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

 

when you turn the wheel in what direction? is it a clunk or like something falling in place? have you done any recent suspension work? have you checked to see if you just see something loose or hanging?

 

I think it is both directions - definitely when I turn it to the right. It is a subtle clunk - it isn't super loud.
I bought it three months ago. My shop saw nothing wrong with the suspension (but that doesn't mean the problem isn't there).