If your vehicle is showing groaning noise from suspension when getting in or out of the car, here are the most likely causes and the parts you'll need to fix each one.
Rubber bushings in the sway bar or control arms dry out, harden, and shrink over time. As the car's weight shifts when you get in or out, the metal components rub against the dry rubber, causing a groaning or creaking noise.
When getting in or out, the vehicle's weight shifts and the wheels try to roll slightly. If the parking brake is engaged, the brake pads or shoes will slip microscopically against the rotor or drum, creating a loud groan often mistaken for suspension noise.
Ball joints allow the suspension to pivot. If their protective boots tear, grease escapes and water enters, leading to a dry, rusty joint that groans under the changing weight of passengers.
If control arms were recently replaced and the bolts were fully tightened while the car was lifted in the air, the rubber bushings will be twisted and bind when the car is lowered to the ground. This causes immediate groaning and premature failure.
Rubber pads sit between the metal coil springs and the vehicle body to isolate noise. When these wear through or dry out, the spring rubbing against the seat causes a groaning or creaking sound as the suspension compresses.
Internal seals on the shock absorbers or struts can dry out or fail. The slight compression of the shock shaft moving through a dry seal when a passenger enters can produce a groaning sound.