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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  never again!!! - 1999 Ford Windstar
  By statchick - October 6 - 10:00 am

  I fell in love with the styling a year and a half ago too bad it has never run right. Replaced the brakes at 25,000, needed new tires just to keep on the road without sliding off. Transmission needs replacing at 50,000. I am dumping this one asap and never buying Ford again.

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  Poor design - 2002 Ford Windstar
  By Konrad 2002 - October 6 - 2:00 am

  Last year, I bought a year old SEL Windstar. I am getting rid of it this year. Poor interior use of space. There is hardly any storage inside the car. Back seat is uncomfortable for adults and a hassle to get into the back seat. Radio has very poor reception. I had it replaced by the dealer, but it still only picks up a few stations in a major metro area. Drives poorly on snow or slippery roads. Pretty good on mileage for this type of vehicle. It would be nice to have a full spare, since its mounted under the vehicle.

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  A Quest For Room! - 2001 Ford Windstar
  By evanshill - October 5 - 2:00 am

  After 2 weeks of grueling searches and comparison shopping..we found the Windstar to be the best value on the resale market. Lets face it, dealerships want a small fortune for someones used high mile van! But here is semi-luxury combined with simple design. Parent friendly elements paired with style. Mostly it offers separation of our 3 children without feeling we are driving a city bus, yet there is still leg room for the 12 year old! The ride is quiet, the van handles a van.It seems only the husband feels it should handle like a sports car. I have previously owned Caravan and Aerostar (yikes!), I like the caravan for long life durability but am well pleased with my Windstar!

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  Dont buy Windstars - 1999 Ford Windstar
  By Run away - October 4 - 2:00 am

  We bought this car new in 1999, and thats where the trouble started. It didnt have all of the options we were led to believe (rear audio plate was on the car but there was no rear audio). Electrical glitches very early on. As soon as the warranty ran out, the steering rack needed replaced, radio which was never that good broke, and numerous electrical glitches. Air bag light spent more time on than off after fixing twice, just gave up. Torque converter went at 85000 miles and fixed. Transmission finally went at 95000 miles and the brake light started coming on and I am calling it quits. These are just the major problems. I am now donating this car to charity and I feel guilty.

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  Good, but.... - 1998 Ford Windstar
  By JSBNews - October 2 - 2:00 am

  This has been a good vehicle, considering it was an emergency purchase, but I wouldnt buy one again. Its all over the road, and has some funny quirks even my mechanic cant figure out. Great for hauling people and stuff, but not very fun to drive.

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  Do not buy this vehicle - 2003 Ford Windstar
  By neveragainford - September 29 - 10:00 am

  I heed warning to anyone who is interested in a Ford Windstar. Make sure you look around before you make your decision. This is a nice vehicle at first, until you start looking at what you can get for your money at the other brands. I think the best minivan on the market today is the Dodge Grand Caravan / Chrysler Town and Country! Where else can you get industry exclusive infrared climate control that is automatic, Power sliding doors with obsticle detection system, and a power rear lift gate standard? You cant even get them elsehere as an option. These are by far the supreme minivan on the market!

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  Really? - 1995 Ford Windstar
  By fordbsb - September 25 - 2:00 am

  Well, the ford windstar has taken me places when i could depend on it and it is very reliable, even though you have the flat tires and the bad brakes, but everyone gets that. It is very comfortable on the inside and is clean and nice on the outside. It is quiet and suitable for 8 people!

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  Good for the Goose - 1996 Ford Windstar
  By Brownie2121 - September 24 - 2:00 am

  This vehicle was my first ever car purchase. It was resonably priced, and it has been a great family vehicle. Its build is very safe, when I had my front end collision, the car took all the impact and all I needed was to replace the hood and the grates. Like most cars, its not without faults. The lights were always coming on so Id take it in and have to have them reset. So, if you can get used to driving with your check engine light on, and are willing to rely on instinct as to when you really need it checked, this is the car for you. Great Family Van and not bad for driving around town either.

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  Still Runnin - 1996 Ford Windstar
  By Northwest Guy - September 22 - 2:00 am

  Like many posts here, had no serious problems to speak of until 75K mi. The sensitivity of the oxygen sensors ultimately replaced them all head gasket went this year at 84K. Ive owned a number of 4 different Fords since 1982 not perfect by any stretch but this year had to replace the engine in a 1994 Honda Civic with 104K - Thats NEVER supposed to happen with them have owned Toyotas (3), Mazda and an Acura. Fact is, NONE of these cars have been perfect. This van was the best deal on the road when we bought in 1997 with 29K. It is a comfortable vehicle that has been surpassed by newer versions by competitors.

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  Windstar is bad after 50000 - 1998 Ford Windstar
  By Cody jo - September 10 - 2:00 am

  I had problems with my van after 50000. Lots of small repairs