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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  white windstar - 1998 Ford Windstar
  By reinert - June 5 - 2:00 am

  absolutly satisfied, good comfort, robust technic

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  My First and Last Ford - 1998 Ford Windstar
  By R2brat - June 3 - 2:00 am

  Transmission went out at 50,000. Luckily I had the extended warranty. Constant problems with sensors showing a door open when it wasnt. Interior light would stay on because of this. Took in to dealer well over a dozen times. AC made grinding noise intermittently. Ford dealer never heard the problem, so wouldnt fix it. Took it in for that 4 times. Third seat is very hard to take out. Takes 2 people to do it.

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  I got a good one! - 1998 Ford Windstar
  By gblanas - June 3 - 2:00 am

  I bought my 98 Windstar new, now have slightly over 150,000 mi. on it. The vehicle has been very reliable, have only replaced battery, alternator & serpentine belt at 100,000 mi. All other major mechanical components are original. We towed our pop-up and take many trips throughout New England. The Windstar is very comfortable, I never get a sore back! I do, however agree with most other reviewers about engine noise, lack of power, poor braking, mushy suspension, paint peeling on roof, etc. I recently purchased another minivan, a Honda Odyssey, the Odyssey had much better reviews & ratings in all categories.

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  Ford Windstar SE - 2003 Ford Windstar
  By ltoney - June 3 - 2:00 am

  The Windstar is a solid minivan with good torque, and is very comfortable. It is nice looking, and has a classy look with the chrome trim. The A/C is strong and does its job heartily. It is easy to get in and out of, and has a good driving position. It has plenty of cargo space with or without the back seat(s).

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  Hello Ford? No Answer. - 1999 Ford Windstar
  By bigdriver222 - May 30 - 2:00 am

  With a new child we went looking for a safe and affordable minivan we could grow into. However 53,000 miles down the road I am ready to drop my Windstar like a bad habit. First problem was at 43,000 miles - a new transmission. Ford offered to help with 80% of the costs, still thats money you shouldnt have to shell out after 43,000 miles. Then 1,000 miles later the Rack and Pinion steering went out. $700 more dollars. Just yesterday the air intake system went. I would not buy a Ford again unless they offered a 10 year/100,000 bumper to bumper - on everything from light bulbs to engine block. Be afraid - be very afraid.

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  Ford Windstar - 2003 Ford Windstar
  By FordGuy9 - May 29 - 2:00 am

  This car is built very poor

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  Not as bad as it could have been - 1996 Ford Windstar
  By flower mom - May 27 - 2:00 am

  Well, the car is only OK. The head gasket problem, allegedly fixed by the 1996 model, is not fixed it will need replacement at about 80K miles - a surprisingly consistent benchmark. If you buy a used one, make sure its already been replaced. And the speedometer breaks. And the ABS. Luckily, the brakes themselves still work fine. Nuisance stuff.

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  Better than Chevy - 1995 Ford Windstar
  By BA123 - May 26 - 2:00 am

  Traded an Astro van for my 95 Windstar. Windstar is better by far. More room, better comfort, handling and workmanship than Astro. No problems to date other than routine maint. Excellent for long trips. Pulls our camper with no problems.

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  Very Good So Far... - 1996 Ford Windstar
  By MadManMike - May 23 - 2:00 am

  Bought used in end of 1999, with the 3.8 Leter engine. Never had any major problems. First Van even owned and love it. But there are electrical problems galore but fortunately none have lead to a significant problem: Engine light comes on and stays for months - mechanic cant find anything wrong, thus resets. Interior lights frequently dont shut off after closing doors for up to 30 minutes at a time. Occasionally, the Door is open alarm does not shut off after the door is shut. Door is open light indicator seemingly always shows that one of the doors (or rear hatch) is open when, in fact, they are all closed and double checked.

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  Good Van - 1998 Ford Windstar
  By awilson - May 22 - 2:00 am

  It has good utility value