[bimmer49]

Tom: Personally I don't think that bump stop would produce/allow to produce the noises you describe.
Check the top mount (3 bolts) for splits and excess lift with the wheel off the ground and a bar under the wheel. Any lift will cause a bonk and movement in the top bearing mount. If that moves you will get a "groaning" when steering.
A "cheap" fix is to get a strut from a breakers yard.
Very easy to change but make sure you get like for like (go by the top mount design, they did change Ph1 to Ph2), anti roll bar position and length, spring diameters. You CAN fit the later type IF you buy a pair AND the anti roll bar drop links. TBH Ph1 mounts are much more durable.
If any engine has suffered oil leaks, a steam clean would be required and a thorough clean of the under tray. It's the only true way of confirming the repairs have been successful.