting out the clutch in 1st and 2nd gears. It also makes the noise while accelerating in those gears, when the clutch is already fully engaged. It's definately not the strut bearings (I checked). Like Beachnut's car, the noise went away after I degreased the engine, but it is back again. The noise also temporarily went away after I replaced the valve cover gasket. What the hell can it be? I do not get the noise when going over bumps.

Btaira - hopefully, very, very soon now, I'll be able to tell you if my noise goes away. My KYB's just arrived today, but that's another story :mad: