Ford Windstar problems

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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).

photo of Ford Windstar car production

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Ford Windstar model years

ford windstar 2005 photo
Windstar 2005
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1

0

0

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Windstar 2004
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24

0

0

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Windstar 2003
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1505

9

43

1.7
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ford windstar 2002 photo
Windstar 2002
Ford

1396

9

47

1.9
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ford windstar 2001 photo
Windstar 2001
Ford

1725

16

43

1.8
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ford windstar 2000 photo
Windstar 2000
Ford

1692

16

0

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ford windstar 1999 photo
Windstar 1999
Ford

1587

13

44

1.5
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ford windstar 1998 photo
Windstar 1998
Ford

2440

14

42

1.9
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  • 1
ford windstar 1997 photo
Windstar 1997
Ford

220

6

43

1.6
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ford windstar 1996 photo
Windstar 1996
Ford

1484

9

46

1.5
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  • 2
  • 1
ford windstar 1995 photo
Windstar 1995
Ford

3777

8

42

1.4
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ford windstar 1994 photo
Windstar 1994
Ford

23

0

0

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ford windstar 1993 photo
Windstar 1993
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11

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0

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Windstar 1992
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2

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Windstar 1991
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3

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ford windstar 1990 photo
Windstar 1990
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6

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ford windstar 1985 photo
Windstar 1985
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6

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Common Ford Windstar problems

Based on the complaints from owners of Ford Windstar cars, several common problems have been identified:

  1. 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.
  2. 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.
  3. 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.
  4. 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.
  5. 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.
  6. 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.
  7. 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.

Ford Windstar

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

  1. Everardo Sporer 2025-09-03

    Vehicle year: 1997

    I purchased this car 'as is' from a used car lot. Despite having only about 110,000 miles, it required significant repairs within a year, including a head gasket replacement costing $1,700, an alternator replacement costing $560, and a transmission replacement costing $2,300. The total cost of repairs has exceeded the purchase price of the car, which is disappointing. However, the car is comfortable to drive and has ample space for hauling cargo with the seats removed.

  2. Arnoldo Gutkowski 2025-09-03

    Vehicle year: 1995

    I purchased this car brand new, but unfortunately, I experienced several issues with it. Despite my best efforts to maintain it, I had to replace three transmissions, a head gasket, and a wheel bearing, among other things, all before reaching 60,000 miles. Even after taking it to the dealer, the check engine and ABS lights continued to be problematic, and the cruise control, back wiper, and interior lights were also not functioning properly. Although I was disappointed with these issues, I learned a lot from this experience and will be more careful when choosing my next vehicle.

  3. Ian Terry 2025-08-29

    Vehicle year: 2003

    I've had no mechanical problems with my Windstar, even after putting 88,000 miles on it. It still runs like new, and I only had to change the battery for the first time recently. However, I've decided to trade it in for a smaller car. If I had known that Ford was going to release a van with collapsible seats instead of removable ones, I would have waited and bought the Freestar. Removing and replacing the back seats has been a bit of a hassle since I got the car. Like many other reviewers, I've experienced occasional flickering of the interior lights and the ABS light coming on, but the dealer hasn't been able to find any problems when I bring it in. The gas mileage has been around 20, which used to be better.

  4. Harmon Gorczany 2025-08-29

    Vehicle year: 1996

    Transmission, head, and engine gasket failures can be costly. However, our team's expertise and experience ensure that we can handle these issues with confidence and efficiency.

  5. Jennings Will 2025-08-26

    Vehicle year: 2001

    When I first purchased this car brand new and fully loaded, it was priced at $32,000. Unfortunately, I have had some issues with it, such as the A/C going out in the back two rows after 1 1/2 years of ownership, the door locks not working, and the back windshield wiper falling off on the freeway. Additionally, the TV/VCR in the car no longer works, the speakers in the back rows cut on and off, and the power seats are stuck in one position. Despite these challenges, I am considering selling the car to a junkyard as it is only worth $2000 now and needs some repairs. Thank you for your understanding.

Latest positive Ford Windstar car reviews

  1. Adriel Wuckert 2025-09-03

    Vehicle year: 2001

    I purchased the vehicle second-hand with 18,000 miles on the clock. Despite now having 143,000 miles, it continues to run exceptionally well. While I did experience a transmission issue at around 55,000 miles, it was promptly resolved by the dealer and I have not encountered any further problems. Although the power doors can be temperamental, the 3.8 engine does not burn oil nor does it have any leaks. While the resale value may not be favourable, I intend to continue driving it until it is no longer feasible. In the meantime, it provides a comfortable and enjoyable driving experience.

  2. Kale Smitham 2025-09-03

    Vehicle year: 2002

    I bought this van after owning/driving a Chevy Venture and a Dodge Caravan. I can confidently say that this van is hands down better than the competition. It is bigger, more powerful, and has a better ride. Although the gas mileage is less on the larger 3.8L engine, the significant power and better towing ability make that negligible at 25mpg hi-way compared to 28+ on the others with a small trailer. I loved it from day one and it still drives like new, even turning 109,000 this week. Maintenance is easier on the Windstar, with easier oil/filter changes. The cabin air filter for allergy sufferers is also a good idea. Overall, I would say it is 100% better than the Venture and 50% better than Chrysler products. Before buying this, I looked at Honda and Hyundai, but we have never regretted our decision for a second!

  3. Kristian Thompson 2025-08-29

    Vehicle year: 2001

    I have a Ford Windstar minivan and I've been driving it since 2010. I've never had any problems with it. I even drove it across Canada while towing a U-Haul container from Ontario to Saskatoon. I really enjoyed the comfortable drive!

  4. Beau Murazik 2025-08-20

    Vehicle year: 2001

    We had leased a 1999 Windstar, but we were glad we didn't buy it. We had to replace two transmissions and were now on our third, which was quite noisy. Fortunately, we received an 'Early Bird Termination' letter from Ford, allowing us to get rid of the 1999 lemon after only 28 months of the 36-month lease. We then leased a new 2001 Windstar SE, which was fully loaded with leather, power sliding doors, and an entertainment center, all for under $400 per month.

  5. Braulio Von 2025-08-13

    Vehicle year: 2001

    Congratulations on your new purchase! It's great to hear that you found a van that you love. It sounds like you did your research and found one with a powerful engine, a safe design, and plenty of space inside. I'm glad to hear that you're enjoying driving it and I hope you have many fun trips in the future!

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