Creaking Steering

I have a 1999 Caravan. When I turn the steering wheel there is a creaking noise and also a rattling sound when going over small bumps, all the noise seems to be pointing to the rack, as I have checked all the Ball joints, tie rods and sway bar links.

Anyone experienced similar problems? I suspect my rack may be on it's way out.

I have a 1999 Caravan. When I turn the steering wheel there is a creaking noise and also a rattling sound when going over small bumps, all the noise seems to be pointing to the rack, as I have checked all the Ball joints, tie rods and sway bar links.

Anyone experienced similar problems? I suspect my rack may be on it's way out.

I wouldn't think a failing rack would make the type of noise you mention - but I guess anything is possible. It really does sound like a ball joint or maybe a shock mount (the rattle on bumps) so maybe do a recheck there and also see if the grommets on the shocks are worn. Another check would be to go to a parking lot and make very slow turns in both directions. If you've got a failing CV joint it will sort of 'clunk' on slow turns. Also if the boots on the CV joints are bad or torn that's a good indicator. It doesn't take too many miles with those boots ripped up to ruin those CV's. It could also be something in the brakes, worn pads, loose part, etc.....

When I see a failing rack I'm usually seeing a fluid leak, steering feeling weird, etc. Not really a noise thing.

:2cents:

I had a 2000 GC that had the creaking sound. It turned out that it was the top strut bearing.