Hi,
i got a 2013 mazda cx5. 195,000km that is having some creaking sound on the lower driver side wheel. i did a wheel test and check if something is not tight and it all seems fine. Here are some observations that i have.

1. i hear it a bit when driving on uneven roads.
2. sometimes i hear it when braking and accelarating from stop.
3. i can hear it sometimes when turning as well.

my lower control arm was replaced around 40,000km ago. struts are still original. adding pictures for reference. Thinking i should replace it as well. Should i use OEM for struts?

What other things should i check that can produce a creaking sound?

 

Struts looks to be in rough shape and odds are they need replacing with those many miles.
But I'll add that with that many kilometers/miles there is no guarantee that is the creaking sound you hear.
You're in the timeframe when many suspension and other parts will need replacing.
Everything succumbs to aging. My back creaks worse everyday

 

Take a garden hose and rinse off the complete front suspension and go for a drive and report back here

 

Ditto. I'd try this too. It could simply be worn out and needing replacement due to the combo of high age & mileage.