Recalls

CampaignManufacturerManufacturing dateType# of units affectedDate Owner notified MfgRecall Initiated byManufacturers of recalled vehicles/productsReport Recieved DateRecord Creation DateRegulation Part NumberFMVSS Number
POWER TRAIN - AUTOMATIC TRANSMISSION
97V097000FORD MOTOR COMPANYfrom 11/24/1996 to 03/01/1997V (Vehicle)10000006/30/1997MFRFORD MOTOR COMPANY06/09/199706/17/1997
Defect SummaryVehicle description: passenger vehicles equipped with ax4s automatic transaxles. the low/intermediate servo cover can separate from the transaxle while the vehicle is being driven. if this occurs, transmission fluid will leak contacting the catalytic converter.
Consequence SummaryThe catalytic converter temperature may be hot enough to ignite the transmission fluid and cause a vehicle fire.
Corrective SummaryDealers will inspect the transmission and replace these servo covers.
NotesOwner notification:owner notification began june 30, 1997.owners who take their vehicles to an authorized dealer on an agreed upon service date and do not receive the free remedy within a reasonable time should contact ford at 1-800-392-3673. also contact the national highway traffic safety administration's auto safety hotline at 1-800-424-9393.
POWER TRAIN - AXLE ASSEMBLY
12V193000FORD MOTOR COMPANYfrom 09/01/1997 to 07/03/2003V (Vehicle)27000MFRFORD MOTOR COMPANY05/03/201205/03/2012
Defect SummaryFord is recalling certain model year 1998-2003 windstar vehicles manufactured from september 1, 1997, through july 3, 2003, and currently registered or originally sold in virginia. over time, corrosion can weaken the rear axle making it susceptible to torsional stress. corrosion and stress can lead to cracks which, if undetected, can increase and result in a complete fracture of the axle.
Consequence SummaryA fractured axle can affect vehicle handling and increase the risk of a crash.
Corrective SummaryFord will notify owners, and dealers will inspect and install rear axle reinforcement brackets, or replace the axles, as necessary. this service will be performed free of charge. the recall is expected to begin on or about june 18, 2012. owners may contact ford at 1-866-436-7332.
NotesFord's recall campaign number is 10s13.customers may contact the national highway traffic safety administration's vehicle safety hotline at 1-888-327-4236 (tty: 1-800-424-9153); or go to http://www.safercar.gov.
10V385000FORD MOTOR COMPANY V (Vehicle)462750ODIFORD MOTOR COMPANY08/26/201008/26/2010
Defect SummaryFord is recalling certain model year 1998-2003 windstar vehicles manufactured from september 1, 1997 through february 28, 2003 and currently registered or originally sold in connecticut, delaware, district of columbia, illinois, indiana, iowa, kentucky, maine, maryland, massachusetts, michigan, minnesota, missouri, new hampshire, new jersey, new york, ohio, pennsylvania, rhode island, vermont, west virginia, and wisconsin. after many years of vehicle service in these areas, corrosion can weaken the rear axle, making it susceptible to torsional stress. corrosion and stress can lead to cracks which if undetected can propagate and result in a complete fracture of the axle.
Consequence SummaryA fractured axle can affect vehicle handling and increase the risk of a crash.
Corrective SummaryAs parts become available, dealers will inspect and if necessary install the rear axle reinforcement brackets free of charge. this service will be performed free of charge. the safety recall is expected to begin on or before september 27, 2010. owners may contact ford at 1-866-436-7332.
NotesFord's recall no. is 10s13.owners may also contact the national highway traffic safety administration's vehicle safety hotline at 1-888-327-4236 (tty 1-800-424-9153), or go to http://www.safercar.gov .

Bulletins

BulletinBulletin dateReplacement BulletinItem no.SummaryAdded
POWER TRAIN
1735808/01/20041796310008183Groan/buzz/vibration when the gear selector is in park with the vehicle parked on an incline. *tt this bulletin updates previous bulletin 17358, dated 11/01/2003 to include 2005 models. *tt07/22/2004
1667803/01/200310001934Ax4s transaxle may exhibit no reverse engagement condition. *tt *jb07/28/2003
1539211/01/2001630356Some vehicles may exhibit a park pullout clunk noise when shifting from park to another gear position. *tt04/16/2002
1537011/01/2001630351Some vehicles may exhibit a groan/buzz/vibration when the gear selector is in park. *tt04/16/2002
1217811/01/1998613234Information regarding tsb 98-5a-12 (transaxle/transmission/transfer case-vehicles towed behind recreational vehicles-recommended guidelines) does not list towing information for certain model vehicles. *mjs06/19/2000
98E0311/01/1998603071Reprogramming powertrain control module calibration codes on some vehicles. *yc01/29/1999
9802169831605/27/1998600599Provided information to clarify calibrations vs. pcm vs. catalyst assemblies. *yc05/27/1998
9711109723711/10/199753663Concerns with harsh engagements and harsh shifts with diagnostic trouble codes (dtcs) 628, p0741 and/or p1744. *yc03/30/1998
POWER TRAIN - AUTOMATIC TRANSMISSION
98030401/01/1998607705Intermittent no forward engagement with or without dtc p1784 action. *ak02/06/2001
9915207/26/1999608431Information on the new flush and fill tool available through rotunda. *tt01/05/2001
1150704/01/1998613765Customer concern of erratic downshift. *tt08/01/2000
98499303/18/1998613032Some vehicles, with build dates on / after 9/8/97, may exhibit a harsh or jerky 3-2 transmission downshift under certain low speed operating conditions. *tt06/16/2000
1209911/01/1998613084Vehicles with the ax4s transaxle have an inline transmission cooler bypass valve located in the cooler line near the radiator cooler. *mjs06/16/2000
001501/10/2000612203Information regarding the new transmission cooler flusher- service tip. *mjs06/06/2000
1302407/01/1999610767Some vehicles equipped with the ax4s transaxle may exhibit a harsh 3-2 downshift when coasting around a corner and then stepping into the throttle to accelerate away from the corner. *tt05/12/2000
98358001/01/1998607842Vehicles may exhibit a harsh 1-2 shift on light throttle only. *tt10/13/1999
98251204/01/1998603540Some vehicles may exhibit a customer concern of inoperative overdrive cancel light. *yc02/24/1999
98245104/01/1998603523Some customers have concerns of erratic downshift. *ak02/24/1999
9841103/02/1998601272Service procedure for blue service tagged transaxles. *yc07/16/1998
988804/27/1998601238Information on a new transmission fluid usage chart. *yc07/10/1998
9898A01/01/1998600620Exhibiting driveability condition: harsh 1-2 up-shift on very light throttle only. *yc05/28/1998
BC238097050105/01/199752820Harsh 1-2 upshift. *tw09/12/1997
9751103/03/199751945Fluid- transmission fluid usage charts. *jd07/17/1997
POWER TRAIN - AUTOMATIC TRANSMISSION - CONTROL MODULE (TCM, PCM)
04210712/13/200404241410014086General (pcm) power train control module programming procedures. *tt04/28/2005
00E1102/01/2001619150Service action 00e11, supplement #1 - update information regarding on-board diagnostic system upgrade. *tt05/16/2001
98E0312/01/1998616509Emission recall on reprogramming powertrain control module calibration codes. *tt03/01/2001
520512/01/1998615337Some vehicles may exhibit a ngs error message, total checksum error after ngs / sbts pcm reprogramming. *tt01/13/2001
1216911/01/1998613186Some vehicles may exhibit a ngs error message after ngs/sbts pcm reprogramming. *mjs06/19/2000
98151908/03/1998609559Traction control lamp flasing intermittently with diagnostic trouble codes u1009 and/or u1027. *ak04/04/2000
9815308/03/1998609552This tsb is being republished in its entirety to revise the power train control module (pcm) calibration cross reference and revise pcm service part numbers. *ak04/03/2000
503909/01/19996090203Information regarding a pcm reprogramming error occuring on vehicles if an incorrect calibration qualifier is selected. *tt03/10/2000
BPI990401/01/1999605850Conditions with the trac off lamp illuminating intermittently and ther may also be stored trouble codes u1009 and / or u1027.07/29/1999
985703/16/1998601297Some vehicles may stall during deceleration when coming to a stop, during slow speed parking maneuvers and/or coasting through slow sweeping turns. *yc07/20/1998
POWER TRAIN - AUTOMATIC TRANSMISSION - COOLING UNIT AND LINES
0314807/21/200310003748New transmission cooler flusher - service tips. 2003 escort and super duty f series included. *tt10/29/2003
513112/01/1998615326Subject regarding vehicles with the ax4s transaxle having an inline transmission cooler bypass valve located in the cooler line near the radiator cooler. *tt01/13/2001
POWER TRAIN - AUTOMATIC TRANSMISSION - LEVER AND LINKAGE - COLUMN SHIFT
1261603/01/1999605338Information on transaxle service case replacement with oss (output shaft speed sensor) hole. *tt06/08/1999
POWER TRAIN - AUTOMATIC TRANSMISSION - PARK/NEUTRAL START SWITCH
0118109/17/2001625715Brake shift interlock.*jb11/30/2001
POWER TRAIN - AUTOMATIC TRANSMISSION - TORQUE CONVERTER
0312306/23/200310002684Torque converter clutch not engaging when commanded and/or diagnostic trouble codes p0741 or p1744 stored in memory. models from 1996 to 2003. *tt09/10/2003
1477303/01/2001619462Information on indexing orange dot on torque converter to flexplate. *tt05/31/2001
704709/01/19996090413Information regarding the torque converter clutch solenoid. *mjs03/20/2000
POWER TRAIN - AXLE ASSEMBLY
0117109/03/2001625687Transaxle - ax4s - replacement application chart - windstar vehicles only. *nlm11/30/2001
1302407/01/1999610767Some vehicles equipped with the ax4s transaxle may exhibit a harsh 3-2 downshift when coasting around a corner and then stepping into the throttle to accelerate away from the corner. *tt05/12/2000
9918409/06/19996090053Some vehicles equipped with ax4s transaxle, may exhibit a harsh 2-3 downshift may occur when coasting around a corner and then accelerating. *tt03/06/2000
99673508/01/1999608455Some vehicles equipped with the ax4s transaxle may exhibit a harsh 3-2 downshift when coasting around a corner and then stepping into the throttle to accelerate away from the corner. *tt12/01/1999
9822111/09/1998603710Intermittent neutral condition after driving and coming to a stop. *yc03/03/1999
981130204/01/1998603603A concern has been found on the transaxle id tag may exhibit a harsh 1-2 shift on light throttle only. *yc02/25/1999
POWER TRAIN - AXLE ASSEMBLY - AXLE SHAFT
98314102/20/1998607414Some vehicles may exhibit a harst 1 - 2 shift on light throttle only. *tt09/22/1999
POWER TRAIN - AXLE ASSEMBLY - AXLE SHAFT - SEAL
98267504/01/1998603573A revised forward clutch inner seal for the axod, axode, ax4s & ax4n transaxle is available with improved sealing and reduced chance of the seal rolling during installation. *yc02/25/1999
POWER TRAIN - CLUTCH ASSEMBLY - PEDAL/LINKAGE
1255903/01/1999605294Concerns with reverse clutch that could become sheared or torn in extremely cold temperatures. *tt06/07/1999

Consumer Complaints

Fail datemilesoccurencesPurchase date
POWER TRAIN
09/24/2012197000
 Tl- the contact owns a 1998 ford windstar. the contact stated after shifting into reverse, the vehicle failed to move and the over drive light illuminated on the instrument panel. the contact mentioned that she shifted into drive and the vehicle functioned properly. the vehicle was taken to a dealer who stated that the transmission needed to be replaced. the vehicle was not repaired. the manufacturer was made aware of the failure who advised the contact to take the vehicle into a ford dealer for inspection. the failure mileage was 197,000. pmb
09/24/2012197000
 Tl- the contact owns a 1998 ford windstar. the contact stated that she went to put the vehicle into reverse but the vehicle would not move and the over drive light illuminated on the instrument panel. the contact stated that she put the vehicle into drive and the vehicle functioned properly. the vehicle was taken to a dealer for inspection and they stated that the transmission needed to be replaced. the vehicle was not repaired. the manufacturer was notified and stated to take the vehicle into a ford dealer for inspection. the failure mileage was 197,000. ap
09/24/20121523071
 After it was put into reverse and i went to park there was a loud noise and i couldn't move the van. got out and look at it and saw it was the rear axel completely broken. *tr
08/12/2012178187
 Tl- the contact owns a 1998 ford windstar. the contact stated accelerated in an attempt to pass another vehicle when the front end started to shake as the vehicle stopped accelerating. the contact stated that the engine continued running. the contact's mechanic also stated that the gears in the transmission were fractured. the failure mileage and current mileages were 178,187. kmj
08/12/2012178187
 Tl- the contact owns a 1998 ford windstar. the contact stated that when they moved over to accelerate and pass another vehicle the front end start to shake and the vehicle stopped accelerating. the contact stated the engine was still running. the contacts mechanic stated that the gears broke in the transmission. the failure mileage and current mileages were 178,187.rl
06/23/2012112000
 Transmission failed on garden state parkway in nj, stranded in busy traffic.
01/02/2012110000
 Just wanted this agency to know that these particular vehicles are unsafe.i was driving in busy traffic, in major construction nonetheless on a 1 lane road and my vehicles transmission without warning quit working....backed up all kinds of traffic with no where to pull over and made all kinds of new friends....just letting this agency know this manufacturer should be notified.although it is now and older vehicle it is still capable of creating havoc...and potentially unsafe.couldnt imagine if i didnt have enough speed to make it to safely pull off, could of caused a pile up..
11/09/2010120000
 I own a 1998 ford windstar(manufactor date aug..1997. i have been having problems for a while. my van was makeing a whining grinding noise. gear is hard to get out of park bad poping noise when backing up...replaced all 4 wheel bearings and both tie rod ends..still making a bad whining noise.3 days ago i was driving down the highway and the steering started acting weird and shakng and the back of the van started swaying back and forth .. was told at the shop about the recall on axel i called ford and was told my van is not on the list my van has a excessive amount of corrosion thoughout the whole bottom the shop told me this van has been exposed to salt. when i bought the van it had a inspection sticker from previous owner from one of the recall states.(pens) ford would not give me any information onwhat state it was sold in or dealer, what brand of axel that was being recalled (said they didnt know the brand) come on what company spends money on parts and dont even know the brand or manufactor they buy from. i'm scared to death to drive this automobile.. i think ford should honnor there promise to its customers and fix this problem on all 1997-2003 windstars not just certain months of 1997 or does someone have to lose there life before they do something? ford>>> you took our money for your product now stand behind your product
03/15/2010134000
 Van has been swaying when driving like a tire was low on air, kept checking with no tire problems but when backing out of parking space at work i heard a dragging noise. when i got out i found my rear drivers side tire leaning in. i jacked up my van to find the rear axle is broken about a foot or so in from the drivers side. i travel with 4 children and if this would have broken with them on the highway it could have been fatal, there is no obvious rust on the axle. i found a ford website that has numerous complaints of the axle breaking and i feel this needs investigated
12/16/20091
 On december 16th 2009. i was driving down west 117th towards madison/lakewood in cleveland, ohio and was trying to come to a stop (slow down and stop) to allow an ambulance to pass (there was a car in front of me that was also slowing downa nd that came to a stop at the street lot)this is on a major street near an highway intersection. i put my foot on my brake to slow down the vehicle and come to a stop but it would not slow down or stop. the brake had went out. i ended up hitting the car in front of me hard (an suv) and doing quite a bit of damage to my vehicle. the other driver vehicle was so far as i could tell undamaged. on my vehicle the front light is broken, my bumper is damaged, and my hood is damaged. i, myself and the driver i hit could have gotten seriously injured. so far we are bothfine and no injuries occurred. however he may turn around and come after me if he decides to. and i now can not drive my vehicle. i received a recall notice on my vehicle brake about a month ago around early november. maybe in end of october. the very day of my accident (happened around 12:15 noon) i was going to go home and call ford about the recall. there is a worldwide recall on my vehicle model and many others. and i have had nothing but problems since i bought it. i have had to make numerous repairs on it and still had problems and this accident. ford should be held responsible for this and should compensate me with another vehicle in good condition especially since i have spent so much time and money into replacement parts for this windstar. or give me my money back or something. i'm glad my kids were not with me when this happened and that the man i hit was also alone and is ok. what can be done about this? i have had to replace the following items since i got this vehicle: o2 sensors (both), alternator, belt, windshield wiper blade, and make back blades don't work at all, the transmission, the steering column box, door handle and components inside and more!
04/05/2007898751
 A faulty brake pressure differential deactivation! switch is leaking brake fluid! *tr
07/20/200512475206/07/2005
 First incident happened while driving up a low grade and coming to a stop. van started rolling backward after removing foot from brake and when it finally moved forward the service engine light came on and no speedometer. took it to the dealer and was told that it was a faulty sensor. most recent incident happened after passing a semi on the freeway. passed doing approximately 70 mph and when pulling back into right lane van lost all forward power and speed. speedometer once again dropped to 0. was able to make it back to the dealer but as yet have not had it looked at by dealer. said to bring it back on the weekend.
10/15/200323956
 On october 1, 2003 the transmission failed at 23,956 miles. it neutralizes at 10 mph or higher. contact with the dealership stated it was out of warranty and i could bring it in for repair. they would not cooperate with providing me the name and means of contacting the zone rep. repair cost at $1800.00 with transmission shop.
05/15/200137000
 This van has all the defects and complaints listed on thegovt. recalls the nhtsa site and others ihave too much info to put on this site if there is anyone i can send my complaint to please let me know iam putting it back into the shop again ive been thru a nightmare along with trying to assure my 4 kids that they were safe in this van thankyou angela wallace and by the wat the dealer that sold me this van will not cooperate at all
07/15/200327000
 Ford installed a ford taurus transmission in the windstar from the factory. i am currently in the lawsuit stage to make ford repair the factory defect. i will never buy another ford vehicle again. town east ford in mesquite, tx found out about the problem and decided to eat the $1000.00 plus repair bill after they dismantled the transmission and discovered the problem. they now want to give me the runaround and shift the blame to the used dealership kingdom auto world in arlington texas where i bought the lemon from. ford is clearly responsible and i will sue them dearly for their runaround and poor customer service.
07/15/200280000
 The transmission failed after having the fluid and pan gasket changed within the previous 6 months. since it is a '98 and although it has the same transmission as earlier years (whose transmissions have been replaced at no cost to the owner because of either recalls or secret warranties) ford refused to replace this transmission at cost.
11/15/200340000
 Paint is peeling on roof, and sides of the vehicle
02/15/20030
 Paint is peeling off of van interor remain on panel shows door open when its not and the lights will not go out until you reach about 20mph try driving at night with this.
06/18/200347000201/14/1999
 Ford 1998 windstar power train failure. in jan 1999, i purchase a used 1998 ford windstar. also paid for a 72 month/60,000 premium care extended warranty. in 2000, the transmission failed almost causing and accident. i brought the vehicle back to the dealer and they replaced the transmission under warranty. after that i brought the vehicle back more than 5 times stating that the new replacement transmission was not working properly. the trans would slip coming out of first gear and bang into 2nd gear. also, when driving on a highway the car would stall when downshifting coming off an exit. the dealer, springfield ford, stated that they could not find a problem. on july 18, 2003 the transmission failed while i was driving. the vehicle just stopped and would not go into gear. as a disabled individual this was a major problem and almost caused an accident. with my flashers on, i was able to put the car into neutral, and drive off the road and safely pack it. this seemed strange that i was able to drive the vehicle in neutral. the vehicle was towed to springfield ford on july 18, 2003. the dealer called and said that my warranty had expired and it would cost $3000.00 to fix the transmission. i spoke with ford and the manager at springfield ford. they stated that my warranty expired in june of 2003. i believe that my warranty is in effect thru 2005. this vehicle has 47,000 miles on it. i believe that a defective transmission was installed in my vehicle. this has created a major safty issue for me and my family. as of today ford has not offered to fix my car, offer me a loaner car, or offer any resolution to this problem. as a disabled individual, this van is my main transportation and family car. i am still waiting for ford to offer to fix my car, describe the failure, and provide a solution. at this point i believe that the entire power train needs to be replaced with oem certified new parts installed and paid by ford motor co. thank you l *ph
04/15/20031
 The vehicle jerked when driving at any speed. *jb
12/03/2001
 While driving vehicle at any speed speedometer will freeze. but, tires are still spinning. if traveling at 60 mph speedometer reads zero. consumer feels this can be unsafeif he doesn't know how fast vehicle is going. please provide any further information.*ak
05/01/20003505/12/2000
 While traveling in warm weather ,making sudden stops/parking and while in stop and go traffic, vehicle would stall without any indication. please provide further informaiton.*ak air bag light illuminated due to faulty module, the drivers side door adjar switch was sticking causing the door adjar light to illuminate, outer tie rod failed causing noise in the front end, vehicle experiences loss of power/slipping due to faulty transmission, check engine light illuminated and vehicle stalled, dealer replaced sensor, speedometer was off. nlm
01/01/20010
 Speedometer jumps around; consumer cannot have accurate speed because speedmeter jumps around and around. dealership is aware of problem.*ak
12/29/20001011/30/2000
 Consumer has experienced several problems with the transmission, dealer has replaced it once, however problems continue, consumer has filed for a request for arbitration, vehicle bucks, jerks, and jumps into gear before taking off. vehicle shimmies from one side to another upon acceleration, there is a thumping sound heard also at times while driving. vehicle experienced a speed sensor circuit problem. speedometer jumps. problem with power steering, dealer adjusted rack and pinion and made other repairs to steering mechanism. right side brake light bulb failed. battery failed. consumer stated it felt as if vehicle was going to stall sometimes, engine has no power at acceleration, engine belt was noisy and was replaced. tire had a slow leak due to loose tire valve. *slc
 The speedometer stopped working. as a result, when driving speed cannot be determined. dealer has been contacted.*ak
312/30/1998
 Transmission replaced two times to illiminate slipping 1st and 2nd gears, however the replacements did not rectify transmission problems. mjs
1
 Speedometer doesn't return to zero upon stopping vehicle and stays at a particular speed, even if you brake or accelerate. (qcaw)
POWER TRAIN - AUTOMATIC TRANSMISSION
05/20/2011142000
 Popping in front end when turning or hitting bumps.the popping sound was often.had new tires put on,and when i took it in to have front end alianed.ford tech.said front springs were broke.was an est.of $1200.00 oni cant afford.this was 5/20/2011.contacted mftr about the recall that that was issued on this part 7/12/2001.was told there was nothing they could do,because of a time limit.how can they put a time limit on safety & peoples lives?because the springs are broken,they can puncture the tires and cause an accident.now we are without transportation.and my son is disabled and has numerous dr.appts. miles away.but my hands are tied.the mftr.did advise to have another recall checked out which is the speed control because it can catch fire.when i asked why,you just told me it was unsafe to drive.he advised it could catch fire just setting in the drive not running.i was not notified of either one of these recalls by mail or other wise until i called to complain about the front coil springs.how does these billion dollar companys keep getting by with negligance.there are lots of recalls on this vihicle.please help!
08/28/19984400
 Tl-the contact owns a 1998 ford windstar. while driving approximately 50 mph the transmission got stuck in over drive. he stated he coasted to the side of the road and called the dealership. the vehicle was towed to the dealer. the dealer advised him that the main control valve tor the transmission was defective and they removed and replaced it. the contact stated later he starting having problems with his brakes. once while driving he saw a deer and he engaged the brakes and the brakes locked. the vehicle crashed into the woods and damages were done to the right side of the vehicle. a police report was filed. he stated he had injures to the neck. he stated the abs tone ring seal cracked. the vehicle was repaired. the failure continued, the vehicle was taken to the dealer and the dealer replaced the tone ring and the sensor. months later he had another failure with the abs sensor he stated the brakes were grabbing. the contact stated he had the abs sensor replaced four times. the contact stated because of the abs sensor failure it caused him to have the entire brake assembly replaced four times. he also stated he had a problem with his electrical system and another dealer replaced the switch assist in all the doors in 2005. the contact stated in 2011 he again had a failure with the electrical system the dealer replaced the switch for the drivers side mirror and checked the latches for all doors because the door light was on constantly. the dealer replaced all the sensor assist for all the doors. he stated the door ajar light was still on. the contact was also upset with the work that was performed on recall nhtsa campaign id number: 10v385000, suspension:rear:axle:non-powered axle assembly he stated the dealer did nothing. the contact was also upset that the dealer just looked at his vehicle for recall nhtsa campaign id number: 09v399000, vehicle speed control. the failure mileage was 4,400 and the current mileage was 72,000. vwb
12/12/2010100000
 Ford winstar will not stay in park
04/26/2010155000
 Tl-the contact owns a 1998 ford windstar. while driving 25 mph the transmission blew up and the vehicle was not driveable. the vehicle was towed to her home while she contacted the dealer. the dealer was called and informed her to contact nhtsa to file a complaint. the manufacturer was called and offered no assistance. the failure mileage was 155,000....mw
09/10/2010161000
 Transmission: 1998 ford windstar mini van: while trying to turn around in a driveway, i put it in reverse and there was not a reverse or drive gears ,nothing. the motor reved, but could not move. i was stranded with no warning. had to have it towed since it would not move. after doing research online, other owners, this is a common problem with the ford winstar mini van. i feel this is diffenently a safety hazard. i agree with so many more cosumers, why hasn't this been in a recall. it is very, very dangerous, since it just stops without any warning or problems. i realize it is too late for me since mine is in the shop already. however, i am on a limited income and probably will loose the vehicle due to no funds for the repair. if it had been on a recall, this would not have happened. this is my first ford vehicle and more than likely, will be my last! please do your own research and you will see how common this problem has been. thank you
09/23/20091040001
 1998 ford windstar transmission fluid leaking out under the motor. *tr
06/25/20091100001
 1998 ford windstar transmission failed. no warning, no problems prior to failure. *tr
01/23/2009124528107/15/2008
 Tl*the contact owns a 1998 ford windstar. the contact observed red liquid leaking from the vehicle while attempting to park. through online research, she discovered nhtsa campaign id number 97v097000 (power train:automatic transmission), but was unaware if her vin was included in the recall or if previous recall repairs had been performed. the failure and current mileages were 124,528. updated 02/24/09. *lj updated 02/24/09. *jb
09/03/20081130001
 1998 windstar, transmission failure, complete overhaul , $1700.00 dollars, the van was bought for my mother, she's 81 , the van was thought to be dependable and left her on the road. mechanic said the planetary gears were shot, new gears and torque converter, complete overhaul. the van was owned by my mother in law , bought new , when she passed away i gave it to my mother, two women drivers, over 60 years of age, so there was no abuse to the van, always taken to a mechanic for oil changes and maintenance,,,what gives... *tr
07/05/20081
 I have a 1998 ford windstar van sv, i ave some transmission issues. i have to have a whole transmission overhaul done. i fount out that alot of the other owners of this type of vehicle has suffered the same. what we have fount out is that that model of vans have default transmissions in them. i want to know if i could at least have the transmission repaired or to know any information that will help. *tr
07/22/20081100001
 I bought a 1998 ford windstar 3.0 l in 1999. in 2002 i received a recall to install front shields over the coil spring so i did. yesterday the front coil spring punctured the front tire and broke the struts as well. when calling ford, they inform me that they can not tell me when my vehicle was manufactured, just that they will do nothing about it. they issued the warranty for 10 years from manufacturer date even though the recall did not take place until 3-4 years after manufacture date and i took my vehicle in for the recommended cure to the problem. *tr
11/02/20071
 Tl*the contact owns a 1998 ford windstar. while driving at an unknown speed, the contact noticed smoke. she parked the vehicle, checked under the hood, and found that it was very hot and smelled like burned rubber. fifteen minutes later, there was an engine fire underneath the hood. the vehicle was destroyed. a fire report was filed. nhtsa campaign id number 97v097000 (power train:automatic transmission) was referenced. the purchase date, powertrain, and mileages were unknown. updated 04-08-08 *bf updated 04/08/08 *tr
01/27/200789764404/15/2002
 Front stabilizer bar broke in half inside bushing none of the auto techs could find the problem for the part 2 years (not even during ny state inspections) so they past the van anyways untill finally one gave a tug on the passangers side of the bar and it came out of the bushing in their hands the tech said he never saw a bar break like that before and that was the cause for having to get the wheel hubs lowerball joints &tie rod ends replaced twice in one year along with the tires on the front of the van so the van sits in the drive way untill it can get fixed (finding the bar is the hard part)dealer said he could not locate one now what???? any help would be greatly apreshiated also the dealer had to replace the tranny 4 times once about every 12000-17000 miles and one of the trannys only lasted for 325 miles before the van died on the ny state thruway on our way to canada from syracuse,n.y. then it took the 5 weeks to fix the van and get it back to me so how could i be sure that the breaking of the sawy bar was not caused from the techs removing the unit x amount of times???????????along with the tie rods,wheel hubs,ect.*ak
08/15/20063
 1998 windstar jerks when down shifting. *ts *nm
10/10/2006100000109/15/1998
 Dt*: the contact stated a burning smell was present after the vehicle was parked. upon inspection, there was transmission fluid on the ground of the driveway. underneath the vehicle there was fluid leaking out of the servo cover of the transmission. the dealer was contacted and faxed a copy of the nhtsa recall #97v097000. the contact was told that the transmission mechanic stated there was no recalls pertaining to the servo cover and there were never any vehicles repaired at that dealership according to the nhtsa recall. when the dealer was asked to fix the vehicle based on the recall, the contact was told the information meant nothing to them. the manufacturer was contacted who expressed that they could not authorized repairs for the vehicle under the nhtsa recall. *nm
08/05/200546101106/03/1998
 Transmission was slow going into gear,was very noisy and would not shift it finally locked up in gear and would not move. it was towed in to a repair shop and i was told the transmission was bad. the van has only 46,000 miles on it. a 30,000 dollar car should last longer than this. *jb
05/28/2005511/20/2000
 Van will stall when decelerating into a turn, ocurrs 2-3 times per week. automatic transmission failed at 84,000 miles costng $1,700 to repair. van would vibrate and stutter when aceelerating from a complete stop. had van to dealer 3-4 times for stalling problem, they claimed they could find nothing wrong.
05/10/2004303/01/2000
 Dt: the contact states while driving for about five or ten miles ,if the contact goes to make a right turn or stop, the vehicle will stall. this occurs while decelerating. he states that everything works fine while he is driving the vehicle. it just when he goes to stop that he has the problems. he took the vehicle to his personal mechanic , and they replaced the idle control ,and cleaned the injectors. however, vehicle still has this problem. the vehicle shuts off with no warning. it will start back up as soon as it stalls when he puts it in park. the contact states that this has happened more than 100 times. vehicle has automatic transmission. the vehicle is regularly maintained. it started about a year ago and it wouldn't do it all the time and now it is doing almost every time you slow down. has came very close to causing an accident.*ak
02/26/20052
 1998 ford windstar transmission malfunctioned while driving at 55 mph.*mr the consumer had the transmission replaced 2 1/2 years ago. *jb
02/18/20051
 The vehicle was on the road when all of a sudden the drive gear popped out, causing the vehicle to slow down and not move. manufacturer will be contacted by consumer.*ak
01/07/200542200509/24/1998
 Engine shuts down intermittently when decelerating into a turn. it also shuts down momentarily (vehicle bucks) or fully (stalls completely) during normal driving, independent of speed. the latter problem is much more common than the former! consequence: several near-miss rear-end collisions, especially at highway speeds. the dealership could not replicate the problem. an independent technician replicated but could not properly repair the problem(s). the problems have been occurring for more than two years. *nm
01/15/200574482101/30/1998
 The transmission on a 98 ford windstar failed after only 74482 miles. i had to have the transmission rebuilt at a significant cost. *nm
12/10/200499000103/12/2003
 Heard noise from engine and lost transmission power. car coasted. when i got out there was a lot of transmission oil on the ground. towed to ford of upland, (calif) . i was shown that the low/intermediate servo cover was blown to the side. i checked for recalls found one recall for 98 windstar. according to ford motor co rep. my veh was manufactured after 3/1/97 namely on 11/26/97 but ford rep said it could be the same problem, as of now he noted my complaint and said i should call you, (nhtsa) you may be able to check further into this. thanks *jb
12/02/20021
 Nar 1/15/2003. the consumer complained that the vehicle had transmission problems. after numerous complaints, the selling dealer offered to buy the vehicle back, but the consumer declined and instead continued to ford and harass the employees to point that they became death threats. *jb
01/01/19011
 Reporting defective transmission in 1998 ford windstar. *bf *nm
01/01/19011200001
 Problems with 1998 ford windstar transmission.*mr *nm
07/29/200494000205/01/1998
 Without warning, the speedometer went flat and the engine stayed in low gear and the check engine light came on when i was trying to drive up a steep hill. i called my husband and he put a little extra transmission fluid in it. i was able to drive it home. we took it the following day for a oil & air filter change and transmission fluid flush. we only made it a few miles until it broke down again with the same problems. when we had it checked at the shop, we were told it also has a broken motor mount. we called a transmission specialist and were told by the description, it sounded like the speed sensor had gone out. we had this van custom-built, no one else has ever owned it. it currently has about 94,000 miles on it. it has had regular mainentence and has never been iinvolved in a collision. has ford recalled any of this, it seems more than the regular wear and tear?*ak
09/23/2003140000509/23/2003
 Right after purchasing the vehicle, i started having problem with it. i addressed the seller, and he told me that the vehicle had no warranty, and so that i should just take the vehicle and take care of the problem by myself. i have had numerous of problems with this vehicle. when i purchased the vehicle, i feel i was used because i am poor, and was desperate for a vehicle. other people that have purchased a vehicle from them have had the same problem. i don't know what actions can be taken to correct the matter any longer. i haven't given a payment for about 4 months, because i have had to fix the vehicle. mainly transmission and electrical problems. i have also had steering wheel problems, and tire problems. *la
06/16/2004452003/01/2001
 I have a 1998 ford windstar with about 100,000 miles on it. the engine is good, but while driving on the highway, it suddenly shifts to low gear and jerks. initially, this would happen occassionally, but now it has reached a point that it down shifts very often especially when running at slow speed and the vehicle vibrates a lot. as a consequence, the passengers experience a very strong jolting forward like as if somebody stepped on the brakes at high speed. *jb a visit to my certified mechanic reveals that this experience is very common among ford transmissions on various cars. it will cost between $1,500 - $2,000 to replace the transmission.
03/12/200480000204/01/2001
 Transmission on van went without warning, stranded the complainant in a parking lot. van had to be towed to repair shop to have transmission replaced. thsi was the thrid major repair to this vehicle (repairs costing more than $1,000 each). purchased the used vehicle in april 2001- had 30,000 miles on it, currently has a little over 100,000 miles. just after the dealer warranty expired the van had parts replaced in the transmission, then parts replaced in the drive train (expensive). entire rack and pinion replacement followed. the reapirs were done withing 18 months prior to this transmission replacement. even after having the entire transmission and rive train replaced, there is still a growling underneath the vehicle when it idles at a stop sign. vehicle also has erratic shifting when rounding corners at low speeds (clunking sounds and vehicle shakes when van drops into gear)- all of this even after the transmission was replaced! what a lemon! *ak
02/22/200490000403/09/2002
 Last year transmission problems started again. i had the van in the garage again in december to replace the pump on the transmission after it blew apart and left me stranded when it wouldn't go into any gear. after 10 days the van would move again. now again the transmission is slipping between 1st and 2nd. the van is famous for downshifting from overdrive into 1st or 2nd gear. the overdrive light is constantly flashing and not working. *jb
01/04/200465985211/12/2001
 I currently own a 1998 ford windstar. i have had this van for two years. i bought it with 38000 miles on it and now have 66000 miles on it. up till about a month ago, i had no problems as i have loved this van. but i did run into a peculiar problem that seems that most people are having with this van as i have checked numerous websites and web posts on the internet as well as my friends that have formerly owned this vehicle. the door ajar censor inside the doors wear, causing the computers to recognize the car doors to be shut. this emits a beeping sound that steadily beeps till you rise above 15 mph. also, the lights stay on and since ford built these vans all the same way, you cannot simply fix it without spending at least 500 dollars if your lucky. also, another problem has risen just recently. my transmission has started to slip. i expected normal wear-and-tear, but it seems that when you reach a certain threshold, as many of other people have experienced once hitting 65000 miles on this particular van, the transmission goes completely. i would like to send an awareness to ford to fix this problem in their newer vans, if a problem emerged and to future buyers of this year of van. this has cost me over 2500 dollars and i must admit, is not worth it. this van is by far the worst investment i have ever made, and i do not recommend buying one. thank you.*ak
11/15/200385000104/17/2000
 Ihave a ford windstar min van it is a 1998 gl and my husband and i have only had it three and a half years we bought it at best ford in nashua new hampshire. we bought an extended warranty but we were over by 600 miles so they wouldnt honor it. come to find out there were two other mini vans windstars the same type and age in the shop getting transmission work done. this should of never happened to us and i think the company ought to reimburse us for this expensive fix there is obviously problems with these min vans transmission going to early . i hope i get some results on this its rediculous we are not even done paying on it yet karen roy. *ak
11/03/200352415303/06/2001
 Transmission has been replaced 3 time and is going again. don't know what to do?*ak
10/14/200374000107/03/1997
 Automatic transmission failure. *la
10/09/200342000109/19/2003
 1998 ford windstar van came to a complete stop and the transmission failed. van would not go forward until i down shifted to 2nd gear. dealership has not found a problem code and not been able to duplicate the problem. daily cut offs occur on pulling up my steep driveway and coming to a stop. *la
09/25/200365000106/10/1997
 Automatic transmission failed at 65,000 miles. checked with dealer and they said they had not heard of any problems from ford. i look at this website and find numerous problems. there should be an official recall for this problem. i would like my money refunded for the transmission replacement. *la
10/01/20031
 While driving automatic transmission slips gears, causing the vehicle to hesitate. *ak
410004
 Problems with transmission, torque, power steering, and front end stable rods & arms. *mr the transmission and torque had been replaced twice, the power steering once, the font end stable rods and arms twice and remained bad. the battery light had come on and the idler pulley was replaced, there was a creaking/cracking noise when turning the wheel and the outer tie rods were replaced along with the toe being reset, there was a clunk when going over the bumps, there was a vibration underneath due to the transmission, the engine light would come on and off and seemed like the shifts were erratic, the transmission leaked badly, and on some occasions the starter did not engage. *scc *jb
08/28/2003589001
 My windstar van, at 58,000 miles, had a premature catastrophic transmission failure while driving 65 mph on highway i-84 east. this event put my young children and myself in danger on the side of the busy highway due to the smoke and steam coming from the vehicle that we had to rapidly evacuate. my van was out of my service for over one full week and has a repair price tag of just under $2,800. i have requested ford to pay the full cost of this repair through one of their special programs. ford knows about the defects of these transmissions (i am glad i don't own a 1995 windstar!) and must be made to take responsibility and accountability for not using quality transmission units on these vehicles. *ak
08/20/20031
 While driving consumer heard a loud noise from under the vehicle. then, vehicle started to decelerate, causing consumer to pull over. consumer had made contact with dealer. *ak
08/17/200375000106/20/1999
 Powertrain failure transmission felt like it dropped into neutral and then would not respond. family mechanic inspected vehicle and the transmission was completely locked up..$2000. later transmission was replaced..if this is such a known issue with these vehicles why doesnt ford do something to compensate their customers? i used to be a ford gal but not anymore!!!*ak
08/09/200389000111/01/2000
 My 1998 windstar has 89,000 miles and the transmission completey broke apart, with no warning at all. no slipping or anything. sitting at a red light, the van jerked like we had been hit in the rear by someone doing 80 miles per hour. it is going to cost me $1800.00 to have it rebuilt. i know numerous complaints are filed with your organization on ford transmissions. i want to register my complaint.*ak
07/08/2003103/20/2001
 While driving at 40 mph, the transmission failed without warning. *ak *jb
07/23/2003620001
 While driving vehicle lost all power and the ability to shift gears. dealer notified. *ak
06/24/2003896261
 Transmission failed and cost me $1900 to fix. *ak
03/01/200261000103/01/2000
 Transmission failure on 1998 windstar with only 61,000 miles on vehicle.ford refused to give us any type of compensation. after searching this database, it seems bad transmissions are a common problem with windstars.*ak
06/24/20031
 Consumer states has a power train problem from the transaxles while the vehicle is being driven. consumer stated there is a technical service bulletin on this issued, number #98-15-19. *ak
05/21/200382177210/27/2001
 Intermittently while driving there was a kicking noise from the transmission, which resulted in the vehicle losing transmission fluid.*ak transmission jerked and seemed to kick more on turns and acceleration. on one occasion, transmission fluid leaked all over the engine which resulted in smoking. transmission needed to be replaced. *ph *jb
06/10/20038370007/15/2002
 Our '98 ford windstar (3.8l) has just experienced a major transmission problem; it drives along just fine on the highway at 65 m.p.h. and then bang -- the transmission shifts from over drive into second (or first!) gear. this sends the engine from a casual 1,500 r.p.m. to a dangerous 5,500 r.p.m., and makes for scary and dangerous highway driving. ford (kachel ford in shillington, pa) says that the valve body or possibly the entire transmission has gone bad, but i have uncovered literally thousands of complaints about this very same, and potentially life-threatening problem with the ford automatic transmission being used in the windstar. something needs to be done about this immediately. contact me at once if you would like full cooperation -- i am willing. *nlm
02/06/200032000308/10/1999
 Transmission stalls during down shifting at low speeds. shifts hard into gear, causing the vehicle to lunge forward,three times has been repaired,first time @ 32000,3600,65,000. dealer said that it's a known problem,but there is no fix. *nlm
05/21/20031
 The gas pedal was pressed while driving 55 mph but the vehicle would not gain any speed. the dealer was contacted and the technician indicated that the transmission needed to be replace. *nlm spoke with consumer 10/16/07 , was told to disregard complaint. vehicle has been traded. *lj
880001
 While driving, the vehicle stopped in the middle of traffic without warning. the dealer stated the transmission and head gasket needed to be replaced.*ak *jb
04/20/200351500104/17/1998
 Power transmission on 98 ford windstar failed. *jb
03/25/200361000110/17/2001
 Automatic transmission failed while driving (60,000 miles on van). *jb
03/20/2003126700205/22/1997
 Reliability issue: 1998 ford windstar automatic transmission failed at 33,000 mi, then their replacement failed after another 65,000 mi, then the $2700 rebuild failed after another 29,000 miles. this is garbage!!! *nlm
380001
 The vehicle experienced transmission problems. *tt *jb *ts
09/24/200250000107/20/1999
 Transmission started slipping and stopped altogether within one day. ph
02/11/200356700108/16/1999
 The automatic transmission failed. mr scc
02/06/2003602/27/2003
 At 45,000 miles on 1998 ford windstar gl,transmission would not shift out of first gear. had to turn vehicle off for a while then it would shift. had to stop app. 6 times to travel 8 miles.
06/15/2002
 Transmission will not shift to fourth gear, dealer replaced solenoid, did not remedy the problem. transmission needs to be replaced. mr
10/01/2002
 The consumer is concern she didn't receive a recall #number97v097000 for the a/t fluid sevo cover leak. because her vin number wasn't included but she is experiencing the same problem. dealer is aware of the problem. mr
09/01/2002
 While driving if transmission reaches a certain temperature it drops out of 3rd gear down into 2nd. engine rpms increase and vehicle vibrates and shakes.*ak
08/15/2002112/01/2097
 Our car stopped running after reversing from our driveway, it was towed to a nearby auto repair shop for diagnosis. the transmission would not engage. the transmission case cover was removed. the gears inside were in pieces. the case had the proper oil and quantity. the unit just dismembered itself. clearly a latent manufacturing defect. the case had never been opened before and always had the proper oil and amount.*ak
03/01/2002208/01/2000
 No summary listed for above vehicle. *ak
08/16/200205/01/2098
 Transmission totally collapsed on highway, previously repaired twice. *ak
08/14/2002101/01/2002
 Transmission failed at 44,000 miles. ford will not assist with replacement
10/12/2001
 While driving vehicle will not shift from first gear, starts jerking, which causes seal pump to malfunction and transmission to blowout. contacted dealer.*ak
05/15/2002106/01/2000
 Skinner & damulis ford (herkimer, new york), sanford ford (sandford, nc), and crown ford (nc) service centers stated transmission failure is normal at 70,000 miles for the ford windstar. i have been driving ford products for 20 years now, never have i experienced a major component failure at high mileage. 4 seasons tire & auto center in ilion, new york (315) 894-5087 stated this seems to be a recently recurring problem with taurus & escorts.*ak
05/14/20024
 While driving down at highway speeds transmision down shifts into lower gears, 2nd or low gear.which is very dangerous and could cause a very bad accident. i have talked to other people that had the same thing happed with the the same type vehicle! have you hade any other complantes? h ad taken the vehicle to autherized dealer he checked it out said nothing wrong! continued on trip and it keep doing it.this is very dangerous at highiway speeds and with a big truck behind you!! any information or help with this problem would be greatly appreciated.ford is no help! thank you. *ak
05/27/2002512/01/2097
 Vehicle exhibited an erratic downshift which almost caused an accident since it occured on a major highway while travelling at 65mph. the incident happened twice and the dealer couldn't find the problem. the dealer told us that the vehicle was safe. since this time, it has happened two more times on a one week period.
05/29/20011
 Vehicle would not start, took vehicle to firestone and they replaced the starter. 5 days later, vehicle would not start. firestone stated it was the pin switch that drained the battery. *ak consumer states that the transmission failed at 81000 miles. *slc
11/01/2001107/01/1997
 Vehicle would not shift out of first gear. had to replace transmission. dealer contacted. *ak *slc
05/28/2002107/01/1997
 White smoke coming from the exhaust and the engine was missing due to blown head gaskets. dealer contacted. *ak also found blown intake manifold gasket. transmission replaced at 45,000 miles. *tt
05/06/2002109/01/2098
 Transmission failed at highway speed with no advance warning. transmission simply died, and car would not move. car was purchased new at ford, and maintained at mooney ford. represents premature failure.*ak
1
 Consumer experiencing numerous problems with torque converter, transmission slipping, and lurching forward, problem is intermittent making it difficult for dealer to diagnose problem. *tt
01/01/2000112/01/1999
 The transmission failed while the consumer was traveling. *yh
09/26/20011
 Insured was traveling when he smelled something funny. flames had start to come up from the hood. insured tried to put fire out but couldn't, possible transmission leak onto manifold, claim 40-2554-562. *jg
09/26/20011
 While driving, consumer smelled a funny smell and then saw flames coming up from the hood, consumer was injured in accident, possible transmission leak onto manifold, claim 40-2554-562. *slc
09/26/20011
 Insured was traveling when he smelled something funny. flames had start to come up from the hood. insured tried to put fire out but couldn't, possible transmission leak onto manifold, claim 40-2554-562. *jg
01/01/2000112/01/1999
 The transmission failed while the consumer was traveling. *yh
04/04/2002108/01/1999
 Vehicle lost power, rpms went up, transmission slipped while travelling 55mph on local expressway. *ak
03/10/2002107/01/1999
 Complete transmission failure. *ak
02/21/2002106/01/1998
 We were stopped at an intersection. when the light turned green, the transmission locked up, and the engine revved as if it was in neutral. i took two men to push it to the side of the road on a downward slope. the dealership claimed to know of no problem with 1998 windstar transmissions. we know of 3 other owners of these vehicles who have had the same problem. *ak
09/26/20011
 While driving, consumer smelled a funny smell and then saw flames coming up from the hood, consumer was injured in accident, possible transmission leak onto manifold, claim 40-2554-562. *slc
01/25/2002101/01/2000
 No summary listed for above vehicle. *ak
02/04/200208/01/1997
 Should be covered by ford but they refuse. no safety derfec tlisted for above vehicle. *ak
1
 Consumer experiencing numerous problems with torque converter, transmission slipping, and lurching forward, problem is intermittent making it difficult for dealer to diagnose problem. *tt
10/01/1999305/01/1999
 The transmission has been replaced, and still has the same problem. *ak
12/30/200106/01/2000
 We have owned two ford windstars, the first being a 1996, the transmission had to be rebuilt on it at 63,000 miles, the van was 3 1/2 years old at the time, we then traded it for a 1998 windstar and at 3 1/2 years old and only 60,000 miles the transmission had to be rebuilt on it!*ak
12/22/20011
 While driving, the transmission seal separated from the transmission causing transmission fluid to leak to exhaust pipe, and the torque converter seal came off, dealer was contacted.*ak. consumer wants to know if her vehicle is involved in the recall 97v097000. *yd
11/21/2001109/01/2000
 Multiple problems with transmission kicking while at a stop sign or light, broken piston. *ak
12/09/2001
 Vehicle started smoking, and when consumer lifted up the hood there was a smell of coolant sprayed all over vehicle, and leaking from underneath onto the ground. transmission was replaced. but problem was still there. *ak
08/10/2001108/01/2000
 Premature failure of autotransmission @ 50000 miles & $2200. *ak
08/01/2001507/01/2001
 Can be turned off in gear--and put in gear when off--will roll. *ak
 Whenever vehicle is shifting from 1st gear to 2nd gear it would jerk. problem happens at low speeds, 20-25mph. can maintain control of vehicle. had been to 3 different mechanics, and each time was informed that problem was torque converter. *ak
10/18/2001
 Transmission failed without warning while driving. when coming to a stop and trying to proceed vehicle would not go faster than 15 mph and in first gear. contacted dealer, and dealer stated there was nothing they could do. please add vin . *ak
08/01/2001111/01/1998
 Transmission failed. rebuilt transmission installed. rebuilt transmission already showing signs of failure similar to old one. there must be a manufacturing defect with these transmissions - they should last longer than this. *ak
11/01/1997
 When slowing down to stop or turn--there is a downshift/shudder--if i am driving in overdrive. out of overdrive, it does not downshift. ref. 99-18-4 i have taken it in several times and all they do is clean the fuel injectors. (tiresize: p215/70r15)
06/01/2001108/01/1997
 Vehicle would slip in and out of gear while at a light or stop sign (while in drive gear). required high rpms to engage causing the vehicle to lurch forward. transmission replaced at owner's cost.*ak
07/24/2001207/01/1998
 This vehicle has had two engines, transmission work and a lot of smaller problems. right now it is having the drivers seat track and adjusters replaced. would like to be part of a class action suit. the windstar may be safe, but it isn't reliable.*ak
08/21/2001104/01/1998
 Transmission failure at 68000+/- miles. no previous problems. traveling on interstate at 70 mph, heard loud noise, got off at next exit. sounded like engine dropped out and was dragging on ground, van was jumping. made it to a parking lot at which point it would not engage in drive or reverse. dealer didn't know what caused transmission failure, questioned dealer if this is common, not common, but can't say it doesn't happen reapir would be $3000.00. called 3 transmission shops for pricing, when told it was a windstar all new what the problem was, down to the noise it made! repairs at independant shops ran $1500.00. ford is no help, claims there is no problem. obviously this is a dangerous problem in the windstar, ford needs to get into gear and get these vehicles taken care of and compensate those who have already paid out of pocket for repairs.*ak
08/13/2001102/01/1999
 Vehicle does not shift down into gear at stop, resulting in vehicle rocking backwards until gas pedal is depressed to go forward which results in car lurching forward violently. inspected by jenkins and wynn ford dealership on diagnostic computer. it was found to have a defective aluminum drum and piston assembly which sticks if there is not enough pressure built up for it to go forward. this was confirmed by the service manager john cornejo at jenkins-wynn on 08/27/01. at this time ford motor company refuses to replace transmission as was recommended by the service staff at this location in clarksville, tn. a ford motor company representative was contacted and told of the problem. she then contacted larry bryant, service manager at this location, who then proceeded to give erroneous information to the representative. the ford motor representative then became indifferent to our situation. we requested to speak to someone of a higher authority and were told that we would be contacted back by her supervisor within 48 hours. meanwhile mr. cornejo, stating that the first option of flushing out the transmission would not benefit us, as originally suggested to us by mr. bryant as an alternative to a rebuilt transmission, admitted that this was not a remedy for this type of defective part. we are currently awaiting mr. cornejo to contact us on 08/28/01 regarding this fact after he consults with mr. bryant. as ford motor corp. customers, we are expected to foot the bill on a defective part that will cost us $2500 to repair through no fault of our own. defective part is made of aluminum. ford motor only makes this replacement part in steel now due to the realization that aluminum will fail at some point.*ak
08/09/2001109/01/1997
 We were on vacation in pennsylvania after a trip to boston and had pulled into a parking area when we put the car in reverse to straighten out in the parking space and nothing happened. the car was towed to a ford garage where we were told the transmission needed replacing. this took 5 days, when we left pa and drove home to iowa. the miles on this windstar are highway miles and not city driving.*ak
06/20/2001108/01/2000
 This van is 3 years old. corrosion most likely caused the problem with strut rods & sway bar links. obviously this manufacturer was not concerned with quality b/c of all these problems. the ford company will not reimburse me (my van is no longer covered by factory warranty) unless they issue a recall on any particular problem. i just don't understand why i would have all these problems with a vehicle that was less than 2 yrs old when the problems started. maybe you can't help me, but i wanted to lodge a complaint.*ak
05/01/20003505/12/2000
 While traveling in warm weather ,making sudden stops/parking and while in stop and go traffic, vehicle would stall without any indication. please provide further informaiton.*ak air bag light illuminated due to faulty module, the drivers side door adjar switch was sticking causing the door adjar light to illuminate, outer tie rod failed causing noise in the front end, vehicle experiences loss of power/slipping due to faulty transmission, check engine light illuminated and vehicle stalled, dealer replaced sensor, speedometer was off. nlm
08/05/1998
 Was driving vehicle when transmission died in middle of traffic with 18,000 miles. second time it died with 95,600 miles. vehicle did not feel right when shifting. took to mechanic, and informed consumer that transmission had contaminated fluid that was causing it to die/stall out. contaminated fluid needed to be replaced.*ak
07/25/2001107/01/1997
 Transmission was rebuilt/remanufactured. attending service technician indicates that ,although it may have come from factory in this condition, it looks like someone considered putting in a transmission cooler, started drilling a hole for a plug, and changed their mind without completing the job. this weak spot failed, spewing transmission fluid, and causing transmission failure. we believe this is a clear-cut instance of defective materials/workmanship.*ak
09/01/1999
 Transmission fails to stay in lockup mode when travelling at highway speeds and slips and viberates whenever you reach a slight upgrade *ak
11/10/2000108/01/1999
 While driving at 40 mph car shifted out of gear and the transmission would not reingage beyond 1st. limped home on highway with flashers. dealer declared 'internal problem' and $2,400 transmission replaced w/o any factory reimbursement. customer service rep. at ford contacted and i was told there was nothing they could do about this specific problem with windstar transmissions (other than collect my money) and there were no recalls or tsbs on the transmission. the dealer reported that the transmission fluid looked ok so this was not traced to the failure. the transmission was returned for 'core' credit intact: no reason for the failure was determined.*ak
06/01/2001109/01/1997
 We have been reporting transmission problems to the dealers, transmission slamming into gear,. thel tell me nothing is wrong. we now have a complete transmission failure.*ak
01/08/2001110/01/1998
 While traveling 30 to 40 mph transmission started slipping and smoke started coming from underneath hood of vehicle. consumer pulled off to side of road and turned vehicle off. consumer examined vehicle and found that there was fluid leaking from engine , pool of fluid was approximately 2 feet in diameter on the ground. dealership examined vehicle and could not determine that there was a problem with vehicle. informed consumer that no fluids leaked from vehicle. also, this vehicle was not affected by any recalls. *ak dealer finally replaced transmission with a refurbished one after a field engineer stating it was faulty. *slc
 While traveling noticed transmission was slipping. technician service stated transmission needed to be replaced. please provide further infomation.*ak
05/20/200104/01/1998
 On the 20th of may i was driving the van when it felt like it hesitated(slipped) and then it proceeded to drive normally. we went half a mile then stopped the van and parked. on returning to the van and starting it, it ran very rough(loud) and would not go past 30mph on our way home. we proceeded to take it to the dealership in the next week and found out the transmission had gone out at only 35000 miles. our warranty had expired on 4/16/01. barely a month out of warranty and a powertrain item had failed on us. we know two other family members that have owned windstar vans that the transmission has gone out with low mileage. the dealership has offered to repair it for $495. this will inlcude an extended warranty on the powertrain for 75,000 miles. we feel with such low mileage, a recently expired warranty and knowing other people in our family that have dealt with the same thing, that ford should stand behind there automobile and repair this free of charge. i am sure this is a more common problem than ford wants to admit.*ak
04/18/20010
 While driving on highway vehicle downshifted to second gear, and consumer had to drive in second gear.*ak
05/09/2001108/01/1998
 Total transmission failure at 44,000 miles. *ak
05/02/20010
 Transmission has been replaced five times. first replacement was a 30000 miles. warranty fixed transmission. mechanic told that vehicle that there was dust and a defect in assembly lane. dealership was aware of problem. *ak
04/18/2000103/01/2000
 I have heard of many problems with transmissions on this model. *ak
07/10/1999107/01/1999
 No summary listed for above vehicle. *ak
03/29/2001207/01/1999
 Stopped at traffic light, upon acceleration transmission would not engage. engine revved as if in neutral. also occurred as accelerating from a stop to make a turn. presented a very dangerous situation of being put into the path of on coming traffic. turning engine off and then back on would allow transmission to engage. dealer determined that the transmission had failed at 43,621 miles and had to be replaced. after four days in service and a complete new transmission, within 12 hours new transmission developed at least two serious leaks of transmission fluid. dealer says this is not uncommon. the unit is sealed and can not be serviced by them. i am waiting to hear if i need another complete new transmission.*ak
04/17/2001
 After having two tires changed, consumer noticed vehicle would shake badly when going over 50 mph, and steering wheel was hard to steer because of vibration. dealer told consumer it was transmission. there was recall 97v097000 concerning transmission.*ak
 Vehicle is slipping out of gear while driving from 3rd to 2nd gear, causing vehicle to almost stop, rpm's will rev high. manufacturer has issued a tsb. please provide further information.*ak
04/08/200020011/01/1997
 I have returned multiple times to the dealer with a hard shift problem, first to second. i even contacted ford motor company, and they said there was nothing they could do, and referred me back to the dealership. i was told they could not duplicate the problem, one that occurs on a daily basis, at low speeds. the dealer drove my car for a day, but evidently did not notice any problem. as soon as i got the car back, the problem was back. i have spent upwards of $3000, for repairs that i was told would rectify the problem, but it persists. this included extensive front end work that they claimed would fix the problem; this included a front-end alignment and sub-frame shift; power steering flush; replace front struts; replace front shocks; replace front sway bar, links; problem persists. *ak
3
 Consumer has replaced transmission 3 times within 51,000 miles. ford was not able to determine cause of premature failure of transmission.*ak
03/15/2001
 Vehicle downshifted from 4th gear to 3rd gear and lower while driving at 65 mph. dealer's response was that it did not happen. *ak
03/25/2001107/01/2000
 Took in the vehicle for a routine transmission fluid flush with removing the pan and replacing the filter, etc. at the local transmission shop, they discovered pieces of metal (pieces of a ring & an accumulator part) in the pan when it was removed. serviceman said that it had probably been like that when we purchased. that it was most likely a defective part. he has seen many windstars with the same problem. (our relative had the same problem with a 1997 windstar) he has seen 1995-2001 with these same problems. he said it will cost from $1400 - $4500 if the dealer repairs the problem. i am going to contact the dealer today and possibly the ford company as well. *ak
02/16/2001
 While driving automatic transmission would fail to shift properly. when gas pedal was pressed vehicle would stop. had it towed to dealership, and was informed that gears broke off. *ak
 When driving at any speed vehicle started to jerk. also, problem occurred more since transmission filter has been changed. consumer has contacted dealer, dealer noted that transmission shift gear is slipping within the transmission. please provide any further details.*ak
02/28/200111/01/1999
 The transmission s blown i find that odd for a 3 yr old car with less than 65k miles and well maintained on my part. ford has offered no financial help. *ak
12/29/20001011/30/2000
 Consumer has experienced several problems with the transmission, dealer has replaced it once, however problems continue, consumer has filed for a request for arbitration, vehicle bucks, jerks, and jumps into gear before taking off. vehicle shimmies from one side to another upon acceleration, there is a thumping sound heard also at times while driving. vehicle experienced a speed sensor circuit problem. speedometer jumps. problem with power steering, dealer adjusted rack and pinion and made other repairs to steering mechanism. right side brake light bulb failed. battery failed. consumer stated it felt as if vehicle was going to stall sometimes, engine has no power at acceleration, engine belt was noisy and was replaced. tire had a slow leak due to loose tire valve. *slc
02/25/2001207/01/1997
 Transmission (replacement) sticks in 2nd gear just like orig. did at 4400 miles. orig. stuck in second at 4400 mi. and was replaced. replacement has rough shift and other problems reported to you by others. ford trans. have a defect that should be recalled!! *ak
10/15/19990
 Transmission is shifting hard and rough, it makes a slamming noise while going into each gear.*ak
12/16/19973
 The automatic transmission has been replaced on two occasions, after second replacement the transmission was still experiencing problems, the transmission pan assembly was replaced on the third repair, possible design problem of the transmission system. *mjs
02/22/2001107/01/1999
 After reviewing numerous complaints about this transmission of the ford windstar on various web sites, i am strongly encouraging the nhtsa to look in the continuing failure of ford transmissions in the ford windstar.
03/05/20010
 While driving transmission could shift gear without prior warning. had to be replaced due to slip shifting. *ak
02/16/200104/01/1999
 No summary listed for abov evehicle. *ak
06/10/1998
 After a full stop vehicle will not move in any gears. problem is intermittent. engine will still idle like it's in neutral. dealer can't find what's wrong because won't duplicate. *ak
01/22/2001
 Transmission went out, had to be replaced. *ak
305/31/1998
 Transmission has been replaced three times. nlm
07/15/199806/01/1997
 Ford issued a tsb 97-22-13 in oct '97 for this was third serious problem. yet, when i returned the car to the dealer the dealer said he never heard of this problem and wanted the car till he could discover it. the real issue is that this neutral condition after a stop was not a complete neutral condition but rather the van started up slowly till it reached 3 mph and then would go no faster. imagine starting across a highway in front of a truck and only finding out that you cannot go faster than 3 mph in drive. ford should have recalled all models affected and replaced the transmission immediately. it took two dealers visits and a rental car for two days before i got someone to admit that there was a known problem and they would fix it for me. without the warranty it would have cost me $ 2,500.00. *ak
08/28/20002008/01/2000
 On occasion the transmission willl become locked in second and sometimes third gear. it refuses to shift gears properly and when it does shift its shifts roughly and sporatically. my belief is that there is a short in the wiring somewhere. *ak
11/28/200006/01/1999
 No summary listed for above vehicle. *ak
03/01/2000103/01/2000
 The transmission was replaced, but has still slipped again, i am writing this after hearing the report on tv about the transmission problems with the 95 minivans. this occured when i stopped at a light, and when it would finally go forward, it gave us all a real hard jerk, then drove it more and about 86 miles later, it did it again. the dealership replaced the transmisssion, but i am still not sure of the safety of this vehicle. i contacted ford motor and no action taken. they had a recall on the day-light on the van. i took it to the dealereship and with the letter and they still have not done anything there. i wonder if the transmission problem is related to the 95 problems???*ak
11/01/1999110/01/1999
 1. transmission: the vehicle would act as if it were in neutral after coming to a stop. sometimes this would happen right as i pulled into an intersection, leaving me in the path of oncoming traffic with no power. 2. a/c: the control module failed to engage the a/c but still cycled the idle speed. this was dangerous because the braking required to hold the vehicle at a stop was insufficient when the idle randomly surged to high. both failures had potential to cause accident but were repaired before any incident occurred.
01/08/1999509/01/1998
 There are two significant safety issues that we continue to experience with our 1998 ford windstar. the transmission continues to intermittently neutral at the worst possible times. the effect of this is that the vehicle will begin into an intersection and then the transmission will disengage and the rpm of the engine will race. at this point the transmission might engage after several seconds with a jolt, screeching the tires. in some cases we have had to shift into park and back into drive several times to get the transmission to engage. when this first occurred, we had only owned the car for less than two months and it would only happen every few hundred miles. ford had to place a flight recorder in the vehicle to verify that it was happening. ford replaced the transmission in early 1999. we began experiencing the problem again in the summer of 2000 and ford has been unable to repair this problem. we have had it in the shop a total of 12 times with the symptom manifesting itself multiple times in between. the vehicle has been in the shop almost continually since july 15th, 2000 and is still there as of this submission. if it were not for extreme defensive driving and anticipation of the problem that has helped us avoid an accident so far. however, we continue to have the car delivered to us that is supposed to be repaired and we continually have the same problem. the second problem is also reoccurring and deals with the abs brakes continually going out of adjustment. when they are out of adjustment the stopping power of the car in emergency situations is greatly impaired. the brakes are self-adjusting but continue to be out of adjustment. we have had this problem looked at by four different ford dealerships and they readjust the brakes that only corrects the problem for a short period of time. the brakes continue to go out adjustment and ford denies that this is a problem, even though it continues to happen.
10/07/2000204/01/1998
 Experienced irratic transmission shifting at 65 mph in rain. car swirved out of control however i was able to recover to side of road. transmission is stuck in 1st gear it appears. taking to dealer 10/09/2000 because of holiday wait.
10/09/2000
 While traveling on freeway at 40 mph vehicle commenced to stop moving while engine was still running. vehicle towed to dealer for repairs at consumer's cost. also, manufacturer notified, and informed that vehicle was out of its warranty, and nothing could or will be done. feel free to provide any further details. *ak
09/10/2000204/01/1999
 Transmission suddenly started cycling through the gears causing engine to rev up and the gears shifting with hard clunks. afterward, it would not shift into overdrive and we were forced to drive at slow speed on shoulder. transmission shop could not reproduce problem. fluid was clean and no codes were detected on scan.
809/01/1998
 When at a stoplight transmission goes into neutral unnoticed, but when you step on the gas the engine revvs up and then suddenly jumps back into gear and shoots out into traffic with out warning. ford knows of the problem , and told me it was a aluminum piston that fails in the trans. but wants over 2000.00 dollars to fix it because i didn't report it soon enough. i was lucky that the intersection was empty, or it could have been a bad accident! this is clearly a safety problem that ford does not want to deal with. i want to know if there are any others out there with this problem? i called several transmission shops and they all knew of the problem, even some of the ford dealers admitted that the transmission is defective! for $26000.00 the trans. only lasted 2yrs. is there anything i can do?
08/14/2000106/01/1997
 Driving nys thruway @ 65mph about 5:30pm when suddenly without warning transmission dropped from overdrive to first gear. sudden change from highway speed toparking lot speed required great skill of following drivers to aviod running over us and creating a rush hour chain reaction traffic pileup. agency denies type problems with that transmission, ford has not responded to my letter. help! *ak
07/29/1999204/01/1997
 No summary listed for abov evehicle. *ak
03/04/2000108/01/1997
 No summary
 1. transmission will shift erratically , and a loud noise will occur and motor will shake. ford engineering was sent out and determined transmission needed work, but no dealer will honor warranty. 2. brakes will fail in the winter and in slippery roads, causing pedal to go to floor and vehicle will not stop. 3. all doors lock by themselves/ lights flash on and off, and heater and defroster motor will come on even without the key in the igntion. vehicle will even start up by itself. *ak
07/30/2000105/01/1997
 After backing out of a driveway,from a complete stop transmission made a grinding sound when shifting to drive.transmission experienced a complete failure after driving 1/2 mile down the road.ford mechanic informed me that an aluminum part was used in this model year,then ford changed it back to steel on rebuilt and subsequent year models.ford never issued a recall on this problem.dealer said they would replace the transmission for $500 plus deductable for an extended service plan. *ak
01/30/2000401/01/2000
 The van will stall as if it is in neutral if the o/d is left on after several miles driving with the o/d on. on several occasions the van has staled at major intersections nearly causing accidents. *ak
12/01/1998
 Transmission shifted hard at least daily. *ak
04/23/2000110/01/1998
 Traveling on highway at 65mph. complete loss of every gear. was able to pull off and avoid incident, but this was a potentially dangerous situation. needed a complete transmission replacement and was given the option to purchase an extended warranty for $495. *ak
08/06/200004/01/1998
 At 70 mph vehicle kept slam shifting into gears, did not know what gear to be in, did this beginning on the highway and continued at any speed. *ak
07/17/2000411/01/1997
 07/2000 problem involves automatic transmission downshifting causing critical handling situations. in the incidents to date 2 have occurred when traveling approximately 50mph, the vehicle would seem to downshift, the rpm was jump and the engine would be accelerating as a result of this. the other 2 incidents have occurred traveling approximately 70 mph with again the transmission apparently downshifting causing the rpms to jump, the engine to accelerate and a handling problem related to the noted factors. the power control module was reset by a ford dealer after a staff when turning that nearly resulted in an accident. the vehicle would shut down (turn off) during slowing such as stopping for traffic lights or turning into a driveway.*ak
05/01/199911/01/1997
 Transmission failed @ approx. 24,000 miles without warning, had to be towed, took 3 weeks for dealer to replace, transmission failed again with approx. 49,000 miles, unable to get out of 1st gear, drove to dealer for repair - transmission has never seemed right on this car - at a reguarly scheduled service appointment we specifically asked the dealer about the transmission, they said it was fine and shortly thereafter the transmission failed - upon review of the other reported complaints re: transmissions for the 98 windstar,i do not feel i drive a reliable car - i have also had brake problems with this vehicle - they started smoking when driving in the mountains - i have also had problems with power window locks as well as problems with oil leakage *ak
12/01/1997
 I am reporting a transmission that has to be rebuilt after having 20,000 miles in the new mini-van. this is just one of 6 windstar minivans of different years whose transmission had to be fixed. one of the mechanics told me that the reason this incident happened is because the engine is too big for the transmission. i have since finished my lease with the ford dealer and purchased another car - a toyota sienna. i would rather patroniz an american manufacturer but i don't really have any luck with them. my husband's ford contour had many problems too. my neighbor had to have her transmission rebuilt too. i have not seen any recall on the car so i am reporting this. i know i am about 1 1/2 years too late in reporting but better late than never. don't get me wrong. i loved the windstar and its safety features. i leased two of them but i needed to buy a more dependable car and it seems that i have one right now with my totyoat sienna. it is made in georgetown, kentucky. thank you.*ak
07/30/2000105/01/1997
 Vehicle will not go into gear. dealer has been notified. *ak when the vehicle is backed out from driveway and engaged in drive mode, a loud clunk noise occured. after driving for half a mile the transmission failed. *yh
12/01/19993
 When vehicle is in drive gear and driver applies accelerator vehicle will not move, and the rpms will rev high. eventually, vehicle will move but slowly.*ak
07/16/2000
 Transmisson will not shift out of first gear. dealer notified, and waiting on manufacturer who has a hold on all windstar transmission until further notice. please provide any further notice. *ak
 While traveling vehicle was making a loud noise and would power not gain due to blown transmission. please provide further information. *ak
05/21/2000111/01/1997
 No summary listed for above vehicle. *ak
02/01/200001/01/1998
 1st to 2nd bang when shifting on slow acceleration (repeats often), fuel pump continually cuts out when parked on slight downhill, still 6+ gallons left. only since replacement of fueltank and gas pump due to electrical short
02/03/2000208/01/1998
 When we first took our windstar in the front end was making a growling & grinding noise, and the transmission was shifting hard and jumping. the dealership checked the transmission out they said everything appeared to be normal, but they check the transmission fluid and it had metal in it. they also tols us that the front left & right tie rods needed to be replaced because they had a defect . the dealership has replaced the transmission in my van 2 times now, it still does not shift like it should but they can't get it to duplicate and now they want to flush my power steering fluid they say the power steering fluid has broken down. when i questioned them about this thay tell me this is normal. i have checked with several independant mechanics and they tell me that my power steering pump is going bad, or the rack & pinion is going out. there has to be something causing this. this van is not 2 years old yet and there are to many problems with this vehicle. *ak
02/08/1999106/01/1997
 While driving at 60 mph the car downshifted to a low gear causing the rpm's to race and the car to lurch. was able to pull to side of busy highway without incident. ford dealer replaced map sensor and rebuilt/replaced the transmission. ford company paid all but $200 as part of their customer goodwill program. i think there should be a recall on the transmission and if so, i would like my $200 refunded to me. the tie rod ends failed right after the warranty period. even the dealer alluded to the fact that they were probably factory defects, that they should not go bad then. the 'open door sensor' stays on even though all of the doors are closed. this happens sporadically. it may happen twice a day and then not happen for days. the automatic doorlocks have not worked properly since about 40,000 miles. i have to manually lock/unlock the sliding door. and to top off all of my problems, last week i had a mouse in my glove compartment! the design of the glove compartment lets you look right into the engine, and a mouse got in there and chewed up my maps and clean paper napkins. i am not happy! and that will be a safety issue if i am driving and someone opens my glove box! i bet you have never heard that one! my biggest concern is the transmission. i hope to hear from you about that. thank you very much. nancy
09/08/1999108/01/1998
 Experienced total catastrophic failure of transmission. despite never towing anything and always performing recommended routine maintenance. *ak
02/10/2000
 While driving and pulling away from a stop vehicle stalls and shuts off. dealer is aware of this problem. the part to correct problem is on national back order. *ak *ml
02/19/2000201/01/2000
 The van stalled on two separate occasions at busy intersections. after stopping and then pressing the accelerator the van crept along. after going through the range of gears several times then it starting moving again. *ak
02/12/200001/01/2000
 While traveling 65mph the car downshifted to second gear! *ak
11/02/1999106/01/1998
 Two incidents of sudden acceleration, one causing damage to our vehicle and the one ahead as i was parking next to a curb. second time was in driveway when entering garage; slammed on brakes to not hit house. numerous incidents of hard 1st to 2nd gear shift at 15 mph; sounds like a hard thud. ford overfilled trans. fluid 1/2 quart as a fix in november; replacing valve pump now in january. *ak
01/16/2000006/01/1998
 Transmission failed as driver stepped on the gas to cross the highway. vehicle stopped, almost causing it to be hit. consumer had experienced other problems with the transmission prior to this incident--sometimes would not shift out of first gear, or only work in second gear. transmission replaced by dealer. *ak *ml
12/01/1999
 Vehicle has a jerk at low speed (1st and 2nd gear). *ak
05/12/19976
 Consumer experiencing ongoing problem with vehicle stalling intermittently. also, transmission is slipping whenever vehicle comes to a stop. sometimes vehicle would have to shift into park and back into drive for the gear to engage.vehicle been in/out dealer shop for stalling and transmission slipping on three occasions each. *ak
12/14/1999
 Vehicle has been in the shop seven times in a two and a half years. repairs included transmission replacement, brake calipers replacement, and the electrical system problems. *ak
08/01/1999512/01/1998
 Transmission pump failed, causing planet gears to come apart. *ak
11/28/199912/01/1998
 1)all 5 lugs: nuts sheared off from the right front passenger hub, causing the wheel to leave the vehicle. the body of the vehicle traveled approximately 200 feet until it stopped. 2)the rear brakes had to be replaced with new pads and rotors. dealer couldn't explain why this was a problem. 3) the next day the right passenger mirror electical system no longer worked. 4)the parking brake consistently does not disengage after use. we no longer use it, possibly creating a safety hazard. 5) the vehicle intermittently stalls out at low speeds or upon stopping. additionally the initial gears shift hard and loud. 6) the rear seat will not move on the track. *ak
08/22/1999103/22/1997
 Transmission failed while driving. mjs
312/30/1998
 Transmission replaced two times to illiminate slipping 1st and 2nd gears, however the replacements did not rectify transmission problems. mjs
 At 40-60 mph the transmission shifts into neutral unexpectedly.dearel has replaced the transmission twice. manufacturer notified. *ak
07/12/1999
 Transmission willnot engage while in park. the dealership told consumer that they couldn't duplicate the problem. *ak
01/05/19991012/01/1998
 Transmission shutter & hard shift b/t 1-2 gears -transmission replaced twice - ford advises no fix at this time - problem worse and now is going into a neutral like position earratically when going 40-60mph. also very hard downshift (like in drive2) when going downhill - problem still exists
10/01/1999112/01/1998
 The transmission failure occured and the ford said they would replace the transmission if i paid $500 to buy and extended service plan covering upto 75000 for the power train, a requirement for replacing the failed component. i am extremly unhappy that this transmission failure ocurred and is also reported widely by hundereds of ford windstar owners for example look at the internet sites complaining about the failed transmission.(eg., www.fordwindstar.com). ford must fix the transmission problem of these minivans.
10/11/1999205/01/1997
 The windstar transmission failed at 30349 so shamrock ford rebuilt it. at 40295 it failed at 50 mph on us 223 in adrian about 1 mile from dave knapp ford. i called shamrock ford and asked service department if i sould tow it to them or dave knapp. they said any ford dealer will take of the warrenty problem. the transmission was supposed to be covered for 12months/ 12,000 miles after rebuild. transmission was rebuilt 5 months and 10,000 miles ago. dealer said it's not under warrenty and will not pay for it . i paid 1,900.00 plus tax and i want my money back.
03/01/199902/01/1999
 I am so scared to drive our van- i have no idea what to do. thia van showed be considered a lemon- or ford should repair it. we purchased the van cause we had another little one on the way(making 4 kids) in the past we had old vechilcles. we decided to spend the $$ and have a reliable vechicle since we have 4 kids and travel around town alot. first my air codtioner goes out in july, 99 (electrical- no power to it). we did not have the $ to fix. than in august,99 we started experiencing intermittent neutral condtion after driving and coming to a stop. had to rebuild the transmission- due to a faulty clutch piston that ford knows is causing problems in ax4s windstar 3.8l. engine - stalls usually when driving at low speeds, such as o turns or coming to a stop. scared to death that somesone will run into me. steering- vechile pulls to the right so badly that in seconds i am in another lane. have had it relighned. the other seroius problem is i will start van or have foot on brake and it itermittally accerates in surges on its own. my foot in not near the gas- i am so scared to death that i will lose control of it resulting into an accident. i am so scared to drive this van and it is only a 98. what am i to do. i do not want to wait for and acident or death to someone. please help!! i need some advice. i have no warranty on van- but yet with so many problems why should the consumer have to pay when ford knows of the problems with the vans- what does it take - death!!! i need to know what is causeing these problems. i can not afford to keep taking them to mechanics and not getting it fix. shouldn't ford have to take this piece of crap back-please help!!
06/18/1999108/01/1998
 The transmission stopped working and went into safe mode. the transmission would not downshift and raced at high rpm. torque converter had worn out.
06/10/1999
 The transmission would disengage by itself from drive to neutral position. when accelerating, transmission would pop out of position. in low gear, it would be rough shifting. also, gas pedal would vibrate. been to dealer 3 times for problem before finally locating & establishing that throttle cable was loose. mechanic repaired loose throttle cable. *ak
07/03/1999108/01/1997
 An unexpected total transmission system failure occurred while the minivan was being driven along interstate highway at 65mph. the transmission system had to be totally replcaed. an unexpected incidence of too short life span of a transmission system in a new minivan.
04/15/19992
 Had already replaced transmission twice. when approaching a red light vehicle stalled. .contacted dealer. *ak
110/04/1997
 Transmission tr sensor failed. *yc
108/11/1998
 Transmission operation is poor, bangs into gear, unable to rectify. mjs
106/01/1998
 Transmission failed without warning signal. yh
 After putting car into reverse, vehicle went forward into drive. dealer has not seen vehicle. *ak
07/15/1999106/01/1998
 Transmission was stuck in second gear and would not shift to drive. this caused a near collision with traffic because of lack of available power while merging into interstate traffic. prior to and still ongoing is the transmissions tendency to kick or slip.ford refuses to aknowledge any inherent transmission problems with the ford windstar and has not offered a remedy to current problems.
2004/01/1998
 Appears to have a connection with the transmission. while driving at speeds ranging from 25 mph to 45 mph, the vehicle repeatedly has downshifted, thus decreasing speed of vehicle without any warning. sometimes the vehicle will engage and disengage from transmission several times. also, the speedometer drops to zero. the reported dealer has had my vehicle in for more than a week with no results. i have also driven vehicle with attached flight recorder from shop. i made several readings but know the shop says there is a problem with their equipment (that was 1 week ago today). although the shop keeps my vehicle and i have described the symptoms several times, they claim they have no idea what it could be. i am very concerned for the safety of using this vehicle. if you need more information, please call me. thank you.
07/03/199907/01/1998
 Transmission seems to stick in nuetral and then violently shifts into 1st. intermittent problem. vehicle taken to dealer 2 times. both times dealer says nothing is wrong!! *ak
06/17/1999108/01/1997
 At take-off from stop light, transmission failed with no warning. put into neutral, and got stutter and grind from transaxle. shop informed me that the planetary gears had disintergrated. i believe this to be a manufacturing problem or defect with the ford 3.8l/axod combo, as these types of problems date back to 1988 and the taurus/sable compatible assemblies. *ak
02/01/1998101/17/1998
 Transmission failed. nlm
 While driving transmission slipped from drive into neutral without notice. consumer was unaware and still applying gas when it jumped back into gear very hard, causing whiplash. dealer has been contacted. *ak
10/01/1998112/01/1997
 Transmission failed. mjs
08/01/1998105/10/1998
 Transmission modulator valve failed. mjs
06/01/1999107/01/1998
 On several occasions transmission slipped into neutral while at a stop. in this instance, transmission slipped into neutral while driving at approximately 35 m.p.h., causing definite safety hazard on a state route. *ak
06/01/1999100008/01/1998
 The transmission jumps stongly when accelerating and breaking at slow speeds, have taken to dealer twice. both times they say it drives fine but that ford knows of problem on windstar transmissions and are working on a solution. i asked dealer what i was supposed to do in the meantime and he said wait. i am concerned with safety, and that this jumping will cause other problems in the engine. i told service manager this at dealer and he said hopefully ford will recall before something else happens to my engine. *ak
10/17/199804/01/1998
 Transmission lunges forward at low speeds.*ak
104/01/1997
 Transmission failed. mjs
 When starting out vehicle will pulsate. feels like it will not catch gears. *ak
05/11/1999
 Vehicle jumps out of gear between 1st and 2nd gear. dealer has been notified.*ak
05/03/1999104/01/1997
 Prior to the total failure, there was no indication that the component was having problems or about to fail.
06/01/1998
 Dealership installed another transmission at 7,000 miles because of our repeated complaints about the bucking sensation/the vehicle is still bucking/other problems developed such as the lunching forward in second gear, shifting into gear began to produce a grinding noiseand a very obvious vibration in the steering wheel has developed/ford keeps ignoring us after our repeatedly contacting them/we have now filed under the lemon law in the state of connecticut/ we have been treated very shabbily by ford !
12/01/199810/01/1997
 Transmission downshifted while going 60-65 mph. *ak
04/19/1999
 In december 98, consumer experienced transmission being in neutral condition after coming to a stop. dealer could not dupplicate problem. also, on april 19, 99, consumer experienced the same problem. found bulletin #972213, dated 97 which dealt with the same problem. *ak
 Vehicle has been to the dealership 5 times for the same hard shifting, transmission problem since new. problem is better ,but i expect failure before warranty expires. the transmission has a hard 1-2 shift since i bought it new on 13 jan 98. the lemon law caused firm to offer me an extended warranty of 5 years/75,000 miles instead of fixing the problem. i'm very dissatisfied with the transmission, and dealership service shop's performance. recently, the brakes have developed a vibration and the engine sometimes stalls at slow speeds. i took the van back to the dealership on monday 5 april 99 for the same transmission problem, and the two new problems. the last several new vehicles i've purchased have been fords. my next vehicle probably won't be a ford. *ak
01/15/1999
 While driving at any speed and slowing down to make any type of turn vehicle jerks real hard and stalls. dealer can't determine the problem. *ak
1
 Vehicle experiencing park to reverse failure. *yc
03/14/19991311/01/1998
 No summary
08/01/1998406/01/1998
 I have had my 1998 ford windstar for less than one year. it has been out of service for transmission problems 4 times. the first time they replaced the clutch pistons, second time they replaced the transmission. i am continuing to have problems with severe shifting between 1st and 2nd or 2nd to 1st. ford motor company will only offer me an extended warranty, although they say they can not fix the problem. i am concerned for my safety and my the safety of my children. i have several friends having the same problem with their 98 windstar only theirs have now begun to downshift when traveling on the highway! this is a safety hazard and ford doesn't care help!!!
10/20/1998510/01/1997
 No summary
03/02/1999308/01/1998
 Transmission problem for third time. was rebuilt after second time. slipping and banging 4 months later.
02/12/19992
 Transmission failed, replacement failed also.
10/11/19985
 Tried to shift gears. hard to shift into park properly. makes loud noises when shifting. also, brakes make loud noises when applied. *ak
07/09/19982
 Transmission would jerk as if being rearended. front end would work itself loose. had to replace bushings, tracking bar & motor mounts due to being defective. vehicle is not drivable after being in an accident. *ak
02/24/1999106/01/1997
 Automatic transmissions failed twice in less than one year. each failure resulted in a replacement transmission from the ford dealer. this vehicle has less than 50,000 miles on it and two transmissions have been replaced. i have requested a replacement vehicle from ford due to the unreliable performance of this vehicle. i was told by the ford consumer hotline that it is not their policy to replace a vehicle, only to repair or fix as needed.
02/02/1999305/01/1998
 While driving on the highway the transmission abruptly downshifted to 2nd gear. after getting off the highway, vehicle would not shift out of 1st gear. this happened, 3 times and had vehicle had been towed to the dealership twice. the dealership has not been able to find anything wrong, or to duplicate the problem. *ak
04/01/199703/30/1997
 Transmission malfunctioned.
06/10/1998
 Multiple transmission failures.
07/01/1998
 Consumer was traveling, upon making a stop when approaching an intersection, the vehicle shifted gears from drive into netrual. without knowing consumer depressed the accelerator, and the engine raced up and the vehicle was at a dead stop. consumer contacted the dealer, dealer replaced parts within the transmission. please provide any further details. *ak
12/19/1998107/01/1998
 Our entire family (two adults, two chilldren both under age 10) were in the car when this incident occurred, and could have easily been killed. we had just exited the outer loop of the washington, d.c. capital beltway and were in the process of slowing to a stop at the light at the end of the exit ramp, when we heard a loud thud from our transmission. when we started again the car seemed to hesitate. it went another two blocks and then the transmission completely failed in the car, leaving us in the right lane in an intersection with no way to move the vehicle. none of the gears worked. our car spent 12 days in the dealership being fixed. this could be a potential life threatening problem if this occurs while someone is on the highway (as we almost were), and i felt i should report it. i haven't yet contacted ford about this, but i plan to. *ak
01/01/1998111/08/1997
 Transmission failed.
12/12/1997
 There was an engine head gasket leakage and the dealer fixed the leak. also, the vehicle will shift from first gear into second gear, and from second to first while driving or sitting in traffic. the dealer can't detemine the problem, and the vehicle has been in the shop three times and they can't find the problem. *ak
06/06/1998306/01/1998
 The consumer has experienced problems with gas tank. the consumer statevehicle doesn't hold the capacity of gas that is stated on the sticker. the gas tank gauge will read empty when it has 4+gallons gas. the manufacturer has been to be contacted. two repair attempts and both failed and currently third repair has been postponed due to lack of parts. the transmission has developed a second leak. *ak.et.
08/17/1998203/13/1998
 Transmission malfunctioning causing vibration, mph sensor failed causing the gears to stick.
110/10/1998
 Design of automatic transmission allows the vehicle t0 roll backward , on incline, while vehicle is in drive.
10/26/1998506/26/1997
 Vehicle surges forward, causing the vehicle to jerk violently which could result in an accident. dealer has overhauled transmission twice. defect is still reoccurring. cannot duplicate defect. *ak
08/15/1998108/01/1998
 Transmission shifts very hard when slowing down and all shifts very hard when taking off. sometimes when getting on the freeway and it down shifts into passing gear it hit so hard you can feel it under your feet. also when slowing down sometimes it will down shift so hard it throws you forward. i was told there was nothing wrong with it and that was normal. well after reading all the complaints on www.fordwindstar.com i don't believe this to be normal. please look into this if you will. this could be a very dangerous situation,what if we were driving in the rain or snow and it decides to downshift. my wife won't even drive the van anymore. thank you very much for all your support.
10/19/1998
 The consumer has been experiencing problems with automatic transmission. transmission went out after the vehicle had 314 miles. in addition, the consumer has been experiencing problems with cruise control cable. the consumer stated that while driving, cruise control cable wrapped around their accelerator cable, which caused the vehicle to run without being able to stop it. the consumer had to turn the vehicle off in order to stop the vehicle. the manufacturer has been contacted.
10/28/19981
 While traveling at 55 mph the transmission failed. driver was able to pull off the road safely. the problem has been reported to the manufacturer. the transmission will be replaced. *ak
10/22/1998108/01/1997
 None
07/07/19982
 Transmission failed, replaced and still continuing to slip.
07/16/1998
 Transmission makes a loud clunking noise when shifting from part to reverse.
08/02/199807/21/1998
 Transmission stalls during downshifting at low speeds. shifts hard into gear, causing the vehicle to lunge foward.
05/14/1998
 When traveling or when the vehicle is placed on an incline the vehicle will drop out of gear from drive into neutral.. consumer has contacted the dealer, dealer has replaced sensor, problem still occurs. please provide any further details. *ak
07/19/19971505/02/1997
 Transmission jolts continuously, resulted in an accident.
01/04/1998111/01/1997
 Transmission failed/locked up.
 Transmission went out after 2,000 miles. dealer is replacing transmission. *ak
11/30/1997
 Vehicle in park positon,engine running,engine started to back out unexpectedly, jumped out of gear, causing side door to hit side house, dealer will check transmission. *ak
10/09/1997103/07/1997
 Transmission failed.
POWER TRAIN - AUTOMATIC TRANSMISSION - CONTROL MODULE (TCM, PCM)
01/01/1997
 I have basically had everything that could go wrong with this vehicle.. go wrong. it has been in several times for the seal around drivers side door (air flows in). the door ajar indicator continually goes on and the dome light comes on(making it very unsafe to drive at night. especially when trying to back up. the dome light then stays on causing battery to die. i have had problems with the traction control light to blink have had in shop they say they replaced a sensor. as soon as my warranty was up. it happened again(cost me over $400.00) when either window is rolled down about 3 inches(as soona s it hits that point) a buzzing sound will occur. i had a huge gash on the interior of my right tire(no known cause) i believe the van was 3 months old at this time.... had to purchase a new tire. i have had work done several times on the front passenger side. including the bearings replaced.... a sensor ring that had broken in half, tie-rod... i am so disappointed in this vehicle, we bought this because it was convient to tote around 3 children but the fact that i am so afraid to drive it alot of times ins't very convenient at all. i am amazed that it has made it this far (90,000) the back hatch seems to have some electrial problems as whenever it is opened it woll set off the door ajar light and when closed it never goes off.. for some reason it has periods of time that it will stay on for weeks and then when that stops the window buzzing starts. i am not under warranty and am very tired of sinking money into a van that we apid well over 30,000 for. why is something so expensive........... such a money pit????? i feel i get no response from the dealers. they seem to be able to word it in a different way when they fix something and you have to take it back in to be re-fixed.. although it does the same thing??? i guess we will have to do more research on vehicle manufactors when buying our next family vehicle. i have never been so disappointed. please send recall informat
02/11/20011
 While warming vehicle up, it surged forward and then backward, it ran over conumer's toes and the door hit consumer in face, vehicle dragged consumer for about 6 feet before it stopped, it also took out 2 posts of the deck, consumer states a recall regarding the powertrain control module was received and feels this might be the cause of the accident, however vehicle is still at dealer awaiting repairs. *slc
106/13/1998
 Pcm module failed. *slc
07/15/2000111/01/1998
 Consumer was traveling about 55mph on the highway and it was raining, and abs light came on the dashboard. also, traction control light was blinking, saying the system was off. abs brake system stopped working. *ak
04/15/200011/01/1999
 Computer module that controls abs system failed, also affects the traction control feature of the vehicle, that also has failed. cost to replace part is $980. plus labor. this is a major component of the abs braking system, which is part of the vehicles safety features and a failure so earlier in the life of this vehicle is absurd. the maintenance person at the dealership said there was a bulletin out on this but we can't find it. my sister and brother-in-law have the same year and model of windstar and are having a failure of their traction control feature which is intermittent but their dealer can't find the cause. *ak
POWER TRAIN - AUTOMATIC TRANSMISSION - COOLING UNIT AND LINES
01/01/2001
 Consumer was traveling on highway and heard popping noise coming from underneath vehicle. he pulled over to shoulder of road, and looked underneath of vehicle, and noticed that transmission fluid was leaking. dealership was aware of problem.*ak
POWER TRAIN - AUTOMATIC TRANSMISSION - GEAR POSITION INDICATION (PRNDL)
11/21/200355000111/30/1998
 Vehicle rolled backwards while parked on a slight incline. in an attempt to stop vehicle, one of consumer's fingers was severed, and three badly injured. this occurred when consumer tried to open the door to enter the moving vehicle.*ak consumer spent nine days in the hospital and has to go for treatment once a week. *ph
04/15/1998111/01/1997
 While parked in park gear, vehicle jumped into reverse and rolled into a bush causing damage.
 When keys were removed from ignition and vehicle placed in park, vehicle then rolled down hill without warning. problem seems to be intermittent. *ak
POWER TRAIN - AUTOMATIC TRANSMISSION - LEVER AND LINKAGE - COLUMN SHIFT
01/12/19992
 Nar 03/05/2003 the consumer experienced ongoing problems with moving the column shift from one shift to another. *cb
POWER TRAIN - AUTOMATIC TRANSMISSION - PARK/NEUTRAL START SWITCH
11/15/20011
 While traveling between 40 and 65 mph smoke started coming out from underneath hood of vehicle. driver stopped vehicle, raised hood to discover a fire in engine compartment. dealership examined vehicle, and determined wiring for transmission caused the fire. please provide any additional information / documentation.*ak
03/17/1999
 Transmission jumped into gear while in park, almost hitting a small child.. trans stuck in park, vehicle had to towed to dealer. ford insisted nothing wrong with vehicle while under warranty, although it was looked at more than once. took vehicle in again and was informed it needed a new transmission and would cost 2600.00 because warranty had run out.*ak
105/01/1998
 1. 2 year old child was able to move automatic shift lever from park to drive without key in the iginiton wihtout applying brakes. 2. also consumer heard a loud rumbling noise when shifting gears. dealer could determine cause.*ak
11/01/1999
 Consumer's child was able to put the keys in the ignition, shift gear into neutral, and vehicle rolled backwards, hitting a parked car. consumer has contacted manufacturer. owner believes that you should not be able to switch the vehicle into gear without pressing the brakes. *ak *ml
08/27/1999010/01/1999
 While in park child was able to put car in park, consumer indicated that in order to put a car in park consumer has to put foot on the brake. but child was standing in the seat and put car into drive and it went into a chained fence. consumer says when bringing it out of park or drive it makes a loud poping noise. took to dealer, they can't find the cause of the problem. *ak
10/03/1999
 Two-year old was able to able to turn the key in the ignition, shifted van into reverse without depressing the brake pedal. van rolled down the hill into a wooded area. daugher was not hurt in crash. dealer has been notified about the incident. please provide any further information. *ak
08/17/1998101/01/1998
 Gear shift jumped out of parked gear into reverse resulting in collision.
09/03/1998
 The vehicle was in park position and the key was out of the ignition switch, the vehicle rolled backwards, knocking the consumer down. then it rolled into the street. contacted the dealer and the vehicle was towed. *ak
09/17/1998
 Vehicle was in a parking lot, no one in the drivers seat. passenger seat had a person in it, transmission shift gear just went into reverse, and vehicle took off. dealer contacted and cannot duplicate the problem. *ak
POWER TRAIN - AUTOMATIC TRANSMISSION - TORQUE CONVERTER
06/24/200337002
 I purchased a 1998 windstar van from the ford dealer located in corning ca. i have had nothing but trouble with it passing smog for the oxy sensor. and the transmission has never worked right. the turbo thing is bad. when i went to trade it in i found that the vehicle was out of canada. and these things were part of the recalls reported to you. but, ford of corning said they did nothing to this van before selling it to me. i found 14 things wrong with this vehicle. i acted up a month after purchase. but i was on aware of my rights as a consumer. also, i was not sure what oms meant. the van is stuck in folsom,ca at aamco transmission repair shop. financed through fireside bank. ford of corning said they did nothing to the van before i purchased it but cleaning it. *nm
 Whenever vehicle is shifting from 1st gear to 2nd gear it would jerk. problem happens at low speeds, 20-25mph. can maintain control of vehicle. had been to 3 different mechanics, and each time was informed that problem was torque converter. *ak
POWER TRAIN - AXLE ASSEMBLY
04/24/2010135000
 Tl*the contact owns a 1998 ford windstar. the contact stated that the rear of the vehicle began to sway back and forth. when the contact looked under the vehicle, the rear axle broke on the left side. the vehicle had not been inspected at the time of the complaint. the current and failure mileages were approximately 135,000.
10/02/2009104000
 Tl*the contact owns a 1998 ford windstar. while driving in reverse, she heard a loud popping noise and noticed that the rear left axle was broken. she notified a local mechanic and he stated that he would diagnose the failure at her residence the following day. the dealer stated that there were no related recalls for that year, make and model vehicle. the contact is waiting for a repair estimate. the failure and current mileages were 104000.
04/22/2004753921
 While driving at 20 mph and with out any warning rear passenger side wheel snapped off. vehicle was towed to the dealership, and technician determined that rear axle trailing arm broke. *ak
06/24/20031
 Consumer states has a power train problem from the transaxles while the vehicle is being driven. consumer stated there is a technical service bulletin on this issued, number #98-15-19. *ak
01/27/2001206/01/2097
 This vehicle has had numerous braking problems/axles/sway bars/calipers/electrical problems
08/20/200106/01/1999
 My wife pulled out of the driveway onto the road and heard a horrible screeching/squealing sound and smelled rubber burning. she pulled into the center lane, approximately 50 feet from our driveway and stopped. she asked our daughter to get out of the vehicle and see what was wrong. she said, mom, the tire is touching the rear bumper. my wife turned the vehicle around in the neighbor's driveway and drove back into our driveway. she called me out and i looked at the rear right control arm on the rear axle assembly. it was completely severed and pulled approximately 3 inches apart. the rear right tire was scraping the bumper and had gouges in the tread (the tire is ruined). the left wheel was pushed slightly forward. i know if she had made it to the expressway and this piece had broke at 70 mph, my child, her 3 friends, and my wife would be dead. i am worried that anybody with the same style and year vehicle could have the same defect, and i want it made aware to all. i am petrified to think what could have occurred. i also have digital pictures of the defect which could be e-mailed at your request.
06/10/2001
 While traveling at approximately 10 mph vehicle started pulling to right, and came to a stop. consumer examined vehicle, and saw that left rear tire was positioned against bumper of vehicle. dealership has examined vehicle and determined that rear axle/ tie rod broke. please provide any additional information/attachments.*ak
01/10/2000101/01/1998
 The sensor ring for the abs system failed. the entire axle had to be replaced at a cost of over $300.00. i have the part that failed and found that the part had a manufacturing defect. but have been unable to get any compensation from ford motor company.
04/27/1999410/01/1998
 Rear axle broke, with 4 repair attempts to the powertrain. *ak
09/04/1997
 Consumer was driving down road made a 90 degree right turn began to speed up, when he reached 35mph the axle came of of the transmission, the left front wheel was face down on the ground, popped back up inside the wheel well to it's normal position. consumer then lost all control of vehicle . the axle and wheel came out of its mountings there were no upper control arm bolts. *ak
POWER TRAIN - AXLE ASSEMBLY - AXLE SHAFT
 Bearings on the left front of vehicle failed , vehicle could not never be aligned. bearings were a part that should never fail . dealer changed bearings. *ak
POWER TRAIN - CLUTCH ASSEMBLY
05/14/20021
 While vehicle was in park, consumer states that a two year old child put vehicle in second gear and vehicle rolled backards into a trash bend. consumer feels like gear should not go into gear without pressing on brake. *jb *tt
POWER TRAIN - CLUTCH ASSEMBLY - PEDAL/LINKAGE
08/01/1998406/01/1998
 I have had my 1998 ford windstar for less than one year. it has been out of service for transmission problems 4 times. the first time they replaced the clutch pistons, second time they replaced the transmission. i am continuing to have problems with severe shifting between 1st and 2nd or 2nd to 1st. ford motor company will only offer me an extended warranty, although they say they can not fix the problem. i am concerned for my safety and my the safety of my children. i have several friends having the same problem with their 98 windstar only theirs have now begun to downshift when traveling on the highway! this is a safety hazard and ford doesn't care help!!!
POWER TRAIN - DRIVELINE
11/15/201081250
 1998 ford windstar has rusted engine subframe, which, if lets go would cause side axle and front tire to seperate from van and cause loss of steering control,loss of braking, and possible accident.this was discovered while van was on ramp for oil change . received recall on rear axle cracking and recall was done today by ford. brought subframe problem to the dealers attention and they stated that ford was fully aware of this problem but could do nothing about it because ford had not issued a recall on this time. the service station owner which did my oil change expressed an opinion that he felt that the front subframe rusting was indeed much more of a concern than the cracking of the rear axle which has been recalled by ford. at present i am afraid to drive my windstar with this structural defect and i feel ford should remedy this defect in the same manner that they did with the cracking rear axle.
11/09/2010120000
 I own a 1998 ford windstar(manufactor date aug..1997. i have been having problems for a while. my van was makeing a whining grinding noise. gear is hard to get out of park bad poping noise when backing up...replaced all 4 wheel bearings and both tie rod ends..still making a bad whining noise.3 days ago i was driving down the highway and the steering started acting weird and shakng and the back of the van started swaying back and forth .. was told at the shop about the recall on axel i called ford and was told my van is not on the list my van has a excessive amount of corrosion thoughout the whole bottom the shop told me this van has been exposed to salt. when i bought the van it had a inspection sticker from previous owner from one of the recall states.(pens) ford would not give me any information onwhat state it was sold in or dealer, what brand of axel that was being recalled (said they didnt know the brand) come on what company spends money on parts and dont even know the brand or manufactor they buy from. i'm scared to death to drive this automobile.. i think ford should honnor there promise to its customers and fix this problem on all 1997-2003 windstars not just certain months of 1997 or does someone have to lose there life before they do something? ford>>> you took our money for your product now stand behind your product
09/07/2010117000
 Rear axle is fractured. its has a 3 inch long crack on the rear axle toward the drivers side. we are the origenal owners of the van since 1998
01/04/200228000004/01/2001
 Driver front seatbelt malfunctioning, persistent vibration in rt front end at 60-65mph not cured by new struts, sway bar links, springs alignment, multiple wheel balance. ts
POWER TRAIN - DRIVELINE - DIFFERENTIAL UNIT
06/17/1999108/01/1997
 At take-off from stop light, transmission failed with no warning. put into neutral, and got stutter and grind from transaxle. shop informed me that the planetary gears had disintergrated. i believe this to be a manufacturing problem or defect with the ford 3.8l/axod combo, as these types of problems date back to 1988 and the taurus/sable compatible assemblies. *ak
POWER TRAIN - MANUAL TRANSMISSION
11/05/2002
 Consumer stated that while driving at any speed and without the transmission failed causing the vehicle not to accelerate. dealer notified.
06/01/2001107/02/1998
 The vehicle would rev up when the accelerator is applied and would not shift gears until the odometer and speedometers began to work which take about 5 miles drive. *yh
1
 Consumer states the vehicle has transmission problems. *yh
05/31/20021
 Consumer stated transmission gasket was leaking and the shifter was hard to get into reverse.*yh
08/01/2001206/18/1998
 The gear shift would not come out of park after starting the vehicle. putting the vehicle in neutral before starting it and shifting it to drive corrected the problem. *yh
01/01/2000112/01/1999
 The transmission failed while the consumer was traveling. *yh
08/10/2000112/01/1999
 Vehicle was experiencing a small transmission leak, consumer was informed that everything was fine, however as consumer had all driven 25 miles the transmission went out.*jb
01/01/2000112/01/1999
 The transmission failed while the consumer was traveling. *yh
08/10/2000112/01/1999
 Vehicle was experiencing a small transmission leak, consumer was informed that everything was fine, however as consumer had all driven 25 miles the transmission went out.*jb
08/01/2001206/18/1998
 The gear shift would not come out of park after starting the vehicle. putting the vehicle in neutral before starting it and shifting it to drive corrected the problem. *yh
09/18/2001
 While driving on highway vehicle jerked and made a really strange noise. vehicle then died. vehicle was towed to dealer, and the dealer stated that a metal piece had broken inside of transmission, and transmission would need to be rebuilt. please provide any further informmation.*ak
06/14/20002
 Transmission experienced failure twice. *slc
08/01/20003
 Transmission failed. nlm
07/27/1999107/24/1999
 While stopped at an intersection, the transmisison shifted into neutral without drivers knowledge, resulting in vehicle rolling backwards when the brake was released, shifting to park then back to drive reengaged the forward gear. nlm
10/10/20001
 While consumer was pulling into driveway transmission completely failed. *et
06/12/2000108/01/1998
 (forward clutch piston and seal) when you brake to turn left or right or even come to a stop and then step on the gas, all the vehicle does is rev. it's like the transmission is stuck in gear or slipping and then it eventually drops into place. it's a pretty hazardous situation if turning into oncoming traffic. i feel this part should have been on a recall because of what happens when all you are doing is braking or slowing down. please, please look into this problem. i have two children and would hate for someone to lose a child because of a wreck that could have been prevented by issuing a recall. thank you for providing this site to list problems.( dot number: apm3jeuu02 tire size: 215/70r15 )
312/30/1998
 Transmission replaced two times to illiminate slipping 1st and 2nd gears, however the replacements did not rectify transmission problems. mjs
02/01/1998
 I bought this van in feb of 1998 and in a few weeks i noticed that the van would lunge forward at low speeds of about 5 to 10 miles per hour. i went to the dealer and was told there was no problem . i went to another dealer same thing. i returned to the original dealer and this time drove the van with a mechanic and showed him the problem. they ordered a new transmission but the problem has never gone. i wrote ford but no help. then i moved to south jersey an dshowed it to the dealer a few times and this past jan i was told that the problem will stay and nothing more can be done. so at present every time i star the van and accelerate and then leave the peddle the car lunges. in slow traffic this a real anger because it seems as though the car is not in my control. the change in gear is very rough.
03/19/19991
 Transmission speed sensor failed causing erratic shifting.
09/03/19981
 Transmission shift lever failed.
08/15/1998202/15/1997
 Transmission failed on highway.
POWER TRAIN - MANUAL TRANSMISSION - COLUMN SHIFT ASSEMBLY
06/14/1999
 Consumer is driving and pulled up to an incline, if he takes his foot off the brakes the vehicle will roll backwards, he's also driven two other windstars that have the same problem. after duplicating the problem ford said that there is not a problem, this is normal.

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