it probably differs depending on what exactly is wrong.

i recenly had the right inner replaced, and the sound was a higher pitched squeaking at lower speeds (5-45 MPH), sounded like it was coming from the right side and possibly even back further, even though it was the front right.

before I had my front control arms replaced (+ front tie rod ends) i had a more grinding 'squeak' (was more like a creak, deeper sound) that was loudest when the car was stopping or going into motion from rest.

 

any of the control arms can squeak, not just the lower.

The sound is like 2 balloons rubbing together - That is the best description I have ever heard of control arm squeak.

My 98.5 had the recall to the tie rods done.

 

Most likely it is the lower arm facing forward. I got part from shokan.com. You will need spring compressor and puller and 3 hours.

 

i just got my recall notice on only the lower control arms. now i have to call the place i had them replaced at so i can obtain a copy of the work done. its the only paper of work done on my car that i am missing. then i have to send it to aoa to see if i get any reembusement. a cupple of hundrid would be nice right now.

 

Thanks to this board, called the stealership and scheduled a visit for my car. I will know by Wdnesday afternoon whether my car's control arms and such will need to be replaced.

 

...sounds expensive.

 

Result, took mine down to the dealer today to pick up a few bits, got the guy to check on the computer and mine is due the control arm recall, so this friday at 11am they are being replaced FOC! I'm happy with that!

Spoke to a mechanic to and he said it's always the lower arm, the straight on that goes not the curved one.