Hey, I have an issue with my '04 Element where I get a single 'sproingy' noise when I turn my wheel for the first time after the car has been sitting for a while. To my knowledge, this is the only time it happens.
It also happens only after I turn the wheel about a half turn.
I have heard some people talk about the spring not being seated correctly in the strut, but I am not familiar enough with the assembly of a strut to know how to test this.
Thanks

 

Is it like a loud click? Do you ever hear it when you first back up?

 

I hear it when I back up AND turn my wheel. It is definitely related to turning my wheel. Even if I am not moving and I turn my wheel, I hear it.