The rev counter and temp could be loose wires, well worth a fiddle.
The lack of power and possible loss of water is a concern. Have you filled and re run the car? my 2.4 came with no stat in it, replaed and as fine. Also at some point it split a rad pipe and it would loose water. Have you checked oil for contamination?
Creaking could be one of many, would need to see it. Havent looked at ball joints etc on a 2.4, theyre unique to that model I think.
cv boot, for quickness get a cheap glue on before the MOT.
Fronty no.4, pimp mobile Treg 3.2 LWB lifted 2.5"
Fronty no.5 2.8 swb hd coils +2" 31"machos.