Windstar - something shaking on front end

boilerman · 07-16-2007, 09:23 AM

2003 Ford Windstar with 85k

Newer tires recently rotated and balanced. Recently replaced tie rods and front brakes.

At certain times, it appears the front wheels or something is shaking - almost rattling. We definitely notice this at higher speeds but it is very periodic. It also feels as if something is shaking on the front end. Steering is fine and wheel does not rattle. Going over bumps or braking does not impact it. I have tried to isolate it but have not been successful. It is almost like the wheels are going along and then suddenly rattles a couple of times and then is fine again. Could this be the struts?

RickMN · 07-16-2007, 01:32 PM

Sure could be. At 85K you're due for new ones. They dampen spring oscillations. If you hit something in the road and the spring starts an oscillation and the strut is worn, it will keep bouncing until it self-dampens. Here's an in-depth article on struts and when to replace them and what to buy: Free-Auto-Repair-Advice: Shocks and Struts- What they do. When to change them. How to buy them.

fixmy95ford · 10-13-2007, 04:07 PM

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fixmy95ford · 10-13-2007, 04:08 PM

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emiguel · 10-13-2007, 04:11 PM

I've got a 96 WS GL with 120k. Sometimes on the HGWY I start hearing a rumbling noise. First time it happened it built up in intensity so I thought I had a flat tire. I pulled into a rest area and walked around the van. Tires fine. Slight smell of something up front but nothing real obvious. Drove the rest of the trip about 500 miles with no issues. It reoccurs within 20-200 miles on every trip now and each time I pull off and stop or just slow down to below 30 mph and go again with no problems. My front end guy has been watching this with me but it never occurs with him. He insists that everything is still safe so I keep driving. I'll check out your link. Thanks.