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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  2003 WINDSTAR - 2003 Ford Windstar
  By jhansen - February 17 - 2:00 am

  GOOD PERFORMER TO DATE, SAFTEFY FEATURES A PLUS, I.E., REAR SENSOR, AUTOTRACTION, SAFTEY SIGNALS WIFE AND KIDS LOVE THE RIDE AND ENTERTAINMENT SYSTEM.

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  dont buy one a 95 Windstar - 1995 Ford Windstar
  By unhappy_in_the_cold - February 11 - 2:00 am

  This car leaves us on the side of the road regularly. The car feels good inside, rides rather smoothly, but is surprisingly unreliable for a drivetrain built on the Taurus mechanicals. Engine 3.8L has good acceleration but gulps gas.

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  My hunk of junk - 1995 Ford Windstar
  By Flower - February 9 - 2:00 am

  I have at least one recall a year on the breaks,and trans every 2 years. Every one in my family hates the car. (Except my 6 year old son because when ever we go over a inch hole in the groud at 20mph the back of the car goes flying up) This car is just an over sized shopping cart with a 6cyl.

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  Beware of the affordable price - 1996 Ford Windstar
  By Hockey Dad - February 4 - 2:00 am

  Made the mistake of buying on price. I pride myself on my research before purchasing. This was an impulse purchase on price and need as a new parent of twins. As we fixed one problem the next would occur. Purchased at 53,000 and sold at 85,000. Never again. Notorius for head gasket problems, yet Ford does not acknowledge it. Further validates the foreign vs. American debate.

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  No Way! - 1998 Ford Windstar
  By Nevr Again - February 3 - 10:00 am

  Bought this van when it had only 23000 miles on it. The transmission would never shift correctly. Took it to 2 Ford dealers and was told it was normal. Transmission went out on a trip to WV in the mountains...Van had 35,800 miles. Factory warrenty covered it. We now have 54,000 miles on the van and the transmission is slipping again. If you want reliability do not buy this van...Have had numerous smaller items go wrong as well. Well never own another Windstar.

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  1999 Ford Windstar LX Mini-Van. - 1999 Ford Windstar
  By Frogger21 - February 3 - 10:00 am

  I Just recently purchased a Ford Windstar LX Mini-Van, and was very impressed with its performance, space, and overall handling. I did my research, compared vehicles, trucks, suvs and vans. After weeks of searching for the right vehicle I have to say that Ford was "The Right Choice". I also have a Wife & Two Boys, and they could not be any happier with my decision.

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  disappointed to say the least - 2001 Ford Windstar
  By anewman - February 3 - 2:00 am

  virtually every feature on the windstar that is supposed to make my life easier has broken down. we have had our new van in the shop about 10 times for recalls or repairs. very disappointed

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  Unreliable - 1995 Ford Windstar
  By brettt - February 2 - 2:00 am

  The interior and exterior are sharp and very functional. The accessories are acceptable and preform normally. The drive train and critical components are severly lacking reliability. I put 4 transmissions (3 under warranty), a replacment head gasket and a computer. These are common complaints about the 95/96 Windstar. New transmissions/engines are no better as there are design flaws. I didnt know you could buy the whole citrus tree.

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  No Fords - 1999 Ford Windstar
  By No Fords - January 29 - 10:00 am

  Trouble from 60 days after delivery. Passenger door would not open, sliding door would not stay closed. Electrical issue with door locks. Sliding doors would open after locking. Return from shopping,doors would be open. Spark knocking in engine for 3 years. Ford replaced the engine. Knocking persisted in new engine. Another dealer found the issue after "check engine" light came on. The computer airflow sensor. Now Ford refuses to reimburse me for the fix that started under warranty. This vehicle has been in the shop for electrical, engine and computer issues since delivery no less than 31 times.

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  Good overall - 2002 Ford Windstar
  By samnoe - January 28 - 2:00 am

  Now, after 12 months driving my 2002 Windstar, Im still satisfied with most of it. good ride, quiet unless you give gas, comfortable, but could improve (see below).