* Ball Joint: A worn ball joint is a common culprit. The popping sound is often associated with movement, and the vibration at higher speeds is a result of uneven wear and the joint not articulating smoothly.
* Tie Rod End: Similar to a ball joint, a worn tie rod end will cause popping and vibration, especially at higher speeds when the steering is under more stress.
* Control Arm Bushings: Worn bushings in the control arms allow excessive movement and play, leading to popping and vibrations, particularly noticeable during acceleration, braking, and cornering.
* Wheel Bearing: A failing wheel bearing will produce a humming or growling sound that increases with speed, often accompanied by vibration. However, a severely worn bearing *could* also produce a popping noise.
* Strut Mount/Bearing Plate: Worn strut mounts or bearing plates can cause clunking or popping sounds, especially over bumps, and contribute to vibrations.
What to do:
1. Visual Inspection: Carefully inspect the entire front driver's side suspension. Look for any obvious signs of damage, cracks, leaks, or excessive play in the ball joint, tie rod end, control arm bushings, or strut mount. Jack up the car safely and use jack stands (never work under a car supported only by a jack).
2. Check for Play: With the car safely jacked up, try to move components by hand. Look for excessive play in the ball joint (moving the tire up and down, and side-to-side), tie rod end (side-to-side movement of the tie rod), and control arm bushings (try to move the control arm). Listen for any popping sounds during this process.
3. Professional Inspection: If you're not comfortable performing these checks yourself, take your Taurus to a qualified mechanic for a thorough inspection. They have the tools and expertise to diagnose the problem accurately.
It's important to get this fixed promptly. Driving with a faulty suspension component can be dangerous, potentially leading to loss of control of the vehicle. Don't delay seeking professional help if you are unsure about diagnosing the problem yourself.
