This data is from the NHTSA — the US gov't agency tasked with vehicle safety. Complaints are spread across multiple & redundant categories, & are not organized by problem.
So how do you find out what problems are occurring? For this NHTSA complaint data, the only way is to read through the comments below. Any duplicates or errors? It's not us.
My Windstar gl wouldn't start. I replaced the range selector switch. When I restarted the vehicle I forgot the reconnect the brake pressure sensor wiring connector and the ABS light came on. I tried to get the code cleared but no-one could access the code. I took the van to the dealer for a recall notice on the speed control system and had them look into why the ABS light was on. I was told the ABS module had quit and needed replaced. The module is $1500 and $300 to install. That's more than the van is worth. I searched online and found out many other Windstar owners are having the same problems. The cruise control system has also quit and the dealer rep. Tells me that the cruise control also goes through this module. With the possibility of fire it seems rather irresponsible for Ford to do nothing more than install a fusible link as a safety measure. I am looking into buying a used module to repair the cruise and ABS. The failure is total. Neither the cruise control or the ABS system works at this time.
I bought this 1997 Ford Windstar in March of 2003. The very next day I returned to the independent car dealer due to the check engine light was on. They said nothing was wrong and they reset the light. Within a week it was on again and this time they said it was a fluxation in the electrical current and it was making the light come on. They reset it. About 2 weeks later it is losing coolant somewhere and running rough, they check it and now it needs 2 out of 4 oxygen sensors replaced im told. They pay for it if they truly fixed it because about 2-3 weeks later I am havint the same problems so they replace the other 2 oxygen sensors, but cannot explain the coolant loss. Ever since I have had nothing but problems so I decided to go to the local Ford dealer even though I try to avoid dealers because of prices and they charge me $58 to tell me I need a head gasket, my ABS system is not working, timing cover is leaking, ball bearing is shot and my antifreeze looks like mud. This is all wrote on a service estimate I asked them for. It would cost about $1700 + tax for them to fix. I have read that Ford knew they had a problem with the 95 Windstar and the head gaskets and offered an extended warranty or money towards a new car so I feel they know all Windstar with this 3.8L engine are faulty not just the 95's. I called Ford and they told me tough luck basically. I have read on the internet numerous complaints about the head gaskets in all 3.8L Windstar and I want my van fixed.
A D V E R T I S E M E N T S
- Novi, MI, USA