Ball Joint Checking
WARNING: This page is about a different car, the 1999 Mercury Mystique, 1999 Mercury Cougar, 1999 Ford Contour, 1998 Mercury Mystique, and 1998 Ford Contour. However, it is still accessible from the selected car via links, so may be relevant.
Raise vehicle so wheels hang freely. Grasp tire by top and bottom edges. Move wheel assembly in and out. Any movement between lower end of knuckle and control arm indicates ball joint wear. If necessary, replace ball joint.