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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  SE Sport Wins!! - 2002 Ford Windstar
  By Ray - March 12 - 12:48 pm

  I have the SE Sport in Black, and both young and old stop to tell me how nice my van looks. It has the entertainment package and with that the kids are always behaving. The van has plenty of power and the interior in just as sporty as the outside. Overall I dont care for the looks of the windstar, but the sports package and spoiler gives it a look that no other van has. The only down side is Ive had to take it several times for recalls.

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  well satisfied in wisconsin - 2002 Ford Windstar
  By lee - February 17 - 9:31 am

  having had the van for 2 months,to this point i am very satisfied. it handles well & gets decent gas mileage (24gpm) has been the best on the open road.driving it in the winter i am pleased with the heater & the relatively short time to heat the space.overall i think its fine vehicle.

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  My third nearly perfect Windstar - 2000 Ford Windstar
  By jmhansen - February 16 - 10:00 am

  I have just completed my third 2yr lease of a Windstar, all of which have been excellent experiences. Only one warranty repair - odometer computer module on this latest SEL - in six years driving 3 Windstars. All have been easy to drive and practical for my business needs. The SEL is especially comfortable and a pleasure to drive. Other than some extra engine noise after cold starts at low speeds, this van is quiet and comfortable. I would not hesitate to get another one, although I am switching to an Explorer for a change of pace.

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  Two years in a windstar - 2000 Ford Windstar
  By Steven Gross - January 10 - 10:00 am

  I find the windstar to very reliable and comfortable van. It handles all our needs (todays staton wagon). It is versitale to move large objects and still keep them secure.

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  2nd Windstar and LOVING it! - 2000 Ford Windstar
  By wmhgatesiv - November 9 - 2:00 am

  This is our second Windstar and just wanted to tell everyone it is a pleasure owning it. Great for travel, great for hauling things, great for comfort, just great!!

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  Great Minivan 98 Windstar - 1998 Ford Windstar
  By Cham - October 16 - 10:00 am

  This is a great little overall van.

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  Very good - 1998 Ford Windstar
  By Andy Lego - September 3 - 10:00 am

  Winstar Limited Edition 3.8 V6 engine. Overall good vehicle, only one problem with ABS Traction Control sensor it shut off during drive a Van. It was fixed for $ 450.00 at local Ford. There was no other problems I enjoy driving it, this Limited Edition is a good Quality MiniVan and good for Gas 9.8 l per 100 km on Hwy. Thank you Andy

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  Worlds Safest Mini-Van - 2003 Ford Windstar
  By macuser - August 28 - 10:00 am

  This is by far the best mini-van I have ever owned, having previously owned a Chrysler Town & Country, Pontiac Montana, and GMC Safari. The Ford Windstar has the best of everything all in one well priced package.

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  Its getting better - 2003 Ford Windstar
  By FrankTheCabOwner - July 11 - 10:00 am

  i own 2 1998 windstars and was not to happy with them. they each needed multiple transmissions. They also needed front-end work about every 50,000 miles they are each approaching 500,000 miles now. (They are Taxis) I am very happy with the 2003 i just bought. They tell me the transmission problem has been fixed so that i should get 200-250k miles per trans, instead of the 100k the old ones lasted.

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  Great Minivan!!! - 1998 Ford Windstar
  By TexMorgan - May 10 - 10:00 am

  We purchased our van new and have owned it for 4 years now. This is a great driving vehicle! Plenty of power and a very smooth ride with decent handling. Good quality materials inside and out. We have had very few maintenance issues other than normal wear/tear items (brake pads/rotors turned twice). Purchased an extended warranty after mfg warranty expired just in case. (Would recommend for anyone buying used) You get alot of vehicle for the money in my opinion. Highly recommend!!