Steering Wheel Crack Noise: Causes & Fixes

'On our Passat 35i, manufactured in October 1996 (240,000 km), there's a cracking sound when steering, especially when turning the wheel fully, such as when parking. However, it only happens once when turning in one direction, and a second time when turning in the other direction, although it doesn't require a full turn in that direction. The same thing happens in the other direction as well.'
'This cracking sound has recently started occurring occasionally when steering at higher speeds.'

I replaced the front wheel bearing on the passenger side; it was worn out.
In addition, new shock absorbers have been installed all around, and new strut mounts are in the front.

Okay, here are the questions:

1. It could be due to the new wheel bearing.
2. Could it be the steering gear? And if so, how does a defective steering gear manifest itself, or how can I check it?

Thank you for your help.

The steering mechanism can even be adjusted.

One person slowly tightens the adjustment screw, while the other steers within a range of approximately 30 degrees around the steering axis without power steering assistance!

Regards,

Manuel.