Ford Windstar problems
The Ford Windstar (later the Ford Freestar and Mercury Monterey) is a minivan that was produced and sold by Ford. The replacement for the Ford Aerostar, the Windstar adopted the front-wheel drive configuration of the Chrysler minivans. From the 1995 to 2007 model years, three generations of the model line were sold, with the final generation renamed as the Ford Freestar.
Unrelated to the Nissan-developed Mercury Villager, the Windstar was marketed without a Lincoln-Mercury counterpart. As part of the 2004 launch of the Ford Freestar, Mercury introduced its first Ford-produced minivan in a revival of the Mercury Monterey nameplate.
Following a decline in sales across the minivan segment in the mid-2000s, the Freestar and Monterey were discontinued after the 2007 model year with no direct replacement. In North America, the model line was functionally matched by the 7-passenger 2008 Ford Taurus X wagon/CUV; in Mexico, the Freestar was replaced by the Ford Transit/Tourneo. In 2014, Ford reentered the segment as the Ford Transit Connect compact MPV gained 7-passenger seating in North America.
During its production the Ford Windstar/Freestar and the Mercury Monterey were sourced from Oakville Assembly (Oakville, Ontario). In total, 1,984,232 were produced (1,704,786 Windstars, 246,493 Freestars, and 32,953 Montereys).
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Ford Windstar model years
Common Ford Windstar problems
Based on the complaints from owners of Ford Windstar cars, several common problems have been identified:
- Transmission Failure: Owners have reported issues with transmission failure in various model years of the Ford Windstar, including the 2000 and 2003 models. This problem can lead to difficulties in shifting gears, jerking while driving, and even complete transmission failure.
- Rear Axle Failure: A significant concern among Ford Windstar owners is the rear axle's tendency to split apart or suddenly snap. This issue has been reported in multiple model years, such as 2000 and 2001, posing a serious safety risk as it can result in loss of control while driving.
- Electrical Problems: Complaints about electrical issues, including dashboard needle failures, door ajar lights staying on, and dome lights malfunctioning, have been raised by owners. These problems can affect the vehicle's functionality and safety.
- Engine Performance: Owners have highlighted engine-related problems like engines not staying running in the mornings, experiencing jerks while driving, and issues with engine power and misfires. These issues can impact the vehicle's performance, fuel efficiency, and overall driving experience.
- Subframe and Welding Concerns: Some owners have reported issues with subframe repairs and welding failures in the Ford Windstar, leading to safety risks due to structural integrity compromises.
- Instrument Panel Malfunctions: Problems with the instrument panel, such as erratic movements of dashboard needles, have been noted by owners. These issues can affect the driver's ability to monitor crucial vehicle information accurately.
- Brake Pedal Concerns: Complaints about brake pedal issues, including the pedal going to the floor without leaking fluid, have been raised. Brake problems can compromise the vehicle's braking performance and safety.
These common problems reported by Ford Windstar owners highlight a range of issues affecting different aspects of the vehicle's performance, safety, and reliability. Addressing these concerns is crucial to ensure the proper functioning and safety of Ford Windstar vehicles.
Are Ford Windstars reliable?
Cons. Disconnected ride and handling, poor interior space utilization, noisy V6 engine, poor reputation for reliability.
How long do Ford Windstars last?
How Long Will the 2003 Ford Windstar Last? Drivers are typically reporting mileage in the low 200,000 range before the transmission totally goes out, but we're also seeing reports as low as 100,000 before something needs to be rebuilt or swapped out. Expect a fairly meager typical lifespan of 180,000 miles.
Why did Ford stop making the Windstar?
Transmission issues plagued early models, and concerns about reliability dogged the minivan throughout its production run. Additionally, some criticized its handling, particularly in comparison to its nimbler competitors. In 2007, Ford discontinued the Windstar, replaced by the larger and more truck-like Freestar.
What kind of engine does a Ford Windstar have?
3.8-liter V-6
Engine: 3.8-liter V-6; 200-hp at 5000 rpm; 230 lb-ft torque at 3000 rpm.
Percentage distribution of complaints by Ford Windstar years
We have researched Ford problems and analysed all the complaints filed against Ford Windstar cars and compiled the top 5 most problematic Ford Windstar model years:
Below you can see the percentage distribution of known problems by Ford Windstar model years.
Distribution of the number of complaints by Ford Windstar years
We've also compiled a chart for you with the number of complaints about Volkswagen Jetta cars of certain model years:
Ford Windstar car problems categorized by type of issue
After analysing all complaints related to Ford Windstar , it was concluded that the most common issues with these cars are:
- Service brakes problems
- Engine and engine cooling problems
- Power train problems
- Hydraulic problems
- Suspension problems
The graph below shows statistics for all Ford Windstar vehicle components and the number of complaints received.
Distribution of the number of complaints where the accident occurred by Windstar model years
A total of 579 complaints were registered in which the accident occurred. In the graph you can see the distribution of the number of complaints by model year.
Distribution of the number of complaints with fire by Windstar model years
There were a total of 542 complaints that resulted in a fire. In the graph you can see the distribution of the number of complaints by model year.
Distribution of the number of complaints with injuries by Windstar model years
There were a total of 566 complaints that resulted in a injuries. In the graph you can see the distribution of the number of complaints by model year.
Distribution of the number of complaints with deaths by Windstar model years
There were a total of 14 complaints that resulted in a death. In the graph you can see the distribution of the number of complaints by model year.
The NHTSA has received 15902 complaints about various vehicle components related to the Ford Windstar . Below are the 25 most recent complaints reported for Ford Windstar vehicles.
Latest 25 complaints
Ford Windstar 1999
- Date Of Incident: 2024-07-14
- Date Complaint: 2024-07-15
- VIN: 2FMZA51U9XB
- Components: SUSPENSION
- Summary: The contact owns a 1999 Ford Windstar. The contact stated that after parking the vehicle, the contact became aware that the rear passenger's side wheel was pushed upward and was nearly rubbing the inner wheel well. The contact stated that upon inspecting the rear axle, he became aware that the rear axle was fractured. The vehicle was towed to the residence. The contact related the failure to NHTSA Campaign Number: 15V608000 (Suspension); and the recall repair was previously performed on the vehicle. The dealer was not notified of the failure. The vehicle was not diagnosed or repaired. The manufacturer was not notified of the failure. The failure mileage was approximately 214,000.
Ford Windstar 2003
- Date Of Incident: 2019-11-01
- Date Complaint: 2024-07-05
- VIN: 2FMZA50473B
- Components: VEHICLE SPEED CONTROL
- Summary: The contact owns a 2003 Ford Windstar. The contact stated that while operating the vehicle, the ABS and Brake warning lights remained illuminated. Additionally, there was smoke, and a burning odor coming from the engine compartment. The contact also stated that the ABS fluid had leaked from the vehicle. The vehicle was taken to the local dealer who diagnosed that fluid had leaked from the Speed Control Deactivations Switch causing damage to the ABS Control Module connector. The vehicle was not yet repaired. The manufacturer was notified of the failure, but no assistance was offered. The contact was informed that the VIN was not included in NHTSA Campaign Number: 09V399000 (Vehicle Speed Control). The contact stated that the vehicle had experienced the failure listed in the recall. The failure mileage was 250,000.
Ford Windstar 2002
- Date Of Incident: 2024-06-14
- Date Complaint: 2024-06-15
- VIN: 2FMZA57422B
- Components: UNKNOWN OR OTHER
- Summary: The rear axle passenger side broke.
Ford Windstar 1999
- Date Of Incident: 2024-05-22
- Date Complaint: 2024-06-14
- VIN: 2FMZA5242XB
- Components: ENGINE
- Summary: The contact owns a 1999 Ford Windstar. The contact stated that while driving at an undisclosed speed, the steering wheel started pulling to one side, almost causing the contact to lose control of the vehicle. There were no warning lights illuminated. The vehicle was taken to an independent mechanic who diagnosed that the motor mounts were damaged and needed to be replaced. The vehicle was not repaired. The manufacturer was made aware of the failure and the contact was referred to the NHTSA Hotline for assistance because the vehicle was not under Warranty. The failure mileage was approximately 130,000.
Ford Windstar 2003
- Date Of Incident: 2024-05-27
- Date Complaint: 2024-06-06
- VIN: 2FMZA53433B
- Components: SUSPENSION
- Summary: The contact owns a 2003 Ford Windstar. The contact stated while driving at an undisclosed speed, there was an abnormal odor circulating inside the cabin of the vehicle. The contact stated the vehicle started losing motive power, and he was able to pull the vehicle to the side of the road. The vehicle was towed to an independent mechanic who diagnosed a failure with the rear axle. The vehicle was not repaired. The contact related the failure to NHTSA Campaign Number: 10V385000 (Suspension); however, the VIN was not included. The manufacturer was informed of the failure and referred the contact to the NHTSA Hotline. The failure mileage was approximately 160,000.
Ford Windstar 2000
- Date Of Incident: 2024-05-24
- Date Complaint: 2024-05-28
- VIN: 2FMZA5349YB
- Components: SUSPENSION,WHEELS
- Summary: The rear axle broke for the second time on a Ford Windstar, after already breaking prior to a recall in 2010. It appears to have broken where a clamp was attached. This caused the rear wheels to fall into, and grind against the wheel well. This happened on a side street near my house. Had it happened at highway speeds, the rear wheels could have locked up or perhaps broken free causing loss of control. The axle problem has been known to Ford, but it is concerning that this is the second one to fail. I have not yet contacted ford or a a repair facility to evaluate. There were no warning lamps or other indication. The axle simply broke abruptly. I thought it was a tire blow out until I saw the wheels tilted in. The vehicle is older, but I maintain it well.
Ford Windstar 2003
- Date Of Incident: 2024-05-06
- Date Complaint: 2024-05-06
- VIN: 2FMZA51423B
- Components: SUSPENSION
- Summary: The contact owns a 2003 Ford Windstar. The contact stated that while driving from the driveway, the front driver's side control arm detached from the vehicle. The vehicle made an abnormal scraping sound. While making a turn, an abnormal clicking noise was heard. There were no warning lights illuminated. The local dealer was not contacted. The vehicle was not diagnosed or repaired. The manufacturer was not notified about the failure. The contact stated that the failure was related to NHTSA Campaign Number: 10V385000 (Suspension). The failure mileage was approximately 207,000.
Ford Windstar 2002
- Date Of Incident: 2023-12-30
- Date Complaint: 2024-01-02
- VIN: 2FMDA52462B
- Components: SUSPENSION
- Summary: The contact owns a 2002 Ford Windstar. The contact stated that while driving at approximately 55 MPH, the contact pulled over and noticed that the tire was not straight inside the wheel well. While hoisting the vehicle on a lift at the residence, the contact noticed that the tire was rubbing on the inside of the wheel well and that the rear axle had fractured. The contact stated that the failure occurred at the site of the repair on the patch. The vehicle was taken to an independent mechanic and was informed about a recall. The contact called the local dealer and was informed that the VIN was not under recall. The manufacturer was contacted, but no assistance was provided. The contact stated that the failure was related to NHTSA Campaign Number: 10V385000 (Suspension). The failure mileage was approximately 160,000.
Ford Windstar 2001
- Date Of Incident: 2023-11-10
- Date Complaint: 2023-11-13
- VIN: 2FMZA50481B
- Components: SUSPENSION
- Summary: The contact owns a 2001 Ford Windstar. The contact stated while driving 15 MPH, the rear axle fractured. There was no warning light was illuminated. The vehicle was towed back to the residence. The vehicle had been diagnosed by an independent mechanic. The contact was informed that the failure was due to a stress crack caused by excessive corrosion. The vehicle had not been repaired by an independent mechanic or dealer. The manufacturer was made aware of the failure and determined that the VIN was not included in a recall. The failure mileage was approximately 105,000.
Ford Windstar 1998
- Date Of Incident: 2023-10-24
- Date Complaint: 2023-10-31
- VIN: 2FMZA514XWB
- Components: SUSPENSION
- Summary: The contact owns a 1998 Ford Windstar. The contact stated while driving at various speeds, the vehicle was shuddering significantly. The vehicle was taken to a Tire Store, where it was diagnosed that the rear axle was corroded and had fractured from the upper side to the lower side. The mechanic related the failure to NHTSA Campaign Number: 10V385000 (Suspension). The vehicle was not repaired. The dealer was not notified of the failure. The manufacturer was notified of the failure and referred the contact to the NHTSA Hotline for assistance. The failure mileage was unknown.
Ford Windstar 2002
- Date Of Incident: 2023-08-25
- Date Complaint: 2023-09-22
- VIN: 2FMDA53482B
- Components: ENGINE
- Summary: The contact owns a 2002 Ford Windstar. The contact stated while driving 60 MPH, the vehicle was wobbling uncontrollably and almost caused an accident. No warning light was illuminated. The vehicle was towed to an independent mechanic. The vehicle had been diagnosed by an independent mechanic. The contact was informed that the rear axle needed to be replaced. The vehicle was repaired. The manufacturer was made aware of the failure and provided no assistance. The failure mileage was approximately 142,000.
Ford Windstar 2002
- Date Of Incident: 2022-06-22
- Date Complaint: 2023-09-07
- VIN: 2FMZA57462B
- Components: SUSPENSION
- Summary: The contact owns a 2002 Ford Windstar. The contact stated while driving 40 MPH, there was an abnormal sound coming from the vehicle. The contact pulled over on the side of the road and had the vehicle towed. The vehicle was diagnosed, and the contact was informed that the rear driver’s side axle had fractured. The axle was replaced. On another occasion while driving 20 MPH over railroad tracks, the contact heard an abnormal sound coming from the vehicle. The contact parked the vehicle and noticed that the rear driver’s side axle had fractured. The vehicle was towed to the dealer who confirmed that the rear driver’s side axle had fractured and needed to be replaced. The vehicle was repaired. The manufacturer was contacted and stated that the vehicle was not under recall. The failure mileage was 139,619.
Ford Windstar 2000
- Date Of Incident: 2023-08-04
- Date Complaint: 2023-08-08
- VIN: 2FMZA5245YB
- Components: SUSPENSION
- Summary: The contact owns a 2000 Ford Windstar. The contact stated while reversing at an undisclosed speed, there was an abnormal booming sound coming from the vehicle. The contact stated that the front spring had fractured and punctured the passenger’s side front tire. There were no warning lights illuminated. The local dealer was not contacted. The vehicle was not diagnosed nor repaired. The manufacturer was not contacted. The failure mileage was approximately 75,000.
Ford Windstar 2003
- Date Of Incident: 2023-08-01
- Date Complaint: 2023-08-07
- VIN: 2FMZA51423B
- Components: SUSPENSION
- Summary: The contact owns a 2003 Ford Windstar. The contact stated that while driving at 15 MPH, there was an abnormal rumbling sound coming from an undisclosed location of the vehicle. The contact veered off the roadway. The contact notified a tow truck company and inspected the vehicle and noticed that the rear axle was fractured. The vehicle was towed to the residence. The vehicle was not diagnosed or repaired. The contact referenced the NHTSA Campaign Number: 10V385000 (Suspension). The dealer was notified of the failure and the contact was informed that the VIN was not included in a recall. The manufacturer was not notified of the failure. The failure mileage was approximately 180,000.
Ford Windstar 1998
- Date Of Incident: 2023-07-08
- Date Complaint: 2023-07-21
- VIN: 1FMPU18L6WL
- Components: SERVICE BRAKES, HYDRAULIC
- Summary: Bought replacement brake pads from RockAuto 07/08/2023 9:06PM order 244457897 that are supposed to be Bosch BSH BC702 ceramic. What arrived is unbranded, unnumbered tag torn off the box with no identifiers at all. All brake pads used should have numbers to identify street legal for use but these have NOTHING on them, the box, anything. Unsafe if cannot identify use. RockAuto wants me to pay for return for their mistake, but bigger problem is that unknown pads are being sent out by RockAuto. I still have unopened set if interested.
Latest 5 recalls Ford Windstar
The National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) has issued 100 recalls for different components of the Ford Windstar.You can explore the year of the Volkswagen Jetta you are interested in by selecting it from the list.
- Model: Ford Windstar 2003
- Report Received Date: 2015-09-29
- Manufacturer: Ford Motor Company
- Components: SUSPENSION:REAR:AXLE:NON-POWERED AXLE ASSEMBLY
- Summary: Ford Motor Company (Ford) is recalling certain model year 1998-2003 Windstar vehicles manufactured September 2, 1997, to July 3, 2003. The affected vehicles were previously remedied to safeguard against the rear axle cracking from corrosion, however, the remedy brackets may have been misinstalled. The incorrect bracket installations may limit the effectiveness of the service repair for NHTSA recalls 10V-385, 12V-193, and 12V-195.
- Consequence: If the brackets were not installed properly, the rear axle may fracture, affecting the vehicle handling and increasing the risk of a crash.
- Remedy: Ford will notify owners, and dealers will inspect the brackets to verify their proper installation. If a bracket is found to have been misinstalled, the rear axle will be replaced. These repairs will be performed free of charge. The began on October 21, 2015. Owners may contact Ford customer service at 1-866-436-7332. Ford's number for this recall is 15S27.
- Model: Ford Windstar 1999
- Report Received Date: 2015-09-29
- Manufacturer: Ford Motor Company
- Components: SUSPENSION:REAR:AXLE:NON-POWERED AXLE ASSEMBLY
- Summary: Ford Motor Company (Ford) is recalling certain model year 1998-2003 Windstar vehicles manufactured September 2, 1997, to July 3, 2003. The affected vehicles were previously remedied to safeguard against the rear axle cracking from corrosion, however, the remedy brackets may have been misinstalled. The incorrect bracket installations may limit the effectiveness of the service repair for NHTSA recalls 10V-385, 12V-193, and 12V-195.
- Consequence: If the brackets were not installed properly, the rear axle may fracture, affecting the vehicle handling and increasing the risk of a crash.
- Remedy: Ford will notify owners, and dealers will inspect the brackets to verify their proper installation. If a bracket is found to have been misinstalled, the rear axle will be replaced. These repairs will be performed free of charge. The began on October 21, 2015. Owners may contact Ford customer service at 1-866-436-7332. Ford's number for this recall is 15S27.
- Model: Ford Windstar 2001
- Report Received Date: 2015-09-29
- Manufacturer: Ford Motor Company
- Components: SUSPENSION:REAR:AXLE:NON-POWERED AXLE ASSEMBLY
- Summary: Ford Motor Company (Ford) is recalling certain model year 1998-2003 Windstar vehicles manufactured September 2, 1997, to July 3, 2003. The affected vehicles were previously remedied to safeguard against the rear axle cracking from corrosion, however, the remedy brackets may have been misinstalled. The incorrect bracket installations may limit the effectiveness of the service repair for NHTSA recalls 10V-385, 12V-193, and 12V-195.
- Consequence: If the brackets were not installed properly, the rear axle may fracture, affecting the vehicle handling and increasing the risk of a crash.
- Remedy: Ford will notify owners, and dealers will inspect the brackets to verify their proper installation. If a bracket is found to have been misinstalled, the rear axle will be replaced. These repairs will be performed free of charge. The began on October 21, 2015. Owners may contact Ford customer service at 1-866-436-7332. Ford's number for this recall is 15S27.
- Model: Ford Windstar 2000
- Report Received Date: 2015-09-29
- Manufacturer: Ford Motor Company
- Components: SUSPENSION:REAR:AXLE:NON-POWERED AXLE ASSEMBLY
- Summary: Ford Motor Company (Ford) is recalling certain model year 1998-2003 Windstar vehicles manufactured September 2, 1997, to July 3, 2003. The affected vehicles were previously remedied to safeguard against the rear axle cracking from corrosion, however, the remedy brackets may have been misinstalled. The incorrect bracket installations may limit the effectiveness of the service repair for NHTSA recalls 10V-385, 12V-193, and 12V-195.
- Consequence: If the brackets were not installed properly, the rear axle may fracture, affecting the vehicle handling and increasing the risk of a crash.
- Remedy: Ford will notify owners, and dealers will inspect the brackets to verify their proper installation. If a bracket is found to have been misinstalled, the rear axle will be replaced. These repairs will be performed free of charge. The began on October 21, 2015. Owners may contact Ford customer service at 1-866-436-7332. Ford's number for this recall is 15S27.
- Model: Ford Windstar 1998
- Report Received Date: 2015-09-29
- Manufacturer: Ford Motor Company
- Components: SUSPENSION:REAR:AXLE:NON-POWERED AXLE ASSEMBLY
- Summary: Ford Motor Company (Ford) is recalling certain model year 1998-2003 Windstar vehicles manufactured September 2, 1997, to July 3, 2003. The affected vehicles were previously remedied to safeguard against the rear axle cracking from corrosion, however, the remedy brackets may have been misinstalled. The incorrect bracket installations may limit the effectiveness of the service repair for NHTSA recalls 10V-385, 12V-193, and 12V-195.
- Consequence: If the brackets were not installed properly, the rear axle may fracture, affecting the vehicle handling and increasing the risk of a crash.
- Remedy: Ford will notify owners, and dealers will inspect the brackets to verify their proper installation. If a bracket is found to have been misinstalled, the rear axle will be replaced. These repairs will be performed free of charge. The began on October 21, 2015. Owners may contact Ford customer service at 1-866-436-7332. Ford's number for this recall is 15S27.
Latest negative Ford Windstar car reviews
Latest positive Ford Windstar car reviews
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Vehicle year: 1996
I'm so glad to hear that you've had such a positive experience with your Windstar! It sounds like it's been a real workhorse for you. The 3.8 engine is definitely strong and peppy, making it a fun drive. Plus, it's great to hear that it plows right through snow while other front-wheel drive cars get stuck. With only the computer and timing drive replaced, it's clear that your Windstar has been extremely reliable. And with 123,000 miles and still going strong, it's clear that this minivan is built to last!
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Vehicle year: 2003
We recently traded in our 97 Buick LeSabre Limited for a 2003 Windstar, which had been a lease vehicle and is in mint condition. After doing a CarFax report, we found no problems and saw that it had received regular maintenance. The Windstar drives well and is quieter than the Buick, although it's not quite as comfortable. We've noticed that the fuel economy is about 20% less than the Buick, getting around 18 mpg in town. However, it has good acceleration and great braking, making us quite happy with our purchase so far. We did remove the third seat and were interested in purchasing the seat anchor covers, but were surprised to find out that they cost $26+ each and we needed 4. Additionally, we discovered that this van has a recall for rear seat anchors, but it's a free fix by Ford. If you're buying used, make sure to check the VIN with your dealer. As a couple in our fifties with our kids gone, we're really enjoying our new ride!
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Vehicle year: 2002
Hi there! I hope you're doing well. I just wanted to say that I absolutely love my 2002 Windstar! It's been such a reliable vehicle for the past 8 years, and it's still going strong with 140,000 miles on it. When I first bought it, I opted for an extended warranty which covered a few minor problems up to 60k miles. However, since then, I've only needed routine maintenance. I did have to replace the spark plugs and wires at 120k miles, but other than that, it's been smooth sailing. This just goes to show that if you take care of your vehicle and do all the recommended maintenance, it can last forever! I did have a small issue with the brake light and ABS light staying on, but I'm working to resolve that. Overall, I'm so happy with my Windstar and would highly recommend it to anyone looking for a reliable vehicle.
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Vehicle year: 1998
We bought this red wagon new because Mama needed a grocery getter and a young'n hauler. It has been a reliable machine, with only a few typical wear-and-tear items such as the water pump, alternator, a steering rack, and brakes. Despite the kids having puked in it and chewed holes in the upholstery, it has held up well. Although the automatic door locks have quit working and we've had some power window issues, we have managed to keep it running. We affectionately call it the 'Beater,' but it is paid for and still going strong. I make sure to keep the oil changed regularly, and Mama keeps the interior clean. It has truly been 'Ford tough,' with no major transmission or engine issues.
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Vehicle year: 1995
We purchased a used model that unfortunately began to knock within a year. Despite this, we were impressed with the service it provided us before it showed its age. When our Aunt Wilda and Uncle Ray moved into their new house the following winter, the car powered up the hills with ease, rivaling our 2003 F-150 with the 4.6 liter V8. It demonstrated that pushrod technology still had some life left in it, although it didn't last as long as we had hoped. If it had lasted longer, we may have even chosen to keep it over the F-150. We truly loved the car, and were disappointed when it died prematurely.
Are you having problems with your Ford Windstar?
Maurice Gerlach 2025-07-01
Vehicle year: 2002
I purchased a SEL Windstar last year, but unfortunately, I have decided to part ways with it this year. While it has good mileage for its type, I found the interior space to be poorly designed with limited storage and an uncomfortable back seat that is difficult to access. Additionally, the radio reception was very poor, even after being replaced by the dealer, and the vehicle did not perform well on slippery roads. One improvement that would be beneficial is having a full spare tire, as the current one is mounted underneath the vehicle.
Melvin Yost 2025-06-29
Vehicle year: 1995
This car has had a number of issues, including a gasket problem that resulted in the engine being replaced at 40,000 miles. Despite the recall, the engine broke down again just 2,000 miles later, but fortunately, we had the dealership warranty to cover it. The brakes have also needed fixing multiple times, which has been costly. Additionally, the rear wheels needed adjustment after going through two sets of tires. The side doors can be difficult to close, and the heat system is not always reliable. At speeds above 30 mph, the car vibrates quite a bit. Despite these challenges, I remain confident in my decision to switch to a different car brand after owning two Fords.
Chance Kutch 2025-06-28
Vehicle year: 1997
I recently purchased another 3.8 engine, but unfortunately, I have had some issues with my Ford Thunderbird and 96 Windstar. Despite my best efforts to maintain them, Ford has not offered any assistance. I find it disappointing that they attribute the issues to maintenance, as I have always followed the maintenance manual and taken good care of my vehicles. Based on my experiences, I would advise caution when considering a Ford, especially with the 3.8 engine.
Camren Terry 2025-06-28
Vehicle year: 2002
Although we initially had no issues with this van, it has unfortunately become a bit of a money pit over the past 5 months. Despite replacing the EGR valve and sensor, the OD lights continue to flash while driving through TN and the EGR Valve light remains on. Additionally, we are now experiencing a cylinder 1 misfire, which is located in the rear of the engine and is not easily accessible. The AC compressor and control switch for the heater and AC have also failed, resulting in significant expenses. However, we remain confident in our ability to address these issues and ensure that this van is running smoothly once again. While we may consider other options in the future, we do not believe that this experience is indicative of the quality of Ford mini vans as a whole.
General West 2025-06-28
Vehicle year: 1995
We have been proud owners of our 95 Ford Windstar since it was brand new. Although we had to replace one blown head gasket under the recall, we unfortunately had to pay $1,600.00 for a second one that was not covered. We have been experiencing some transmission slipping for the past year, which has been nerve-wracking. Additionally, we have had some issues with the radio, alternator, and door ajar lights that have caused some frustration with dead batteries. The sliding door has also fallen off several times, and although we were told it was a defect, Ford has unfortunately not covered it. We also had to deal with a leaking water pump, which was quite expensive to fix. However, we were able to fix the third blown head gasket by using some head gasket sealant, which seems to have done the trick. Unfortunately, we had a long story with a clogged catalytic converter that ended up melting our wiring harness, but we have also had some other minor issues. Despite all of this, we still have a soft spot for our Windstar and hope to keep it running for as long as possible.