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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  Beats Dodge any day - 2003 Ford Windstar
  By Teacher - May 14 - 2:00 am

  We shopped around at all minivan dealers, Toyota, Dodge, Kia, Ford, etc. and went with the Ford. It seems to me that the people who have responded to the Ford Windstar must be car dealers because their responses dont seem valid. Shop all other dealers first, then compare price and options to the Windstar. There is no comparison.

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  Very Disapointed - 2000 Ford Windstar
  By Cosgrove - May 11 - 2:00 am

  Purchased the car because we liked the styling, safety and size. Went for a loaded SEL because we planned to pay it off and keep it for 8-10 years. Suddenly, with 55k miles, the car just stops. It will only go into reverse. We have it towed to the shop and find out we need a new transmission for $2500! Looking through the internet I find dozens of people that have had the exact same problem. How Ford can state or even imply that they build quality vehicles is beyond me, this will be the very last Ford product I ever purchase. I want my money back!

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  ford experiece - 1999 Ford Windstar
  By turttle - May 7 - 2:00 am

  I believe i got my monies worth buying this vehicle

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  Dont buy a Ford - 1995 Ford Windstar
  By armstrongh - May 3 - 2:00 am

  Usual Ford problems - Head gasket failure, engine failure, transmission failure, door chimes, etc.. This van now has 74,500 miles on it, but would have more if it was ever out of the repair shop. Stay away from Fords.

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  Sadly disappointed - 2001 Ford Windstar
  By boizmom - May 3 - 2:00 am

  This is the second Windstar we have been afflicted with. The first was a 1999 and we finally got rid of it because in the heat, the rear sliding doors would pop ajar. This new one has also had issues with the sliders ( the same issue). Now, I am finding plenty of little things going wrong. I am just tired of spending my time in the dealership. We have also discovered that the rear heating system is poorly designed. There is a vent aimed at the drivers seat. So, when the kids are cold, but the driver is warm, too bad for the driver (or the kids)- the driver roasts while the kids still shiver.

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  1999 Ford Windstar SEL - 1999 Ford Windstar
  By psalm37v11 - May 1 - 2:00 am

  Too many mechanical failures. Required immediate replacement of power steering pump when brand new. Has needed two rebuilt transmissions in less than 80,000 miles at over $2,000 apiece. Neither transmission incident was covered under any warranty. In short, total cost of ownership of this vehicle is way too high. It was expensive to buy initially, and the repair costs make it infeasible to keep.

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  Fine for Us - 2003 Ford Windstar
  By gracer - April 29 - 2:00 am

  So far, weve been very pleased with the Ford Windstar. Its not posh inside, but certainly a great value. The "check tires" light has gone off more than expected, but its easy enough to reset.

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  Windstar Sport - 2000 Ford Windstar
  By jonsparham1 - April 22 - 2:00 am

  We got a special deal on this one new when our 1995 Windstar blew a head gasket at 123000 miles, a common problem we found out too late and usually fatal. This is an introductory model, the Sport, . The van has had a few problems after 35k mile, only one serious problem: a broken valve spring that could have blown the engine but other problems were not serious: new fuel pump, new set of tires, minor stuff, but not too frequently. It is out dated compared to the new Toyota and Honda or Nissan vans and any of these 3 are far better choices. WE feel very safe in Windstar, but it is not what I will buy next time for my wife and kids.

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  I love my van - 1995 Ford Windstar
  By telestai - April 21 - 2:00 am

  It has been very faithful. Very nice interior with leather seats,etc. Great for family camping trips, holds everything. Exterior is showing its age. Recently put in $2500 for head gasket.

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  GOT LUCKY TOO - 1999 Ford Windstar
  By hellothere - April 21 - 2:00 am

  I have to say nothing has gone wrong just regular mantainence.As far as tranmissions, Ya know things like not coming to a complete stop before placing into park can kill a trani also when in reverse slaming into drive and laying it out doesnt help. I personal will go with a truck next time but as far as my 99 Windstar i just hit 89,000 miles and no problems. BTW I am not a Ford person so please dont think I am some crazed all about fords to be honest i hate Ford I bought it cause the price was good. I do perfer Chevy or a bicycle over ford but honestly this van has been great to me.