Steering and suspension system noises should never be ignored, but this is especially important on Ford products. There is a long history of parts separating leading to loss of control and crashes. Your vehicle should be inspected at a tire and alignment shop at least once a year. Anti-sway bar links ARE indeed a common problem but those are simply an annoyance; not a safety issue.
If the noise is more of a dull thud, suspect the anti-sway bar inner bushings. The clue is the noise is more noticeable at lower speeds as in parking lots, and it will stop when you turn slightly to either side.
There is a tool you might be able to borrow or rent from an auto parts store that borrows them called the "Chassis Ear". It is a set of six microphones, a switch box, and headphones. You clip the microphones to suspect points, then drive around while listening with the headphones. You can move the microphones around to zero in on the source of the noise. Be aware that many mechanics have never seen or even heard of this tool. Suspension and alignment mechanics use it to find rattles, squeaks, and other noises.
Dec 23, 2013 at 10:42 AM
