Creaking Sound when Steering Wheel is Turned

[Heineken77]

I have a problem with my 1997 Dodge Stratus 2.0 and any input would be greatly appreciated!

When I drive the car for a while, I start to notice that every time I turn the steering wheel left or right it does creaking sound exactly like a door that needs to be oiled.

It doesn't happen every time I drive and usually I need to drive it for a short while before it starts happening. It usually does not do it when the car is parked with engine off. However, it does happen if I just sit in traffic idling or driving.

Aside from the noise nothing is going on. No stiffness in steering wheel, nothing unusual performance wise.
Now my guess is a ball joint problem but don't know if I am right or not. Please advice what it could be and if I can repair on my driveway instead of an expensive shop.
Thank you very much!

[dodgefan360]

If you have a vehicle lift and a friend (to turn the wheel) you can attempt to find the problem yourself. If you only hear the sound going over bumps and such then I'd concentrate on the condition of the shocks/struts. They might rebound OK, but you only hear the sound going over bumps and such then I'd look into replacement. If that's not the case then the ball joints or even tie rods may be on their way out and I'd take it to a shop to get a proper diagnosis.

[Heineken77]

Thank you for your help. I do think its the ball joints or rods as I hear it even when I am not going over bumps. Im just completely stressed out because I have no money to get it fixed and don't know if it'd hold for a little longer without getting into an accident:(
Thanks again!

[michelleclerc]

excuse my english but me to have the problem.sweak turn the weel and the bump.