Could this be tie-rods?

Question

A few months ago we had all four tires on our Ford Windstar replaced, and they told us that we needed new tie-rods, which we couldn't afford. We've been meaning to get them done, but we're broke.

Yesterday on the way to the grocery store, the car started rocking back and forth like a boat as we were driving down the road. It was really freaky. As long as we kept it under 40 MPH it was relatively stable, but still slightly wobbly. If we went OVER 40, it was like a ship on a stormy ocean.

Hubby is on his way to the mechanic right now, but I am just curious as to what it might be.

We replaced the tires with new tires.

Answer 1

Yes, it is very possibly tie-rod ends.

Answer 2

No the tie rods would not do that. That sounds like a tire out of round or a broken shock. Tie rods turn the car not part of the car that would make it rock back and forth. My guess is he will come back and say the told him its a shock or ball joint.

Answer 3

if you 4 tires that you put on were new or used the would of balance the tires, sometimes the weight that they to balance the tires fall off if not install right, get the tires re balance, if the tie rods are worn then get them replace and have a wheel alignment done before the tires wear out prematurely.

Answer 4

It could be the motor mounts. I was driving a friend's car when the tie rods blew, and I remember it being really sluggish right before. I don't remember it shaking though.

Answer 5

1. Did you replace tires with new ones or used?

Answer 6

Whatever it is, it doesn't sound like tie-rods. Might be something in the suspension