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:

• 

  This Van is Awesome! - 2000 Ford Windstar
  By admaster_99 - July 26 - 12:29 am

  My parents bought this van brand new in 2000, it has performed flawlessly during the past five years (95,000 miles). The van has been in the shop for service maybe 2 times. Once for the ball bearings in the front wheels the second time to replace the tie rods because they were bent from all the torque the engine puts out. It is just starting to show signs of wear like a little squeak here and there, and shocks getting a little worn. Nothing major drivetrain is rock solid, tranny isnt quite as tight as it use to be but is can still easily smoke the tires. If I had to depend on a vehicle, it would for sure be the Windstar.

• 

  Happy with my Windstar - 2000 Ford Windstar
  By bmurf - May 26 - 8:53 pm

  We bought a Windstar SEL new in 2000. The car currently has 22,000 miles and except for standard maintenance, and one problem with the tie-rod, the car performs great. I wish the gas mileage was better, we currently get about 16 mpg, mostly around town driving. This car has lots of utility, especially with kids, dog, etc. The entertainment system is a godsend for long trips. The removable seats let me load up lots of stuff on frequent trips to Home Depot. This is a really nice vehicle.

• 

  I Love My Van - 2002 Ford Windstar
  By Martinezfam1126 - April 21 - 1:19 pm

  I purchased this van used and I love it. I get better mileage than I get with my husbands new Honda. My son loves climbing in and out of it. We have taken this van everywhere and it works perfect.

• 

  Love it ... wish they still made it! - 2003 Ford Windstar
  By STL Lover - April 1 - 2:30 am

  The minivan gets fantastic mileage and is extremely comfortable to drive. I think it does much better than the Odyssey ... Ive used both extensively.

• 

  The Ford Windstar - 2000 Ford Windstar
  By Andy - March 13 - 9:11 am

  This Windstar has 26,000 miles. She runs great! This is our second Windstar and they keep on getting better. The legroom and headroom is much better than the Freestars. I give this car a 10!

• 

  Windstar = Happiness - 1996 Ford Windstar
  By Vinb2k5 - March 2 - 9:44 pm

  Great van, ours has lasted 198,000 miles. Even when the engine developed a crack in the block it still ran, until the tags expired. Extremely reliable providing 8 years of service to our family. Definitely would buy another one.

• 

  Awesome Taurus Upgrade - 2003 Ford Windstar
  By jcd302 - February 12 - 12:09 am

  We just replaced our aged Taurus with this van. High mileage doesnt bother me because my last few Fords had 178k, 182k, the Taurus had 123k and my 94 Ranger has 146k and no problems. Ford did it right with the Windstar too bad I dont like the new Freestar, otherwise I would have bought one of those. The Windstar is supposed to be able to tow 3500#. We will see when we go camping with our 2000# pop-up camper this summer.

• 

  98 Windstar has been a great car - 1998 Ford Windstar
  By hartnj - December 23 - 12:41 am

  I bought this pretty basic model Windstar about 7 years and 100k miles ago and it still runs great - a bit scratched-up, but runs great. Loads of power and still a smooth ride.

• 

  I love my van - 2002 Ford Windstar
  By stempy - October 25 - 2:00 am

  I have only had my van for about a month now but so far, we LOVE it. No problems whatsoever

• 

  AWESOME - 2001 Ford Windstar
  By Happy Happy - August 20 - 2:00 am

  Bought this Van to haul the family around and couldnt be happier about the purchase. Lots of room for kids and luggage. Never had any issues with engine or doors. Great with the gas mileage, handles well in ALL conditions. Use the Windstar for daily commutes as well as long trips and it does both well, feels like Im sitting in my chair in the family room its so comfortable.