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:

• 

  Pleasant Surprise - 2001 Ford Windstar
  By Moaner - April 8 - 2:00 am

  With 2 boy kids we took the van plunge. A year later the SE is very satisfying. Sleeps outside and looks as good today as at delivery. Wheels are easy to clean. Oil changes are a breeze (though 5w-20 oil can be tricky to find) The van is spacious though kids will find a way to beat each other its more effort now. The van is almost too comfortable. At 61" #245 at least once Ive wandered on a dark and quiet road. The back seat is great for waiting out kiddie parties. Downers: Unresolved whirring noise at lights (guess: power steering.) Dealer couldnt or wouldnt fix it. Needs more pickup power (but then all minivans get cut off) The lady differs but to me traction control is hype.

• 

  Careful with this one. - 1997 Ford Windstar
  By Mr. Mike - April 6 - 2:00 am

  This vehicle is a big headache. Nothing but problems. 70,000 mile vehicle with a BLOWN HEAD GASKET, SENSORS NOT WORKINGAND A TRANSMISSION THATS STARTING TO SLIP. VERY POORLY BUILT VEHICLE. What is sad is that it is my second windstar that has done this to me. There will be no third FORD vehicle.

• 

  What is Fords problem? - 2000 Ford Windstar
  By Jude Fritz - April 4 - 10:00 am

  I once had a 1995 Ford Windstar and after a blown head gasket just 2 months out of warrranty and no help from Ford although they were aware of this problem. No response from Ford until 2000 when for some unknown reason Ford offered the 1995 Windstar owners an extra $4,000 rebate if they bought a new 2000 model. Why the offer, did they want to unload the 2000 model? My 2000 Windstar gas pedal has been vibrating since I purchased it, a little at first and now becomming worse and more annoying. There answer "its a normal operating condition" to them maybe, but I would have never purchased a 2000 model if I only knew of this worsening problem.

• 

  Ford headgaskets Blow - 1995 Ford Windstar
  By stacey - April 2 - 2:00 am

  I have had 2 Ford vans and have had head gasket problems with both of them. I replaced Head gaskets on the first one 3 times, then traded it in. I was assured at the dealership that it was a fluke and that ford vans were built well. I foolishly purchased my 2nd ford windstar and have replaced head gaskets on this vehicle 5 times. The first 3 times were under warranty, the 3rd time I was reimbursed partially, as a recall issue. Ford extended the warranty as "good faith" to 100,000 miles or 7 years, but failed to mention that the warranty was only good for 1 time. When my head gaskets failed again, I was told my warranty was only good for 1 time under the extension.

• 

  Windstar Sport - 2002 Ford Windstar
  By A.I. - April 2 - 2:00 am

  We have had the van for 3 months and are very satisfied with it. It has 4500KMs on it so far. We have taken it on 3 long road trips (3 hours at 130 - 140KPH) and the L/K (M/G) is great. We have been able to get 720KM, 705KM and 715KM on one tank of gas on the trips. In the city were getting between 500 - 550KMs. We owned a Taurus SE prior to this van and found the van drives just as nice as the Taurus. The 200HP engine helps on mountain roads and passing. The looks of the van are great as well. Black looks the best on this van. We will most likely buy the van at the end of the lease.

• 

  Not good - 2001 Ford Windstar
  By mkahler - March 26 - 2:00 am

  Ive had nothing but problems with this vehicle and the dealership. Many recalls on this vehicle. Many small exterior problems, like the edging coming off, missing caps for rear wipers. I purchased two of these at the same time.

• 

  1995 Ford Windstar GL 3.8L - 1995 Ford Windstar
  By Sheldon - March 25 - 2:00 am

  Transmission will require overhaul or replacement at some point after 65K miles due to weak aluminum forward clutch piston. This 3.8L engine is well known for timing cover/headgasket failure. Both of these are serious and costly repair issues that Ford could have engineered out.

• 

  Jury Still Out - 2002 Ford Windstar
  By Anonymous Bruce - March 22 - 2:00 am

  Purchased just prior to new family addition. No journeys yet to see how it handles luggage load. For our around town its been fine. Gas mileage marginal, at best, around town. Missing thumb release button to disengage parking brake we realized the first time we got away from the dealer and used the parking brake. Stranded slightly temporarily--the dealer fixed in good time. Plan on updating review after more comprehensive use. We particularly enjoy the adjustable foot pedals and power side rear doors.

• 

  The Windstar - 2002 Ford Windstar
  By tt - March 19 - 2:00 am

  Get a Honda

• 

  Wind96 - 1996 Ford Windstar
  By woodfyr - March 18 - 12:02 pm

  This has been an excellent road car. Long trips are a norm (+300 miles). A pleasure to drive, excellent handling with plenty of power on hills and for passing. Great tow vehicle for 1000 lb. camper trailer. Stable under all conditions. 22 mpg (16 mpg with trailer).