Complaint Creaking noise, in irregular sequence when driving slowly in combination with slight steering...

Bulletin number

LI33.20-P-078406

Component

Suspension

Summary

Complaint Creaking noise, in irregular sequence when driving slowly in combination with slight steering movements and/or Creaking/crackling noises from the area of the wheel bearing on the front axle when cornering/ maneuvering. Sound file attached for comparison. MUST match noise for proper diagnosis. NOTE: Steering functionality is not affected. Cause Contact area between wheel bearing and steering knuckle. See also: LI35.30-P-058566 (Axle Half Shaft noise when changing direction - Front) LI33.30-P-056665 (Axle Half Shaft noise when changing direction - Rear) LI40.10-P-059248 (Wheel cracking noise when cornering) Remedy 1. Perform Operation A and evaluate by testing vehicle. 2. If noise is still present, perform Operation A again. 3. If noise is still present after re-testing, perform Operation B. Operation A: 1. Clean contact surfaces of wheel bearing and steering knuckle with brake cleaner (see areas marked blue in pictures "2.jpg" and "3.jpg"). NOTE: The front area of the wheel bearing and the seals must not come into contact with the cleaner, otherwise, the sealing rings will be damaged. 2. Clean threads of wheel bearing mounting. 3. Thinly coat contact surfaces of wheel bearing, steering knuckle, and axle mating face with Molykote (annular joint grease) (see areas marked blue in pictures "2.jpg" and "3.jpg"). NOTE: Axle mating face greasing is also covered in LI35.30-P-058566 and LI33.30-P-056665. Operation B (Only applies to 192 and 232 in listed FIN range above): 1. Replace steering knuckle. 2. Wheel bearings do not need to be replaced.

Owners of these vehicles have filed 12 complaints in the suspension category.