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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  My third nearly perfect Windstar - 2000 Ford Windstar
  By jmhansen - February 16 - 10:00 am

  I have just completed my third 2yr lease of a Windstar, all of which have been excellent experiences. Only one warranty repair - odometer computer module on this latest SEL - in six years driving 3 Windstars. All have been easy to drive and practical for my business needs. The SEL is especially comfortable and a pleasure to drive. Other than some extra engine noise after cold starts at low speeds, this van is quiet and comfortable. I would not hesitate to get another one, although I am switching to an Explorer for a change of pace.

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  Beyond Good - 1999 Ford Windstar
  By Rodriguez - February 9 - 2:00 am

  This mini van is nice and comfortable for the whole family. Great for long trips. I got up to 600 miles to the tank on long distance. Need more pep small engine for heave cargo. It has 3.8 Liter, 200 hp, 26 gallon tank. I am some what happy, but theres room for improvement. Local mpg I only get 400 miles to the tank.

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  love the windstar - 2000 Ford Windstar
  By whitesatin - January 29 - 12:23 am

  leasing a 2000 windstar LX w/dual air and quad seats. Love the room in this vehicle. Ride is smooth and seats are comfortable. We take out the passenger seat so that entry into the back is easy in, and easy out,even for grandparents. We did however have to replace the rack/n pinion at about 20,000 miles. It was makeing a horrible whining noise. Thank God it was under warranty. This is our second lease for the windstar. Moving on to the third in the spring of 2002.

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  Two years in a windstar - 2000 Ford Windstar
  By Steven Gross - January 10 - 10:00 am

  I find the windstar to very reliable and comfortable van. It handles all our needs (todays staton wagon). It is versitale to move large objects and still keep them secure.

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  2nd Windstar and LOVING it! - 2000 Ford Windstar
  By wmhgatesiv - November 9 - 2:00 am

  This is our second Windstar and just wanted to tell everyone it is a pleasure owning it. Great for travel, great for hauling things, great for comfort, just great!!

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  Great Minivan 98 Windstar - 1998 Ford Windstar
  By Cham - October 16 - 10:00 am

  This is a great little overall van.

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  Very good - 1998 Ford Windstar
  By Andy Lego - September 3 - 10:00 am

  Winstar Limited Edition 3.8 V6 engine. Overall good vehicle, only one problem with ABS Traction Control sensor it shut off during drive a Van. It was fixed for $ 450.00 at local Ford. There was no other problems I enjoy driving it, this Limited Edition is a good Quality MiniVan and good for Gas 9.8 l per 100 km on Hwy. Thank you Andy

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  Worlds Safest Mini-Van - 2003 Ford Windstar
  By macuser - August 28 - 10:00 am

  This is by far the best mini-van I have ever owned, having previously owned a Chrysler Town & Country, Pontiac Montana, and GMC Safari. The Ford Windstar has the best of everything all in one well priced package.

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  Windstar, why buy it? - 2000 Ford Windstar
  By pro1mt - August 16 - 2:00 am

  The Windstar is a real loser. Although I have not had many problems with it, The fit and finish does not compare with the competition. It is a very expensive vehicle that does not hold its value. After 2 years, a 29000 dollar vehicle is worth 10000. The passenger side window moter has had to be repaired twice, the passenger sliding door leaked before repaired. The cheap bumper system crunches when tapped in parking lots. I have been a Ford fan, but buy a ford truck instead. You will at least have a great vehicle when it is paid off.

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  My Windstar - 2000 Ford Windstar
  By Ron J - August 11 - 2:00 am

  I really enjoy driving this Van. It is a very comfortable ride and the engine has good get up and go. The only drawbacks are the middle seats are too close to the doors, so it is difficult to get in the back(this was supposedly corrected in the 2002 model. Ive had some minor problems(so far) with the electronic passanger sliding door and front passanger door lock. Otherwise, I love this Van.