I'm trying to find out what would cause popping noises in the front area when accelerating from a dead stop. It happens randomly when the wheel is turned. I jacked up the front and there is nothing loose. Could my rack and pinion make popping noises?

 

Check the bar links. there are some reports about bar links going bad after 70K-90K miles. It will make the noise every time you hit a bump or or a hole.

 

Sounds like one of the CV joints is giving up.

 

I dont think its the cv joints. I can feel the pop through the floor pan sometimes. What do I look for in the sway bar links? Worn rubber parts?

 

If you are feeling the noise though the floor pan it's likely something very substantial making the noise. But you can check the links by trying to move them with the suspension under compression. They are a ball and socket type so if they move very easily/feel loose or are obviously damaged then replace them. If you are not comfortable doing this then any trusted shop can check this for you.

 

The links have worn boots, but no play.

 

Open the driver's door, grab its edge and rock one side of the car up and down. Clunking sound will indicate worn link on this side.