Lizz5612

Hi all,

I'm getting ready for a road trip tomorrow...planning on taking my 99 Civic instead of my 95 4Runner, better gas mileage! But, I've recently noticed a squeaking noise coming from the front end and haven't been able to figure out what it is. I'm hoping to get some ideas about what it might be, and whether or not I can drive the ~800 miles to and from Flagstaff before getting the car fixed next week. If it's a simple fix, I can try to do it tonight.

The car has 104k on it, the timing belt and drive belts were all done at 70k, so I'm guessing it's not a belt, at least not yet.

It squeaks regardless of what gear I'm in, but doesn't seem to get any better or worse when accelerating or decelerating.

I parked the car at home last night, left it on, popped the hood, and tried turning the wheel to see if the noise got any worse. It only gets a little more high-pitched when the wheel is turned all the way to one side or the other, but the wheel is pretty much as its maximum range of motion before the noise changes.

Power steering fluid looks good, and I haven't noticed a difference in handling. Any chance it could be the pump? Or worn bushing/bearings?

And more importantly, am I okay to drive it to and from Flagstaff this weekend?? I want to make sure I'm not going to get stranded, there's not much between here and there!

Former User

First try tightening the power steering pump belt. If that doesn't help, remove the three drive belts one at a time to see whether removal of one eliminates the squeaking.

jughead

You might want to check the bumper bolts and fasteners, as well as the fender bolts. 10 mm ratchet for most and a phillips head for the rest to make sure they are tight. A loose bumper fastener makes my car squeak. If its a fastener make sure its tight or replace if neccesary.