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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  Run As Fast As You Can! - 2000 Ford Windstar
  By Angry Dad - November 8 - 12:08 pm

  Bought used in 2003 with 54k on it. I have paid double for this van. In five years I have rebuilt the entire steering system, including springs and struts. The tranny went out at 105K. The intake seals had to be redone. Every time I get my annual inspection it costs me $500-$700. The cost of inspection is only $65. Parts are expensive and do not last. This van has no battery or alternator lamps. Van will just die if you have an electrical problem. Left me stranded on vacation with my 3 kids on the highway. Now at 8 years old, the rocker panels and doors are rusted out. The side of my van looks like swiss cheese. I was advised to just drive it til it dies. Not worth repairing.

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  American Value! - 2002 Ford Windstar
  By Johann - November 3 - 5:13 pm

  Purchased this vehicle used nearly 2 years ago, with 50,000 miles. No problems at all with this van. 20mpg, powerful engine and tows our folding camper with ease. The kids love it and we all appreciate how comfortable it is to drive, for short or long trips. Test drove the Sienna, but when we asked about its ability to tow our large folding camper, the toyota salesmen told us not to buy the Sienna. We have considered buying a new SUV, but we cant justify it. This van does everything well and costs nothing to own. Best value out there and solidly built. Way to go Ford!

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  transmission failure at 50 k miles! - 2000 Ford Windstar
  By Billy-Bob - October 25 - 2:00 am

  This vehicle provides quite a bit of utility. Less "mini" than some of other vans on the market which means more space,but tighter turning, parking, etc. Lots of wind noise with this van. Been reliable until transmission completely failed at 49,000 (21 mos.). No warranty relief and massive repair bill.

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  One bad minivan - 1999 Ford Windstar
  By Unhappy Dad - October 7 - 2:00 am

  the 1999 edition is HORRIBLE! Our first Windstar was wonderful- no problems and 75k miles. This one was the WORST car we have ever owned- engine was replaced at 30k; transmission broke at 52k; electric was always having problems; battery died monthly. A LEMON is a nice name for this vehicle. FORD= Fix Or Repair Daily (at least monthly)

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  Rolling Bar - 2002 Ford Windstar
  By Dustlyman - September 29 - 9:21 pm

  Well this 02 is my 2nd Ford Windstar, my first one was a 00. Both were used from my wifes grandpa. So when they hit 50,000 he sold them to me. So I have been pimpin Windstars for the past 5 years. Got to say I love the space. I take out the middle seat and leave them out, leave in the back ones (no kids yet) friend/family say its like a limo. Just throw whatever I want in the middle, its great for groceries, trips to home Depot/Lowes. Also makes it easy to mix drinks out of. If you take out all of the seats you have a reg cab pick-up with a cover. As far as any problems, none got 88,500 on it now. Excellent in the snow. A/C, heater works great

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  Ford all the way - 2003 Ford Windstar
  By Phantom - September 23 - 1:14 pm

  I Love My Windstar! Without a doubt this is one of the best vehicles on the road. One fact my decision to purchase a Windstar was you very rarely see on sitting on the road side. The total mileage is approaching 101200 and have only had regular servicing done. My dealer is the one problem I have as they want the van brought in for every little thing. I suppose they think an oil change is beyond the scope of the average person. If Ford still made Windstars, I would not hesitate to purchase another one. Anyone who thinks the Windstar gets poor mileage probably races from stoplight to stoplight and spends a lot time sitting in traffic. I get approximately 18.6 mpg around town.

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  A dangerous vehicle to own. - 1999 Ford Windstar
  By Former Ford Man - September 10 - 4:18 pm

  This van started off serving us well but quickly became a nightmare. At 75k mi. the transmission failed requiring rebuild. At 85k mi, the speed control deactivation switch caused a fire at the ABS module while the vehicle was off and parked in the driveway. Along the way, electrical system issues caused the power windows, power door locks and horn to stop working. This vehicle has major electrical system flaws causing a dangerous safety issue!

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  Great performer in the long run - 1998 Ford Windstar
  By duke - August 30 - 7:54 pm

  When you compare the low maintenance cost versus the three or four times maintenance cost of imports there is no comparison. For comfort the interior design of the Windstar served as a model for the coming years to other minivans. For fuel economy nineteen to twenty miles per gallon was ahead of its time in comparison to the other minivans. And when you become aware of the fact that after ten years or more many Windstars are still on the road. Whereas the Honda Odysseys, Susuki Oasis, Toyota Siennas, and the rest of that bunch have mostly been decommissioned even though their owners spend a lot more money on them trying to keep them alive. The contest is over. Windstar is the winner

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  10 Years Ownership - 1998 Ford Windstar
  By B Whitcomb - August 18 - 8:39 pm

  Good reliable engine, no oil burner and exceeded EPA estimates on highway achived 26 MPG on highway. A lot of interior noise. Removable second and third row seats very heavy. Brakes marginal. Tow package for 3500 lbs worked well. No major failures in 203000 miles. Seat cushions on front driver side did not retain cushion. Radio AM reception poor.

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  Great Car - 2000 Ford Windstar
  By 2windstar50 - August 6 - 8:29 am

  I bought this car new because the last Windstar my family and I had, a 1995, blew a head gasket (first major problem). We loved it. This Windstar is excellent and there has only been one problem in 62,000 miles: the front passenger door lock doesnt work. This car is luxurious and one of the best.