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:

• 

  Unflavored Life Saver - 2003 Ford Windstar
  By Grateful undead - June 28 - 2:00 am

  Bottom line is that this vehicle is extremely safe. Ford is suspect in some manners of craftmanship but they did it right as far as crash test safety.My advise to anyone... please spend a few extra dollers and install the side collision airbags... especially if you have children.

• 

  Dont buy it just for safety - 2003 Ford Windstar
  By windstarsucks - June 26 - 2:00 am

  I know this vehicle is safe and powerful, but it has nothing else to offer but trouble. My wife has to make just about 1 trip per month to the dealer. Also, all that we could get for the van was $15,000 after a year although it is nicely loaded. However, we bought a new Dodge GC eX and it is perfect. No problems, and it comes with more neat features than any other van. I know everybody likes the Honda, but it is just a waste of money for a less featured boring Japanese van. Also, its reviews dont seem to be impressive as compared to the Dodges. Always stick with either the original maker or best- seller (Dodge is both in this case.)

• 

  No More Ford Vans for Me! - 2000 Ford Windstar
  By AntiFord - June 25 - 2:00 am

  This car had no pick-up! Suspension was horrible. It ate oil. It had to be brought in for servicing several times because of recalls.

• 

  1996 3.8L Windstar - 1996 Ford Windstar
  By 22 yr old - June 23 - 2:00 am

  Get an extended warranty because its worth it. There were a few minor repairs and the transmission had to be rebuilt at 72K miles when the warranty ran out at 75K. At 94K there are some electrical problems popping up, but nothing too bad. The speedometer has been replaced once and its getting a bit shaky again. The right windows stopped operating, but my dad simply took the motors apart and put it back together and it just started working again. The door light started coming on even though all doors were closed. I cleaned the contacts where the doors close and now the light only stays on for an extra 5 seconds every now and then. Despite its problems, I like the van.

• 

  PROBLEM AFTER PROBLEM - 2000 Ford Windstar
  By NMNORRIS - June 23 - 2:00 am

  We have had it!!!! Problem after problem with this van and happy to say finished with it. Braking problems, air bag problems, exterior noise from the road is terrible, not a smooth ride and packaged with recall problem that never seems to get repaired despite several dealer attempts. If your considering this van DONT.

• 

  Not very impressed - 2000 Ford Windstar
  By Not very impressed - June 22 - 2:00 am

  At first I loved the van but then it started. 1st the back speakers started going out. Dealer said the pins just needed buffed. Next, check engine light started coming on & eventually going off. Now it goes on everyday after work. Another known problem w/ no resolution. I still have the speaker issue & 1000 miles after warranty, my trans went costing me $$. Mechanics claimed it was a common error and do not understand why Ford does not cover/recall on the issue.(not big enough issue to recall) I have learned to live with my problems. I am ready to buy a new van. I know my next van will not be a Ford (1st time in 15 years I have not bought Ford)

• 

  Crapshoot - 2003 Ford Windstar
  By MrCool - June 21 - 2:00 am

  This is my second and last Windstar, the first was a 2000 SEL that was plauged with electrical problems. 3 dealers and no one ever solved the problem, so I traded it in for an 02 with only 17500 on it. So far my new 02 SEL has been fine except for one problem with the fan blower. Seems that the A/C system really takes too long to cool the car on 85 plus days. Right now I have my eye on the new Sienna, although I must admit I like the styling of the Windstar over the Sienna. But let me tell you it ends there. The new Sienna will surely rattle the industry in terms of Minivan sales, it should easily knock the Odessy out of first place.

• 

  95 Ford Windstar -- Not Recommended - 1995 Ford Windstar
  By kh550 - June 19 - 2:00 am

  Ive had many problems which include: Transmission problems, Head Gasket Replacement and continual Oxygen Sensor replacements ever since the Head Gaskets were replaced, Electrical Problems including windshield washer fluid not working, lights staying on and the related door ajar sounds it likes to make, etc... It has had brake problems and a surging engine problem. The sliding door fell off when it was opened all the way. Of course when it fell of it scratched the paint on the back quarter of the van. The most reliable component has been the check engine light which usually came back on within a week of having it out of my local Ford garage.

• 

  Great shaggin wagon! - 1998 Ford Windstar
  By Hugh Jass - June 19 - 2:00 am

  This car has been so good to me. I got it from my mom, because she got a new car, and it has only been in the shop once (fender bender). I love to drive, and my freinds love to ride in it when I am driving. It has been all over the country, and is always reliable.

• 

  Oh, Man! I dont need this. - 1998 Ford Windstar
  By oh, JOY! - June 18 - 2:00 am

  Up to 60,000 ran fine. (Got it at @30,000) Then: Brakes replaced. Brake light faulty. Traction engages inconsistently. Sides like paper - a rub is a $1000 dent. Engine light on and off, computer cant dx, head gaskets "might" leak - symptoms inconsistent. stuck with it for 6 more mos. Id have given away from week 1 of driving it. Dont go there.