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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  Local Use Only! - 1997 Ford Windstar
  By SteveFromSyracuse - March 19 - 2:00 am

  Dont ever take this baby on the LONG HAUL! That transmission will sing you an expensive tune. It heats up after an hour or so and everything starts to blink and go alarmed. Fixed the traditional things like the mysterious power windows & lights & warning alerts. Just over 100k miles now, front bearings are going. Must sell and buy anything but a FORD.

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  No problems here - 1998 Ford Windstar
  By JackReed133 - March 19 - 2:00 am

  Ive had no problems with this van.

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  1999 Windstar - Its been a great trip - 1999 Ford Windstar
  By imbartman - March 19 - 2:00 am

  We have had this car since new and have had an excellent experience. This car has travelled hard and never let us down. It is a comfortable van with a nice ride, but not so cushy that you are afraid to use it. The throttle and engine noise is a little more throaty than most, but the power is smooth and plentiful. I would have no problem selling this car to a friend - even with 120,000 miles on it.

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  Decent people hauler - 1998 Ford Windstar
  By DaleH - March 14 - 2:00 am

  No mechanical problems. Expected some based on reviews. At 85000 still running fine. Always had problems with interior lights staying on after going through car wash. Mechanic said to spray WD40 on contacts. V6 engine has plenty of Power for the mountains in Colorado.

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  Been good to us - 1999 Ford Windstar
  By Dadto2 - March 11 - 2:00 am

  Bought our SEL just before our first was born. Now 4.5 yrs later we have 2 and the Windstar is still getting it done. Great family & Home Depot hauler. The leather has held up well and the carpet is very tough. We shopped for a new van/suv 2 weeks ago and didnt find anything that motivated us to replace the Windstar. I change the coolant, trans & PS fluids every year. Other than routine maint it has needed a MAF sensor, battery & tie rod ends. Our dealer returned it in 1/2 day each time. No cost w/ext warr. We ALWAYS buy them. Any late model vehicle can break the bank without one. The power doors are a great with an armful of kids, groceries, etc.

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  Best Windstar Ive owned - 1998 Ford Windstar
  By the moores - March 5 - 2:00 am

  This is the second windstar we have owned and overall are very pleased. Engine seems to have more touque than my v-8 tundra. Quite on highway but engine noisey during hard excelleration. A few rattles but a solid ride.

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  We love it! - 2002 Ford Windstar
  By tmwalsh - March 4 - 2:00 am

  We just love the van. It is comfortable, roomy, easy to get in and out of. The kids love it and so do I.

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  Nice mini van for the price - 1996 Ford Windstar
  By freddyford - March 1 - 2:00 am

  We bought this van used with 75000 miles. We have used it to pull a tent trailer for the last two years and its been excellent. Nothing but regular maintainence. I did put in a set of rear air-adjustable shocks but thats it. Great van for the price.

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  DON - 1996 Ford Windstar
  By jennyl - March 1 - 2:00 am

  purchased because of comfortable, roomy interior... everything Ok for SHORT while... it is costing a fortune to own it! Head gasket replaced ($2500) which Ford would not cover... transmission...door ajar alarm stays on all the time while driving (it does go off though if you drive over 25mph, with the lights off- go figure- trying to trade it, but nobody wants it!!! DON"T BUY!!!!

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  Worst Purchase Ever - 1998 Ford Windstar
  By Krissy254 - February 29 - 2:00 am

  After about two years we started experiencing major promblems. Ive had all of the major belts replaced at least four times. Two power steering pumps within 18 months. Two rack and pinions in less than a year!!! Tie rods, gaskets, several recalled parts, I could go on and on. I was informed at the last monthly mechanic visit that in about 5 months my transmission will be shot. As if this isnt bad enough I have a open door sensor that never turns off and the van makes a extremly loud knocking sound every time I turn the wheel. All in all I will never buy another ford.