Overview & Reviews

Ford boosted output on the 3.8-liter V6 from 155 to 200 horsepower. Trim and equipment have been revised, and four-wheel disc brakes come with traction control or the tow package. A new integrated child safety seat has been added to the options list. Tune-ups happen every 100,000 miles. Traction control is now optional.

User Reviews:

Showing 21 through 30 of 102.00

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  It coulda shoulda been a better idea - 1996 Ford Windstar
  By Mr. G - July 9 - 2:00 am

  I too had the trouble with Check Engine Light. Dealer told me at 80,000 that the #4 cylinder had a head gasket leak. PLug was carboned up they said and it was anti-freeze. Funny no antifreeze in the oil! They started to take it apart to replace head gasket and found the intake was all carboned up. Two cans of brake cleaner($3 ea,) and $350 bucks and it was fixed. They denied the head gasket was a problem anymore. Even Ford said it was fixed. Had the intake cleaned again at 100,000. Check Engine lite went out and then came back on and will not go off even when you disconnect neg terminal.

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  1996 3.8L Windstar - 1996 Ford Windstar
  By 22 yr old - June 23 - 2:00 am

  Get an extended warranty because its worth it. There were a few minor repairs and the transmission had to be rebuilt at 72K miles when the warranty ran out at 75K. At 94K there are some electrical problems popping up, but nothing too bad. The speedometer has been replaced once and its getting a bit shaky again. The right windows stopped operating, but my dad simply took the motors apart and put it back together and it just started working again. The door light started coming on even though all doors were closed. I cleaned the contacts where the doors close and now the light only stays on for an extra 5 seconds every now and then. Despite its problems, I like the van.

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  Didnt Learn - 1996 Ford Windstar
  By Unhappy in TX - June 7 - 2:00 am

  Weve had the Windstar 6.5 years only 55K miles. No major problems until 54,400 miles. Transmission disintegrated the internal differential came apart and spewed pieces all over the inside of the trans. A re-manufactured trans was installed. Thankfully, the $3600 bill was covered under a third party warranty. This van was not driven hard by any means. Had a 1988 Taurus wagon. Same engine (3.8 L), same trans, same result (trans died at 60K miles). I didnt learn. Im sure the head gasket is next. I have friends with similar stories about Windstars. No more Fords. Our other mini-van is a Venture.

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  1996 Windstar 3.8 L - 1996 Ford Windstar
  By boxinbox - December 24 - 2:00 am

  Lots of power. What a amazing engine!! very comfortable to drive. Smoth and easy to park. Did I say how fun 200 HP on a small van is??

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  Runs Well at 78K Miles - 1996 Ford Windstar
  By WIN STAR - November 28 - 2:00 am

  Weve owned our Windstar for 5+ years now. I know that people have had problems with them. Our only major one was the tailgate lock failing and having to be replaced. Bought it with 29K miles from a local dealer. The faux leather interior, sound system, All-Trac and load level features continue to make this a pleasure to drive.

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  di - 1996 Ford Windstar
  By di - October 27 - 1:00 am

  I had a 1995 Windstar that I loved. I fell asleep, sit the back of a semi, and totalled the Windstar. I was so impressed with the safety factors--I walked away with a whiplash and some back medium back issues--that I called my salesman and told him to find me another one just like it. He did and now over 6 years later, I still love it.I have driven long distances in comfort, hauled a huge variety of items, lots of furniture, building supplies, kids, dogs, people and luggage and never been disappointed. Ive even pulled out small trees and shrubs with my Laser Red Windstar!!!

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  96 Windstar - 1996 Ford Windstar
  By familyMan - October 4 - 2:00 am

  Bought the Windstar new and found the minivan to be a real workhorse. The 3.8 eng is strong and peppy and fun to drive. Plows right thru snow while other Front Wheel drive cars are stuck. Its been extremely reliable, have had only the computer and a timing drive (which caused the computer to fail) replaced. Its got 123,000 and still going strong.

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  96 Windstar - 1996 Ford Windstar
  By Familyman - October 4 - 2:00 am

  Bought the Windstar new and found the minivan to be a real workhorse. The 3.8 eng is strong and peppy and fun to drive. Plows right thru snow while other Front Wheel drive cars are stuck. Its been extremely reliable, have had only the computer and a timing drive (which caused the computer to fail) replaced. Its got 123,000 and still going strong.

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  Not a bad van - 1996 Ford Windstar
  By ed - September 17 - 2:00 am

  My Windstar has been very dependable up to 50k miles. It has the 200hp engine so its got some get up and go. The ride is comfortable and handles well. The oil pan had a leak that had to be fixed twice under warranty. The CD player wont eject half the time. I almost bought a Explorer sport, the van was so much nicer.

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  Great purchase - 1996 Ford Windstar
  By Monte - August 8 - 2:00 am

  I have been extremely pleased with the purchase of our windstar. Gas mileage, while traveling with my family(2 adults,3 kids), has never been below 20 mpg unless I accelerated "heavily", or I was bucking some good ole midwestern winds! I have enjoyed my life traveling with this vehicle. We have had no mechanical problems during our time with this vehicle. We have had plenty of space for our family and cargo(presents, camping equip, etc) while on our trip. It is extemely powerful when needing the extra get up and go when needed.