Creaking noise coming from front of car.. HELP!

[saunders400]

Hi,
I get a creaking noise coming from front of car when going over bumps and charging direction using the steering wheel.  Onl at slow speeds, once going fast its fine.
It comes and goes, some days nothing and then its back again. Its there more than its not though.
I thought this may have been worn ARB drop links so I changed them and its still there?
What are the other options it could be? Anyone else had this issue?
Could it be the suspension/bushes etc??
Any help would be great. Thanks

Dave

[Degudodger]

Top mounts?

[fab5freddy]

ARB bushes would be my bet,  just had the same problem, you'll need to get them opened and give them a good greasing 

[saunders400]

Is this an easy job to do?

[xjay1337]

ARB bushes, could be lower control arm bushes too or subframe needing the spacer kit..

[saunders400]

What's this spacer kit you speak of? Where do i get out? Thanks

[xjay1337]

A quick google gives you this link.

Basically the subframe moves fractions of a mm, mainly at low speed during parking maneovours. The stretch bolts used "stretch" over time.. often you'll find yourself able to do them up with a socket from underneath..then in a month or so they'll become "loose" again.

When the subframe moves it creaks or grinds shall I say on another part of the cars chassis which causes the cracking noise.
Especially common in lowered Mk5s but can happen to any and all of them regardless of type, TDI, GTI, R32 etc.

New bolts and a small shim to space the subframe away from the chassis stops the contact and thus the noise. Originally made by ECS but now available from VW directly.

2x  N90823501
2x Shim 7M3499349A

Available from VW, TPS, or online vendors such as Darkside Developments. Last time I checked Darkside were cheaper than VW.
Can be fitted on your driveway if you have axle stands (as you need to get under the center of the car) or if you can get it on a ramp it takes 10 minutes.