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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  I used to be a Ford Fan - 1995 Ford Windstar
  By rk4p - October 12 - 2:00 am

  I bought this vehicle used, and did not notice that it already had a rebuilt transmission. The head gasket blew at 75000 miles, Ford fixed it, but I was still stranded with family. The van shakes terribly, and no one can diagnose problem. One mechanic said "I would sell it, probably another transmission" I now have 90,000 miles on it and it has left us stranded 3 times. If not for budget restraints, I would have traded a long time ago. Do not waste your money on this vehicle, go ahead and pay sticker for a Honda or Toyota.

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  Dont buy this thing - 1998 Ford Windstar
  By Pirate - October 10 - 2:00 am

  Transmission probles all over the place. Ford just kept on saying that it was normal !!! Sold it. Never buying a ford again.

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  Bad Seats - 2003 Ford Windstar
  By F Soler - October 7 - 2:00 am

  My chief complaint about my new 2002 Windstar is the design and construction of the front seats. The velour is hot and sticky, seats are very uncomfortable due to a weak spot near the rear of the seat that allows you to sink in. I had to trash them and replace them with a pair of leather power seats from a 2001 I found in a junk yard. Also, interior plastic parts rattle. Next time Ill buy an extended cab pick up or a big suv.

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  96 Windstar - 1996 Ford Windstar
  By familyMan - October 4 - 2:00 am

  Bought the Windstar new and found the minivan to be a real workhorse. The 3.8 eng is strong and peppy and fun to drive. Plows right thru snow while other Front Wheel drive cars are stuck. Its been extremely reliable, have had only the computer and a timing drive (which caused the computer to fail) replaced. Its got 123,000 and still going strong.

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  96 Windstar - 1996 Ford Windstar
  By Familyman - October 4 - 2:00 am

  Bought the Windstar new and found the minivan to be a real workhorse. The 3.8 eng is strong and peppy and fun to drive. Plows right thru snow while other Front Wheel drive cars are stuck. Its been extremely reliable, have had only the computer and a timing drive (which caused the computer to fail) replaced. Its got 123,000 and still going strong.

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  2001 Windstar LX - 2001 Ford Windstar
  By jfm166 - September 27 - 2:00 am

  decent car. noisy, but reliable. virtually no mtce in 55K miles. some fit/finish problems.

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  Junk Burn your money first! - 2001 Ford Windstar
  By Stonerat - September 26 - 2:00 am

  Nothing but trouble. Ford bought back my 1996 and traded me for a 2001. This Van is no better and Fords Customer Service is a joke. Dealers can fix problems and are no help in getting Ford to help. Escalating the problem higher in the ford coporation is just a waste of time. They will make will try to convince you that the failed to please only in your case. Make your life simple Stay away from Windstars!

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  Windstar from Hell - 1996 Ford Windstar
  By aRCE - September 25 - 2:00 am

  At 60K miles vehicle literally fell apart. Vehicle repairs were $4,000 in one year. Vehicle still does not run right

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  great van - 2001 Ford Windstar
  By don juan - September 22 - 2:00 am

  best vehicle on the road....i would buy a million of them if i could!!!

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  Do not buy this car - 1995 Ford Windstar
  By No more Fords - September 19 - 2:00 am

  Engine blew up 18 days after warranty expired. Ford knows this V6 is a lemon and is dodging responsibility.