Jeep Tech Tip: Lower Control Arm Cold Temperature Squeak/Creak Noise

Jeep Tech Tip: Lower Control Arm Cold Temperature Squeak/Creak Noise

The customer may describe a creak or squeak noise coming from the front suspension. The noise is typically more noticeable during cold temperatures below 40 degrees. The noise may go away when the vehicle warms up.

Models:
2011-’14 Compass/Patriot
2011-’12 Caliber

Condition:
The customer may describe a creak or squeak noise coming from the front suspension. The noise is typically more noticeable during cold temperatures below 40° F. The noise may go away when the vehicle warms up.

Diagnosis:
If the customer describes the symptom, perform the repair procedure.

Repair Procedure:
1. Lift the vehicle.
2. Remove both front lower control arms (Fig. 1).


3. The area of the bushing squeak concern (2) is identified in Fig. 1.
4. Clamp the lower control arm (1) securely in a vise (2) with the bushing accessible (Fig. 2).


5. Using an appropriate tool (3), insert the tool through the bushing sleeve, then rotate the bushing to expose the sides of the bushing. Apply a Nye Lubricant application that is available from Jeep and Chrysler dealers using P/N 05019061AA.

6. Apply the lubricant liberally to bushing sides where internal bushing contact is made (Fig. 3).

7. Move the bushing through the range of motion in order to distribute the lubricant (Fig. 4).

8. Inspect that the Nye Lubricant is evenly distributed within the bushing slots (Fig. 5).

9. Repeat the Nye Lubricant application process for both lower control arms.
10. Install both lower control arms.
11. Align the front wheels.

Courtesy of Mitchell 1.

You May Also Like

Ride Control For Electric Vehicles

Replacement units are available from sources other than the dealer.

EVs are not immune to potholes, curbs and rough roads. Just like every internal combustion vehicle on the roads, the shocks, struts and springs will eventually degrade to the point where they can no longer control the movement of the suspension. 

Most EVs have a weight problem that works to your advantage. The weight of the battery and motor can make some EVs 1,000-3,000 pounds heavier than their internal combustion counterparts. This will cause extra stress on the suspension.

Brake Pad Edge Codes

The “Edge Code” can tell you information about a brake pad’s friction material.

Chassis Parts and Alignment Angles

Knowing why the adjustment is required is critical to performing the total alignment.

Suspension Upgrades – Selling Shocks and Struts

The question customers fail to ask is, what is “best” for their vehicle?

Air Ride Suspension Diagnostics

The key to understanding the logic of air ride systems is using service information.

Other Posts

Steering Angle Sensor Operations

It is important for the ABS/ESC module to receive two signals to verify the steering wheel’s position.

Chassis Alignment

The source of the complaint can be the angles, electronics or tires.

Laying Out Your Shop for ADAS/EV Repairs

With so many vehicles equipped with some form of ADAS, rethinking your electronics layout or plan might be in order.

Broken Springs

What is the cause for the failure? Why does it occur with specific vehicles?