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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  Very Good Experience - 1998 Ford Windstar
  By John_Denver - November 2 - 2:23 am

  I bought this van with 32k on it and its been very reliable. I change the fluids regularly. We live in Denver and love skiing so we take it up in the mountains 20-30x a year. No transmission or engine problems ever. It has good power with the 3.8l. I think were only replaced the water pump and brakes a couple times.

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  Ford Windstar 1999 - 1999 Ford Windstar
  By L. F. Swails - November 2 - 12:49 am

  Following are problems experienced beginning with vehicle at 2 or 3 years old: Yellow engine light -- no problem shows on computer check. Mechanic turns off, 1 to 6 months later same thing. At 97,000 miles air intake valve replaced, starter synchronizer replaced, passenger window motor repaired 70,000 miles + or - replace transmission (stranded 4 days 500+ miles from home). In Ford shop two times under warranty for front end problem 3rd time same symptom, just out of warranty. Ford shop said not same symptom so took van to private shop for repair.

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  I love this van - 2000 Ford Windstar
  By wesleysgranny - November 2 - 12:35 am

  I bought this van with 60,000 miles on it. I had some minor work done and have not had a single problem since.

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  Unility - 1998 Ford Windstar
  By Harold Roberts - October 31 - 10:00 am

  Like new, low milage

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  Dont buy one - 2000 Ford Windstar
  By Wes Smith - October 28 - 11:30 am

  Since the warranty expired, I have spent an average of $1500 per year on non-routine mantenance. It has been a pain in the wallet. I expect to spend money on tires, brakes, etc. But I have had to have to much "other" work done on the van.

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  Ford junk- NEVER AGAIN! - 2000 Ford Windstar
  By Mom of 3 - October 28 - 9:04 am

  From 55,000 - 76,000 miles replaced wheel bearings, electrical components, and ABS system. Also, the car stalled while driving, extremely dangerous. Car repairs totaled more then payments. I decided cut my losses and trade it. Dealer said transmission slipped and is worth $2800. After research I expected a loss but that was more than anticipated. So I went home defeated. I pulled into my driveway and it started to smoke and burn up. Lovely. I would like to buy American but Ford has made this American family poor so save time, aggravation, and money by NOT buying a Windstar. Sorry Ford, but theres a reason why the foreign car industry is doing so well, were tired of being taken advantage of.

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  Had pretty good luck so far. - 1996 Ford Windstar
  By RonL - October 27 - 3:26 pm

  Bought van in 99 with 33,000 miles. Transmission rebuilt right after purchase under warranty. (Thank you, Ford!) Bought extended warranty, never used it. Items replaced so far - tie rod ends, power steering pump. We tow snowmobiles with it, no problems pulling. Check engine light comes on occasionally, usually after long trips. Very comfortable ride, no major engine problems to date w/ 120,000 miles. Only paid $13k for van in 99, and it has served us well. Not a Honda by any means, but we didnt pay Honda prices. If I get another year or 2 out of this van I think I will have got more than my moneys worth.

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  Last Ford Van - 1999 Ford Windstar
  By mark in cincinnati - October 27 - 10:16 am

  I had no reason not to purchase a Ford with five relatives working for the company. Until my van turned 36k only regular maintenance & recalls were required. Since then: 3 transmissions, antilock brakes, heater core. Luckily I had a great service adviser that allowed me to purchase the extended warranty. So my cost for the transmissions was limited to $700. Factory trained/certified mechanics failed to bolt one of the brackets on the second rebuild requiring the third repair 8K miles later.

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  Not Great...Not Bad - 2002 Ford Windstar
  By dragonfly052172 - October 24 - 4:14 pm

  Great for first couple of years ... then it wears out. Electronics start to go. Rear wiper motor -- gone! Trim and door hardware start to come off. Interior is just plain ol cheap. So dont buy unless its for the long haul. Because it depreciates too fast. Oh yeah, gas mileage of 20 mpg on highway! Not good at all.

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  Dont buy a Windstar - 2000 Ford Windstar
  By Mari - October 19 - 4:08 am

  Like some others here, we had to replace the transmission within the first couple of years. Van has 68K and needs ANOTHER transmission! Hello! Problems with side door, electrical, mileage only 14 with plenty of highway driving, expensive to repair things like small bumper dings (cant they design bumpers that dont cost 1800 to fix?). Like rubber bumpers or something?