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: 2001
Our Ford van has been a reliable companion for the past 11 years. Despite the recalls, Ford promptly fixed each issue. Unfortunately, at 298,000 miles, the van unexpectedly threw a rod through the block, forcing us to part ways. However, we were fortunate to have experienced only minor issues, such as the intake gaskets leaking and the manifold needing replacement, which we were able to fix and maintain ourselves. We even managed to avoid any transmission issues, even at such high mileage. Overall, we are grateful for the many years of service our Ford van provided us. Thank you, Ford!
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Vehicle year: 1997
I bought this van used at the end of 1999 with the 3.8 Liter engine and I have never had any major problems with it. It was my first van and I absolutely love it! Although, there have been some electrical issues, they have not caused any significant problems. For example, the engine light comes on and stays on for months, but my mechanic can't seem to find anything wrong with it, so he just resets it. Additionally, the interior lights frequently don't shut off after closing the doors for up to 30 minutes at a time. Occasionally, the 'Door is open' alarm does not shut off after the door is shut, and the 'Door is open' light indicator seemingly always shows that one of the doors (or rear hatch) is open when, in fact, they are all closed and double checked.
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Vehicle year: 2003
In the 90's, I used to drive a Dodge Caravan, which was not the safest car on the road. However, I later got a new 1997 Windstar, followed by a new 2003 Windstar. I really enjoy driving new cars, but I plan to keep this one until it falls apart because, even after 7 years and 77,000 miles, I still absolutely love it! It's a great-looking minivan that has aged well and still looks modern. The paint is still in good shape. Although there have been some minor issues, such as flashing interior and dash lights, which I've had to repair multiple times, I still think it's worth it. Life is full of compromises, after all.
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Vehicle year: 1997
I purchased this van 6 years ago with 140,000 miles on it. It has been a reliable vehicle for me, allowing me to take long hauls without any issues. Although I have had to replace a few expensive parts, such as the ABS and O2 sensors, the van has never left me stranded. The rear defrost is currently not working, but luckily I have a garage to keep it safe. The seats are a bit heavy to remove, but overall, the van has been good to me. I do wish it had a driver's side sliding door, but my boys have nicknamed it the NASCAR Van and we all enjoy it.
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Vehicle year: 1996
Hello! I've been the proud owner of this vehicle since May of 1996. It was the perfect car for my family, as it could fit all of my kids' college stuff and still provide a comfortable ride for my wife during the 4-hour drive. Throughout the years, it has been a reliable companion, only requiring routine maintenance. Just this spring, I decided to put new brakes on it. I'm excited to purchase another Ford in the future!
Are you having problems with your Ford Windstar?
Kennith Hills 2025-03-29
Vehicle year: 1999
When I first purchased the vehicle in March of 2010, I was excited. Our family had just welcomed our fourth child and we needed the extra space. At the time of purchase, the vehicle had 128,000 miles on it. During the first 6 months of ownership, I experienced some issues with the caliper sticking, which caused the rotor on the front driver's side to crack. Additionally, the heat sensor, water pump, and power steering pump needed to be replaced. I understood that the vehicle was older and wasn't expecting it to be in top-notch condition. However, I did notice that only the passenger side door unlocks and locks when pressing the button, and the driver's side doors need to be unlocked and locked manually. The driver's sliding door also keeps sticking, so I have to keep applying oil or WD-40 to it. Despite these issues, I kept up with regular maintenance such as oil changes and brake replacements. Unfortunately, I was never able to fix the antifreeze leak, as it would just leak in another spot. It seemed like every time I turned around, something else needed to be fixed. Each time I got the engine light off to get inspected, it would come back on a month later for another issue. Eventually, I gave up and just waited until it was time to renew the inspection. In 2011, I experienced signs of transmission failure. In August of 2013, around 140,000 miles, I had to have the head gasket replaced. In February of 2014, the transmission failed completely and had to be replaced with another used transmission. The cluster instrument also goes haywire, and I had to have that replaced, but it's doing the same thing again. The emergency brake never worked from the beginning and still doesn't. In 2013, I had to replace the front frame that holds the transmission and engine due to it rusting out so badly. If I hadn't done so, the transmission would have fallen on the ground. I talked to Ford, but they said they couldn't do anything about it. The van now has 146,000 miles on it. While I can say that I was never stranded, this vehicle has been nothing but a money pit. I would not recommend it to anybody. I wish I had done my research, but you live and learn. It's just not reliable at all.
Cody Dicki 2025-03-22
Vehicle year: 2002
I leased the Windstar because I couldn't get the Honda Odessey. Although the lease on the Windstar is similar to the Odessey, the residual is much better on the Honda. Unfortunately, the Windstar has been in the shop 4 times now for recalls, including the steering fluid pump and the ignition control module. While the Windstar may be safe, it's not very reliable. I'm glad I don't own it. The rear bench is very heavy and should really be removed with 2 people.
Shane Balistreri 2025-03-21
Vehicle year: 1999
Hello! We've been the proud owners of this vehicle for 7 years now and we make sure to change the oil every 3,000 miles. It's been an incredibly reliable car, with no major repairs needed despite having 163,000 miles on it! However, we have noticed that despite routine underbody flushes with a car wash, there is quite a bit of rust on the car. Unfortunately, it has eaten its way through completely under the driver side sliding door. We've also had a few warning lights on the dash for the past 3 years, including the engine light, ABS light, and traction control light. When we took it to the mechanic, he mentioned that it was running lean and that it might be affecting the MPG. Nonetheless, we still love our car and are grateful for all the memories it has given us!
Dan Nikolaus 2025-03-20
Vehicle year: 1999
I'm not a fan of this minivan. The gas mileage isn't great, and we've tried to give it a tune-up, but nothing seems to work. On our best day, we get 10mpg in town and around 16mpg on the highway. Next time, we'll consider buying a foreign car for better mpg. Although I'm an 'American' car fan, I'm open to exploring other options.
Jeff Glover 2025-03-19
Vehicle year: 1997
Sorry to hear that you had a bad experience with the can. We strive to provide high-quality products and we apologize for any inconvenience caused. Please let us know if there is anything we can do to make it right.