If it took a week to get gradually worse, a binding upper strut mount is more likely. That is relatively minor but there are ways for those mounts to be bad that can't be easily seen until the struts are removed for replacement. That makes it hard for mechanics to provide accurate repair estimates before they start working on the car.

In this case I'd start with an inspection at a tire and alignment shop. Ford has a lot more trouble with steering and suspension parts than most other brands and those people will know what to look for. Broken coil springs are common and the sharp ends can tear the sidewall of the tire. They will also inspect the lower ball joints and tie rod ends which are also common failure items.

Answered by caradiodoc (expert)
17,256 answers provided