Cold & Squeaky Jeep

Owners of 2011-2014 Jeep Compass/Patriot or 2011-2012 Caliber vehicles built on or after Jan. 24, 2010, and on or before Feb. 28, 2014, may complain about a creak or squeak at the front suspension. The noise may be more noticeable during cold temperatures. The noise may go away when temperature rises.

The fix likely requires adding Nye synthetic lubricant to the front lower control arm rear bushings.

Remove both front lower control arms. Clamp the arm in a vise with the rear bushing accessible. Using an appropriate tool such as a long metal rod, insert the tool through the bushing sleeve and rotate the bushing to expose the sides of the bushing for Nye lubricant application. Apply the lube liberally to the bushing sides where internal contact is made. Move the bushing through a range of motion to distribute the lubricant. Verify that the lube is evenly distributed within the bushing slots. Perform this with both control arms.

Reinstall the arms, check wheel alignment and road test.

Nye synthetic lubricant is available as P/N 05019061AA. Other appropriate lubricants are likely available but Chrysler/Jeep recommends Nye synthetic.