Front struts are bad and maybe the mounts - 2002 Buick Regal

I'm thinking you're right, you will have to raise the car and inspect them...also check tranny mounts while at it...also check the nuts at the top of the strut/shock mount.. verify that they are tightened...

You have a worn out wheel bearing. Nothing else has this symptom.

Most likely the steering rack is failing & you hear
the power steering pump straining

Happens when you don't change the fluid every 3 years

Also the top strut bearings could be worn & causing the
stiffness also (two problems)

try using a white lithium grease and spraying down the upper strut mounts if it is the mounts that are making noise, some times its also the lower ball joints squeeking from a lack of grease normally because the ball joints are sealed and ungreasable

Did you remove the catalytic converter, and motor mount? Lots of stuff has to come off to get this pan out. :o(

3.8L Engine

1. Drain the engine oil.
2. Remove or disconnect the following:
   
   Negative battery cable Throttle body air inlet duct Engine mount struts Accessory drive belt
   
3. Install an engine support fixture.
   
   Catalytic converter from the right exhaust manifold Right front wheel Right side splash shield Oil filter and discard A/C compressor bracket and reposition the compressor Power steering oil cooler pipe brackets from the frame Engine mount bracket bolts Lower engine mount nuts Torque converter cover Oil level sensor electrical connector Oil level sensor
   
4. Raise the vehicle and place a support under the frame.
   
   Right side frame bolts and loosen the left side bolts Engine mount and bracket Oil pan

Go to Autozone and buy 2 front strut "cartridges". Then rent their strut cartridge installation tool from their loaner tool program. You can change both sides in about an hour without even jacking the car up-be sure to have a 15/16" wrench on hand for the nut and follow the directions that come with the loaner tool. Also spray a little penetrating oil on the nut a few days before you do the job. There is no reason to change the entire strut assembly unless something has failed.

hi check your motor mounts also and the strut mounts they have in cases a bearing on top that may make noise!!!!

See if you can bounce car and replicate the noise. If you can, you should be able to find it, and put your hand on it. Stabilizer bushing are a place to look, both at the lower a arm and on the frame. If you narrow it down to the strut, it will need to be replaced. The front trans mount also goes bad, try putting it in drive with your foot on the brake and give it some gas and see if the engine moves an excessive amount.

Would recommend having the front struts and strut mounts looked at, over time the struts and strut mounts wear out, causing the front supension to develop noise whe going over even the slightest of road deformities. Hope this helps

I have the same problem and it is the strut and maybe mounts (depending on how bad it is)