1994 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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Common 1994 Ford Windstar problems
The Ford Windstar, produced between 1994 and 2003, is known to experience several common engine issues. One of the most common problems is engine oil leaks, which can occur due to worn gaskets, seals, or other components. Oil leaks can lead to decreased engine performance, overheating, and even engine failure if left unaddressed.
Another common issue with the Ford Windstar is transmission problems. One of the primary causes of transmission issues in the Windstar is a design flaw in the valve body, which is responsible for controlling the hydraulic pressure within the transmission. This flaw can cause the valve body to wear out or become damaged, resulting in shifting problems and other issues. In addition to the valve body issue, other common causes of transmission problems in the Windstar include worn clutch plates and bands, as well as problems with the torque converter. These issues can cause symptoms such as slippage, hesitation, and difficulty accelerating.
Electrical issues are also common in the Ford Windstar. One of the most common electrical problems is a malfunctioning alternator, which is responsible for charging the battery and powering the vehicle's electrical system. A failing alternator can cause electrical components to malfunction or fail, and can even drain the battery completely. Another electrical issue commonly experienced by Windstar owners is problems with the power windows and locks. These issues can include windows that don't roll up or down properly or locks that don't engage or disengage. In some cases, the problem may be caused by a faulty switch or wiring issue, while in other cases it may be due to a malfunctioning motor. In addition to these issues, some Windstars may experience problems with their starter or ignition switch, which can cause difficulty starting the vehicle. Malfunctioning sensors, such as the oxygen sensor or mass air flow sensor, can also cause electrical issues and may result in poor engine performance and fuel efficiency.
Regular maintenance, such as checking and replacing fuses as needed, can help prevent some electrical issues. However, if you're experiencing electrical problems with your Windstar, it's important to seek professional diagnosis and repair. Attempting to diagnose and repair electrical issues yourself can be dangerous and may cause further damage to your vehicle. If you're experiencing electrical issues with your Windstar, consult a professional mechanic or service technician for diagnosis and repair. By addressing electrical issues as soon as they arise, you can help ensure that your vehicle's electrical system functions properly and avoid further problems down the road.
In summary, the Ford Windstar is known to experience several common engine, transmission, and electrical issues. These problems can lead to decreased engine performance, overheating, and even engine failure if left unaddressed. Regular maintenance and addressing problems as soon as they arise can help prevent further damage and ensure that your Windstar functions properly. If you're experiencing any of these issues, consult a professional mechanic or service technician for diagnosis and repair.
How long do Ford Windstars last?
Expect a fairly meager typical lifespan of 180,000 miles.
What kind of engine does a Ford Windstar have?
It was slotted above the Ford Galaxy in size and equipment level. The sole powertrain was the 3.0 L V6 engine and automatic transmission, with no diesel engine nor manual transmission available.
How fast is a Ford Windstar?
Performance
| 0 - 80 kph | 8.8 s |
|---|---|
| 0 - 100 kph | 12.5 s |
| 0 - 160 kph | 38.9 s |
| 1000 m | 34.1 s |
| Top speed | 180 kph (112 mph) |
How long is a 1997 Ford Windstar?
201.2″1997 Ford Windstar / Length
What engine is in a Ford Windstar?
3.8L V6
Powertrain. The Windstar shared its powertrains with the Ford Taurus/Mercury Sable. For its 1995 launch, the 3.8L V6 was the sole engine in GL and LX Models, producing 155 hp; a 150 hp 3.0L V6 was introduced as the standard engine in October 1995 for base and lower GL models.
What was the last year the Ford Windstar was made?
The Ford Windstar was a minivan produced by Ford Motor Company from 1995 through 2003 in two generations.
How fast is a Ford Windstar?
Performance
| 0 - 80 kph | 8.8 s |
|---|---|
| 0 - 100 kph | 12.5 s |
| 0 - 160 kph | 38.9 s |
| 1000 m | 34.1 s |
| Top speed | 180 kph (112 mph) |
How long is a 2000 Ford Windstar?
200.9 in.
Used 2000 Ford Windstar - Specs & Features
| Dimensions | |
|---|---|
| Length | 200.9 in. |
| Overall width without mirrors | 76.6 in. |
| Height | 66.1 in. |
| Wheelbase | 120.7 in. |
1994 Ford Windstar car problems categorized by type of issue
After analyzing all complaints sent to the NHTSA and researching popular Ford Windstar problems, we found that the most common problems with these 2023 model year vehicles are:
- Engine and engine cooling problems
- Power train problems
- Suspension problems
- Service brakes problems
- Hydraulic problems
The graph below shows statistics for all 1994 Ford Windstar vehicle components and the number of complaints received.
1994 Ford Windstar complaints
The NHTSA has received 23 complaints about various vehicle components related to the 1994 Ford Windstar.
SUSPENSION PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2010-05-05
- Components: SUSPENSION
- Summary: TL* THE CONTACT OWNS A 1994 FORD WINDSTAR. WHILE DRIVING AT SPEEDS OF 15 MPH, THE CONTACT HEARD A LOUD, UNUSUAL NOISE COMING FROM THE VEHICLE. THE VEHICLE WAS TAKEN TO A LOCAL REPAIR FACILITY WHERE THE TECHNICIAN ADVISED THE SUSPENSION WAS CRACKED. THE TECHNICIAN MADE REPAIRS TO THE SUSPENSION ACCORDINGLY. THE DEALER WAS CONTACTED AND ADVISED THERE WERE NO RECALLS FOR THE VEHICLE. THE FAILURE AND CURRENT MILEAGES WERE 125,000.
SUSPENSION,SERVICE BRAKES, HYDRAULIC,ENGINE AND ENGINE COOLING PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2005-02-10
- VIN: 2FMDA5145SB
- Components: SUSPENSION,SERVICE BRAKES, HYDRAULIC,ENGINE AND ENGINE COOLING
- Summary: THE CONSUMER IS EXPERIENCING PROBLEMS WITH THE BRAKES. THE ABS LIGHT COMES ON AND NO ONE SEEMS TO KNOW WHY IT'S HAPPENING. ALSO, THE REAR WHEEL CYLINDERS ARE LEAKING. ALSO, THE BRAKE HOSES WERE REPLACED. OWNER HAS TAKEN THE VEHICLE TO THE DEALER FOR THESE BRAKE PROBLEMS ON NUMEROUS OCCASIONS BUT KNOW ONE CAN SEEM TO REPAIR THE PROBLEMS. *NM THE BRAKES WOULD LOCK UP AT TIMES. THE CONSUMER WOULD HAVE TO PUMP THE BRAKES A FEW TIMES. REFER TO RECALL CAMPAIGN #02V101000. WHEN THE VAN WAS STARTED FOR A 5TH OR 6TH TIME, IT WOULD SPUDDER/BUBBLE AND ON OCCASION, WOULD NOT START UP. THE SPARK PLUGS, PLUG WIRES AND EGR VALVE HAD BEEN REPLACED. THERE WERE ALSO ONGOING PROBLEM WITH THE ALIGNMENT WHEEL PULLING TO THE RIGHT. *SC *JB
EQUIPMENT PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 1901-01-01
- VIN: 9999
- Components: EQUIPMENT
- Summary: BAD STRESS POINTS WITH 4 TO 6 INCH FRACTURES IN THE METAL. (NAR) *PH FORD WINDSTARS MADE FROM 1994 - 2000. *CB
ENGINE AND ENGINE COOLING PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2004-01-17
- VIN: PLEASE PROV
- Components: ENGINE AND ENGINE COOLING
- Summary: WHILE DRIVING 30 MPH THE VEHICLE STALLED. THE DEALER WAS NOTIFIED OF THE PROBLEM. PLEASE PROVIDE ANY ADDITIONAL INFORMATION. *NM
POWER TRAIN PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2024-11-24
- VIN: 2FMDA5141SB
- Components: POWER TRAIN
- Summary: WHEN VEHICLE IS AT A COMPLETE STOP OR IDLING AND GAS IS APPLIED, THE VEHICLE HESITATES TO ACCELERATE, THEN LAUNCHES FORWARD WHEN ACCELERATOR ENGAGES. THE DEALERSHIP INDICATED THAT THIS IS A RESULT OF A FAULTY PISTON IN THE TRANSMISSION, AND THIS IS A COMMON PROBLEM WITH THIS MODEL/YEAR VEHICLE. PLEASE PROVIDE MORE DETAILS. TS
POWER TRAIN PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2002-11-20
- VIN: 2FMZA5246XB
- Components: POWER TRAIN
- Summary: CONSUMER STATED THAT WHILE DRIVING AT ANY SPEED AND WITHOUT THE TRANSMISSION FAILED CAUSING THE VEHICLE NOT TO ACCELERATE. DEALER NOTIFIED. TS
ENGINE AND ENGINE COOLING PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2002-09-09
- VIN: PLEASE FILL
- Components: ENGINE AND ENGINE COOLING
- Summary: CONSUMER STATES THAT THE VEHICLE WOULD RUN ROUGH AND LOSES COOLANT WHILE DRIVING. DEALER NOTIFIED AND INFORMED THAT THE PROBLEM IS WITH A BLOWN HEAD GASKETS ON THEIR 3.8L V6 ENGINE. FEEL FREE TO PROVIDE ANY FURTHER INFORMATION. NLM
ENGINE AND ENGINE COOLING PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2024-11-24
- Crash: 1
- VIN: 2FMDA5142TD
- Components: ENGINE AND ENGINE COOLING
- Summary: WHILE DRIVING AND WITHOUT WARNING VEHICLE BEGAN TO STALL, RESULTING IN A COMPLETE SHUTDOWN. DEALER WAS NOTIFIED.*AK
POWER TRAIN PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2024-11-24
- Components: POWER TRAIN
- Summary: CONSUMER STATES WHILE DRIVING OVER 35 MPH WITHOUT WARNING THE SPEEDOMETER NEEDLE WILL MOVE BACK AND FOURTH EXTREMELY FAST RESULTING IN THE SPEED OF THE VEHICLE NOT TO REGISTER.*JB
ENGINE AND ENGINE COOLING PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2002-06-15
- VIN: PLEASE FILL
- Components: ENGINE AND ENGINE COOLING
- Summary: A BLOWN HEAD GASKET REOCCURRED AFTER REPAIRS WERE MADE FOUR YES AGO. MANUFACTURER WAS NOTIFIED. FEEL FREE TO PROVIDE ANY FURTHER INFORMATION.*AK
ENGINE AND ENGINE COOLING PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2024-11-24
- Components: ENGINE AND ENGINE COOLING
- Summary: CONSUMER RECEIVED SERVICE PROGRAM 00M09 REGARDING HEAD GASKET FAILURE, CONSUMER WENT TO A LOCAL DEALER STATING THAT NO FAILURES HAD OCCURRED AND DEALER STATED ACTION WAS NOT NECESSARY, HOWEVER NOW THE HEAD GASKET HAS FAILED AND CONSUMER WAS INFORMED THE WARRANTY HAD EXPIRED FOR THE SERVICE PROGRAM, CONSUMER IS NOW LEFT HAVING TO PAY FOR REPAIRS. *SLC
POWER TRAIN PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2024-11-24
- VIN: 2FMDA5145VB
- Components: POWER TRAIN
- Summary: WHEN GOING TO PARK INTO REVERSE CONSUMER WILL HEAR A LOUD CLUNKING NOISE. PLEASE PROVIDE FURTHER INFORMATION.*AK
STRUCTURE PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2024-11-24
- VIN: 2FMZA5243XB
- Components: STRUCTURE
- Summary: PUSH THE BUTTON TO CLOSE THE SLIDING DOOR AND IT DIDN'T CLOSE ALL THE WAY. ANOTHER TIME, THE LIGHT CAME ON TO INDICATE DOOR AJAR, AND THE DOOR WAS AJAR WHILE DRIVING. CONTACTED DEALER. DEALER CHECKED THE DOOR AND REGREASED. THE SECOND TIME THEY ORDERED A PART. THE THIRD AT THE DEALER THEY READJUSTED THE DOOR. THE FOURTH TIME THE DOOR WAS REALIGNED. THE FIFTH TIME THEY PUT A NEW CONTROLLER.*AK
ENGINE AND ENGINE COOLING PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2024-11-24
- VIN: NOT AVAILAB
- Components: ENGINE AND ENGINE COOLING
- Summary: ENGINE HEAD GASKETS HAVE FAILED PREMATURELY. DEALER HAS NO REASON. *AK
POWER TRAIN PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 1998-10-18
- VIN: 2FMDA51445B
- Components: POWER TRAIN
- Summary: THIS FAILURE CAUSES VEHICLE TO LOSE DRIVE POWER AT INTERSECTIONS AND IS VERY UNSAFE, WHEN I CONTACTED FORD THEY SAID NO RECALL HAD BEEN ORDERED AND THEY WOULD DO NOTHING UNTIL A RECALL IS ORDERED. THIS IS EXTREMLY UNSAFE TO LOSE POWER IN AN INTERSECTION, FORD HAS REDESIGNED THIS PART ON LATER MODELS BECAUSE OF FAILURE BUT THEY ARE NOT REPLACING PARTS ALREADY INSTALLED ON EXISTING VEHICLES. THEY SAID IT WOULD TAKE AN ORDER FROM NHTSA WOULD YOU PLEASE CHECK THIS OUT AND ORDER A RECALL, WHILE I WAS FORTUNATE ENOUGH TO AVOID AN ACCIDENT THIS FAULTLY CLUCTH IS UNSAFE AND NEEDS TO BE ADDRESSED. THANKS FOR YOUR CONCERN!
AIR BAGS PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 1999-03-05
- Crash: 1
- Components: AIR BAGS
- Summary: WHILE SITTING AT A RED LIGHT ANOTHER VEHICLE REAR ENDED CONSUMER'S VEHICLE, AND DRIVER'S SIDE/PASSENGER'S SIDE AIR BAGS DIDN'T DEPLOY. *AK
ENGINE AND ENGINE COOLING PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 1998-08-01
- VIN: 4M2DV11W7RD
- Components: ENGINE AND ENGINE COOLING
- Summary: THE GAS FUMES ENTER IN THE VEHICLE WHILE DRIVING, CAUSING HEALTH PROBLEMS. DEALER CANNOT DETERMINE PROBLEM. CAUSE UNKNOWN. PLEASE PROVIDE FURTHER INFORMATION. *AK
SEATS PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 1996-04-01
- VIN: 2FMDA5145SB
- Components: SEATS
- Summary: VEHICLE EQUIPPED WITHOUT REAR SEAT PASSENGERS' HEAD RESTRAINT SYSTEM. PROBABLE CAUSE: SEVERE HEAD OR NECK INJURIES UPON A CRASH. *SLC
POWER TRAIN PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 1997-09-09
- VIN: 2FMDA5148SB
- Components: POWER TRAIN
- Summary: TRANSMISSION ENGAGES SLOWELY WHEN HOT, FALLS INTO NEUTRAL SLIPS ON START, AND A LOUD THUMP IS HEARD WHILE DRIVING, THE DEALER HAS BEEN NOTIFIED. *AK CONSUMER STATED FOWARD CLUTCH PISTON AND 3RD CLUTCH PISTON ALUMINUM CRACKED.*JB
POWER TRAIN PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 1997-07-01
- Components: POWER TRAIN
- Summary: TRANSMISSION FAILED - VEHICLE DRIFTED BACKWARDS SEVERAL FEET, THEN SURGE FORWARD.
SUSPENSION PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 1997-07-14
- VIN: 2FMDA5146SB
- Components: SUSPENSION
- Summary: MAIN BEARINGS FAILED SUDDENLY AT HIGHWAY SPEED. LOST POWER ON INTERSTATE WITHOUT WARNING.
POWER TRAIN PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 1997-01-16
- VIN: 2FMDA514XSD
- Components: POWER TRAIN
- Summary: WAS DRIVING ALONG AT APPROXIMATELY 35MPH , PULLED OUT TO GET IN PASSING LANE AND TRANSMISSION SLIPPED AND THE VEHICLE WOULD NOT ACCELERATE. TOOK VEHICLE TO DEALER AND HE COULD NOT FIND THE PROBLEM. NOW THE VEHICLE WILL NOT GO INTO REVERSE. *AK
SERVICE BRAKES, HYDRAULIC PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2024-11-24
- VIN: 2FMDA5148SB
- Components: SERVICE BRAKES, HYDRAULIC
- Summary: APPLIED THE BRAKES AND THE ABS BRAKES DID NOT KICK IN . PLEASE DESCRIBE . *AK
Additional sources
More sources of information about 1994 Ford Windstar problems:
Common Ford Windstar Transmission Problems: Q&A for 2000-2003 ...
Jul 19, 2010 ... My friends 2000 Windstar seems to be BLOWING transmission fluid and only when it is run at highway speeds fro over an - Answered by a ...
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Oct 1, 2000 ... Continental, 1994-1995 Ford Taurus and Mercury Sable, and 1995 Ford Windstar with 3.8L V-6 engines to 7 years or 100,000 miles, whichever ...
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May 19, 2016 ... 2003 ford windstar...3.8---no start.. cranks and runs for a second then dies. replaced fuel pump and filter. what should - Answered by a ...
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Oct 16, 2007 ... hello, I have a 94 windstar, I am dealing with the electrical problems the van is well known for but my biggest problem is that when I first ...
Ford WIndstar '03 charging problem | Bob Is The Oil Guy
Mar 31, 2019 ... Trying to help my neighbor out. He has an '03 Ford Windstar that won't charge. I helped him replace the alternator to no avail, ...
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