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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  Worst car ever purchased - 1995 Ford Windstar
  By KBadcar - March 29 - 2:00 am

  Bought this car used in early 1997 with 38,000 miles on it. Had no idea what I was in for. By 68,000 (only 30,000 put on by me) I had replaced the computer, the head gasket and the transmission. By 72,000 miles, the transmission was gone again and the AC was blowing anti freeze into the car.

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  great van - 2003 Ford Windstar
  By shimdaug - March 28 - 2:00 am

  The Ford Windstar is the best van my wife has every had. We have four children and i use it to pick up things at the hardware store. it drives great and theres plenty of room. we have had a Dodge Carvan, Chevy Venture, and a Toyota Previa and none come close to how nice this van is.

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  GL Windstar - 1996 Ford Windstar
  By hagar - March 27 - 2:00 am

  Mechanical reliability is the worst Ive ever seen. Im 54 and between myself and my wife we have had MANY cars, trucks and vans

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  Foreign from now on - 1999 Ford Windstar
  By Norskie4 - March 26 - 2:00 am

  Have never owned a vehicle that wore down faster. Cheap build quality compared to foreign cars, seats looked worn after 6 mos, sheetmetal is flimsy and dents extremely easily. At 48k, had to replace cracked manifold, paint is peeling just like on the old GM cars, Ford just informs me it is out of warranty, and has no remedy..

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  Ford Windstar In the Shop - 2002 Ford Windstar
  By bjdeliduka - March 25 - 2:00 am

  I have owned this Windstar for 105 days. It has spent 26 of those days (24%) in the repair shop with a series of failures. TSBs seem to be announced by Ford 2 or 3 days after my van suffers a failure. Anyone wana buy my van?

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  Very Satisfied - 1998 Ford Windstar
  By Stevenff - March 24 - 2:00 am

  Bought this 1998 Windstar with 89000 miles on it from a GM dealer. It was on their back row. The price was right. I have put on another 45000 miles with absolutely no problems. The only thing I have replace is tires. I really didnt expect this kind of service. Figured I would have to repair something, but everything keeps on going. Was afraid the lack of a 4th door would be a problem, but Fords stopgap solution of a large drivers door and sliding drivers seat gives adequate access to left rear passenger seat.

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  Good and Bad - 1998 Ford Windstar
  By Oregon - March 22 - 2:00 am

  We bought this car, used, from a dealership when it had 36k miles it now has 57k miles. The ride is great. Its roomy and spacious, has great acceleration (3.8L), and the drivers/passengers view is good. The safety structure is right up with Siennas and Odysseys (www.nhtsa.dot.gov, www.hwysafety.org). The key issue is RELIABILITY. To date, here are the issues : 1)at times the back windows wont work, 2)side views dont function properly, 3)at times the door ajar occurs when all doors are closed, and 4)the transmission in reverse is beginning to rattle (which corresponds to the poorly made transmission Ive heard much about).

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  Should have bought the Oddesy! - 1999 Ford Windstar
  By Markos - March 21 - 2:00 am

  Bought the vehicle pre-owned after we found out we were having twins. Did research, safety was great I didnt expect the vehicle to be so awful. Replaced PC Module after 3 months, tranny after 9 months. Have numerous electrical problems, doesnt start on cold days. What a mistake I should have spent the extra money for the Honda. Called Ford Motor Co., and they dont seem to give a hoot. Pretty bad when I work in the car industry myself as a sales consultant. Cant wait for the Saturn Mini-Van in 2005 model year.

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  2002 Windstar Limited - 2002 Ford Windstar
  By dmeadesr - March 18 - 2:00 am

  I am very pleased with the new Windstar It is well equiped and very easy to drive.

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  Crappy Ford Windstar - 1995 Ford Windstar
  By u29577 - March 17 - 2:00 am

  This is the most unreliable vehicle I have ever owned. At least once a year you have to sink major money (over $500) into it to keep it running.