Recalls

CampaignManufacturerManufacturing dateType# of units affectedDate Owner notified MfgRecall Initiated byManufacturers of recalled vehicles/productsReport Recieved DateRecord Creation DateRegulation Part NumberFMVSS Number
STRUCTURE - BODY
99I001000FORD MOTOR COMPANY I15900ODIFORD MOTOR COMPANY06/02/199907/21/1999
Defect SummaryThis is not a safety recall in accordance with the safety act. however, it is deemed a safety improvement campaign by the agency. vehicle description: minivans. the overhead console rear retaining bracket can develop cracks and separate, allowing the overhead console to become loose and possibly fall down.
Consequence SummaryIf the console does fall down, it could distract the driver or possibly strike a front seat occupant.
Corrective SummaryDealers will install a redesigned retaining bracket in the same location as the original retaining bracket.
NotesFord has decided to conduct a service program to replace the overhead console retaining bracket.owners can contact ford at 1-800-392-3673, concerning this program.

Bulletins

BulletinBulletin dateReplacement BulletinItem no.SummaryAdded
STRUCTURE - BODY
007204/03/2000613567Vehicles exhibiting a noisy liftgate or sheet metal stree cracks where the lift assembly attaches to the liftgate. **mr07/21/2000
98502611/01/1998613058Some vehicles built may 1, 1998 to july 3, 1998 may have a loose overhead console. *tt06/16/2000
1206511/01/1998613031Some vehicles built may 1, 1998 to july 3, 1998 may have a loose overhead console. *mjs06/16/2000
98310102/24/1998607387Some vehicles may exhibit a noise while turning or braking. *tt09/22/1999
9820301/01/1999604389Concerns with the potential effects of adhesives used for body panel repairs. *tt04/28/1999
98232311/23/1998603930Information regarding replacement and / or repairs on any lock component. *yc03/11/1999
9823511/23/1998603719Some vehicles experience overhead console loose or hangs down. *yc03/03/1999
9820310/12/1998603688Concerns with adhensives not recommended for body panel repairs. *yc03/02/1999
985503/16/1998601295Wet carpet and/or headliner in cargo area. *yc07/20/1998
984403/02/1998601263Some difficulty in matching the texture of the oem anti-chip stone abrasion material to rpair materials when servicing. *yc07/15/1998
983302/16/1998600587Service tips for surface defect removal without repainting. *yc05/27/1998
983102/16/1998600585Repairs to vinyl covered surfaces. *yc05/27/1998
BC071796102110/21/199650381Information for when replacing an interior trim component under warranty. *tt04/24/1997
STRUCTURE - BODY - DOOR
99-8-1505/03/1999606419Subject regarding door trim panel replacement - service tip. *tt01/05/2001
9816308/17/19986090873Locks failed. yd03/31/2000
9924211/15/19996090184Information on replacing and / or repairing malfunctioning (door, ignition and decklid) locks. *tt03/09/2000
981134902/01/1998607518Vehicles with power door locks may exhibit an intermittent operation or grind when cycled. *tt09/24/1999
98330302/04/1998607464Concerns of broken and or binding blend door. *tt09/23/1999
98309402/25/1998607384Some vehicles with power door locks may exhibit an intermittent operation or grind when cycled. *tt09/22/1999
9841603/02/1998601277Experiencing a grinding noise or inoperative door lock may occur when cycling the power front door locks on some vehicles. *tt07/16/1998
STRUCTURE - BODY - HATCHBACK/LIFTGATE - HINGE AND ATTACHMENTS
1378701/01/2000612811Some vehicles may exhibit noisy liftgate or sheet metal stress where the lift assembly attached to the liftgate. *mjs06/12/2000
STRUCTURE - BODY - TAILGATE
1329410/01/19996092115Some vehicles may exhibit a rattle noise from the liftgate area. *tt11/27/2000
1393103/01/2000612927Some vehicles may exhibit the metal tabs on the liftgate inner panel that bond to the outer skin separating and causing a rattle in the liftgate. *tt06/14/2000
824903/01/2000612685Some vehicles may exhibit the metal tabs on the liftgate inner panel that bond to the outer skin separating and causing a rattle in the liftgate. *tt06/12/2000
721110/01/19996090807Exhibiting a rattle noise from the liftgate area. *tt03/30/2000
1260603/01/1999605328Experiencing rattle / chuck noise from liftgate area due to lubricant that has been applied to the liftgate wedges. *tt06/08/1999
STRUCTURE - FRAME AND MEMBERS
1422206/01/2000613908Concerns with subframe clunk on acceleration / deceleration from front of vehicle. *tt09/21/2000

Investigations

NHTSA IDManufacturerDate openDate closeSubjectRecall campaign
STRUCTURE
SQ99001FORD MOTOR COMPANY01/12/1999OVERHEAD CONSOLE LOOSE OR HANGS DOWN99I001000
 Ford issued a service bulletin to addresss overhead console loose or hanging down.
SQ99001FORD MOTOR COMPANY01/12/1999OVERHEAD CONSOLE LOOSE OR HANGS DOWN66V002001
 Ford issued a service bulletin to addresss overhead console loose or hanging down.

Consumer Complaints

Fail datemilesoccurencesPurchase date
STRUCTURE
08/10/2011115000
 Tl- the contact owns a 1998 ford windstar. the contact stated that the engine mount fractured due to rust, causing the steering wheel and passenger tire to turn at an abnormal angle. a local mechanic diagnosed that the engine mount would need to be replaced. neither the dealer nor manufacturer was made aware of the failure and the vehicle was not repaired. the failure and current mileage was 115,000. the vin was unavailable. kmj
08/10/2011115000
 Tl- the contact owns a 1998 ford windstar. the contact stated that the engine mount broke due to rusting, causing the steering wheel and passenger tire to turn at an angle. a local mechanic diagnosed that the engine mount would need to be replaced. the dealer nor manufacturer was not contacted. the failure was not remedied. the failure and current mileage was 115,000. the vin was unavailable. nw
05/01/201152000
 Tl-the contact owns a 1998 ford windstar. the contact stated the vehicle was being inspected by an independent repair shop when she was informed the engine cross member and sub frame were severely corroded and cracked. the vehicle was then taken to an authorized dealer where the contact was informed the vehicle was not included in the recall associated with nhtsa campaign id number 10v385000 (suspension:rear:axle:non-powered axle assembly). the vehicle was not repaired. the failure and current mileages were 52,560. sm.
11/01/201099634
 My family owns a 1998 ford windstar minivan which is already subject to the axle recall and which did suffer a completely cracked axle. we have been told by the ford dealer that has possession of our vehicle that the front coil spring has fractured. this is despite the fact that the vehicle was previously subject to a recall that placed a cover over the coil spring. that recall only protected ford for replacement for a period of 10 years which has expired. also, this vehicle has been experiencing very hard steering and a front end clunking noise but no cause has been found. we feel the latest 1999 and beyond recall of brackets should also apply to our 1998 ford windstar as it's basically the same exact vehicle. we fear that the clunking and hard steering could be from corroded brackets which is not being relayed to us.
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!
08/15/20030
 When we purchased the van, we also bought a diamondkote warranty ,for 499.99$ and told at the time of purchase that is was a good warranty.we then found out that we should not have been sold the warranty and plaza ford lincoln will not honor it, we can't even get a refund, so we spoke to someone at diamondkote and this person told us that we should not have been sold the warranty and have been trying to get a refund ever since,either from plaza ford lincoln or diamondkote. i had intentions of suing ford motor company two years ago when my husband took my two daughters to halifax, because my 8 year old had cancer at the time, she had a appointment at the i.w.k hospital and it was by the grace of god that thay were not killed when the front suspention spring broke in which case my husband lost steering. i spoke to a lawyer who sadly told, because there was no death or injury there was nothing he could do,well my 8 year old who is now cancer free was so scared, she still gets very scared to get in a vehicle. i could go on but for now this is just the begining. i am going to pursue the matter of the diamondkote warranty further,and possibly more.we have had alot of vehicals before but never a ford with as much trouble as this has been.
12/15/199950930
 A/c oct. 99 $168.98, dec. 99 $134.40 suspension july 01 $664.61, dec. 99 $515.85, jun 01 $61.78, body jun 01 $443.61 other cd player jun 01 $19.50 and $366.86 turn signal jan 02 $161.04 dome light jan 02 $84.02 jan 02 $89.72 door oct 99 $134.52, mar 03 $285.07 steering sept.02 $258.82, mar. 03 569.32 computer controls sept. 00 $106.02 engine jan 02 $784.75 coolant smell (found front cover gasket leaking) sept. 02 85.95 (told throttle body worn out, sold me update computer software, seams to run better) currently in shop for check engine light and a/c system intermittent. mechanic found engine problem, says main bearings or crankshaft bad, possibly due to coolant in oil system from january 02 problem
05/15/200399000
 Rear sway bar broke in half on low speed turn if this would have happened on a freeway exchange or off ramp this would have resulted in a rollover and possible death!
08/01/200141000102/11/1998
 The paint is literally peeling off of my silver 1998 ford windstar. the paint on the roof is practically gone and now the top of the doors are starting to peel and rust. i was told by ford that they will not help me. all estimates i have for repainting state that this is a manufacturer defect. *ak
1
 Possible design problem with the vehicle, which allows for mice to enter vehicle, owner has trapped twelve mice and continues to have incidents. *et
 Cup holder spills easily. seat belt rests too high (on neck). needs another run board so that she can step into vehicle more easily.
05/01/1998
 Running board added on by dealer is so low that vehicle hit speed bumps. some places vehicle cannot go into without hitting bumps/gas stations and banks, etc. dealer contacted,and cannot remedy the problem. the vehicle was misrepresented to the owner upon purchase. provide further information. *ak
STRUCTURE - BODY
07/01/201223982
 Tl-the contact owns a 1998 ford windstar. the contact stated that after performing routine maintenance on the vehicle, he noticed that the front sub frame was completely rusted and needed to be replaced. the manufacturer was contacted in regard to this issue and advised him that his year vehicle was not included in nhtsa campaign id number 11v030000 (structure: frame and members:underbody shields). the vehicle was not repaired. the failure mileage was approximately 23,982. the vin was unavailable. kmj
07/01/201223982
 Tl-the contact owns a 1998 ford windstar. the contact stated that after doing routine maintenance on the vehicle he noticed that the front sub frame was completely rusted and needed to be replaced. the manufacturer was contacted in regards to this issue and they advised him that his year vehicle was not included in nhtsa camapign id number 11v030000 (structure: frame and members:underbody shields). the failure mileage was approximately 23,982. the vin was unavailable. tb
03/13/201265000
 Tl -the contact owns a 1998 ford windstar. the contact stated that the vehicle was taken for routine brake service when he noticed that the sub frame was rusted and hanging from the vehicle. the manufacturer was notified and informed the contact that there were no recalls for the issue. the vehicle was not repaired. the contact stated that the vehicle was parked and was no longer being driven as a result. the failure mileage was 65,000. kmj
03/13/201265000
 Tl -the contact owns a 1998 ford windstar. the contact stated that he went to get his brakes changed and noticed that the sub frame was rusted and was hanging down. the manufacturer was notified and that informed the contact that there was no recall on this issue. the vehicle was not repaired. the contact stated that the vehicle is parked because he believed that it would fall apart. the failure mileage was 65,000. ap
04/17/2012160000
 Tl-the contact owns a 1998 ford windstar. the contact stated that while driving approximately 10 to 15 mph, she suddenly lost control of the vehicle and the rear end of the vehicle dropped downward. the vehicle was unable to be towed, so an independent mechanic came to the location to examine the vehicle. the mechanic stated that the frame fractured in half and needed to be replaced. the manufacturer was notified and they offered no assistance. the failure and current mileages were approximately 160,000. the vin was unavailable. sm.
04/17/2012160000
 Tl-the contact owns a 1998 ford windstar. the contact stated that while driving approximately 10 to 15 mph when she suddenly lost control of the vehicle and the rear end of the vehicle had dropped. the vehicle was unable to be towed and the mechanic had came out and advised her that he frame had fractured in half and needed to be replaced. the manufacturer was contacted and they offered no assistance. the failure and current mileages were approximately 160,000. the vin was unavailable. tb
12/07/2011114000
 Tl- the contact owns a 1998 ford windstar. the contact stated that the vehicle taken to a local mechanic for inspection of the sub frame when the contact was advised that the sub frame was severely corroded and that the vehicle was unsafe to drive. the contact stated that the brake lines were also found to be corroded. the brake lines were replaced. the manufacturer was notified of the sub frame failure and denied any assistance with the repair. the sub frame was not repaired. the failure and the current mileage was 114,000. kmj
12/07/2011114000
 Tl-the contact owns a 1998 ford windstar. the contact stated while the vehicle was at the local mechanic for inspection the subframe was found severely corroded, and the vehicle was unsafe to drive. the contact stated the brake lines was also corroded. the brake lines was replaced. the manufacturer was notified of the subframe failure, and they denied assistance with the repair. the vehicle was not repaired. the failure and the current mileage was 114,000. li
11/07/201197500
 Tl* the contact owns a 1998 ford windstar. the contact stated that while having the vehicle examined by an independent mechanic, she was informed that the frame on the front driver's side was rusted through. the vehicle was not repaired. the manufacturer was made aware of the failure, but offered no assistance. the failure and the current mileages were 97,500.
11/07/201197500
 Tl-the contact owns a 1998 ford windstar. the contact stated that while having the vehicle examined by an independent mechanic, she was informed that the frame on the front driver's side was rusted through. the vehicle was not repaired. the manufacturer was made aware of the failure, but offered no assistance. the failure and the current mileages were 97,500. kmj
11/07/201197500
 Tl-the contact owns a 1998 ford windstar. the contact stated that while having the vehicle examined by an independent mechanic, she was informed that the frame on the front driver's side was rusted through. the vehicle was not repaired. the manufacturer was made aware of the failure, but offered no assistance. the failure and current mileages were 97,500. sm.
03/17/201080000
 Upon inspection of vehicle for inspection, it was determind vehicle was unsafe to drive because of badly corroded subframe on passenger side of vehicle. also, coil spring on passenger side was broken posing a driving hazard. vehicle has approximately 80,000 miles.
03/24/201196000
 Took vehicle in to a mechanic for repair work. when mechanic placed the vehicle on the lift, he noted that the subframe that cradles the engine and transmission and serves as the attachment point for the front suspension was extremely rusted. the corrosion has caused large and numerous holes in the subframe. he stated that the vehicle is unsafe to drive in its current condition and would not work on the vehicle because it was unsafe. he stated that the engine could actually fall though the subframe, or the subframe could brake at the suspension connection points causing loss of control of the vehicle.
02/07/2010123000
 Tl- the contact owns a 1998 ford windstar. the contact wanted to report corrosion underneath the vehicle. the dealer stated there is rust on the frame, fuel lines, brake lines and piping. the contact has had to replace the brake lines because of the corrosion. the dealer stated this has been a real problem with this year model. the failure mileage 123000 was and the current mileage 133000.rl
04/24/2003830001
 1. ford sent recall notice (01s19/01m03) in september, 2001. vehicle was taken in for service (11/7/01) and the receipt indicates that safety shields were installed 'to prevent a front spring failure from puncturing the front tires'. the notice also stated that 'what ford will do for you': ford motor company will also pay far any repairs directly relating to the front coil springs of you vehicle free of charge (parts and labor). it was at that time (2001), the owner received an 'extended coverage transferable warranty notice' on the front springs for 10 years from the warranty start date, regardless of mileage. 2. the springs may have fractured at a later date, or were broken at that time and not replaced. the vehicle has always had very low front ground clearance. because of the low ground clearance and the installed shields, the spring failure was not noted even when new tires were installed. returning the vehicle to the dealer in 2009, after a front break line failure, the owner inquired about checking for broken front springs under the recall campaign mentioned in the notice from 2001. that is when he leaned that the safety recall issue was satisfied with the shield installation. this action apparently also removed the vin from the safety recall data base. thus, assuming that this is no longer a safety issue, the owner continues to drive the low mileage vehicle (less than 100,000 miles). 3. the cost of replacing the springs was estimated at $400 to $600 dollars by the dealer and no corrective action is being taken as apparently this is no longer a safety issue. the vehicle is a 1998 ford windstar that was purchased on 10/16/97, with five miles on it. 4. is this vehicle safe to drive as there are nearly 100 similar complaints on this safety complaint web site? 5. as this vehicle did not qualify in the clunker program, is spring failure a lemon law issue? *tr
01/04/20091020001
 I have (had) a 1998 ford windstar that transports not only my own three children but two other children from time to time. after pulling out of the garage one day the rear of the mini-van made a horrible sound. i looked out the door and saw my rear tire in a very precarious position. after further review i noticed that what one would think could never happen, sure as
02/01/200487000101/15/2004
 Paint began peeling off liftgate, roof and side door in medium to large size strips and has continued to worsen, revealing the white primer below. there is a defect with the paint adhesive. the contrast in tone between the dark blue paint and large uneven patches of white primer is distracting to other drivers, since it looks so odd, and has potential to cause an accident. the entire mini-van needs to be repainted. i note that 4 of the total of 6 complaints of structural defects reported to nhtsa to date for this vehicle make, model and year , not including this one, are also for peeling paint on upper surfaces. this is obviously a manufacturer's defect and should be corrected. (incident date only indicates the time around when i first observed the problem.)*ak
01/13/20034
 Vehicle has front axle hub and speed sensor replaced due to antilock warning signal continuing to stay on. *bf recall# 01i007000. there was a noise in the front right wheel and on another occasion a loud bang had come from the vehicle due to the left front spring exploding. the service department stated on another occasion that the sub from had rusted badly. *sc
12/13/2003101/11/1998
 Extensive peeling of paint atop of van exposing surface thus creating extensive damage to vehicle requiring expensive repair.*ak
05/07/20013000004/19/1999
 Paint peeling on the vehicle. started at roof and now is peeling all over. also the front suspension makes a banging noise when traveling on bumpy roads. have tried to have fix but 2 or less months it starts again.
05/01/2001750001
 Consumer states that paint is peeling off. consumer feels the interior may eventually fall and paint chips may get into passengers eyes. *ak
08/30/200201/01/2000
 Peeling paint on most upper surfaces, including roof, liftgate, and side door. mr
08/16/199808/12/1998
 During normal highway operation, the overhead console fell from the roof of the car, striking the driver in the head. the driver almost lost control of the car. there are 5 fasteners which hold the console to the roof and 3 of the 5 were broken off. 2 of the fasteners were never inserted properly into the mounting slots. when it fell, the wiring held it, causing it to swing inside the vehicle.
STRUCTURE - BODY - DOOR
07/26/2005106/02/2000
 My 98 ford windstar was involved in an accident where a chevy tahoe ran a red light and t-boned the right rear passenger side of my van. upon impact the side door of my van flew off and ended up 15 feet from the vehicle. all occupants were wearing seat belts (my wife and our 5 children) so no one was ejected from the vehicle. our son who was sitting in the back seat on the passengers side was hospitalized with multiple life threatening injuries. the failure was not corrected as the vehicle was totaled. *nm
09/01/2000201/01/1998
 Light that indicates door is open stays illuminated. light gets so hot that it may cause a fire. *ak the switches have been replaced. the ford company is aware of the problem and doesn't want to fix unless consumer pays out of pocket. the sliding door was replaced. *jg
04/01/2001206/18/1998
 The interior lights stayed on even after the engine was turned off, due to door switch failure. *yh
01/01/2000
 Without prior warning door warning light comes on panel, and light will stay on. interior light will go off, but the sound of the chime will not stop. dealerlership is aware of problem. *aik
 Driver side sliding door failes to lock from either inside or outside due to an electrical problem. consumer has contacted dealer. please provide further information. *ak
11/01/2001
 Door ajar light on dash is on constantly when all doors are shut. chime is also going off at all times. when chime is on it is not possible to lock doors. vehicle at dealership at this time. *ak
01/01/2002
 Door locks are not working properly. they will lock at times, and not lock at other times. also, instrument panel will illuminate showing that door is not closed when it is. please provide more information. *ak
01/01/20022
 Courtesy lights will intermittenly work. they will come on when driving at night, or sometimes they will not come on at all. *ak experiencing other electrical problems with the reverse lights, interior lights, automatic door locks, door check light, and signal lights operating intermittently, consumer states that the engine is noisy and the engine check light is always on, the seat belt is loose, passenger side arm rest is loose, and the back window wiper is inoperative. *tt
04/01/2001206/18/1998
 The interior lights stayed on even after the engine was turned off, due to door switch failure. *yh
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
5006/01/2000
 Door open indicator stays on, causes interior light to stay on. every other 1998 ford i know has same problem (7 vehicles). nieghbor has had thier van (98) worked on 4 times in one year. dealer not helpfull. ford has blinders on, acts as if they know nothing about thos problem. all i wanted is ford to say they knew it was a problem, and they were working on a solution. fords integrity is in question with me.*ak
08/19/20001
 Ongoing problem with door ajar light staying on while all doors are properly closed. dealer notified, and informed consumer that vehicle was out of its warranty, and nothing would be done. *ak *jb
07/01/1999212/01/1997
 Door sensor replaced in 1999 just goes bad rick hunt ford in warrenton va. says.went bad again. interior lights stay on up to twenty mph. sometimes the chimes are on the same way , sometimes the chimes and all interior lights come on at traffic lights and cut off again at20 mph, but dip down to15 mph and they all start on again. sometimes the door locks pop to unlock position also.do i have the only vehical like this?*ak
01/01/200106/01/1998
 The door locks on this vehicle are operated by swtiches on the front doors and at the rear storage area. these switches will no longer activate the locks on the two front doors. the dealership checked the problem and advised that the doors need new actuators at a cost of $70 per device, plus close to $200 to install them. i am concerned that these locks should fail at this point in the life of the car. i have had similar locks on several cars and never had them fail, much less at such an early date. please note that i have owned the car less than the 36 months normally covered by warranty, though the 36,000 mile threshold has long since passed. i argued with the dealership, however, that the door locks are not elements of the car so affected by mileage, but more likely by usage over time. they wouldn't budge on fixing them. i am concerned about this from a safety standpoint because the front locks cannot be manually unlocked from the interior. in an accident, this could prove fatal.*ak
05/22/1999204/24/1999
 Various problem with power lock locking by itself/windshield wipers working intermittently/dome light not operating, and door ajar light staying on. vehicle been in / out of dealer shop on several occasions, and problems still reoccurring. *ak possible electrical problem with failure of power locks, windshield wipers, dome light, door ajar light, door ajar switch, lift gate door ajar switch, battery saver relay inoperable, and washer light illuminating. brakes noisy at times, dealer stated this was due to brake dust. power steering is noisy when turning back and forth, dealer replaced tie rod end. sliding door rattles while driving over bumps, dealer added foam tape to back side of panel, driver door rattles, sliding door hard to open at times, dealer lubed sliding hinges and latch. dealer replaced shocks due to rattling noise when riding over bumps. drivebelt replaced. maf sensor replaced due to hesitation. window guide did not fit tight. *slc
1
 Vehcile will stall when motor is hot, putting consumer in a dangerous situation.*ak sliding door malfunctions. *yh
 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
08/20/199930009/01/1997
 The passenger door contact was corroded causing the interior lights to come on and an alart on the dash that the door is open. reported to dealership but never repaired or replaced under waranty. this is a danger to the driver that the door is open and distracks the drivers attention to immediately turn around to visually check. this alert also causes the interior lights to automatically come on when this open door indication is given. this is also a distraction. both the dealership and ford were contacted but nothing was done. i will never buy a ford product again. *ak
11/19/19981
 Tailgate power lock inoperative. yh
02/02/1998
 The front window area fits poorly causing, flapping noise and installed foam strips under windshield weathrestrip.
02/02/1998
 Door panel assembly failed causing, drivers door not to fit properly.
10/01/1998306/01/1998
 Vehicle has been in numerous times for new seals on front right passenger door for wind noise: also been in for failed brake system numerous times and front rotors have been on back order for almost 2 months: in numerous times for front end alignment-checked and rechecked by several ford dealers and they cannot do anything, vehicle has always pulled to the right; engine has died several times and would not start back up; front pads on brake system have been replaced and rotors turned at only 10,000 miles still grinding and will not stop correctly; vehicle feels to me as unsafe for my wife and two younger boys. *ak
06/01/1998105/29/1998
 Door lock mulfunctioned. yh
 Power door locks failed. yh
108/01/1997
 Auto lock failed. yh
STRUCTURE - BODY - TAILGATE
03/01/1998
 Ie99059, the defective steering bushings does not support the system which causes the vehicle steering system to malfuction. also, braking system malfunctioned, causing extended stopping distance which may result in a crash. the fuel pump went out unexpectedly, cause vehicle to stall. finally, liftgate indicator light came on, but the liftgate remained closed. brakes been replace once,and bushings 3 times. please provide further information and vin#. *ak
STRUCTURE - BODY - TRUNK LID
10/20/1997
 Individual was unloading something from the trunk of the vehicle when the trunk lid came down and hit the indiviual in the top of the head, causing injuries to the skull. individual stated that it's a poor design in the door lid. *ak
STRUCTURE - FRAME AND MEMBERS
05/24/2011
 I received a letter earlier this year regarding my 1998 ford windstar for a rear axle recall. i had it serviced at malouf ford in north brunswick, nj. when my son picked it up, he was told there was a new recall for the front right subframe rusting out (similar problem as the rear axle). they checked the subframe on my car and it was severely rusted. he was told they would call us when the parts came in to fix it. i had an appointment to fix the subframe this past tuesday (24/may). the service department called and said that while the subframe was definitely rusted out, and that it was due to the same defect as decribed, that particular recall was for 1999-2003 windstars and since mine is a 1998, they will not fix it. please note i had no clue of the recall or the damage. the ford dealership advised me of it. i waited for the parts and brought the car in when they asked. now, though they confirm that this rusted-out subframe on the passenger side is exactly what the recall is for, and there is the potential for a deadly crash if that subframe fails, they are not authorized to repair a 1998 windstar. i don't know if my car is a late-model 1998, but it was manufactured at the same ontario, canada plant as the cars that qualify for the recall, and a rusted right subframe is not a normal wear-and-tear condition. it is beyond negligent to acknowledge the problem in a 1999 windstar, but pretent the same exact problem in a 1998 windstar from the same plant is not their problem.
01/05/2011165000
 Tl-the contact owns a 1998 ford windstar. the contact stated that there was significant rust within the front subframe area. the authorized dealer was notified and they informed that there was not a recall related to the defect; although there was a recall on the 1999-2003 model years under nhtsa campaign id number 11v030000 (structure: frame and members:underbody shields). the vehicle had not been diagnosed or repaired for the defect. the failure mileage was approximately 165,000. js
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
11/12/200968000
 Without any warning signs that i could see, the rear axle on my 1998 ford windstar broke in half while my wife was driving home from the grocery store.she was able to pull off the road and call me for help. the rear wheels were tilted inward so much that we had to have the auto towed to a local mechanic, where the rear axle and related parts where replaced. this incident happened almost 9 months ago, and every since then i am reluctant to drive this auto anywhere near a highway. because the engine seems to be very sound. we simply use the vehicle to drive around town. one of the main reasons i feel i need to register this complaint, is because i noticed an investigation that has been initiated for 1999 and later windstars. because we have a 1998, i felt this information would be helpful with this investigation.
04/19/2010184000
 The rear axle is cracked and almost separated. don't know when or how it happened. has not been repaired.
02/12/200365000
 I puchased my van on 2/24/02 with 55k on it from cavalier ford in chesapeake ,va. the van was taken back to cavalier ford in chesapeake, va. on 2/12/03 because of a popping sound coming from the front area when breaks are applied and sometimes while turning. the mechanic discovered severe cracking in sub frame where right strut rod attaches. the mechanic has never seen one do this and said i could lose my steering if it cracks all the way while i am driving. he said could be manufactuer defect. est. cost for repairs $3,000.00. i only have 65k on the van and havent even had it a year yet. there is no evidence of van being in a wreck. this is not coverd under my extended warrenty . has this been a problem with other windstars and what do you suggest that i can do? l.j. va. beach,virginia
12/11/2001109/01/2000
 The dealership service department stated the front subframe sleeves were loose; welding of the radius arm sleeves was required. they stated this problem was very common for windstar and even taurus models. if so, this is a potentially serious and widespread problem in these cars. *ak
05/03/2002103/01/2099
 I brought the vehicle to walker ford on 3/14/202 for a protective spring shield, recall #01s19. we noticed a clunking noise from the passenger side front shorrtly after. we brought the vehicle back to walker ford on 5/3/02. upon inspection, we were told the weld for the sub frame was broken. this holds up the transmission,engine, suspension,.. this is definieetly a severe safety issue and gone unchecked, i believe it could have led to a major accident and possible injuries, not just to myself, but others who may be driving a vehicle with a similar problem. this is not something that needs to be fixed as part of routine maintenance and is very rare and uncommon for this to break, as confirmed by another mechanic. i believe the weld was defective. this vehicel is well maintained and there is no cause for this type of problem other than a defect.
12/08/2001
 Was driving 25mph when suddenly driver lost control of vehicle. managed to get to side of road after going from west bound crossing to east bound lane. had vehicle towed to dealership. was informed by mechanic that rear frame bolts had sheared off and caused frame to separate.*ak
04/01/20000
 When driving vehicle/ either turning or coming to a stop there is a knocking sound near front wheels. took vehicle to dealer, and they said that subframe strut sleeves need to be welded. please provide any further information.*ak
12/16/1999
 A spring under car came loose and was dangling aroung under vehicle.this part could have punctured a tire and caused a serious accident. *ak
02/28/20001
 The vehicle makes noise while turning due to rear sub frame mount failure. yh
104/11/1998
 Nut and underbolt failed causing noise in front end.
STRUCTURE - FRAME AND MEMBERS - UNDERBODY SHIELDS
04/10/20021
 Recall 01f090000 was done in april 2002. shields were installed within 1/8 inch of tire, new tires will rub on the shields.*ak consumer stated that the gas filler hoses are exposed to flying stones from the wheels after 98 fords added a shield to cover their hose. *yh

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