I have a 98 Windstar with the 3.8L v-6. It has been making a squealing noise and I took it to a Ford Quality Care Shop and they said it was the cam syncro sensor that needed replaced, and it should be done as soon as possible. They quoted me $265 for the repair. Is this an involved process? The part at Advanced Auto is only $32.38. Thanks in advance for any help.

If that noise is a sort of metallic chirping sound coming from the timing cover area and it is not the serpentine belt, or any of ancillary pulleys than it most likely is the fuel injection synchronizer. This is actually underneath the cam position sensor. It is not too difficult to replace (part number xf2z-12a362-aa at Ford dealer lists for $110.) but does require a factory special tool to align when re-installing.