I have an '06 xlt 4x4 4.6L and I have has no problems with it at all but just recently its doin somthin weird. I went to back into a parking space, I was at a complete stop. I turned my wheel the oppisiste direction and as I turned the front end was not smooth. It felt like it was hoppin a little and shifted its self? I was thinkin the maybe the ball joints I asked around a little someone said powersteering issue but I really dont know. If anyone could help me that would be great?

 

If something is shifting, I suggest to find a friend to re-enact the event you experienced, while you get under and have a look.

Couple of ways to inspect ball joints. One is to grab the top of the front tires and push/pull strongly inward and outward rapidly while someone else watches the joints. Another is to lift the front end so that the tires are just off the ground, stick a shovel or other long handled tool under the tire from the side and lift/lower rapidly while someone watches for joint movement. Or, could just take it to a garage.

There may be something else failing - tie rods, drag links, frame/axle mounts, etc. Just look around at everything while simulating the event you experienced in the parking lot, trying to identify any slop where there shouldn't be any.

 

You didn't bump your 4x4 switch? It happened to me last week when I was backing out of my garage. It felt like I hopping in the front. It some how got bumped to 4X4 low.