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:
Showing 591 through 600 of 915.00-
Gee, we must be one of the lucky ones! - 1999 Ford Windstar
By liberty1211 - September 19 - 2:00 amWe bought our windstar with @45k. Less than two years later we have 85k on it. It has traveled very well for us. So far we have only fixed the front brakes and some wiring damaged by a mouse that got in our van! Brakes are sometimes squeaky and engine runs loud - but this appears to be the case with every other Ford I see (or hear) on the road. So far, I like my van!
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go machine - 1999 Ford Windstar
By jimmy463 - September 17 - 2:00 amI have found this vehicle to be energetic, responsive, and highly maneuverable for a mini-van. I was pleasantly surprised by its agressive acceleration and superb cornering ability. Its interior is very functional, though back seat room is a little tight for me at 6 2". It is comparable to other mini-vans though. Its strongest point has been reliability. It is like an energiser bunny. It just keeps going and going. I have had no maintenance problems!
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I love my windstar! - 2001 Ford Windstar
By mommyofone - September 15 - 2:00 amI really love this car - weve had no problems at all with it. Its very comfortable, great for long trips. Great headroom - my husbands 65", and hes able to comfortably sit in his seat, doesnt have to tilt the seat back at all. Id recommend this van to anyone. Great crash rating.
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Windstar SEL 2001 - 2001 Ford Windstar
By Wonderman - September 13 - 2:00 amThis has been a great vehicle. A little short on power and inside conveniences but very reliable and great gas mileage. Just bought a 2003 as a matter of fact.
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love my windstar - 1999 Ford Windstar
By K Meehan - September 10 - 2:00 amWe bought this van in March 99 to replace an aging Mercury Tracer that our family was outgrowing. We have done long trips each summer that weve owned the van. The only annoying problem we have had is the passenger side power door. It will sometimes refuse to close and needs to be turned off and closed manually. Other than that, the ride is comfortable and it has been very reliable. BTW-this is a 4 door LX with one power door.
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2003 windstar - 2003 Ford Windstar
By jgth - September 7 - 2:00 amVery pleased with my vehicle. Would like better gas milage. It is very comfortable with 4 captian seats.
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Excellent Value -- Gets the Job Done - 2000 Ford Windstar
By remydog - September 6 - 2:00 amThis vehicle surpassed expectations. We have used it for numerous family ski trips with a full load of kids, equipment, pets, etc. It has also been terrific for dozens of trips back and forth to Home Depot for various projects over the years. Removing the seats is not an difficult, but they are very heavy and two people are required when taking out the back seat. The captains chairs can be removed by one strong individual. However once the seats are out, the space is cavernous. Also, the rear bench can be moved to the middle position, giving a 5 passenger vehicle with lots of cargo room.
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Booboohips finally comfortable - 2003 Ford Windstar
By Booboohips - September 6 - 2:00 amI loved my 97 Crown Vic but my long legs and rebuilt hips were never comfortable. Sawgrass Ford gave me free loaners, usually Windstars, when I left the Vic for service. I noticed that my legs were in a much better position, my legs didnt cramp up from being stretched on low, and the van drove like a charm. Ive never been as happy and comfortable with any of the scores of cars Ive owned as I am with my Windstar
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2000 Ford Windstar 4 dr SE - 2000 Ford Windstar
By Michael Gray - September 5 - 2:00 amThe Windstar handles very well. Its ABS system works rapidly and stops the van rapidly and safely. Steering is excellent with minimal effort on drivers part. Mirrors are easily adjustable from drivers side and enable driver to see the entire road behind the vehicle if properly adjusted. The two side doors are very convenient for someone who has to carry several soccer or baseball kids and there is ideal storage behind the rear seat.
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SATISFIED - 1996 Ford Windstar
By SATISFIED - September 4 - 2:00 amTHE VAN HAS 107,000 MILES ON. DROVE IT TO CALIFORNIA TWICE AND TWICE TO ORLANDO NO PROBLEM. NEVER BEEN TO A DEALER FOR MAJOR REPAIR. I DO MY OWN REGULAR OIL, TRANS FLUID MAINT AND OTHER MINOR MAINT. I THINK IT WOUD LAST FOR ANOTHER 100,000 MILES
