First of all, is the rear driver's side caliper working at all? If not, then that is a real problem and needs attention, and the possible reason for the pulling on the front end. I mention this because it does not get hot. Get someone to look through the weel to see if it tightens up when you push on the brakes with the car stopped. The creaking, and whum..whum...whum sound can be one of many things. An out of round tire comes to mind...not talking about out of balance necessarily but a tire that isn't exactly round...it does happen and I've seen some tires that come from the factory this way. I would check your front end swaybar end links too. These tend to make the creaking sound and thumping over even small bumps if they are worn out...and it may be hard to tell where the sound is exactly coming from. Take the lower bolt off of both sides and drive around the block. If the sound is gone, then they are the problem and not so expensive to change.

Really, you probably need new struts and shocks all around at the miles you describe. This is somewhat expensive but cheapest price is at www.shox.com and I would recommend the less expensive Bilstein Touring. Though not on their site, they can give you great deals on shock and strut mounts as well as the front spring seats which I would replace all of if you decide to over-haul the entire front end. Good luck!
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1998 S70 T5 Emarald Green Metallic, 2004 V70 2.5T Ruby Red, Previous Owner of Black '94 850 Turbo Wagon. My cars have been running so well lately they've got me worried.