Squeeeekkk, control arm bushings or struts?

[bluehoo7]

Ok, here is the deal
I've searched the forums for possible fixes, but no one has had an answer... that actually fixed the problem.

My 98 Grand Am front end squeeks alot while going over bumps/pot holes, kinda like a squeeky bed. I press down on the front end and hear it too, so I took it to MIDAS to have it checked and got a $750 estimate! Whoa....no way! So I walked out. So I've asked around...got a few different probabilities...Struts or control arm bushings?

What do you guys think?

Is it doable or should I take it in to get done?
Thanks

[doobiess]

I would say sway bar bushing... you can use oil but oil is harsh on a bushing but will tell if its ok... apply some oil to both bushings and then press down the bumper a few times and see if it goes away if it does then thats it... all you gotta do is reach in there dont have to jack it up/...

[keith dawe]

I'd tend to say the sway bar bushings as well. I replaced both struts and control arm bushings in my 96 GA, to still have that annoying squeak, more so in the cooler weather. A mechanic said they are not to move and I could try to tighten or shim them up, but I'm not a mechanic so how am I supposed to know?!?

[HeyDace]

Probably a ball joint. I see this quite often, not only GA's but Malibus, and Aleros. The ball joints are non-greasable and though they may be tight, they still dry out and squeek. With the car on the ground, have some one bounce the front end and turn the wheel, most times you can pinpoint the noise to either one or both of the ball joints.