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:

• 

  Van Fan - 2002 Ford Windstar
  By Mark Zehnpfennig - June 2 - 10:39 am

  Setting aside a few minor quality issues this is a great minivan.

• 

  Best pre-owned value for your money - 2000 Ford Windstar
  By Mobin Akhtar - January 31 - 5:32 pm

  We bought the vehicle pre-owned with 80K miles on it. Primarily we wanted something bigger than the Honda CR-V that we traded for this van. My family was used to the Expedition we had before that so from the CR-Vs perspective, this was a pleasant upgrade. Also this model had leather, wood, etc. and automatic rear doors that help us a lot with a 5 year old and a 7 year old. Car has been nothing but comfort for us. The only work ever done on it other than routine oil/tires and consumables has been a dead battery (expected at this age) for $50, a top engine seal vacuum leak @ $140.00 and thats it! Exceptional for a FORD vehicle.

• 

  Quality Van, Quality Dealer - 2003 Ford Windstar
  By dferron - December 18 - 4:24 am

  Traded in a 97 Buick LeSabre Limited on this 2003 Windstar. It had been a lease vehicle and is in mint condition. Did a CarFax report, no problems noted, showed regular maintenance. It drives well, is quieter than the Buick, though not quite as comfortable. Fuel economy about 20% less than the Buick @ 18 in town. Has good acceleration, and great braking. So far, quite happy with our purchase. Removed third seat, and wanted to purchased the seat anchor covers. WOW! $26+ each, takes 4. Also, this van has a RECALL for rear seat anchors. It is a free fix by Ford. If you buy used, check the VIN with your dealer. We are in our fifties, kids gone.

• 

  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.

• 

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

  Like new, low milage

• 

  van - 1998 Ford Windstar
  By gcbrandmeyer - September 11 - 3:56 am

  great for carpooling

• 

  Best van for the money - 1999 Ford Windstar
  By Brolis - September 5 - 6:14 pm

  I own a 1999 Windstar SEL which I bought used. The van is fantastic. Very comfy for short and long haul driving. Am getting 22 mpg on the highway which is great, but it drops to 17 city driving. This is a very solid, well built van which I like much better than the 1999 counterparts. It is long wheelbase but very easy to park. The dual a/c is fantastic and ice cold. Just oil change every 6 months along with regular service and it keeps running great. Now approaching 80k and knock on wood, no problems. Highly recommend this wonderful minivan.

• 

  Great Family Van - 2003 Ford Windstar
  By Parents of 2 under 2 - August 15 - 5:27 pm

  We traded off a Acura TL for the van when the 2nd kid was in route. I can not believe we would love this as much as we do. Our van is the LX Deluxe with is an understatment with all the features: Power windows, locks, seats VCP, wheels, tire pressure monitor, rear a/c, plenty of horsepower. Our second row is a bench since both kids are in car seats this allows easier access to the 3rd row.

• 

  Very Happy - 1999 Ford Windstar
  By Ethan - August 7 - 10:00 am

  We bought our first Windstar in 1999, have since bought a second (2002), and will shortly buy our third. I cant tell you how happy we have been. The only time spent in the shop has been for the recalls and this seems to be a very small price to pay to make sure the van is running well. With cars from other manufacturers that I have owned in the past, this includes German and Japanese cars, I have had to make similar types of repairs, but I had to pay for them.

• 

  After 5 & one half years - 2000 Ford Windstar
  By s lznb - July 30 - 2:09 am

  We bought this vehicle due to the handling and power. The only one close was the Pontiac Montana sport but we couldnt make a deal. This van has never been any trouble, just routine maintenance, still has the OEM battery. Better fuel economy than expected, hwy & town. It has exceeded expectations and is still a pleasure to drive. I would buy another one except the new dash arrangement is unpleasant.