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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  F.O.R.D.= Found on the Road Dead - 1995 Ford Windstar
  By Brain - November 16 - 2:00 am

  At 40,000 miles, the engine had to be replaced as a result of a gasket. The gasket was fixed after the recall, however the engine broke down 2000 miles afterwards and Ford would said it want related. Good thing we had the dealership warrantee. I have had the brakes fixed at least 4 times at $600 a pop. I went through 2 sets of tires before having the toe on the rear wheels adjusted. One can get a workout closing the side doors. The heat comes on when it feels like it. The entire car vibrates above 30 mph. The bottom line is this is my second ford and my last!

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  piece of crap - 2000 Ford Windstar
  By gtw - November 14 - 2:00 am

  Paint is chipping off the corners of the roof. Paint is cracking on top of roof where the roof ditch is located on the left and right side of roof. Luggage rack has black coating flaking off. Van keeps rolling after you put in park. Car is just over 3 years old and I certainly do not expect to have paint problems. DO NOT BUY ONE!!!

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  1996 Windstar - 1996 Ford Windstar
  By windstarowner - November 12 - 2:00 am

  I have had problems with coolent leaks and sensors. It goes through a set of front brakes about once a year. It is hard to work on. You have to remove the vent cowling every time you want to get at the back side of the engine. We have had 2 recalls both relating to the brakes.

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  Excellent Reliability - 1998 Ford Windstar
  By Gary S - November 12 - 2:00 am

  I have driven my 1998 Windstar 142,000 miles. The only maintenance has been normal items such as oil changes, new brakes, etc. Not a single problem with engine, transmission, or other mechanical items. It has been the most reliable vehicle I have ever owned.

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  Family Fun..... and room to grow :) - 2003 Ford Windstar
  By TaxiMom - November 7 - 2:00 am

  It was a BIG mental step, being in my mid 30s and not wanting to be a labeled over the hill. But it was the best thing for me and my family. Room for everybody, smooth ride, easy in and out. Great gas milage & quite ride. I wasnt hip on having a TV in the van, but the split sound system and VCR have been very helpful for times when one child is in an appointment or class to keep the others entertained.

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  The best van - 2003 Ford Windstar
  By bob denver - November 7 - 2:00 am

  This van has everything a family needs. It has a very strong V6 engine that generates 200 hp and 240 lb. ft. of tourqe . The interior is nice and comfortable and most vans dosent let u adjust the middle and rear seats for leg room , the windstar does!My fanily just went on a fishing trip and we took the family , all their stuff and a 3500 pound boat . Again , this van has alot to offer , use it.

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  Problem brakes and transmission - 1998 Ford Windstar
  By keric - November 5 - 2:00 am

  Ive replaced the brake system four times on this van so far. The ABS system fails and the brakes wear very rapidly, requring a total replacement of parts including roters, drums, pads and anything else in the brake system. Very expensive! My co-worker who owned a 1997 version had the same trouble. Ive also had to replace the transmission on this van once already.

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  My 2001 Windsatr - 2001 Ford Windstar
  By 65mustangken - November 4 - 2:00 am

  Lots of room and plenty of power.

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  Family car - 2000 Ford Windstar
  By Mela - November 3 - 2:00 am

  Great family car. It has all the features we looked for, without spending too much. Very convenient for us that have two babies using car seats.

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  Best vehicle so far - 1996 Ford Windstar
  By Steve from Alberta - October 30 - 2:00 am

  Best vehicle we have ever owned. Bought in 98 with 25,000km in perfect condition. Now have almost 150,000km and have only done tires and brakes (once at 110,000km). Pulls our trailer (albeit a smaller one) and our 16ft boat with ease. Only knock we can come up with is a faulty speedometer (at 40,000km approx). Ford said this was normal and within the tolerances of manufacturing ($800 to fix). If the Windstar had a higher towing rating we would definitely buy another.