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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  Piece of Junk - 2003 Ford Windstar
  By wantmonybck - November 11 - 2:00 am

  Since I Bought this so called vehicle it has been in the dealership no less than 18 times for various reasons. Things like alignment, arm rests falling off, molding falling off, numerous electrical issues. The lattest is the engine hesitates then surges. I live an work in Detroit in the auto industry and have always been a flag waving American car buyer but since Ford cares less about me I care less about them and Im on my way to the Honda dealership to buy an Odysee that I am sure I will get my moneys worth.

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  Dont buy one - 1999 Ford Windstar
  By Loeters - November 10 - 10:00 am

  I am almost at the end of my 3 year lease and I cannot wait to give it back. I am so sick of the noisy transmission, wind noice, squeaks, rattles and recalls. It is a good looking vehicle but the quality leaves a lot to be desired. You would think after all these years Ford could build a proper transmission pay more attention to quality.

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  Great Family Vehicle - 1997 Ford Windstar
  By kshen - November 10 - 2:00 am

  We have had nothing but good luck with this vehicle and would give great reference to anyone else that would be interested in buying one.

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  DONT BUY - 1996 Ford Windstar
  By peetyweety - November 7 - 2:00 am

  Very poor quality overall. Mechanically and electrically unreliable. Buy two so that you will have one to drive while the other is in the shop.

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  Medium - 2003 Ford Windstar
  By Verona,NJ - November 3 - 2:00 am

  My 2000 Windstar SE has been back to the dealer 4 times in 20 months. Twice for electrical problems. They were repaired quicly. My other car is a Nissan product which has never been back to the dealer. I would probably not by anoher Ford product better quality can be found in other vehicles.

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  2001 Windstar Ltd. - WoW - 2001 Ford Windstar
  By Kitzyb - November 2 - 2:00 am

  We love this vehicle. It has performed above our expectations. The only problems we have had are minor interior items. One head rest needed upholstery attention and one light switch needed some. My husband fixed the light with his pocket knife while riding as a passenger. Great for long trips with the kids. We have had over 6 - 1000+ mile trips in last 19 months.

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  di - 1996 Ford Windstar
  By di - October 27 - 1:00 am

  I had a 1995 Windstar that I loved. I fell asleep, sit the back of a semi, and totalled the Windstar. I was so impressed with the safety factors--I walked away with a whiplash and some back medium back issues--that I called my salesman and told him to find me another one just like it. He did and now over 6 years later, I still love it.I have driven long distances in comfort, hauled a huge variety of items, lots of furniture, building supplies, kids, dogs, people and luggage and never been disappointed. Ive even pulled out small trees and shrubs with my Laser Red Windstar!!!

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  Practicality and Value On Wheels - 2002 Ford Windstar
  By Jerry Benson - October 25 - 2:00 am

  A "do everything" vehicle. No matter what ones lifestyle, this vehicle will accomodate it. And do it for a ridiculously modest initial price. Gas mileage is surprising ... 25 MPG on the highway. Great highway cruiser ... feels like a big (but agile) limo.

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  Never Again - 1998 Ford Windstar
  By DJTYTY - October 15 - 2:00 am

  I bought this used 29K tranny went at 35K. Had it replaced but the dealer cracked my subframe and power steering case. Said there was nothing wrong went out of bus. Tried anouther said I needed new subframe would not help me with ford. Finally found good service dept and it was not the sub frame but the ty rods. Anyway, the tranny is slipping again the radio does not work. I have a loan so I am stuck since this piece of crap Knock on wood at least it runs. I gave up my toyota for this that car never needed repair other than maint for 100K then I had kids and needed the room.

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  Oddball: Pleased with my Windstar - 1995 Ford Windstar
  By redgaucho - October 14 - 2:00 am

  We bought this Windstar with 70K miles in Mid-97. It now has over 170K. We still get 21MPG, which I ck every time I refuel, and use it as a diagnostic alert, if it goes dn. We drive mostly in the hwy, since we live in the country. I do all minor maintenance such as tires/brakes/tuneups/oil chgs, etc. and I have not had any head gasket, transmission or brake problems. Everything still works fine! I am planning on trading it in for ANOTHER WINDSTAR pretty soon, though. I have been very pleased with it.