While driving my 1996 Ford Windstar with my four children in the vehicle, the rear axle arm cracked in half causing the vehicle to go out of control. We were lucky to get to the side of the road off of the highway driving at 55 mph during rush hour traffic. There was no accident, nor did we hit anything. The vehicle is currently at the mechanic who has to replace the entire axle. The cost will be over $1,000. We have continual problems with this vehicle.

- Lompoc, CA, USA

Consumer was traveling 30mph on side street and heard a noise. Consumer applied brakes, and pedal went all the way to the floor. Vehicle started pulling to right, she was able to control vehicle. Dealership was aware of problem. Mechanic stated that left rear backing plate and brake shoe anchor rivets sheared off.

- Dujunga, CA, USA

Spring broke as the car was being jacked up to do a brake pad replacement.

- Metamora, MI, USA

Speedometer fluctuated all over dial when car went over 30 mph; transmission just failed while car was being operated, it failed to shift and did not move while in traffic; brakes fade when coming to a stop all the time (I have requested repairs repeatedly, told no problem detected); car continues to roll 6-8 inches when parked on an incline; rear suspension creaks when getting in and out of car; several leaks in engine had to be repaired (gasket??).

- Pittsburgh, PA, USA

I had my front brakes replaced January 7, 2000. I recently heard a loud " tumping " noise in the right front wheel / axle assembly. I took the van back to the dealer for repairs. They replace the " sway bar / tie rods on the right side and did a suspension adjustment and assured me the problem was fixed. I took the van out of the parking lot only to return immediatly. I then took the " expert " front end mechanic for a test drive. He heard the noise for the " first " time and told me I now needed struts. This he said would solve my problem. I am scheduled to have this repair done on July 23, 2000. I do not believe this to be my problem. Also I am concerned that my dealer as well as Ford will not cover any of these repairs because the 36 months on my warranty has expired but not my 36,000 miles ( I am at 33,900 miles ). if you could send any information on recalls, class action suits or helpful tips on what to do I would be forever gratefull. Thanks ron turner

- Havre De Grace, MD, USA

While driving rear axle broke, cause unknown.

- Altoona, PA, USA

Upon entering road from store parking, a loud thump was heard from under the front of the vehicle. After inspection, it was found that the anti-sway bar had broken approximately 6 inches from its connection point to the left strut. This caused the remaining link to interfere with the front suspension (both turning and travel).

- Janesville, WI, USA

Rear axle problems.

- Walpole, MA, USA