I have a 1997 legacy outback. I am hearing a creaking noise in the front right as the car goes down the road. I had a shadetree mechanic look at it and he thinks it is the control arm bushing just aft of the front right wheel. It is leaking a clear viscous fluid. He said that was causing the noise and should be replaced, followed by a front end alignment.

 

Is this a correct diagnosis? Is it a dangerous situation? Should I have all the other bushings replaced and aligned ont time?

 

I live on St.John in the Virgin Islands. The roads are somooth but very curvey.

The car has 90K miles on it and has been properly maintained.

 

Any input would be appreciated.

 

Thanks

 

J D

I have a 1997 legacy outback. I am hearing a creaking noise in the front right as the car goes down the road. I had a shadetree mechanic look at it and he thinks it is the control arm bushing just aft of the front right wheel. It is leaking a clear viscous fluid. He said that was causing the noise and should be replaced, followed by a front end alignment.

 

Is this a correct diagnosis? Is it a dangerous situation? Should I have all the other bushings replaced and aligned ont time?

 

I live on St.John in the Virgin Islands. The roads are somooth but very curvey.

The car has 90K miles on it and has been properly maintained.

 

Any input would be appreciated.

 

Thanks

 

J D

 

Well, it may be a bushing that is responsible for the noise - but the 'clear viscous fluid' part of the story is odd. I'd be tempted to seek another mechanic's opinion if that is possible for you. There are many possible sources of noise in the suspension area. Regardless, insist on being shown the offending part and have the mechanic explain how he diagnosed the issue and to give you the bad part when he has completed the repair.