Why would a 1996 Ford Windstar have a squeaking noise from the front end when turning?

Answer 1

It usually indicates warn tie rod ends. My 98 was doing that same thing. They can't be greased, only replaced. My 2000 squeaked when I turned. The Power Steering fluid had become as thick as glue. Cost me $300 to clean it out. Apparently they produce a lot of heat and cook the stuff. I now change it once a year. BTW-Transmission Fluid gets thick faster on these too. The squeak you describe could be another expression of the same issue addressed here http://www.cartrackers.com/Forums/live/fordwindstar/1892.html where the upper strut mount gets a spacer per a Ford recall, or just a complete replacement (due to wear). Enjoy, Ben you can make a small hole with a screw drive pick and put some tri flow i had the same problem and since then stop... My '98 had the same issue on the right front wheel (passenger) when turning to the left. There is a flat plastic panel attached to the suspension rail. It bends down toward the wheel with use...probably due to heat. when the panel touches the wheel during a left turn, then you get an ungodly noise coming from that side which gives you the impression there is a steering issue. There is no steering issue...just that plastic panel. take it off and throw it away or replace it with a new straignt one. or just heat bend it back into shape with a torch. I did this last year and it was fine for a year and am doing it again today.