Overview & Reviews

Introduced in the mid-1990s, the front-wheel-drive Ford Windstar minivan campaigned with an emphasis on, and reputation for, safety. And in the hotly contested family minivan market of the time, that was an especially solid piece of ground to be on. As long as buyers didn't need to haul adults in back on a regular basis -- or find it necessary to remove the heavy third-row bench seat from the van often for additional cargo room -- the Windstar generally served a family's needs just fine.

Unfortunately, the Ford Windstar's general reputation for reliability was notably poorer than other competing minivans, particularly those from Honda and Toyota. The van's engine and transmission were particularly troublesome. In addition, we often criticized the Windstar for its noisy engines, poor interior space utilization and floppy handling.

Consequently, we suggest most shoppers take a look at other choices in this segment. But if you are set on getting a used Windstar, we'd at least suggest focusing on the most recent generation and consider opting for an extended warranty, if available.

Most recent Ford Windstar

During its nine years on the market, there were two Ford Windstar generations. The most recent was produced from 1999 to 2003. (Ford renamed it the Freestar for 2004.) The '99 van was completely redesigned to look more modern and sporty while upgrading mechanicals and adding a driver-side sliding door. The second- and third-row seats were now on rollers for easier maneuverability, and up front the instrument panel was reworked for improved ergonomics. There were also upgrades made to the suspension, transmission, brakes and air-conditioning.

Models now included base, LX, SE, SEL and Limited versions. Powering the van was either a 3.0-liter 150-horsepower V6 engine or -- a much more desirable -- 200-hp 3.8-liter V6. In reviews of the Ford Windstar at the time, our editors lauded the 3.8-liter engine for its power but complained that it was noisy under acceleration. We were also unhappy with its disconnected ride and handling, poor interior space utilization and weak reputation for reliability. Positive attributes included a plethora of convenience and safety features and top-notch crash test scores.

If we were shopping used Windstars, this new-and-improved second-generation version is as far back as we'd go. There were a few updates made through the years. The most significant of these were standard power-adjustable pedals, an optional rear-seat video entertainment system for 2000, the switch to the 3.8-liter engine as standard for all models in 2001 and the availability of safety-enhancing AdvanceTrac stability control for 2003.

Past Ford Windstar models

Ford introduced the front-wheel-drive Windstar in 1995 to replace its outgoing Aerostar rear-drive minivan. The new Windstar featured an extensive list of standard equipment, including dual airbags, antilock brakes, a four-speed automatic transmission and V6 power. Inside was seating for seven, including a unique integrated child seat.

The Windstar's only available engine was a 3.8-liter V6 which produced just 155 hp, but a more generous 220 pound-feet of low-end torque. Only a base GL model was available, but a more luxurious LX trim level was added in 1996 when a 3.0-liter 150-horsepower Vulcan V6 was made standard and an upgraded 3.8-liter V6 engine rated at 200 horses was optional. That year also saw four-wheel disc brakes fitted on vehicles equipped with traction control or the towing package. In 1998 -- the final year of its first generation -- the Windstar's driver's door was widened as a stop-gap measure to help access to the second row until the completely redesigned Windstar arrived a year later with a fourth door.

User Reviews:

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  WARRANTY WARRANTY WARRANTY - 1999 Ford Windstar
  By Jim Kafantaris - August 7 - 2:00 am

  I would recommend buying an extended warranty with EVERY car you buy. I bought a warranty for my 99 Windstar and, at 50,000 miles, blew my engine. The dealership claimed it was a timing chain that destroyed the engine. Warranty covered it and I got a new engine--without the warranty, it would have cost me at least $3500.00!!

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  windstar - 2003 Ford Windstar
  By john zarlino - July 29 - 2:00 am

  Bought this car because they stopped making the villager. We love it and will be buying another van.

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  satisfied - 2003 Ford Windstar
  By Dean - July 17 - 2:00 am

  Carry it to dealer for all work to be done. They have kept the car in top shape.

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  SECOND TIME AROUND - 2000 Ford Windstar
  By SEMPER FI - June 11 - 10:00 am

  love to drive,feel safe,great all-around visiliabilty,more than plenty room insid e,this van feels solid,this is my second time around with a WINDSTAR!!!

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  white windstar - 1998 Ford Windstar
  By reinert - June 5 - 2:00 am

  absolutly satisfied, good comfort, robust technic

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  Ford Windstar SE - 2003 Ford Windstar
  By ltoney - June 3 - 2:00 am

  The Windstar is a solid minivan with good torque, and is very comfortable. It is nice looking, and has a classy look with the chrome trim. The A/C is strong and does its job heartily. It is easy to get in and out of, and has a good driving position. It has plenty of cargo space with or without the back seat(s).

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  Better than Chevy - 1995 Ford Windstar
  By BA123 - May 26 - 2:00 am

  Traded an Astro van for my 95 Windstar. Windstar is better by far. More room, better comfort, handling and workmanship than Astro. No problems to date other than routine maint. Excellent for long trips. Pulls our camper with no problems.

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  Very Good So Far... - 1996 Ford Windstar
  By MadManMike - May 23 - 2:00 am

  Bought used in end of 1999, with the 3.8 Leter engine. Never had any major problems. First Van even owned and love it. But there are electrical problems galore but fortunately none have lead to a significant problem: Engine light comes on and stays for months - mechanic cant find anything wrong, thus resets. Interior lights frequently dont shut off after closing doors for up to 30 minutes at a time. Occasionally, the Door is open alarm does not shut off after the door is shut. 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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  Good Car - 2003 Ford Windstar
  By jmore - May 13 - 2:00 am

  Here in Puerto Rico is one of the best priced minivans

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  Enjoyable Vehicle - 1996 Ford Windstar
  By barns - May 8 - 2:00 am

  We as a family have enjoyed driving this Windstar for 5 years, Lots of room for children, Adults and family pets.