From what I've read so far, it sounds like my problem is likely the control arms/ball joints. I can hear it best at front left side at slower speeds. Now my questions is how difficult would it be to put in one of those front-end suspension kits which include the control arms, etc, by myself. I'm fairly mechanically-inclined, having replaced brake pads, rotors, shock, etc which don't require specialized tools. My 1997 A4 1.8t has 100,000 miles, with lowered suspension installed at around 50,000 miles with Bilsteins and Eibach springs. Will the lowered suspension also affect the ease of replacing the control arms? About how many hours to this? Any specialized tools? Will I need to still have the front end aligned? How much if I just brought it to Goodyear to have it diagnosed and fixed (this part is my big fear-the cost for them to do it). Thanks for any advice you can offer. I love this car and want to keep it as long as possible! Thanks again....justin

 

http://www.audiworld.com/tech/wheel43.shtml

Your aftermarket suspension wont make a difference since your car will be in the air and will come off anyways. You should get an alignment afterwards. The trickiest parts will be the pinch bolt and if your tie rod ends are siezed..