What are the most common Ford Windstar problems?
According to Au7o's analysis of 4,500+ owner reports, the 1995-2003 Ford Windstar has 5 documented issues. The most frequently reported are: AX4S/AX4N Automatic Transmission Failure, Intake Manifold Gasket Coolant Leak, 3.8L V6 Head Gasket Failure. Of these, 4 are rated critical and should be addressed promptly.
Is the Ford Windstar reliable?
The 1995-2003 Ford Windstar has 5 known issues documented across 4,500+ owner reports. 4 issues are rated critical: AX4S/AX4N Automatic Transmission Failure and Intake Manifold Gasket Coolant Leak and 3.8L V6 Head Gasket Failure and Rear Axle Breakage (Safety Recall). Prospective buyers should inspect for these issues and factor potential repair costs into their purchase decision. Regular maintenance following the manufacturer's schedule helps prevent many common problems.
How much does it cost to fix common Ford Windstar problems?
Repair costs for known Ford Windstar issues range from $100 to $3,100, depending on the specific problem and whether you choose DIY or professional repair. The most critical issue, AX4S/AX4N Automatic Transmission Failure, typically costs $400-$3,100 to repair. Au7o provides step-by-step DIY maintenance guides that can help reduce repair costs.
What year Ford Windstar is the most reliable?
Reliability varies across model years of the Ford Windstar. Based on documented issues, problems are most commonly reported in earlier model years. Au7o recommends checking the specific known issues for your target year before purchasing, and having a pre-purchase inspection performed by a qualified mechanic. Our known issues database covers the 1995-2003 Ford Windstar with 5 documented issues documented across 4,500+ owner reports.
What is the 1996-2003 Ford Windstar AX4S/AX4N Automatic Transmission Failure?
The Ford Windstar equipped with the AX4S (1995-2000) and AX4N/4F50N (2001-2003) automatic transmissions suffers from widespread premature transmission failure. CarComplaints.com records 140 complaints for the 2000 model year alone, and 166 problems for the 2003 model year, making… Repairs typically run $400-$3,100. Severity: high.
What is the 1999-2003 Ford Windstar Intake Manifold Gasket Coolant Leak?
The 3.8L V6 intake manifold gaskets degrade and allow coolant to leak externally or internally into the engine oil. This is closely related to the head gasket issue and can lead to overheating and engine damage if not addressed. Repairs typically run $400-$900. Severity: high.
What is the 1999-2003 Ford Windstar 3.8L V6 Head Gasket Failure?
The 3.8L Essex V6 in the Windstar is notorious for head gasket failure, often caused by the aluminum heads warping from overheating. The composite head gaskets deteriorate and allow coolant into combustion chambers. Repairs typically run $1,500-$3,000. Severity: high.
What is the 1998-2003 Ford Windstar Rear Axle Breakage (Safety Recall)?
The Windstar rear axle is prone to stress fracture and complete breakage at the spring perch, causing the wheel to tuck under the vehicle. This was subject to NHTSA recall 10V-040. Rust and corrosion in northern climates accelerates the failure. Repairs typically run $800-$2,000. Severity: high.
What is the 1995-2003 Ford Windstar Power Window Motor and Regulator Failure?
Power window motors and regulators fail frequently, especially on the driver's side. The plastic guide clips break, causing the window to drop into the door or operate very slowly. Repairs typically run $100-$300. Severity: low.
