Bulletins

BulletinBulletin dateReplacement BulletinItem no.SummaryAdded
ENGINE AND ENGINE COOLING
1318609/01/19996090542Information regarding front cover & water pump bolts-torque valve revision/3.8-4.2l. *mjs03/21/2000
ENGINE AND ENGINE COOLING - ENGINE
0419210/04/200410010714Spark knock on acceleration - vehicles equipped with 3.8l engine only. *tt12/07/2004
0222111/11/200210008304Engine-gear driven synchronizers-incorrect installation-camshaft position synchronizer (cmp) installation tool correct application. *mj07/27/2004
1705608/01/200310003166Malfunction indicator lamp (mil) on / no start / erratic shifting. *tt10/09/2003
0316108/18/2003034710003115Check engine light on and lean diagnostic trouble codes (dtc's) p0171/p0174 (system too lean bank 1 or 2) stored in memory. *tt10/08/2003
033802/17/200310002484Check engine light on and lean diagnostic trouble codes (dtc's) p0171/p0174 (system too lean bank 1 or 2) stored in memory. *tt09/03/2003
87019710/22/200210000592Incorrectly installed gear driven camshaft position (cmp) sensor synchronizer assemblies causing surge, lost of power, malfunction indicator lamp on and diagnostic trouble codes p1336, p1309 and p0340. *tt03/25/2003
0112406/25/2001622665On some vehicles, engine oil may continue to leak from the engine oil pan gasket area after an engine oil pan gasket repair has been performed. *tt10/22/2001
1318109/01/19996090540Information regarding camshaft position (cmp) sensor alignment tool chart (continued). *mjs03/21/2000
1318009/01/19996090538Information regarding camshaft position (cmp) sensor alignment tool chart. *mjs03/21/2000
699609/01/19996090309Information regarding a change in the torque values of the engine front cover water pump bolts. *tt03/14/2000
699709/01/19996090310Some service manuals may list the incorrect camshaft position sensor alignment tool for vehicles with various engine sizes. *tt03/14/2000
585703/01/1999605244Vehicle exhibiting no reverse or intermittent no reverse engagement during extreme cold temperatures. *tt06/04/1999
ENGINE AND ENGINE COOLING - ENGINE - GASOLINE
0124612/10/2001630515Engine oil system priming procedures, service tips for reports of premature engine failure. *tt04/18/2002
021401/21/2002630001Some engine assemblies with aluminum cylinder heads repaired in-vehile have been found to leak coolant and/or oil from the cylinder head gasket area. *tt04/11/2002
0120510/15/2001627927Some vehicles may exhibit vacuum or air leaks in the intake manifold and / or engine system causing diagnostic trouble codes p0171 and or p0174. *tt02/26/2002
1521309/01/2001625749Some vehicles may exhibit an engine noise that sounds like a connecting-rod knock or lifter noise. *tt12/03/2001
1392201/01/2000620490Some vehicles equipped with 3.8l engine may exhibit a slight spark knock on heavy acceleration with 87 octane fuel. *tt08/13/2001
1433001/01/2000620417Some vehicles may have slight spark knock on heavy accel with 87 octaine fuel. hot weather and lower octane fuel may exaggerate condition. *tt08/07/2001
014703/05/2001619424Subject regarding engine oil recommendations for use in 2001 vehicles - sae 5w-20 motor oil. *tt05/30/2001
0022310/30/2000618560Some vehicles equipped with 3.0l engine may exhibit a spark knock condition on heavy acceleration with 87 octane gasoline. *jb04/16/2001
0021810/16/2000618552Information on spark knock on acceleration on vehicles equipped with 3.8l engine. *jb04/16/2001
0025512/11/2000616822Some vehicles equipped with the 3.0l 2-valve engine may exhibit a spark knock condition on heavy acceleration with 87 octane gasoline. *tt03/13/2001
1280005/01/1999607113Some vehicles may exhibit a high pitched squeal / whistle noise from the engine area. *tt01/05/2001
1351811/01/1999614642Some vehicles equipped with 3.8l engine may exhibit a hum / moan from the underhood area with the engine running. *tt11/29/2000
1421306/01/2000613905Concerns with vehicles exhibiting a slight spark knock on heavy acceleration with 87 octane fuel. *tt09/21/2000
1406004/01/2000613706Some vehicles may exhibit mil illumination with diagnostic trouble codes p0171/p0174. **mr07/27/2000
518611/01/1998613317Subject regarding engine compartment noise heard in passenger compartment. *tt06/21/2000
1214111/01/1998613162Some vehicles may exhibit engine compartment noise heard in passenger compartment. *mjs06/19/2000
1217411/01/1998613224Some vehicles may exhibit a hard start/long crank, cold start stall, cold rough idle concern. *mjs06/19/2000
823303/01/2000612675Vehicles equipped with 3.8l engine may exhibit a slight spark knock on heavy acceleration with 87 octane fuel. *tt06/12/2000
823302/01/2000612423Some vehicles equipped with 3.8l engine may exhibit a slight spark knock on heavy acceleration with 87 octane fuel. *tt06/08/2000
754211/01/1999610868Some customers may experience a hum / moan from the underhood area with the engine running on vehicles equipped with 3.8l engines. *tt05/16/2000
664707/01/1999610720Exhibiting engine spark knock on heavy acceleration with 87 octane fuel. *tt05/11/2000
9918309/06/19996090051Service tip information on revised oil pan gasket replacement procedure. *tt03/06/2000
635206/01/1999606807Subject pertaining to a whistle noise from engine area. *tt09/02/1999
9981605/03/1999606420Ford motor company now recommends sae 5w-30 viscosity grade for servicing any ford gasoline-powered vehicle regardless of model year. *tt08/19/1999
ENGINE AND ENGINE COOLING - EXHAUST SYSTEM
98201010/12/1998603695Experiencing a buzzing or rattling noise from the exhaust system. *yc03/02/1999
ENGINE AND ENGINE COOLING - EXHAUST SYSTEM - EMISSION CONTROL
98231011/23/1998603724Mass air flow (maf)- sensor contamination- service tip. *ak03/03/1999
ENGINE AND ENGINE COOLING - EXHAUST SYSTEM - EMISSION CONTROL - CATALYTIC CONVERTOR
CSP-08B0105/16/200810026389Ford: certain 1999-2001 model year vehicles up to 6000 lb gvwr registered in new york and certain 2001 vehicles up to 6000 lb gvwr registered in the state of maine, certified for sale in california-federal emission warranty refund. *pe10/23/2008

Consumer Complaints

Fail datemilesoccurencesPurchase date
ENGINE
12/11/2012173000
 The subframe cracked due to corrosion. this happened in the front end, including a brace that holds the engine. this windstar was purchased in upstate new york, and was driven there from 1999-2006.
09/12/20121080001
 I was driving my van. at first the lights beep up for engine and then o/d and then it stops. there was a lot of smoke from the engine and it look like it burns. after that vehicle start but not tacking gear. i found out that transmission went bad. *tr
09/12/2012108000
 I was driving my van. at first the lights beep up for engine and then o/d and then it stops. there was a lot of smoke from the engine and it look like it burns. after that vehicle start but not tacking gear. i found out that transmission went bad.
08/18/20121060001
 Lived in the salt belt state of il. when i was driving, front subframe falling off and some components were touching the ground due to severe front subframe rusted out. i lost steering control and gear control on a multiple lane road. ford has never sent any notice to me regarding any recall. this is a known issue via nhtsa action number: pe10026 and i would like ford to repair the rusted subframe and all other broken components directly caused by subfram falling off. ford refused to provide any car rental by saying ?this is an old recall and we do not give car rental now?. *tr
08/18/2012106000
 Lived in the salt belt state of il. when i was driving, front subframe falling off and some components were touching the ground due to severe front subframe rusted out. i lost steering control and gear control on a multiple lane road. ford has never sent any notice to me regarding any recall. this is a known issue via nhtsa action number: pe10026 and i would like ford to repair the rusted subframe and all other broken components directly caused by subfram falling off. ford refused to provide any car rental by saying
02/21/2008852431
 Subframe gave out, engine dropped and car was towed to my home.i had just exited a highway going 55mph. i was driving the to car to attend a work related event early evening. i drove past the entrance and proceeded to turn around on the road. as i approached the intersection the van lost power. i stopped being able to steer and brake. i turned hard on the steering wheel to move off the road. i was able to pull into a turn lane and fortunately there was very limited traffic on the road. the car came to a full stop on its own and there was a loud scrapping noise coming from under the front of the car. i was towed to my home. the tow driver stated the subframe had given away and was dragging on the ground. it required a flat bed truck to tow. my mechanic confirmed the subframe had collapsed . the cost to fix was prohibited and i was concerned about the safety of the vehicle i contacted ford about the problem and they responded that there was no recall at that time. the car remained in the driveway in the event there was a recall on the vehicle for over one year. i finally decided to donate the car having not been contacted by the manufacturer. i was contacted that there was a recall identifying the problem in 2011 i am filing this complaint due to the fact that i was financially disadvantaged by the delays of the manufacturer to identify and notify me of the recall in a timely fashion. *tr
02/21/200885243
 Subframe gave out, engine dropped and car was towed to my home.i had just exited a highway going 55mph. i was driving the to car to attend a work related event early evening. i drove past the entrance and proceeded to turn around on the road. as i approached the the intersection the van lost power. i stopped being able to steer and brake. i turned hard on the steering wheel to move off the road. i was able to pull into a turn lane and fortunately there was very limited traffic on the road. the car came to a full stop on its own and there was a loud scrapping noise coming from under the front of the car. i was towed to my home. the tow driver stated the the subframe had given away and was dragging on the ground. it required a flat bed truck to tow. my mechanic confirmed the subframe had collapsed . the cost to fix was prohibited and i was concerned about the safety of the vehicle i contacted ford about the problem and they responded that there was no recall at that time. the car remained in the driveway in the event there was a recall on the vehicle for over one year. i finally decided to donate the car having not been contacted by the manufacturer. i was contacted that there was a recall identifying the problem in 2011 i am filing this complaint due to the fact that i was financally disadvantaged by the delays of the manufacturer to identify and notify me of the recall in in a timely fashion.
ENGINE AND ENGINE COOLING
01/08/2010101624
 1. sub-frame was badly rusted out. it broke while backing out of a parking space and the front tires disengaged. 2. the rocker panel on the left side needs to be replaced. it is badly rusted out and it will not pass inspection anymore. there is some rust on the right rocker panel also. all of the rust in under the vehicle and it is not safe to drive. 3. the check engine light came on last year.
03/01/2010111000
 Tl-the contact owns a 1999 ford windstar. the contact stated the vehicle stalled without the warning while driving at 25mph. the vehicle was towed to the local mechanic who diagnosed located the failure at the engine motor rod. the engine motor was replaced. the manufacturer was contact but denied assistance with the repair. the failure mileage was 111,000 and the current mileage was 112,000. li
04/01/20111
 1999 ford windstar. consumer writes to express discontent regarding ford motor company *tgw the consumer stated the vehicle had transmission and engine problems. also, the vehicle failed inspection, due to a rusted subframe. ford offered to buy the vehicle back from the consumer.
09/01/200255000
 Bought the van in sept. 2002 with 55,000 miles, engine light came on within a week of having it. took it back to car lot where we bought it, they took it to the ford dealer, couldn't find anything except that it came up a lean code they told me i didn't know how to put gas cap on the right way. that is not the problem. kept dealing with light on to this day. may 2003 had to have the transmission replaced, got it back starting having same problems,took it back they said they forgot to replace a wire, still having problems to this day with transmission in fact oct. 2010 had to have it towed they said shavings found in motor will need transmission replaced again. dome lights flash all the time. the gauges go haywire all the time, peg from one side to the other. had that replaced and did it again. took it in for recall dec. 28,2010 cracked rear axle still at dealer. now just heard that the recall for sub frame will get papers in feb. guess it will be there longer. our dumb mistake we bought another windstar in sept. 2010 a 2003 all we could afford, that has problems with abs light. told over $800 to fix. we need two new cars, don't feel safe in either.
12/01/2010240000
 Complete fracture of passenger side engine cradle causing steering issues. fracture 1 to 2 inches from frame bolt. no other rust or fractures on frame or sub chassis, repairs by ford and goodyear of rack replacement and transmission replacement did not seem to warrant notification to me of pending issue with frame which could have caused major injury to myself or someone else. note this car has been in florida with 1 owner not in salt belt states
12/26/2010
 Tl-the contact owns a 1999 ford windstar. while the contact was driving approximately 40 mph, there was a loud noise coming from the front end of the vehicle. suddenly, without assistance the vehicle pulled into the right direction and wandered out of the lane causing difficulty in maintaining the steering control. when the brakes were engaged the vehicle would pull toward the left direction with a metal screeching noise. the failure occurred on three different times. a certified technician inspected the vehicle and stated that the engine cradle and lower control arm completely rusted. the vehicle was not repaired. the failure mileage was unknown. js
02/15/2004127445
 Tl-the contact owns a 1999 ford windstar. while driving 30-40 mph the check engine light illuminated on the dashboard. she stated the over drive light came on and the vehicle was taken back to the dealer were she purchased the vehicle used. the contact stated she was not sure what the dealer did to the vehicle to repair the failures. she stated the failure continued. the vehicle was taken back to the dealer several times but the contact was not given an invoice and she was not sure what they repaired but the failure continued. she stated the vehicle began to pull to the right when driving shortly after she purchased it and it gets stuck in park. she also stated she had replaced 5 batteries in the vehicle since she purchased it used february 9, 2004. the contact referenced recall 10v385000, suspension:rear:axle:non-powered axle assembly and stated the recall work had not been performed yet. she also referenced recall 09v399000, vehicle speed control and stated that the recall had not been performed since she was recently made aware of it. the failure mileage was 127,445 and the approximately current mileage was 150,000. vwb
12/26/2010
 Tl-the contact owns a 1999 ford windstar. while the contact was driving approximately 40 mph, there was a loud noise coming from the front end of the vehicle. suddenly, without assistance the vehicle pulled into the right direction and wandered out of the lane causing difficulty in maintaining the steering control. when the brakes were engaged the vehicle would pull toward the left direction with a metal screeching noise. the failure occurred on three different times. a certified technician inspected the vehicle and stated that the engine cradle and lower control arm completely rusted. the vehicle was not repaired. the failure mileage was unknown. js
02/15/2004127445
 Tl-the contact owns a 1999 ford windstar. while driving 30-40 mph the check engine light illuminated on the dashboard. she stated the over drive light came on and the vehicle was taken back to the dealer were she purchased the vehicle used. the contact stated she was not sure what the dealer did to the vehicle to repair the failures. she stated the failure continued. the vehicle was taken back to the dealer several times but the contact was not given an invoice and she was not sure what they repaired but the failure continued. she stated the vehicle began to pull to the right when driving shortly after she purchased it and it gets stuck in park. she also stated she had replaced 5 batteries in the vehicle since she purchased it used february 9, 2004. the contact referenced recall 10v385000, suspension:rear:axle:non-powered axle assembly and stated the recall work had not been performed yet. she also referenced recall 09v399000, vehicle speed control and stated that the recall had not been performed since she was recently made aware of it. the failure mileage was 127,445 and the approximately current mileage was 150,000. vwb
12/26/2010
 Tl-the contact owns a 1999 ford windstar. while the contact was driving approximately 40 mph, there was a loud noise coming from the front end of the vehicle. suddenly, without assistance the vehicle pulled into the right direction and wandered out of the lane causing difficulty in maintaining the steering control. when the brakes were engaged the vehicle would pull toward the left direction with a metal screeching noise. the failure occurred on three different times. a certified technician inspected the vehicle and stated that the engine cradle and lower control arm completely rusted. the vehicle was not repaired. the failure mileage was unknown. js
02/15/2004127445
 Tl-the contact owns a 1999 ford windstar. while driving 30-40 mph the check engine light illuminated on the dashboard. she stated the over drive light came on and the vehicle was taken back to the dealer were she purchased the vehicle used. the contact stated she was not sure what the dealer did to the vehicle to repair the failures. she stated the failure continued. the vehicle was taken back to the dealer several times but the contact was not given an invoice and she was not sure what they repaired but the failure continued. she stated the vehicle began to pull to the right when driving shortly after she purchased it and it gets stuck in park. she also stated she had replaced 5 batteries in the vehicle since she purchased it used february 9, 2004. the contact referenced recall 10v385000, suspension:rear:axle:non-powered axle assembly and stated the recall work had not been performed yet. she also referenced recall 09v399000, vehicle speed control and stated that the recall had not been performed since she was recently made aware of it. the failure mileage was 127,445 and the approximately current mileage was 150,000. vwb
08/10/200528306106/16/1999
 Tl*the contact owns a 1999 ford windstar. while driving 15 mph, the vehicle would shut off. the failure occurred when slowing down for a red light or stop sign. the vehicle was taken to a mechanic on three different occasions before it was finally repaired. the contact was informed that the driver's side intake manifold failed. the contact referenced technical service bulletin number 627927 (engine and engine cooling:engine:gasoline). the current mileage was 42,000 and failure mileage was 28,306. updated 10/14/08 *bf the engine would shut off and didn't idle properly. updated 10/17/08. *jb
02/05/200889946106/14/2002
 Tl*the contact owns a 1999 ford windstar. while driving 60 mph, the check engine light illuminated. the dealer stated that there was a faulty valve cover, and the engine needed an upper intake and driver side valve cover. the cost to repair the vehicle was $500. the dealer did not explain the possible cause of the failure; however, when the valve cover does not fit properly, it causes oil to leak into the motor. the failure and current mileages were 89,946.
07/10/20071080001012/20/2001
 Subject vehicle is a 1999 ford windstar van with 3.8 engine; this vehicle has not been operational since july 15, 2007 due to stalling problem. after reaching operating temperature, it may stall at any time. at speeds above 40 mph you can maintain control of vehicle, but under 35 mph vehicle becomes difficult to control due to engine shutdown and loss of power steering and brake assist. *tr
09/04/200712900208/20/2005
 I was at a stop light at a major intersection and when the light turned green i heard a loud sound. i tried to accelerate but my car would not move forward. the engine just revved. i thought i ran something over due to the sound so inspected got out to inspect the car. i found nothing. i got back into the car and turned car off and turned back. the car would not drive. i put the car in reverse and managed to get off the road. i had the car towed to the dealership. i was told by the dealer sutton ford in matteson il. that the transmission just broke and would cost me $3000.00. i have had this car less then 2 years. i had an extended warranty that just expired a few months ago. my obd light was on but was told by the dealer it was a sensor. they could turn it off but it wasn't anything major. after reading all the complaints i'm sure it is major. since purchasing this car, i have had to replace tires at least every six months, major engine repair, alternator repair, as well as spring replacement. overall, i've put more then $3000.00 in repair not including the repair of the transmission i now need. i loved my windstar but i am now discovering that it puts my life endanger to drive it. my two kids were in the car when this happened and i feared someone would hit my car. the worst part about all this is i am unable to get rid of this car as i still am buying this car. i am unable to refinance the difference. i was told to just scarp the car by the dealer and just get another car as i am even more in debt trying to repair the car. i don't want to ruin my credit so there has to be another solution. i have no inkling how i'm going to manage to get 3000.00 for a new car and pay my bills and find an alternative method. i really would appreciate it if ford would just do the right thing fix my transmission. split the cost. i did damage my car in the mist of all this and just want to be able to drive to work until the car is paid off.*jb
03/21/200670000105/09/2001
 Cel (check engine light) came on. ford dealer said that the ford company has a bulletin out to dealers recommending the replacement of gaskets and valve cover for the vacuum leaks. which run upward of 600.00 if they are acknowledging this problem, why are they not recalling it? *jb
11/21/200567000210/02/2002
 Dt: the contact stated the engine hesitated while driving. the engine did not die, but operated at a reduced speed. the check engine light illuminated when this occurred. the contact took the vehicle to the dealer, who performed a diagnostic test. the diagnostic test produced codes. however, no repairs have been made. *ak
10/01/20049900010003/01/2003
 Dt: the contact stated the check engine light continued to illuminate. she took the vehicle to an independent repair shop numerous times. the repair shop cleared the check engine light code. after multiple attempts to correct the problem she was referred to an authorized ford dealer. the dealer cleared the check engine light code. afterwards the check engine light came on again. she went back to the dealer. the dealer could not diagnose the problem, and said not to worry about it. no further repairs have been made at this time. *ak updated 04/06/06
06/15/20055078003/20/2000
 When attempting to park, especially when parking between two vehicles and i need to proceed slowly and with caution, my engine has a sudden, momementary surge of approximately 500 rpm each time i turn the steering wheel. this causes the vehicle to suddenly lurch forward. i have had a few close calls due to this sudden movement when stopped for pedestrans to pass in front of me, i have turned the steering wheel slightly and when the vehicle surges forward, they look at me like i was attempting to run them down. as of this date, i do not know why it is doing this.
04/09/2005841001
 Head gaskets on my ford windstar 3.8 liter are leaking coolant at 83.9k miles. had a 1994 ford taurus with same problem. had to junk car at 70000. that was 20000 after i had it fixed for the same problem the first time at 38000. ford has had many problems with this 3.8 v-6 but don't want to admit it.*ak
02/16/200593008203/16/2000
 3.8l v6. check engine light, lean code. had intake manifold gaskets replaced at my cost in oct 03 at 70k miles. check engine light again in feb 05 at 90k miles. intake manifold gaskets again. at my cost again. ford customer relations does not feel it's a problem.*ak
11/09/2004680003
 When trying to park the vehicle it launched forward. the consumer had to turn the vehicle off in order to stop the launching. the dealer stated there was a gasket kit that will prevent the intake gasket, gas leak. *ak *sc
11/17/200473208111/11/2003
 There is a problem with ford egines. when it is cold usually a temperature below 20 degrees the intake manifold gaskets don't seal correctly, causing a engine error in the computer. my dealer says over the last 3 years they will fix about 50 a season and already this short season they have fixed about a dozen including my 1999 ford windstar.*ak
10/01/20047
 Transmission problem with 1999 ford windstar on several occasion. *bf (transmission slippage) these problems have existed since the vehicle was first purchased; engine trouble, vaporization leaks, and a broken gear. there were also worn front brakes, steering was inoperative, and there was a vacuum leak due to the upper intake manifold. *sc *jb
08/19/2003400009
 While driving at any speed when it rained or the air conditioner was running the vehicle stalled. once the vehicle stalled the consumer had to wait a half hour or more before restarting. this problem has occurred at least three times a month in the last three months. the dealer has examined the vehicle twice and could not find the problem. *jb
06/15/20030
 The engine coolant is missing and #4 spark plug is getting damp causing check engine light to come on.
11/15/200376000
 * vehicle leans since purchased sept 13, 2003. * allignment problems. * transmission does not properly change gears. * low treads on tires. * a frame problems. * suspension steering makes a clunking noise. * brakes must be pumped to stop, and make a ticking noise when applied. * vehicle has overheated. * power steering fluid leaked. * gears do not shift properly. * primer scotch guard on seats wearing after coat applied.
07/15/200358032
 Heat failed in july, pin to flap in evaporator case assembly had broken off. whole assembly has to be replaced requiring tearing apart the dashboard. part alone cost $326.40 check engine light kept coming on - found pressure leak at gasket. had complained about engine sluggishness for years and was told the computer could find nothing wrong...after gasket was fixed, no more engine sluggishness. ford would not cover saying the problems could not be tied together to justify warranty repair!! power steering went. first attempted flushing system. after failed again, replaced pump, after that did not fix the problem, had to replace entire system. ford replied to my request for coverage that this was the first case they had heard of this problem in a windstar and to keep my receipts so that i might get consideration if they do something in the future. i feel these problems are excessive for a 50,000 mile car...ford agrees but says the average number of problems is much lower so they still class their car as very reliable!!!
09/15/20030
 The rear ac unit went out around 75k never got it fixed but when we had the car serviced the computer panel was reset and it worked again at 96k. the engine light came on and stayed and we never got it fixed. the gas gauge light came on and we had it fixed at 98k and i don't know the cost. the van was recalled because of the windshield wipers and the rear ac unit. there wasn't no cost.the details of the fire. my wife got out her car for work and about 20 minutes later the fire trucks were there. our adjuster said the fire initiated behind the passenger seat in the ac and heating control panel. the vehicle was totaled on 12 sept. the vehicle had 119k on it now. if there is anything else you like to ask me feel free to. i am really upset with ford on the way they handled this entire situation especially when they know there have been reported fires from recalls located on the web sites. i
07/15/200365000
 We first had to replace the transmission at 49000 miles for $2000.00. just a few months later the engine failed at 53000 miles. to save money, we purchased a used engine from a wrecked windstar van for $900.00. my husband and father did the labor themselves. then in july 2003 we had to replace the shift solenoids which cost $500.00 for parts and labor. now, just a little over a year from replacing the first transmission, the van is in the shop again with transmission problems. any advice you can offer would be greatly appreciate. thanks for your time.
05/15/200363000
 We have taken this van in for repair fivetimesin one year. the first month we had it the head was replaced. the power steering has gone out for now the fifth time. i actually lost controlof the vehicle due to beingunable to turn the steering. my husband has to drive me everywhere because only he can turn the steering wheel. each time we take it for repair we are charged a deductible and i can not do this anymore. this is obviously a lemon. marshall mize ford in chattanooga tennessee is where the vehicle was purchased in january of 2001. they also have performed all service on this vehicle. ford has not been understanding of why my payments have been late, but when you are having these kinds of issues such as electrical, transmission, air conditioning, and engine malfunctions, it does not take a genius to figure out why a woman with a family who depends on this vehicle as reliable, safe means of transportation is having difficulty. maybe if their product was of better quality, my children would be in a safe vehicle, and ford would get their money on time.
02/15/200350600
 I am haveing lots of troubles with 1999 ford winstar since the day i bought from dealer (lew webb ford, garden grove). 1. currently my van has manifold leakage. this has occurred immediately after the ford dealer fixed my transmission leakage. the price quoted is $1200 out of which i have to pay $540. i have already spent lots of money in maint & repairs. before this i had to take my van to dealer for following problems: transmission leakage at 37000 miles. front & back brakes at 37000 miles. electrical system failure. couple of recalls. currently it has approximately 50600 miles on odometer and i have been communicating to & fro with dealer. for the current problem dealer has offered me 55% in assisstance. but my problem is i am wasting lots of time, money & energy to have all this problems fixed. i would prefer to hand this van back to dealer or atleast get more assisstance from dealer or ford company. please advise me of any furthur action i should take. my phone number is 714-832-2200 ext 34. thanks in advance for looking into this matter.
05/15/200018383
 The transmission went out again on 6-21-03 with just under 60000 miles on van. both transmission failures wre sudden without any warning slippage etc. both trans failures left the vehicle with no forward gears, but reverese worked each time. the fluid has been changed properly and the van is well maintained.
03/03/20048800010
 Engine check light stayed on. dealer stated that engine head gasket needed to be replaced. *ak
01/18/2003103/20/1999
 Check engine light came on. took van into shop to have checked. through diagnosis and contact with local ford dealer, determined that intake manifold gaskets were leaking, requiring a 700 plus dollar repair to correct the problem. have since found out that ford has been aware of this problem for quite some time, have issued numerous service bulletins related to this problem, and have a kit available to repair. believe that this is a manufacturing defect that ford has been fully aware of for a long time, and there should be a recall so the consumer is not burdened with repair costs for a problem that ford should have taken care of long ago. *cb
12/28/200360000302/11/1999
 Engine trouble light comes on with lean diagnostic codes. dealer has tried three fixes and trouble is still happening
04/06/200377000103/16/2001
 Coolant leaking from engine block. van never over heated. found out this happens often to the 3.8 l engine....there should be a recall on this..should change from aluminum to steel or another metal that wont crack or warp so easily. *jb
01/23/2003500002/05/1999
 Vehicle was experiencing a recurring check engine light condition. dealer replaced upper and lower intake manifold gaskets at our expense (at 48,000 miles). check engine light has come on several times since. vehicle is now stalling when stopped or at slow speeds, such as parking. engine has a knock/rattle at open throttle. at 53,000 miles i feel as though the enging is starting to come apart.
ENGINE AND ENGINE COOLING - COOLING SYSTEM
05/05/200901
 Connector coming from the bottom of the sensor on the brake reservoir on my 1999 windstar 3.8 liter is burned - melted. this caused the brake light to come on and the abs to shut down and the light to come on. also, the a/c doesn't work and the fans don't work. *tr
04/01/2003108/19/2000
 1999 ford windstar has problems with the ignition as well as the heater pipe and upper intake seals.*mr the consumer had to giggle the steering wheel and/or shift lever to get the key to turn in the ignition. *nm
01/01/19011
 The intake manifold gaskets and transmission have been replaced in the consumer's 1999 ford windstar. *bf *nm
ENGINE AND ENGINE COOLING - COOLING SYSTEM - FAN
08/03/20001
 Insured pulled off the road to stop at a stand and the vehicle caught on fire, fire was found to have resulted from faulty cooling fans/wires, claim 59-v539-348. *jg
ENGINE AND ENGINE COOLING - ENGINE
01/22/201197000
 Tl* the contact owns a 1999 ford windstar. the contact stated while driving 10 mph and attempting a right turn, the steering wheel would not turn because the cradle that held the motor was severely rusted and causing the motor to fall to the ground. the contact towed the vehicle to his residence where it was inspected by an independent mechanic. the mechanic concluded that the rusted cradle was causing the failure and would need replacing. the vehicle was not repaired. neither the dealer nor manufacturer was contacted to report the failure. the failure mileage was 97,000.
01/22/201197000
 Tl-the contact owns a 1999 ford windstar. the contact stated while driving 10 mph and making a right turn around the corner the steering wheel would not turn because the cradle that holds the motor rusted out causing the motor to fall to the ground. the contact towed the vehicle to his home and a mechanic came and inspected the failure. he concluded the cradle rusted causing the failure. the vehicle was not repaired. the dealer was not contacted. the manufacturer was not contacted. the failure mileage was 97,000...mw
07/23/20091290001
 I bought a ford windstar van from a used car dealer by the name of ray price in dec. of '07. we had been looking for a van for some time and i had looked for any recalls before we purchased. i found none listed. we paid off the car last month, and that's when the trouble started. i have taken it to the garage 3 times in the last month because it kept stalling when it would idle for longer periods of time. the mechanic fixed the intake manifold seals and the surrounding parts, replacing them as needed each time. i also had the spark plugs and plug wires replaced just in case. on thursday july 23rd, my husband replaced the brakes on the front. he drove the van all day with no problems other than the occasional stall. we stopped for milk at the grocery store on our way home from my work and had been inside for only 5-10 minutes when the manager called out that our car was on fire. we ran outside, and the firemen got it out, but the car is a total loss. i spoke to my mechanic and the fire investigator and both told me that they had come across a recall that had been out a few years ago about my van. it seems that ford recalled the cruise control mechanism in the engine because it caused electrical fires just like what happened to mine. the fire chief said it looked exactly like what he had seen before when it happened. since then, ford has denied that there was a recall and won't look into the matter. my car had been on this lot for at least a year before we bought it. if the recall went out, it was never fixed, and a lawyer has already said it is ford's responsibility to take care of the matter. can you check on this for me? *tr
08/05/20081250001
 Tl*the contact owns a 1999 ford windstar. while driving approximately 45 mph, the vehicle began pulling to the right. the contact heard a noise and the steering wheel was not centered. there were no warning indicators illuminated on the instrument panel. the vehicle was taken to an independent mechanic, who stated that the failure was related to the main engine cradle assembly. the vehicle was repaired. the contact was concerned of the safety risk involved. the failure mileage was 125,000 and current mileage was 129,000. updated 11/17/08 *cn updated 11/21/08. *jb
08/12/20081000001
 My 1999 ford windstar experienced a significant engine shift while driving. the garage indicated that my passenger side engine cradle had rusted through causing the engine to shift. *tr
08/05/2007120000112/21/2004
 We were involved in an accident yesterday due to our 1999 ford windstar not operating properly. we had 7 people in our van including small children. luckily, none of us were injured, but the potential for injury was definitely there. as we were approaching a stop light at about 35 mph the abs brake light and battery light came on and we lost all power. we had no brakes or power steering. it was evident we were not going to be able to stop so my husband opted for the ditch. steering was very difficult and we hit a stop light on the right hand side of the road with the left front end of the van and eventually came to a stop about 4 ft. from a utility pole. the van was driving fine with no indication of malfunction prior to losing all power suddenly. we have in the past experienced the battery light or the abs brake light coming on when it was raining or after driving through standing water but have not experienced losing all power until yesterday. we have also had problems with the engine cutting out after driving on the highway for awhile and then driving on city streets at lower speeds. it seems that when your driving on just city streets at lower speeds we don't experience this problem, and also not typically while we are on the highway driving at higher speeds (although we have had it cut out a couple times on the highway). it seems to usually occur after we have been on the highway driving at higher speeds for awhile and then exit on to lower speed roads. the engine just suddenly dies. we can typically start it right back up again, but it will continue to die and start back up several times. *jb
11/01/200680000107/01/2000
 3 deaths. bet i've got your attention now! i have been reading about the check engine light failures, and my van has the same persistent problem. i understand there is an engine design defect and that although gasket replacement is recommended by the technical service bulletin, it seems customers who have paid to get the tsb fix still have the same problem. i personally have spent over $5000 in the last two years trying to get the issue resolved. at 103k, my van's blue book value is much less. this is not even to mention what i've spent on extra gas at today's high prices due to inefficient engine operation resulting from this design defect. the stalling of the engine which is being reported by a lot of consumers is also due to the long term effects of running the van with this same design defect. it is just a matter of time until someone does die because of this defect, especially with the engines cutting off on the highway. ford should recall the vehicle for this problem and fix it at no cost to consumers. there are enough individuals on this website alone to organize into a class action lawsuit, and i am just the one to take the lead on it. of course, i do not plan to keep this vehicle. i have also had a persistent problem with the engine compartment getting too hot and burning up my alternator. i purchased this van in 2000 and have already replaced the alternator six times (averaging once per year). this is the first ford vehicle i have ever owned and i am less than impressed. i will not buy another ford product again. i have owned dodge caravans and chevrolet vehicles which were designed properly and gave me no where near this amount of problems. i am going to purchase a dodge caravan. *nm
01/01/19011
 1999 windstar stalled. seal in head gasket failed. *ts when the seal failed it allowed air to get sucked in at the holes for the bolts. this is what caused the vehicle to stall. *nm
12/27/200578568107/12/2003
 Engine seized at 78,568 miles; all preventive maintenance up to date; inspection of engine resulted in 3 fractured pistons, scored cylinder walls, bent rods and large chunks of metal debris secondary to the engine seizure. *jb
01/05/200598000109/11/2001
 The check engine light in my 1999 ford windstar came on. shortly after that, my coolant was disappearing, it was being sucked into my engine due to a blown head gasket. eventually the engine locked up due to insufficient lubrication (coolant mixing with oil). i replaced the engine. the van had a 3.8l 6 cylinder engine made in canada. *jb
03/03/20033
 Windshield wiper motor. mr the consumer received a recall letter in the mail regarding the windshield wipers. when the vehicle was returned to the consumer, the windshield wipers did not work on high speed or in cold weather. the consumer was told the replacement part was defective. the consumer stated the vehicle did not have any heat and the technician stated that was a new problem. the check engine light illuminated on the vehicle. *jb
11/27/2002205/24/2002
 1999 ford windstar. the dealer installed upper and lower intake gaskets and the valve cover gasket was replaced. the engine light illuminated. *jb
09/04/200488000109/05/2000
 1999 ford windstar suddenly spurts antifreeze from intake valve gasket. ford dealer notified and i was told that they knew it was a problem with the 3.8l v6 and they would not fix the problem because they could not guarantee the work since it was a design problem. also, told that extended warranty for the problem was expired. *ak
07/05/200386000107/04/2003
 I bought this car used and from the day i drove it off the lot i have put a few thousand dollars in it. the engine light keeps coming on with codes 171/174 lean on bank 1 and 2 i have replaced the o2, the egr, the differential, i have had the upper intake gasket replaced and the egr hoses cleaned. the light still burns. i have had nothing but trouble with this car since buying it and i will never buy another one.i also had to replace the brakes, the struts and the stablizer bar , as well as one of the tie rods. this van might look great but it runs like crap we have spent enough on this used van to have bought a new one. *la
01/30/20041
 Check engine light on 1999 ford windstar on come on 4 times in last two months. a lean condition was reported first 3 times from shop. replaced fuel/air filter, spark plugs/wires and some hoses. light came back on again same day it came back from shop. seems like many other consumers are having same problem (see website - http://www.cartrackers.com/forums/live/ford windstar/493.html). when will ford have to stand up and take responsibility for their defective design instead of the customer being nickel & dimed to death (some fixes aren't exactly nickels and dimes either). *jb
10/12/200376504109/13/2003
 The consumer complained about an alignment problem. the vehicle pulled to the left and made a ticking noise underneath the vehicle when the brakes were applied. the vehicle was constantly in the repair shop but the mechanic are was unable to solve the problem. *ak also the check engine light illuminated. *jb
11/01/200270000102/01/1999
 Check engine light stays on. now vehicle is running rough. ford states its a problem with the design of the valve cover and wants to replace it with a new and improved one. problem is they want me to pay to correct thier design problem. if they did not design the cover right they should pay to fix it. vehicle is an expensive paper wieght right now . *ak
05/14/20031
 The vehicle caught on fire. the cause of the fire has not yet been determined. *nlm...*ak
02/24/200362851110/23/2002
 1999 ford windstar sel 3.8l v6 - blown gaskets. *jb
03/21/20031
 The oil gasket shifted from its specified location which caused an extreme oil leak from the engine. *jb
03/02/200358472107/28/1999
 While driving a fire was observed by third party motorist. the fire emitted from under the vehicle. the vehicle was towed to world ford in pembroke pines, florida, for an initial assessment. according to world ford, the vehicle showed heavy transmission fluid leakage, but no obvious sign of fire or fire damage. the manufacturer declined to permit ford to work on the vehicle pending evaluation/inspection by nhtsa investigators to determine cause of fire, which may or may not be related to obvious transmission issues. *nlm *cb *jb
1
 The valve cover gasket needed to be replaced.*jb
04/15/20021
 Consumer stated while driving at any speed, the vehicle would stall with no warning.dealer notified.*jb
12/13/200253000108/17/1999
 While driving at 35/40 mph the brake warning light came on and the abs failed. the consumer applied the brakes and the abs engaged without cause. the parts replaced is unknown. the check engine light also appeared on dash. ts *jb
08/27/200211/01/2001
 I took my van to the dealer and the dealer told me the reason why my check engine light is on because a gasket is clogged and it needs to be unclogged. they wanted to charge me $625 but i complained. i feel that i should not be have any kind car problem because i only had the vehicle for 8 months. i gave them a trade in a 1995 buick skylark with 80000 miles that vehicle never gave me any trouble and i had that car for 18 months. i feel ripped off. i gave good brothers ford $500 dollars down and a good trade in vehicle that i didnt get the estimated blue book cost and a check for $15,000 which every totaled $16966.now eight months later i have to put more money into this vehicle. i am very unhappy with this situation
06/01/2002
 During routine service mechanic noticed headgasket had blown out. part was replaced. on 10 august 2002, engine check light came on. vehicle at dealership at this time.*ak
06/10/2002103/25/1999
 While driving at highway speeds, consumer took foot off accelerator, the vehicles dash lights illuminated and the engine died. took vehicle to dealer who replaced the valve throttle assembly. *ak consumer also states that the valve cover was replaced. *slc
01/11/2002
 Head gasket leaks, causing vehicle to cut off without any warning.*ak
05/15/2001
 Engine would make a pinging noise while vehicle is being driven at any speed. dealership examined vehicle and determined a valve cover in engine was corroded, and had to be replaced. please provide any additional information / documentation.*ak
01/15/200210/01/2001
 While driving at a speed of 40mph. the windstar began to unexpectedly shudder and make a loud rattling noise. engine check light flashed and the van violently bucked. we managed to get to our house. van would not start after turning off. dealer called and van towed.dealer checked problem and found the #5 piston had failed and had caused major engine damage and failure. est. replacement cost $4,000. dealer was not sure if this was related to the earlier model windstar 3.8l v-6 problems causing failure. i am the second owner and warranty is expired. we are waiting to hear from ford but the dealer said they may decline to assist in replacement cost. i now have a $16,000 blue paperweight. the sudden jerkiness of the engine failure almost caused my wife and two kids to run off the road . the piston in the motor dropped down into the oilpan area. engine now has to be replaced at 48,692.miles. doing research into your database, from owners of 1995 windstars and a few 1999 models, i noticed a similarity in detail descriptions of the head gasket failure and resulting engine failure. this vehicle was very well maintained, i am the second owner. it was purchased new as a leased vehicle. i bought it after the lease was over. i hope you can investigate this engine flaw/defect with ford and i can get satisfaction
11/01/2001
 Engine check light came on. dealer replaced left valve cover with a updated version of part and fuel regulator supply hose. *ak
 Whenever driving at a high rate of speed would experience a rattling noise near engine area. vehicle does not shake when this happens. taken to dealershp at least twice for problem, but mechanic could not locate cause of problem.*ak
308/01/1999
 The pulley and fan belt are making noise, the dealer claims nothing is wrong with the vehicle. nlm
04/22/2001704/01/1999
 Have had repeated service visits for light to extreme engine knocking. dealer told me to use premium gas to solve knocking. knocking went away with premium. dealer then tried computer adjustment and going back to regular gas. knocking solved for 2 weeks then returned. dealer said to go back to premium gas. no knocking for a year, then knocking came back. dealer replaced valve cover with new design. no knocking for 4-6 weeks. knocking started lightly, now back to severe knocking and lack of acceleration power. vehicle back at dealer for work. fed up with windstars. this is 2nd lemon windstar in a row! ford bought back '98 windstar from me!*ak
104/01/1999
 After gas cap was replaced the check engine light was still illuminated do to the sensitivity of the warning system. nlm
ENGINE AND ENGINE COOLING - ENGINE - GASOLINE
10/18/2002101/01/2099
 Plastic fuel intake was defective replaced with metal, should be made with metal. dt
10/22/2001303/10/2001
 Consumer stated the check engine light would illuminate, the engine would hesitate when accelerating, the dealer replaced the cam sensor, crankshaft sensor, replaced all the plugs with platinum, and replaced the upper and lower intake gaskets. *jb
11/08/1999
 While accelerating at speeds of 35 to 40 there is a knocking pinging noise, took to dealer and they replaced a vacuum hose. problem reoccured. consumer states there is oil being consumpt some where in vehicle. please provide any further information. ts
10/03/2002
 Consumer states that the vehicle with warning the idle gets disconnected and the vehicle loses power and becames inoperative. dealer was contacted. mr
06/01/200010005/01/2099
 There are several problems with out now three year old windstar that have either been corrected temporarily or not corrected at all. the most persistent issues are with the drivetrain in particular the transmission which shifts erratically when going around corner or climbing hills at low spead. the recall was performed at 25k but the transmission continues to operate poorly. ford has offered no solution or warranty extension for these problems. the engine problems to date revolve around the innability to use regular or mid grade fuels as advertised on the vehicles sticker, we have been offered a valve cover replacement for $500 but in speaking with other windstar owners this only fixes the problem temporarily. also it seems to me this is a defect that ford should fix not the owner. the other persistent problem is with the direver side power door, in hot temperatures the door does not close completely and pops open when driveing. the dealer has repaired this several times and while better that in was it continues to be an intermittent problem. we are frustrated with the probelms this vehicle has experienced including the replacement of the entire power steering system, rack, pump and hoses and more frustrating is fords unwillingness to stand behind the vehicle and its fault. our overwhelming concern is that the transmission and engine will both fail before we have received any usefull value for our money. ford needs to be held accountable for the products they develop, i hope you will be able to enforce some type of coverage or warrantee protection for the consumer.*ak
08/11/2002312/01/2098
 Most recent incident - engine stalled with complete loss of power when reducing from highway speed to ~25 mph due to traffic conjestion on north side of chicago after driving ~45 minutes in 95 degree weather with air conditioning operation. vehicle would not restart. illinois dot pushed vehicle to shoulder. after total wait ~20 minutes, engine restarted. drove with air conditioning off and heater on full through remaining congestion (~45 minutes). drove remaining trip (total of 3.5 hours) with no futher incident. prior occurrence on 07/29/02. similar weather/driving conditions. after 2.5 hours at highway speed, exited to side road. vehicle stalled shortly after exit. restarted after 15 minutes. no repeated incident in remaining 15 minutes of drive. return trip had no incident. prior incident in november, 2001. in cool weather, several short errant trips - vehicle stalled. restarted after several hour wait. vehicle towed to dealer. no failure codes determined, no diagnosis of reason for engine failure. dealer replaced alternator under warranty.*ak
06/27/2002
 Engine would stall while driving at multiple speed or when slowing down. vehicle been to a dealer once, and on three occasions at a repair shop, but problem stilloccurring. feel free to provide any further information.*ak
03/27/2002
 At 70mph engine blewout, and antifreeze started to leak from vehicle. cause unknown. dealer notified.*ak
03/05/19991
 The engine light came on after consumer took vehicle in for a recall in which he believes is causing the light to come on, consumer is requesting reimbursemnt that was incurred by the dealer to just examine it.*yh
09/26/2000107/01/2000
 While driving at highway speed and going uphill, engine started to knock. after numerous attempts to correct the problem, it still exists. mechanic stated to consumer, some engines just knock. *jg *ak
12/28/20011
 While driving engine ran hot. engine check sensors failed and this caused the engine to blow. had contacted dealership for another engine. *ak
12/01/2001
 Vehicle stalled out and died without warning. please provide additional information.*ak
03/05/19991
 The engine light came on after consumer took vehicle in for a recall in which he believes is causing the light to come on, consumer is requesting reimbursemnt that was incurred by the dealer to just examine it.*yh
10/30/2001505/01/1999
 This recurring problem continues to fail within one to two weeks after the dealership has replaced a needed part. each time i get my vehicle back it works for the aforementioned time and the problem comes up again. they replace parts one by one and each time another part on the system fails .another issue i believe to be associated with the series of this entire vaccum system is when i am driving at speeds of 30 -35 mph, there is considerable noise coming from the engine which sounds like lifter rattle . it happens when i need to acclerate to get onto the highway also. i notice when the vehicle has been serviced for the check engine light (which requires that a part or parts be replaced for the vaccum system), the noise will stop and won't be noticeable for several days and eventually the light will come on again.this issue of the lifter noise has never been addressed by the dealership i am told that they cannnot duplicate the problem, and they have no answer or solution. this problem also causes the comsumption of gas to increase dramatically. the van will use one eighth tank of gas on a normal day of driving when , if the light is on, the vehicle is not working properly i will use about one quarter tank of gas. the consumption is doubled.
06/01/1999
 I have been experiencing engine knock since i purchased the vehicle in june 1999. the first documented service at a ford dealer was in september 1999 at 5,000 miles. the engine knock was apparent at highway acceleration speeds and on slight hills. it became worse over time. after my continued persistence at the dealer over more than a year, a tsb was found and the valve cover was replaced in the july-august 2001 timeframe per a ford tsb (nhtsa number sb618552). this did not remedy the problem and the technician at the dealer told me in september 2001 that he still found an abnormal amount of oil in the engine. ford engineers have suggested replacing the pcv valve and tubing system among other minor adjustments, which the technician doubts will make any difference. at this point, it appears that the valve cover redesign in the tsb does not remedy the problem. this complaint is identical to odi ids: 744509 and 725795.*ak
11/01/2000
 While driving under wet conditions power assisted steering failed. dealer has examined vehicle and determined that cover under the vehicle which protects the engine needed to be replaced. please provide any additional information / attachments.*ak
08/01/2001107/30/2000
 Consumer states vehicle will stall at low idle, engine always revs very high at start up, then calms down, also engine stall if air condition is on while parked.*jb
08/04/2001107/31/1999
 While driving 60mp vehicle stalled out and died without warning ,resulting in loss of vehicle control. after vehicle had stalled out low oil pressure indicator light flashed. dealer inspected vehicle. *ak dealer could not figure why vehicle stalled, however stated that the pcm was canadian or europian made so it was replaced. *slc
07/05/20018
 Vehicle will stall at any speed/ any time. stalled 8 times in 20 minutes. vehicle at dealer at this time, still trying to find cause. *ak at times the vehicle can not be restarted, this occurs imediately prior to when it stalls, the rpm indicator drops down to zero then within the next 3-5 seconds the car completely dies. nlm
06/17/2001705/01/1999
 This is the 13 major repair on this minivan. i have had so many problems. no afety defect mentioned. *ak
06/29/2001606/01/1999
 This ford windstar lx has experienced the engine just suddenly quitting while driving on the roadways. the first incident happened the day i purchased the vehicle, whereby i drove it home and even test drove it without incident. however, when i got home my daughter wanted to take it for a spin and got approximately two houses down the street we live on and the engine suddently quit. i attempted to simply drive it around the block to get back home and it quit running two more times. i took it back to the dealer and he called ford and what was done i do not know but one day later i was told it was ready and picked it up. we drove it from the 26th of june until the 29th of june. on the 29th my wife was travelling 40mph down a busy street when the engine suddenly quit again. the dash lights always came on and this time the check engine light came on and stayed on. when the engine quits you steere without power sterrin nor power brakes. my wife is 5'1 and 120 lbs and this was very difficult and scarry. i fear if she had been on an interstate and had this occur! subsequently, i took it back to the dealer on the 2nd of july and todate they fixed the check engine light problem, but this was not the problem with the engine suddenly quitting. the mini-van has quit running twice more while at the ford dealer and they do not have a clue as to what the problem is. from the 2nd of july to today 7-13-01 i have no cause nor solution to this safety hazard. i would appreciate any information or if this has been previously reported with this particular mini-van, or if i indeed just have a lemon. i have researched the van and it comes out with a clean bill of health each time. i feel this needs to be reported for the possible accident potential and possible loss of life due to the engine just suddenly quitting to run. i will update your office as to any changes in status and/or resolution of this vehicle problem. thank you for time and energy in this matter.*ak
07/01/2001
 When reaching 20mph vehicle will start to shake soon after it will shut off. consumer has contacted dealer, and dealer was not willing to do anything.*ak
03/01/2000405/01/1999
 Engine knock when any type of load is applied to the engine. most prevalent at highway speeds and hills. *ak
1
 Vehicle buzzing and rattling during acceleration. nlm
01/21/200009/03/1999
 Steering wheel was making noise while turning. also, a clunking noise was coming from the engine. dealer repaired problem under warranty. *ml
03/01/1999
 Going from park to drive on an incline, transmission grates and difficult to put into gear, valves rattle when accelerating, van accelerates up to 20 mph without touching gas pedal, popping sound in steering when turning, makes grinding sound when accelerating, dealer has not been able to fix problems, also rear sliding door was in a completely different color from the rest of the interior, engine vibration.
08/21/1999
 Vehicle stalls without any warning. summer grade gas pressure bills up into the gas tank, causing the vehicle to stall. *ak
ENGINE AND ENGINE COOLING - ENGINE - GASOLINE - BELTS AND ASSOCIATED PULLEYS
308/01/1999
 The pulley and fan belt are making noise, the dealer claims nothing is wrong with the vehicle. nlm
ENGINE AND ENGINE COOLING - EXHAUST SYSTEM
01/16/20091400001
 Driving along the nj garden state parkway at 60mph, i experienced a loud popping sound. i had my vehicle towed to my local repairman only to find that the spark plug at the rear of the engine had blown out causing a misfire in the engine. *tr
08/15/200349600
 Mileage was 49600, total cost for the repair was $2600.00 but our cost was only $2072.00 because drew ford in san diego, ca helped us cover some of the cost. the itemized bill said the remanufactured transmission was $1702.28. the tranny went out with no warning lights and no sign of giving out. my wife usually drives it but i had just driven it the day before and i am in tune with odd noises and the van had none. 8/22/2003 in the evening when she pulled into our garage and was still moving forward, it stopped. it didn't move until the engine was rev'd pretty high then it would kick in violently. that lasted about 2 or 3 times while trying to finish moving it into the garage when a huge grinding sound took place and the van did not move again until the tow truck took it away! i am outraged that the van was so young when a major component went out like the transmission. and after combing the web for others who have experienced this, i found plenty of people. i think ford motor company should pay for this. i figure they won't, though.
02/15/200350600
 I am haveing lots of troubles with 1999 ford winstar since the day i bought from dealer (lew webb ford, garden grove). 1. currently my van has manifold leakage. this has occurred immediately after the ford dealer fixed my transmission leakage. the price quoted is $1200 out of which i have to pay $540. i have already spent lots of money in maint & repairs. before this i had to take my van to dealer for following problems: transmission leakage at 37000 miles. front & back brakes at 37000 miles. electrical system failure. couple of recalls. currently it has approximately 50600 miles on odometer and i have been communicating to & fro with dealer. for the current problem dealer has offered me 55% in assisstance. but my problem is i am wasting lots of time, money & energy to have all this problems fixed. i would prefer to hand this van back to dealer or atleast get more assisstance from dealer or ford company. please advise me of any furthur action i should take. my phone number is 714-832-2200 ext 34. thanks in advance for looking into this matter.
04/15/200374500
 Transmission is primary issue has shifting problem at low speed, has over 8 tsb on the issue and has new transmission installed but still have problem the other issues are clearly common for this model as well, but this transmissionand fords lack of support from their service and dealers is unacceptable.
12/09/1999105/01/1999
 I have had more than 4 problems with this car in past two years that have been major problems. i would just like to see if other people have had as much problems with the steering and the van it's self. *ak
12/06/199912006/01/1999
 Re: sliding doors- will not open reliably since new- trouble intermittent-dealer lakeland ford replaced door switches when i was finally able to demonstrate intermittent condition(not easy)dealer contacted ford who told them that the doors were designed to operate that way to conserve battery!(believe it) ford design engineer said the power to the outside door handles was cut off after 30 minutes of no use to conserve the battery, further, that they had received no other complaints.. this is simply not so. the van can sit for 24 hours and the doors will open , most of the time. re horn button: most people use the palm or heel of the hand to operate the horn. i have had three close calls because i have been unable to sound the horn to alert other drivers. it can only be operated by using the thumb or index finger directly over the horn symbol. this constitutes an area of slightly more than one square inch. re emission control:according to the service manager this noise is caused by one of the emission controls under the hood. it causes a whirring sound when the vehicle is in gear and makes a squack like a duck when the engine is turned off. service manager said they couldn't do anything about it. had identical trouble in '96 windstar, turned out to be computer and transmission related.*ak
ENGINE AND ENGINE COOLING - EXHAUST SYSTEM - EMISSION CONTROL
02/20/20061153341
 There seems to be a lot of 99 ford windstar user with this problem. code p0171 & p0174 http://www.cartrackers.com/forums/live/fordwindstar/493.html ford needs to take responsibility for this design defect! a law suit needs to be made against them and all the people that paid up to $731, not to mention the time involved need to be reimbursed. oxnard ford did not care to listen!. someone needs to be held responsible, ford!!!!*jb
03/11/20051300001
 Vehicle failed emissions during a routine safety inspection. consumer stated he did not smell any fumes inside the vehicle, however, the exhaust system was defective.*ak
03/12/2004101/28/1999
 Vehicle was taken for the emission test inspection, and did not pass the inspection's test. the dealer was notified. *ak the failure was due to a faulty design of the valve cover which was sending oil to the pcv system. intake gaskets were also replaced. *la
08/04/2003203/08/1999
 The check engine light has been on for over a year, very shortly after my last fuel emissions test in 2002. despite numerous checks by my mechanic, which detects no fuel emissions problems, the indicator light stays on. after each inspection by my mechanic, the light turns off temporarily, (1 or so weeks), and then relights. we have thus failed the md state emissions test (without being tested by them) due to this chronic light problem. my brother-in-law has the same exact problem with his ford windstar minivan, and so does another person (not verified myself). the read windshield wiper motor has been recalled. we had it repaired by a ford repair shop, and it has broken again.*ak
12/17/200252000012/08/1999
 Ford windstar 1999. check engine indicator lit. manual states that this indicates a problem with the emission control system. drop car to dealership for diagnostics and repair. parts on order. checked feb. 5, 2003. parts still on order. am told that 8 or so vehicle owners are waiting for same parts.
02/04/2003207/14/2000
 Steering rack replacement (covered under warranty). repair of leak in intake manifold (not covered under warranty).
02/01/2002307/01/2001
 Consumer noticed condensation in headlights. dealer has been contacted. technician stated that the headlights needed to be replaced. *ak the consumer stated that the entire headlight unit had to be replaced. after the three year warranty expired, the transmisson had to be replaced. the engine light had come on, and was told that it was the sensor. *scc
ENGINE AND ENGINE COOLING - EXHAUST SYSTEM - EMISSION CONTROL - CATALYTIC CONVERTOR
12/10/20025700003/09/2001
 Check engine light came on. took vehicle in for diagnostic. was told that the o2(oxygen)sensors needed to be replaced. two upstream and one downstream. second opinion/source said that those particular parts rarely malfunction. was told that problem could severely damage catalytic converter.approx. 57k on date of occurance. seems too soon for this type of problem.
 The design of the catalytic converter/heat shield is such that it vibrates at highway speeds. this vibration permeates through the floor as a nuisance noise while driving at highway speeds. *ak
ENGINE AND ENGINE COOLING - EXHAUST SYSTEM - EMISSION CONTROL - GAS RECIRCULATION VALVE (EGR VALVE)
07/05/200386000107/04/2003
 I bought this car used and from the day i drove it off the lot i have put a few thousand dollars in it. the engine light keeps coming on with codes 171/174 lean on bank 1 and 2 i have replaced the o2, the egr, the differential, i have had the upper intake gasket replaced and the egr hoses cleaned. the light still burns. i have had nothing but trouble with this car since buying it and i will never buy another one.i also had to replace the brakes, the struts and the stablizer bar , as well as one of the tie rods. this van might look great but it runs like crap we have spent enough on this used van to have bought a new one. *la
ENGINE AND ENGINE COOLING - EXHAUST SYSTEM - MANIFOLD/HEADER/MUFFLER/TAIL PIPE
08/18/200730000500
 Tl*the contact owns a 1999 ford windstar. the contact took her vehicle to the dealer because it would start, but then idle, stutter, and stall. the failure also occurred while the vehicle was at a stop sign or traffic light. the vehicle would restart immediately after the failure. the oxygen sensors and all the hoses were replaced, including other repairs. the total repair cost was approximately $1,700. the engine light would also illuminate, but no error code displayed when a diagnostic was performed. the contact then took the vehicle to a family mechanic and was informed of a failure with the valves and intake manifold, of which ford was aware. the failure would deter oil from flowing through the valves. the purchase date was unknown. the current mileage was 61,000 and failure mileage was approximately 30,000.
03/28/200697000103/01/2004
 Dt*: the contact stated the check engine light has been illuminated since purchase. the vehicle has been to an independent repair shop that was able to turn the light off for a few days, two separate times. the repair shop determined the intake manifold needs to be replaced.
03/21/200670000105/09/2001
 Cel (check engine light) came on. ford dealer said that the ford company has a bulletin out to dealers recommending the replacement of gaskets and valve cover for the vacuum leaks. which run upward of 600.00 if they are acknowledging this problem, why are they not recalling it? *jb
03/01/200640000102/08/1999
 1999 ford windstar se check engine issue. to make it easier i would like to refer you to the following web site where it explains my same problem from several other individuals. http://www.cartrackers.com/forums/live/fordwindstar/493.html i thank you for your attention to this matter. have a god blessed day. *nm
01/26/20065
 1999 windstar,. paint peeling on front hood, replaced the following: transmission (4 times), inner and outer tie rods (2 times) power steering system, intake manifold gaskets and system(twice), interior lights that flicker intermittently and stay on for periods of time for no reason.*ak
12/27/200545000309/30/1999
 Ford windstar 1999- transmission, rack and pinion and manifold ford would not help so i took them to small claims court in ontario and won full cost to all three matters. *jb
02/03/20023200002/25/1999
 Consistently complained about the engine light on since i bought the car. at 32,000 miles, they replaced the intake gaskets. engine light still came on, was told it was something minor. i complained numerous times about the engine light. they would reprogram the warning and within one day, it would come back on. now, with the new emissions standards, my car will not pass inspection. i was told the intake gasket has to be replaced. when i spoke to ford, they just say we are sorry it is not under warranty. well, they should have fixed it properly from the beginning. *jb
09/14/20041
 While driving the check engine light appeared on the dashboard and remained on. the driver was able to drive it to the dealer for inspection. the mechanic informed the driver that the vehicle was placed on a diagnostic machine. the mechanic informed the driver that the gasket intake seal and manifold valve cover needed replacement. please fill in additional information.
03/03/2004600001
 While driving vehicle reached high temperatures. independent repair shop determined that high temperature was due to intake manifold failure. *ak
01/13/200451500105/07/1999
 While driving at 45 mph consumer noticed that the vehicle was running roughly. several seconds later, engine check light came on. vehicle was taken to the dealer, who informed consumer that the intake manifold gasket needed to be replaced. the intake manifold gasket was sucked into the engine, causing the engine to bind. *ak dealer also made repairs on front end, power steering, electrical system, and tie rod ends. a 4-wheel alignment was also performed by the dealer. *la
07/20/200375000305/20/2000
 1999 fordwindstar steering rack replaced at 62000 miles, transmission replaced at 75000 miles and intake gasket rplaced at 75000 miles. *ak
07/01/20031
 While traveling on the highway carbon fuel intake manifold clogged up, causing the fuel not to burn properly. *ak
10/22/2002
 Consumer stated that the engine light keeps coming on. dealer told consumer that the intake manifold must be replaced. ph

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