Steering "POP"

[djkeev]

07 Vibe, stock, 2wd (like there was an option in 07!!) Automatic. about 90,000 miles.Recently my steering started making a "pop" noise after turning left and bringing the wheel back to straight ahead. It doesn't have to be a hard left, just a left as you'd encounter with normal driving.Before I start tearing this apart, any ideas or experiences to share??Thanks for any helpDave

[Sublimewind]

Tie rod end most likely.. for the steering linkage.. could be outer, could be inner.. Lower ball joint too.. Loose steering rack bracket possibly..

[yyamad1]

thats a good start, it could also be related to strut mounts, sway bar links

[boomermsu]

I had a noise (more coil bind sound) but sometimes pop in my front suspension. Ended up being the passenger side strut mount failing. Completely detached metal from rubber. Replaced only the strut mount. No more noises.

[j42.snyder]

On my previous car (Sunfire) - this was caused by the strut mounts. It began rather intermittently, and gradually became more and more regular.Recently though, I thought it was the same problem on my aunt's Ford Contour - although the noise was much more pronounced. Turned out that both front springs were broken! Hopefully that's not your problem - but still a possibility. Make sure you take a close look.If you can get a helper, I'd park with the front wheels on gravel (to reduce drag when steering), and get the helper to turn the wheel back and forth to create the sound, while you can listen and feel where it's coming from up front. Although it will take more effort, I'd do it with the engine off to make it easier to hear.John