I recently started to notice a creaking sound in the front of my car whenever it goes over bumps. Now it makes the sound even if you push the front of the car down while it is parked. I have determined that it is in the front passenger side and, obviously, is a suspension issue. I'm pretty sure it is the strut that is bad but I just want to make sure before I go spend $70 for a new one. Do I have a pretty fair bet that it is the strut and could anyone give me some advice on determining whether or not it is the strut for sure? Thanks.

 

When you push down on your car does it rise back up and stop or does it bounce? Bounce equals bad strut.
I would be more inclined to say it's a bad bushing or ball joint.
If you have not noticed any clunking when going over bumps then it's probably a bushing.
If you have not noticed any handling changes then you could try simply lubing the bushings with engine oil or chain lube. That had worked for me in the past.
Also if you are changing struts then it would be wise to at least do them in pairs. I made this mistake and ended up having to do the other within 2 months. Just a thought.