AIR VENTS & FRONT END NOISE

I have a 98 Windstar LX 3.8 and have a squeaking sound (like metal rubbing)coming from the front end driver side (LEFT)when turning the wheels either way. I have a mechanic I have used for about 7 yrs. and he has done well in fixing other problems with my van. He replaced the RIGHT front motor mount, RIGHT CV joint, and the Sway Frame mounts in December, but the noise is still there. I am taking the van to him tomorrow again for this and to replace the power window motor on passenger side ( I saw several issues in here about having this problem). Sounds like a FORD DEFECT to me, but they'll never admit to that. Anyway, my other issue I have ( and I saw SIMILAR issues on this also) is when I turn the blower on for a/c or heat to blow out the front vents, it blows through the defrost first, then down to the floor vents, then after a while through the front vents. Also the rear vents blow only hot air even when I have the rear switch set for a/c. My mechanic has checked the vacumn lines everywhere he can get to. He will be taking the valve covers off and check the lines behind there tomorrow.
I have seen the responses given in this forum and you guys seem pretty sharp, so I hope someone can help me. THANKS A LOT!!

The squeak may be the tie-rod ends. Mine made a terrible racket until grease was injected (needle grease point) into the tie-rod dust boot.