Recalls

CampaignManufacturerManufacturing dateType# of units affectedDate Owner notified MfgRecall Initiated byManufacturers of recalled vehicles/productsReport Recieved DateRecord Creation DateRegulation Part NumberFMVSS Number
POWER TRAIN - AXLE ASSEMBLY
12V193000FORD MOTOR COMPANYfrom 09/01/1997 to 07/03/2003V (Vehicle)27000MFRFORD MOTOR COMPANY05/03/201205/03/2012
Defect SummaryFord is recalling certain model year 1998-2003 windstar vehicles manufactured from september 1, 1997, through july 3, 2003, and currently registered or originally sold in virginia. over time, corrosion can weaken the rear axle making it susceptible to torsional stress. corrosion and stress can lead to cracks which, if undetected, can increase and result in a complete fracture of the axle.
Consequence SummaryA fractured axle can affect vehicle handling and increase the risk of a crash.
Corrective SummaryFord will notify owners, and dealers will inspect and install rear axle reinforcement brackets, or replace the axles, as necessary. this service will be performed free of charge. the recall is expected to begin on or about june 18, 2012. owners may contact ford at 1-866-436-7332.
NotesFord's recall campaign number is 10s13.customers may contact the national highway traffic safety administration's vehicle safety hotline at 1-888-327-4236 (tty: 1-800-424-9153); or go to http://www.safercar.gov.
10V385000FORD MOTOR COMPANY V (Vehicle)462750ODIFORD MOTOR COMPANY08/26/201008/26/2010
Defect SummaryFord is recalling certain model year 1998-2003 windstar vehicles manufactured from september 1, 1997 through february 28, 2003 and currently registered or originally sold in connecticut, delaware, district of columbia, illinois, indiana, iowa, kentucky, maine, maryland, massachusetts, michigan, minnesota, missouri, new hampshire, new jersey, new york, ohio, pennsylvania, rhode island, vermont, west virginia, and wisconsin. after many years of vehicle service in these areas, corrosion can weaken the rear axle, making it susceptible to torsional stress. corrosion and stress can lead to cracks which if undetected can propagate and result in a complete fracture of the axle.
Consequence SummaryA fractured axle can affect vehicle handling and increase the risk of a crash.
Corrective SummaryAs parts become available, dealers will inspect and if necessary install the rear axle reinforcement brackets free of charge. this service will be performed free of charge. the safety recall is expected to begin on or before september 27, 2010. owners may contact ford at 1-866-436-7332.
NotesFord's recall no. is 10s13.owners may also contact the national highway traffic safety administration's vehicle safety hotline at 1-888-327-4236 (tty 1-800-424-9153), or go to http://www.safercar.gov .

Bulletins

BulletinBulletin dateReplacement BulletinItem no.SummaryAdded
POWER TRAIN
1735808/01/20041796310008183Groan/buzz/vibration when the gear selector is in park with the vehicle parked on an incline. *tt this bulletin updates previous bulletin 17358, dated 11/01/2003 to include 2005 models. *tt07/22/2004
1667803/01/200310001934Ax4s transaxle may exhibit no reverse engagement condition. *tt *jb07/28/2003
1546012/01/2001630567Concerns with inaccurate speedometer reading. *tt04/18/2002
1539211/01/2001630356Some vehicles may exhibit a park pullout clunk noise when shifting from park to another gear position. *tt04/16/2002
1537011/01/2001630351Some vehicles may exhibit a groan/buzz/vibration when the gear selector is in park. *tt04/16/2002
1486704/01/2001619303Subject regarding speedometer calibration tolerance specifications. *tt05/23/2001
786601/01/20007866612258The vehicle may exhibit a dtc p0720 and p0722; output shaft speed (oss) sensor concerns.06/07/2000
POWER TRAIN - AUTOMATIC TRANSMISSION
9915207/26/1999608431Information on the new flush and fill tool available through rotunda. *tt01/05/2001
98510911/01/1998613259Some vehicles may exhibit a harsh 3-2 transmission downshift immediately after cold engine durive away and before the engine has fully warmed up. *tt06/20/2000
1209611/01/1998613081Sine vehicles may exhibit a harsh 3-2 transmission downshift immediately after cold engine drive away and before the engine has fully warmed up. *mjs06/16/2000
001501/10/2000612203Information regarding the new transmission cooler flusher- service tip. *mjs06/06/2000
1302407/01/1999610767Some vehicles equipped with the ax4s transaxle may exhibit a harsh 3-2 downshift when coasting around a corner and then stepping into the throttle to accelerate away from the corner. *tt05/12/2000
POWER TRAIN - AUTOMATIC TRANSMISSION - CONTROL MODULE (TCM, PCM)
04210712/13/200404241410014086General (pcm) power train control module programming procedures. *tt04/28/2005
00T0709/01/2000625871Information regarding powertrain control module reprograming. *yh12/10/2001
1491805/01/2001620183This bulletin states that on some vehicles (including 2002 blackwood) a battery disconnect or parameter reset is required during powertrain control module (pcm) or instrument cluster (vic / hec / icm) replacement. *tt07/19/2001
1270405/01/19996091676Subject regarding all vehicles requires a parameter reset to be performed on the passive anti-theft system module (pats / vic / hec) when the powertrain control module (pcm) is replaced. *tt11/09/2000
1396903/01/2000612942Vehicles built from 01/31/00 may exhibit an unable to reprogram the pcm or unable to clear the pcm vid (vehicle identification) block conition, or unable to reprogram the pcm or unable to clear pcm vid block on vehicles where the icm (instr06/14/2000
832503/01/2000612746Some vehicles built from 1/31/00 may exhibit an unable to reprogram the pcm or unable to clear the pcm vid (vehicle identification) block condition, or unable to reprogram the pcm or unable to clear pcm vid block on vehicles where the icm (06/12/2000
9914707/12/1999608423Information on using the service bay technical system (sbts) and new generation star (ngs) tester, and to update the powertrain control module (pcm) information charts. *tt11/24/1999
1283206/01/1999606902Exhibiting a traction control warning lamp being illuminated. *tt09/07/1999
637506/01/1999606809Some vehicles may exhibit a traction control warning lamp being illuminated. *tt09/02/1999
POWER TRAIN - AUTOMATIC TRANSMISSION - COOLING UNIT AND LINES
0314807/21/200310003748New transmission cooler flusher - service tips. 2003 escort and super duty f series included. *tt10/29/2003
1528810/01/2001630186Some vehicles may exhibit transmission fluid leaking at the quick connect for the transmission cooler lines. *tt04/15/2002
POWER TRAIN - AUTOMATIC TRANSMISSION - PARK/NEUTRAL START SWITCH
0118109/17/2001625715Brake shift interlock.*jb11/30/2001
POWER TRAIN - AUTOMATIC TRANSMISSION - TORQUE CONVERTER
0312306/23/200310002684Torque converter clutch not engaging when commanded and/or diagnostic trouble codes p0741 or p1744 stored in memory. models from 1996 to 2003. *tt09/10/2003
1477303/01/2001619462Information on indexing orange dot on torque converter to flexplate. *tt05/31/2001
1395703/01/2000612939Some vehicles may exhibit a drone (audible noise) and a tactile vibration in the steering wheel (higher frequency buzz) at 1350 - 1400 rpm (40-45 mph) under a light load with the torque converter locked in 3rd or o/d. *tt06/14/2000
832103/01/2000612744Some vehicles, 3.8l engine, may exhibit a drone (audible noise) and a tactile vibration in the steering wheel (higher frequency buzz) at 1350-1400 rpm (40-45 mph) under a light load with the torque converter locked in 3rd or o/d. *tt06/12/2000
POWER TRAIN - AXLE ASSEMBLY
0117109/03/2001625687Transaxle - ax4s - replacement application chart - windstar vehicles only. *nlm11/30/2001
00B5109/01/2000618604Subject pertaining to rear lube tube and bracket replacement. *jb04/17/2001
00B5111/01/2000616503Owner notification program regarding all vehicles built with ax4s transmission - rear lube tube and bracket replacement. *tt03/01/2001
1315108/01/19996091962Subject regarding a redesigned park system in ax4s and ax4n transaxle. *tt11/17/2000
831004/01/2000613637Rear lube and differential tube insulator kit. **mr07/26/2000
1396103/01/2000612876Information regarding the ax4s transaxle - rear lube and differential lube tube insulator kit. *tt06/13/2000
831003/01/2000612730Ax4s transaxle - rear lube and differential lube insulator kit. *tt06/12/2000
805302/01/2000612264Some vehicles may exhibit a diagnostic trouble code of p0720, p0722; output shaft speed sensor (oss). *tt06/07/2000
1302407/01/1999610767Some vehicles equipped with the ax4s transaxle may exhibit a harsh 3-2 downshift when coasting around a corner and then stepping into the throttle to accelerate away from the corner. *tt05/12/2000
691809/01/19996090260Information on the redesigned park system in vehicles with ax4s transaxles. *tt03/13/2000
690809/01/19996090222Some vehicles with ax4s transaxle may exhibit a diagnostic trouble code p0734, flashing tcil, no3-4 shift or an overdrive band wear concern. *tt03/10/2000
9918409/06/19996090053Some vehicles equipped with ax4s transaxle, may exhibit a harsh 2-3 downshift may occur when coasting around a corner and then accelerating. *tt03/06/2000
9920210/04/19996089641This bulletin mentions that some vehicles with an ax4s or ax4n transaxles have a new redesigned park system in the transaxle. *tt02/10/2000
991314008/01/1999609053Some vehicles equipped with ax4s transaxle may exhibit any or all of the following symptoms: dtc p0734, flashing tcil, no 3-4 shift or an overdrive band wear concern. *tt12/07/1999
99673508/01/1999608455Some vehicles equipped with the ax4s transaxle may exhibit a harsh 3-2 downshift when coasting around a corner and then stepping into the throttle to accelerate away from the corner. *tt12/01/1999
580603/01/1999605216Some vehicles may exhibit concerns of no reverse or intermittent reverse engagement. *tt06/04/1999
POWER TRAIN - CLUTCH ASSEMBLY
1253303/01/19996091781Concerns with the reverse clutch lip seals becoming ripped / torn during reverse engagement resulting in no reverse or intermittent no reverse engagement during extreme cold temperatures. *tt11/14/2000
POWER TRAIN - CLUTCH ASSEMBLY - BELL HOUSING
824204/01/2000613625Some vehicles may exhibit transmission fluid at the bell housing area. **mr07/26/2000
1392403/01/2000612914Some vehicles built before november 1999 may exhibit transmission fluid at the bell housing area. *tt06/13/2000
824203/01/2000612678Some vehicles built before november, 1999 may exhibit transmission fluid at the bell housing area. *tt06/12/2000
POWER TRAIN - DRIVELINE - DRIVESHAFT
1382601/01/2000612883Some vehicles may exhibit a dtc of po720,po722, output shaft speed sensor (oss). *mjs06/13/2000
POWER TRAIN - MANUAL TRANSMISSION
719610/01/19996092090Effective october 15, 1999, the ax4s and ax4n transmission assembly for the certain vehicles are available as a ford quality renewal (fqr) assembly. *tt11/24/2000
1250403/01/1999605271Vehicles built before march 1999 may exhibit concern of no reverse or intermittent reverse engagement. *tt06/07/1999

Consumer Complaints

Fail datemilesoccurencesPurchase date
POWER TRAIN
11/12/2012134000
 Tl- the contact owns a 1999 ford windstar. while driving approximately 70 mph, the over drive off warning light illuminated on the instrument panel and began flashing. the contact stopped the vehicle on the shoulder and noticed smoke emitting from the front end of the vehicle. the contact inspected the vehicle and noticed oil leaking from under the vehicle. the vehicle was towed to an independent mechanic for diagnostic testing. the mechanic stated that the transmission would have to be replaced. the vehicle was not repaired. the approximate failure mileage was 134,000. kmj
11/12/2012134000
 Tl- the contact owns a 1999 ford windstar. while driving approximately 70 mph the od off warning light illuminated on the instrument panel and began flashing. the contact stopped the vehicle on the shoulder of the road and noticed smoke emitting from the front end of the vehicle. the contact inspected the vehicle and noticed oil leaking from underneath the vehicle. the vehicle was towed to an independent mechanic for diagnostic testing. the mechanic stated the transmission would have to be replaced. the vehicle was not repaired. the approximate failure mileage was 134,000. da
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
09/04/20121150001
 Accelerating from a stoplight transmission lets go. reverse was the only gear the vehicle would move in. i had to backup off the freeway to the nearest parking lot. my wife just bought this vehicle last month for work because it had low miles. now it will cost us more to fix it ($2500) than the vehicle is worth. and we just spent a small fortune replacing everything in the brake system besides the master cylinder and lines. after research, apparently ford was aware this transmission had issues but continued to install them. thank you ford, i enjoy taking it up the kazoo every time i have bought one of your vehicles. *tr
09/04/2012115000
 Accelerating from a stoplight transmission lets go. reverse was the only gear the vehicle would move in. i had to backup off the freeway to the nearest parking lot. my wife just bought this vehicle last month for work because it had low miles. now it will cost us more to fix it ($2500) than the vehicle is worth. and we just spent a small fortune replacing everything in the brake system besides the master cylinder and lines. after research, apparently ford was aware this transmission had issues but continued to install them. thank you ford, i enjoy taking it up the kazoo every time i have bought one of your vehicles.
03/14/20071066532
 In march, 2007, the transmission in my 1999 ford windstar died at 106,653 miles. i paid $2,985.91 to have the transmission replaced at the local ford dealership in lebanon, oregon. in may of 2012, at 174,000 miles, i started having problems with the transmission again. the first repair shop i took it to told me the transmission was dead and that i needed to replace it. the second repair shop i took it to told me that the computer chip was bad and that it had probably damaged the transmission. i was told that i could replace the computer chip and see how long the transmission would last before it totally died. *tr
03/14/2007106653
 In march, 2007, the transmission in my 1999 ford windstar died at 106,653 miles. i paid $2,985.91 to have the transmission replaced at the local ford dealership in lebanon, oregon. in may of 2012, at 174,000 miles, i started having problems with the transmission again. the first repair shop i took it to told me the transmission was dead and that i needed to replace it. the second repair shop i took it to told me that the computer chip was bad and that it had probably damaged the transmission. i was told that i could replace the computer chip and see how long the transmission would last before it totally died.
04/25/2012119000
 My windstar sits in my driveway with a bad transmission. the van only has 119000 and has been acting up for the last year
08/07/2011134000
 Took van in for latest recall, picked up with check transmission light on - was not on when we dropped van off for repair. transmission failed shortly afterward.
10/02/2006130000
 With this windstar we now have 170,000 miles on it and have replaced the transmission 4 times, something is not right here. have also had on going problems with abs light on and sensors going out for abs breaks. have replaced them several times, would like to have a van that is drivable with not warning lights one.
08/07/2011134000
 Took van in for latest recall, picked up with check transmission light on - was not on when we dropped van off for repair. transmission failed shortly afterward.
10/02/2006130000
 With this windstar we now have 170,000 miles on it and have replaced the transmission 4 times, something is not right here. have also had on going problems with abs light on and sensors going out for abs breaks. have replaced them several times, would like to have a van that is drivable with not warning lights one.
08/07/2011134000
 Took van in for latest recall, picked up with check transmission light on - was not on when we dropped van off for repair. transmission failed shortly afterward.
10/02/2006130000
 With this windstar we now have 170,000 miles on it and have replaced the transmission 4 times, something is not right here. have also had on going problems with abs light on and sensors going out for abs breaks. have replaced them several times, would like to have a van that is drivable with not warning lights one.
11/01/2011164000
 In nhtsa campaign id number 10v385000, ford motor company recalled 1998-2003 winstars which are currently registered or originally sold in 20 states. my vehicle is not part of this recall because it is not registered or was originally sold in one of those states. the reason the recall specified these 20 states is because these 20 states frequently use high amounts of salt to melt snow and the salt can/has resulted in corrosion to the power train rear axle assembly. as my vehicle is not currently registered and was not originally sold in one of these states, ford motor company has not and will not include my vehicle in the recall. over the 10 years i've owned the vehicle, i have frequently traveled to and through 6 of these states, including during winter months when there has been snow on the ground and salt has been used to melt the snow. as a result, my vehicle has corrosion on the power train rear axle assembly and cracks very similar to the ones shown on pictures of affected vehicles. i feel that under these circumstances, my vehicle should be added to the recall. i have contacted ford motor company, and they have refused to add my vehicle. any assistance you can provide would be appreciated as i fear that a complete fracture of the axle is probable.
06/01/2009140000
 Tl- the contact owns a 1999 ford windstar. the contact stated the vehicle's check engine light illuminated on the instrument panel. the dealer diagnosed that the contact would have to change the gasket and the transmission. the manufacturer was notified of the failure; but the failure was not repaired. the failure mileage was 140,000 and the current mileage was 163,000. the vin was unavailable. nw
05/20/2011
 3 transmissions...multiple repairs all of which ford is aware and caused by faulty design. recalled for axle and frame rotting. ford used epoxy and a brace to repair. unsafe repair! warranty offered is only 12 months, so ford also agrees it wont last. frame and axle should last the life of vehicle. this is a dangerous vehicle and ford isnt willing to take any resposibility. they have kown about these problems for years, and are now saying they arent responsible.
05/15/20101242101
 Information redacted pursuant to the freedom of information act (foia), 5 u.s.c. 552(b)(6) on saturday may 15th, around noontime, i was traveling on i-91 northbound in hartford. the van started pulling and swerving like i had flat tires. the van has 124,210 miles, and has been diagnosed with a broken rear axle. estimated repair cost for a
08/10/2004600001
 Ford windstar xl 1999- front end clunking noises serviced 3-4 times before it was fixed. repeated repairs to various front end components replaced at my expense including power steering pump, rack & pinion, tie rods, u-joints costing $2000 or more. continue to suffer from groaning, noisy, & stiff steering. also ongoing engine pinging upon acceleration after numerous repairs. random power sliding door function. metallic rattling, jingling noises from under car both when idling & driving. *tr
10/15/200382000
 I just purchased this vehicle may 2003. i was having transmission problems wouldn't accelerate past 40 km's then would rev really high then kick into gear. i found out from another dealership that the vehicle has had a transmission put in dec'02 at 68,000kms then another went in jan'03 with 974 km's on that one & found out today i need a new one. i am fighting with the dealership that sold me this vehicle that i am not responsible for it. that they obviously knew there was a problem with it when they sold it to me. still waiting to see who's going to pay for it. been waiting for tuesday will be a week. dealer i bought it from was totem ford mercury.
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.
07/15/200365000
 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.
04/15/200333331
 Purchased used 11/15/02. upon 2nd routine oil change was advised that i had a trans. leak pan gasket. took the van to dealership (nemer ford) where purchased, advised them that the van was not shifting properly in addition to the gasket needing replacement.they advised me that the gasket did need to be replaced and that i should have the transmission flushed and serviced, i agreed to this service. there was still slight shuddering when shifting, but not like it was. upon taking it in for the 3rd routine oil change, i advised them that not only was the shuddering getting worse, but now the o/d light is flashing and the rpm's are jumping around. also told them that when you initially start the vehicle there is a momentary grinding noise. picked up the van and returned it for the exact same issues 19 days later. i have yet to take it back to the dealership as we are still experiencing all of the exact same issues, with the added twists of interior lights coming on when we hit bumps and turning off when we hit the next bump, when using the right hand turn signal, upon straightening out from the turn the left turn signal comes on all by itself, and last but not least there is an odor that can only be compared to raw sewer coming from under my hood, not sulfer, but sewer. to date the solenoid has been replaced, as has the torque converter, (with much resistance from the warranty company) i have a hard time believing that the ford corporation is unaware of these problems, as i am clearly not the only consumer dealing with these issues. thank you for your time, tiffany m. sanchez
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.
04/15/200375000
 We purchased the 1999 windstar in dec 1998. from the first weeks of ownership, we have complained about the transmission. dealer changed transmission fluid and said nothing was wrong. problems were as follows: loud clunks when shifting from park to reverse, while foot pressing firmly on brake pedal; transmission hesitates when down shifting going around corners; as a passenger i felt as if the whole car was lunging causing dizziness to motion sickness (did not occur while i was driving); hard shifts between first & second; rear window wiper failed; power steering pump replaced which caused the rack & pinion seals to fail, which resulted in a new rack installed; egr valve rubber boot kept popping off until i placed a small hose clamp to hold it in place; check engine light stays on every since 15,000 miles; o/d button never worked; o/d light flashed repeatedly minutes prior to the transmission going out. now the ford dealer said i needed a new upper plenum, egr valve, pfe, valve cover gasket, battery cable and this was found while checking the transmission problem. i told them to forget it! $3k is enough to spend on a five year old car! this is all i can think of at this point.
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.
07/15/200231000
 I was just over my warranty in july/2002 on a 1999 ford windstar with 31,000 miles. my wife was driving with my three kids the van stalled. the transmissions failed?
10/15/200352000
 Transmission went out with no warning. internal failure of components.
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.
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.
04/15/200363000
 The vehicle will not engage into gear, can move lever but vehicle will not move.
02/29/2000101/01/1999
 Abs module wire burned out; odometer and speedometer did not work. *ak
POWER TRAIN - AUTOMATIC TRANSMISSION
06/15/201145000
 Tl- the contact owns a 1999 ford windstar. while driving approximately 60 mph the vehicle began decelerate and lose power. the vehicle was towed to the dealer. the technicians stated the transmission seal had failed and caused transmission fluid to leak when the vehicles temperature had warmed up. the technicians stated the transmission needed to be replaced. the vehicle was towed to an independent mechanic where the transmission was replaced. the vehicle was repaired. the approximate failure mileage was 45,000. ds
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.
01/13/20111
 1999 ford windstar. consumer states while stopped at a traffic light there was a sudden loud noise like an explosion and then vehicle lost power and she barely got through the traffic light *tgw the consumer had the vehicle to towed to the dealer where they informed her the transmission needed to be replaced. *jb
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
10/02/2010125000
 Tl- the contact owns a 1999 ford windstar. the contact stated the transmission is slipping and the engine light is on. the transmission has been slipping for a month and the engine light came on 2 weeks after. this has caused the vehicle to lose power. the vehicle was inspected by a mechanic and the contact was told the transmission would need to be replaced. the vehicle is currently unable to be driven the vehicle. the failure mileage was 125000 and the current mileage was 126000.rl
09/29/2010129000
 I have a ford windstar year 1999. aabout two weeks ago the two break lights went on, i had a fuse # 10 blown and a non working speedometer dial.( the cruise control has three months that is not working) i did take a look at the owners's manual. in the manual i read that reason for the break light to come on was the lower level of brake fluid in the reservuar and so it was. i added some brake fluid and the light was off. in the mean time i did checked the fuse panel and i found this fuse #10 was blown and i replaced it, but half an hour later i got a blown fuse again. also the abs light was on and so i decided to see a mechanic. i did go to a repair shop and i was told that my van has a serious problem. scds under the master cylinder has developed a bad leak. the scds switch is leaking and that may cause a fire sooner or later. this leak has caused a short and a fuse trip #10 this break fluid leak has wicked down the wires to the abs module. i was told that this leaky switch has caused all the problemd in my van. speedometer, cruise control and abs brake system are not working. i was told that there may be a recall on this problems. i do not knowany thing about it. i know that it was a recall issued on august 27,2010 in regard with rear axel. i never got any notice from ford co. i had a broken rear axel on march 2010 and i was saved by good luck. i paid a lot of money to fix it. ford did not pay a dime for this problem. ford never sends me any recall notices. i'm never going to buy ford cars again.
01/01/19011
 1999 ford windstar van. consumer states problem with front end shudders on acceleration, sometimes doesn't move at all when gas is pressed *tgw the consumer stated she took the vehicle to the dealer for a recall and shortly thereafter, problems developed. four days later, the dealer informed the consumer the vehicle needed a new transmission. *jb
06/01/2010114000
 1999 ford windstar experienced a sudden transmission failure at 114,000 miles despite having absolutely no prior issues of this nature. i was at a red light approximately 1/4 mile from the on-ramp of i-25 when the vehicle shuddered and jerked before accelerating; after pulling over to check for damage (as i was sure i had hit/run over something), i found nothing unusual and proceded onto the interstate. the vehicle operated normally for approximately 25 miles at freeway speed until i was stopped at a red light. upon trying to accelerate, the engine would only rev regardless of the gear i used, at which time i contacted an automotive shop to tow the vehicle. currently, i am awating a call from the shop after their full diagnosis, which i will update this complaint. a sudden problem of this magnitude is perplexing as well as potentially costly. after reading pages of complaints similiar to mine, i have no doubt that the high(er) milage of my vehicle at the time of this incident speaks to the level of regular maintaince i have provided. please consider seriously investigating the numerous complaints similiar to mine before a life is taken as a result.
03/07/2009920001
 Sudden loss of power being transmitted from the engine to the wheels (later determined to be a failed torque converter that also destroyed the transmission). *tr
05/15/20081294831
 Abs light, o/d light in dashboard coming on. when vehicle purchased as used car these items showed up on the drive home after purchase. veh has been in to ford dealership garage 4 times. brakes were working fine at that time. 3 months later brake light come on. check and find that brake fluid is leaking from multiple locations. one being the brake pressure differential deactivation switch (2b264) located under the master cylinder. upon removing this plug i found brake fluid in the connection. looking below i found brake fluid on the wiring harness below the switch and on the metal panel, where it had actually began to rust. believe this harness is the power steering wiring. brake pedal in cab now goes to the floor before brakes are applied. there is a hissing sound when this is done. believe that the master cylinder is leaking fluid into the brake booster as well and has destroyed the gasket in there as well. this happened while my wife was driving. thankfully all of this happened without causing an accident considering i transport my 3 children and wife in this van. *tr
03/28/2009990001
 1999 ford windstar 3.8l v6 99k miles driving to work transmission stopped working to make the vehicle move forward. it only would work in reverse. this is a common problem with windstars please reference this website http://www.carcomplaints.com/ford/windstar/2000/transmission/. *tr
08/17/20081443871
 Pulled up to an intersection, put the van into park, got out to close the rear hatch. got back into the van put it into drive and i heard a loud thunk and the van rolled into traffic. i hurried up and put it into reverse and thank god it worked. i was almost hit by another car moving at about 50 miles per hour. the shop that's rebuilding the transmission said that the (sungear) welds had broke and that they had repaired several ford windstars with the same problem of broken welds on the sungear. it seems that ford has known about the problems with their transmissions, but have not offered any recalls for their defects of these bad welds on the sungears or the other defects in their transmissions. *tr
08/23/2008144000
 Tl*the contact owns a 1999 ford windstar. the overdrive light illuminated at random in the vehicle. the contact would have to restart the vehicle in order for the light to dim. once the vehicle was restarted, the light would remain off for 4-5 miles before illuminating again. the contact noticed that the rear hatch was open, so he exited the vehicle to shut the hatch. once he got back in the vehicle, he placed the gear into drive, but the vehicle did not move. the vehicle made a loud clunking noise that never occurred in the past. the vehicle was towed to the contact's residence and a mechanic rebuilt the transmission. the mechanic stated that the sun gear wells in the transmission became detached, which caused the transmission to fail. the vehicle is currently being repaired. the contact believes that the failure was due to a manufacturer defect. the current and failure mileages were 144,000.
08/26/20081060001
 I was in my garage. i placed the windstar in park. i left the engine running, opened my door and walked to the back of the van. i heard a clunk which apparently was the transmission shifting into reverse. the van immediately took off and the door caught me and slammed me into the garage wall and broke backwards. it drug me out the garage and i fell off. the van then proceeded down the driveway across the street. it damaged the neighbors yard, mail box, cable box and shrubs. it slowed on a berm and i was able to jump in and stop it. i moved it from reverse to park, turned off the engine and went to the emergency room with bruises and sprained wrists. *tr
09/15/199910001
 Transmission shifts hard from 1st gear to 2nd gear. transmission downsihfts hard to 1st gear at times. problem has continued to get worse over time. at first just a little bump feeling but after about 40,000 miles got worse and now at 150,000 car is not drivable. problem occurs almost all the time, 95% or more of the shifts. transmission has been serviced with filter and fluid change every 30, 000 miles but the problem does not go away. will try a neutral safety switch but may have to replace the transmission if that does not clear up the problem because it currently is not safe to drive. *tr
01/01/20071500001
 I have a 1999 ford windstar xl. and the o/d light flashes on and off when i put my feet on the gas and it cause the van to shift in gear very hard. and when i get over 55 miles per hour it also does the same thing. it happens everyday. the van goes into gear very hard and it is hard for it to pick up speed when i take off. it stalls. *tr
09/17/2007160000111/23/2006
 There have been no problems with the van since purchase, but then randomly while driving home from work the od light started flashing. the transmission seems fine, shifts a little roughly into first gear, but all other parts are fine. i have had the transmission serviced, and the light still flashes. *tr
01/05/200879000211/27/1999
 Complete transmission failure at high speed on highway. sudden hot smell coming from vehicle. pulled off highway under power, no appearance of smoke, fluid, or other issue. attempted to re-enter highway and found that vehicle would go forward with selector in n-no other gear positions worked. vehicle moved to safety off highway (ford dealership). complete transmission failure after moving to dealership. note: this is the second transmission failure in this vehicle. original transmission was replaced in 2001 with ford rebuilt trans by ford dealership. *tr
01/12/20081
 I have a 1999 ford windstar minivan with just over 68k miles. i have just recently been told that my windstar is in need of a new transmission. i have had it in and out of the shop over the last 3 months. i have spent close to $1000.00 in repairs and now my transmission just drops. why do i have to replace a transmission in a vehicle with less than 100k miles? i have heard from several people that this is common in this type of vehicle and i want to know what ford is going to do about this. i am not happy! *tr
03/01/2007247092
 1999 ford windstar transmission went up. consumer states that the control arm fell off in march. consumer again stated the transmission needs to be replaced again. *kb
05/21/200480000104/02/2002
 First: while traveling 70 mph on an interstate in nc our van died. after safely pulling over, crossing 3 lanes of traffic, we had the van towed home to va and the mechanic said he changes 7-8 transmissions a week in ford windstar vans. we had fallen victim to this. we still have problems with the o/d light coming on and having to add transmission fluid frequently. second: our van interior and exterior lights dim and blink at random. the alert will also come on saying one of the doors is ajar leaving the interior lights on and doors unlocked. it will randomly change doors while driving. now the rear turning lights do not flash, the locks do not work, the interior and back exterior lights do not go out even with the key off and out. there will be random beeping and buzzing noises. the rear heat/air turns off and on at random even with the controls in the off position. there is a clicking under the dash when the rear heat or air is running. on inspection the mechanic found the alarm wires under the dash bare, unhooked, and exposed. he taped these hoping it would solve the problem. it has not. the local ford dealer is not reputable. it is a well known fact in the community that they break something else while fixing another to ensure a return visit. we have to travel 45-60 minutes to another dealer and they are so busy because they have to provide service for a large rural area. ford has never acknowledged phone calls or letters sent to them. we feel stuck with a lemon! *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
06/05/2007103000206/23/2004
 My transmission on a 1999 ford windstar is leaking from the bell housing on the transmission, as well as slipping through the gears, this is the second time it has happened within 50,000 miles. i have also noticed that from where it is leaking from the transmission, my catalytic converters affected by the fluid that is on it as well, consistently burning off as it gets hotter. *tr
04/12/20072
 For the second time in 2 years i am replacing the transmission on the 1999 windstar. both times it just stopped working,, but was able to get car to safety. now on second transmission overhaul at a cost of $1700 for he first time , and 1$400 the second. the mechanic said there was no reason for the failure.*ak
03/28/200728000103/20/2007
 Only 28,000 miles on car driven by elderly father a few miles every day for past 7 years. no indication of problem with transmission before this incident. pulled from stop onto state road at point where a blind curve/no site distance for oncoming traffic-speed limit 45 mph. car jerked forward and transmission failed, no forward gears, leaving car sideways across 2 lanes of oncoming traffic. got car to go in reverse to get off road which created an even more dangerous situation for me and all oncoming traffic. told will cost $2,500 for re-built transmission. ford sent standard reply to my complaint suggesting go to dealership and have checked out. amazing that no recall has been issued or anything been done after seeing this and numerous websites with same complaints. so many of us lucky. how many deaths does it take before action will be taken? have been a ford owner for years and will never, ever buy ford again. *ak
10/27/200697000107/10/1999
 1999 windstar ,98k, complete transmission failure. went into reverse , but not into any forward gear. i've meticulously maintained this vehicle, never towed. have owned cars for 30 yrs, never had a vehicle this bad. will never buy ford again. *nm
09/15/20058300010004/10/1999
 Transmission slippage resulting in loss of drive power/torque as a result of a manufacturing defect. *nm
08/17/200675567103/01/1999
 1999 ford windstar sustained major transmission failure without any prior symptoms. vehicle was parked in driveway and shifted into drive, a loud noise was heard followed by severe grinding. transmission was found to be filled with metal and required overhaul. vehicle had just over 75000 miles and has never been used for towing. repair costs were over 2000 dollars. *jb
06/11/2006650001
 Complained to ford about transmission while vehicle was under warranty. i was told there wasn't anything wrong with transmission. on sunday 06/11/06, while exiting parkway the transmission went on the vehicle. the vehicle was purchased with only 17,000 miles on it in 7/01,vehicle now has 65,000 miles. warranty expired last march, ford refuses to help with the cost of repair for transmission. *jb
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
11/28/200589000105/15/2001
 I was sitting at a traffic light and went to pull away when the light turned green. there was very loud noise, like an explosion, and the van lurched forward. at first i thought another driver hit us and i was bracing for the impact. fortunately, we had not been hit, but the van would not move more than a few feet at that point. i managed to pull as far over as i could in the traffic lane, although i could not reach the shoulder, and turned on my hazards. there had been no warning at all that anything was wrong with the van at that point. no warning lights, no leaking fluid, and it was still running-it just wouldn't move forward or reverse. i had been driving it all day, and i am the primary driver. the transmission seemed to be working just fine up until that point. i had not noticed any slipping or any other problems. once it was towed to the dealer, we found out that the transmission had totally failed and we are now paying $2600 for a remanufactured transmission. the van has 89,000 miles on it currently, and we did have an extended warranty than ran out at 75,000 miles. we have had the power steering unit replaced already, in addition to ford sending mechanics out from michigan twice to repair our automatic sliding doors, which had been malfunctioning since we bought the van. *nm
10/22/20051
 Dt: contact stated after driving for about an hour the od light illuminated. the vehicle was smoking from underneath. the contact was able to pull the vehicle off to the side of the road . the fire department came and extinguished the fire. the vehicle was towed to a dealership to be inspected. the dealership stated there was no damage to the vehicle as a result of the fire. also, they stated the fire could have been caused by transmission fluid leaking on the catalytic converter. while driving at a later time the dashboard light illuminated again. the vehicle was then taken to a local mechanic, who determined that the automatic transmission was causing it to smoke. *ak updated 12/7/2005. *nm
10/06/2005107/20/2005
 While driving on the hwy (60 mph), the od light started flashing and message board showed check message. i pushed info button, and txt. message disappeared. i pulled over to first lane and observed a lot of smoke in the rear mirror. i stopped the car and observed fire underneath the car. fire continued for app. 4 mins. and extinguished slowly. car was towed to dealer, which has stated that transmission has been overheated and has to be replaced. i have checked some other customer complaints and it looks like ford has a common problem with windstars. luckily me and my two children came through this incident unscathed but it can be a very serious situation. have been told that i will have to pay for a new transmission. no help from dealer and according to other customer complaints it seem like ford also is very reluctant to look into such problems. *nm
10/10/200554000110/18/2003
 Dt: the contact states that 1999 ford windstar lx had a transmission failure. the van was at a red light and when the owner pushed the accelerator to go, there was no power. the owner had to push the van to the side of the road. the van has not been taken in for repairs. there are no available openings in dealerships. the owner has not contacted ford.*ak
02/28/200351527109/01/2002
 Car went clunk then wouldn't engage transmission while i was in the middle of heavy traffic. had van towed to dealer; transmission replaced -- had to extract a broken bolt from the exhaust manifold. *nm
08/21/200555180104/10/1999
 My transmission failed in my 99 ford windstar with onlly 55,ooo. i stoped at a stop sign, when i hit the gas i heard a thud and the van would not go forward. i only had reverse. i hear this is a common failure of windstar vans
08/13/200567000110/25/2002
 I drove my 1999 ford windstar lx with my mother and my family (my 2 children, my nephew and my daughter's friend) to erie, pa to visit my sister's family for 2 days, then to splash lagoon for 2 days. this was a 230 mile trip, each way, from my home is elmira, ny. we arrived there without incident. all fluids were checked before we left and were in prime condition. the following day, we got in our vehicles to go see the 15 miles of beaches along lake erie. about a mile down their road, we went to cross a 4-lane high-way, when my vehicle stopped dead in the middle, almost killing all of us because traffic was coming from both directions. my vehicle woudn't move forward no matter what. the transmission failed, abruptly, without any advance notice, whatsoever! after much online research, i soon realized my unfortunate situation isn't unique to ford windstar owners! this sudden transmission failure is very common. we could have all been killed. my brother-in-law had to drive my vehicle back to his house in reverse, as that was the only gear that worked. after the failure, the fluids were checked again, and all was still full and in good condition (we saved these), however, he thought that maybe the filter might need to be changed, so he did so, replacing the used transmission fluid with brand new. knowing we should not have work done to the vehicle for risk of voiding the $1,948.00 extended service warranty i purchased from the dealership at the time i bought the vehicle (less than 3 years ago), we decided to have the vehicle towed home.
06/25/200558950102/22/1999
 Stopped the vehicle to make a left turn, when i pressed the accelerator the vehicle did not move then jumped into gear violently. i managed to get teh vehicle into a parking lot where a loud grinding noise could be heard with the engine running and gearshift in park. i moved the gear selector into different gears and car would not move. the car had a history of noise when shifting from park into any gear, especially when parked on a incline. the transmission also downshifted harshly when decelerating to coast through a turn. both issues were reported to the dan wachtel ford in athens, al that services the vehicle. the transmission was flushed and had the filter changed twice, the secon only 8000 miles before this incident. dealer reports that the car needs a new transmission with only 58,000 miles on the car. i purchased an 5 year/70,000 extended warranty when we bought the car, but of course the warranty has expired and i am looking at a $2800 repair bill. i looked at the ford service bulletins and other complaints through this site and there seems to be a history of the same type of occurrences with the windstar and the transmission. seeking assistance from dealer and ford since vehicle has been maintained, has low mileage considering it is 6 years old and has a history of such events.
03/09/2005630001
 Power train:automatic transmission transmission failed at 63,000 mi. mechanic informed us the planetary assembly has catastrophically failed,total will be about $2,500 for a rebuilt trans. preformed all maintance for the trans. at 40,000 mi. this should not happen at such low mileage. will ford have the integrity to stand behind its products? will nhtsa force a recall due to the high number of failures on these vans? ps. ford says no to any help. i even offered to pay for labor if they paid for the transmission. still no.
04/08/200551000306/01/1999
 Updating complaint 10116674 - mechanic informed us the planetary assembly has catastrophically failed and says this is ridiculous for such a low-mileage vehicle. he stated there must be a manufacturer's defect. he will save all ruined parts - total will be about $2,300. will ford have the integrity to stand behind its products? will nhtsa force a recall due to the high number of failures on these vans? *ak the consumer still did not receive a response from ford. there was a planetary assembly problem with the consumers 1999 ford windstar. at 51k miles, the planetary assembly had broken and needed to be replaced along with the transmission, torque converter, sun gear, solenoid and the reverse drum. *sc *jb
04/08/200525000306/01/2000
 Our 1999 ford windstar has 51,000 miles and transmission has failed. yesterday (4/8/05) while driving kids home from school the van made a loud clunking noise and would not go into forward or reverse. was able to roll to shoulder. we replaced battery a month ago, and while driving over the bay bridge (maryland) easter sunday our headlights and dashboard lights began to dim and van seemed as if it was going to stall. by the time we drove 4 miles to home all lights were out and car was sputtering, wouldn't start. we then replaced the alternator. the o/d light has been flashing. interior lights stay on sporadically as well as door ajar light when all doors are closed. interior lights sometimes don't come on when van is parked and doors opened. no rhyme or reason to this. tires have been replaced twice due to abnormal wear. we are getting quotes of between 1,600 and 2,800 for transmission. also windshield cracked where mirror was reattached after it fell off. when we were just over 3 years and at around 25,000 miles, all dashboard warning lights came on also while driving on bay bridge. took van to dealer (bob bell in glen burnie, md) and they said they'd have it done that day but kept it a week. i threw a fit and got a loaner - a tin can on wheels. ford eventually covered some of the repairs through a 'special program.' i cannot beleive there has been no recall on these pieces of garbage with the number of transmission failures i see on this website. nhtsa should force ford to take responsibility for this nonsense and pay for these outrageous failures. we also have a ford pickup and will never buy another ford product. henry must be rolling over in his grave.*ak
03/30/200572700502/08/2002
 Car only has 72000 miles. had car at dealership from march 17- march 24 for various problems. they replaced a tie rod, 2 control arms for $1100 and when that did not fix the problem, replaced the power steering pump and the steering rack. car was still not right - had appt to bring back in on friday april 1st. on march 30th, i was accelerating at a stoplight and the vehicle had an abrupt transmission failure. (when we got it back from the dealer it had a vibrating issue but we did not have warning this was coming) just a huge bang and then it wouldn't move. the police had to help me remove the vehicle from the intersection and assist with my two small children. it had to be towed at my expense $70. warranty expired at 60k. took it to another repair establishment (due to issues with the dealer) - will be $2200 to rebuild entire transmission. will be contacting manufacturer. *ak
03/26/2005500001
 While driving 45 mph transmission failed. as a result, the forward gears became inoperable. *ak
03/20/20051997391
 The vehicle started to make noise while driving. the gears would not move. the vehicle was towed, and the transmission was found to be defective, and was replaced. *ak *sc
01/01/19011
 The intake manifold gaskets and transmission have been replaced in the consumer's 1999 ford windstar. *bf *nm
03/07/200573000108/19/1999
 While driving on an interstate highway, the transmission in my wife's 1999 ford windstar se broke without warning, causing the vehicle to decelerate in morning rush hour traffic. the vehicle is currently being evaluated for repair cost.*ak
01/30/200543414106/30/1999
 I was stopped at a 4-way stop, started to accelerate and heard a loud bang from the engine compartment. i then had no forward gears, but reverse still worked. the vehicle was towed to a local ford dealer, who informed me that i needed a new (remanufactured) transmission at $2500. the vehicle has only 43,423 miles and has been regularly maintained. i contacted the ford customer relationship center, but was offered no assistance or goodwill because the warranty period had expired. the number of 1999 windstar transmission failures reported at nhtsa and other websites appears to be inordinately high. *jb
01/28/200556000106/15/2000
 The transmission failed at 56,000 miles and the second transmission has failed with 39,000 mile on it. ford and the dealership are refusing to do anything. there is no acknowledgement on their part that there is an inherent problem with 1999 windstar transmissions. after much internet research< i say there is ! *jb
01/04/200456500105/21/2002
 My wife was driving our 1999 ford windstar and without any prior events, the transmission started to slip when taking off from a start. she promptly drive home 1.5miles and by the time she got home the van could not be driven because the transmission shuddered so bad when you stepped on the accelerator. we had the van towed the next day and were given news of a transmission failure and a $1900 repair bill. the car only had 57,000 miles.*ak
12/23/20041
 While driving 45 mph, the vehicle stalled without warning. the consumer tried to restart the vehicle and was not able to do so. the vehicle was towed to a body shop for inspection. the mechanic informed the consumer that the transmission needed to be replaced. please provide further details. *jb
12/09/200476000106/24/1999
 We were stopped at a stoplight at the corner of 7th ave. and pike street in downtown seattle. when the light turned green, my husband pressed on the gas pedal. when he did that, we heard a thunk noise, and then the gears started grinding and the engine started revving because it would not go into gear. we had to have the vehicle towed back to tacoma to a transmission repair facility.
12/06/2004212/20/2002
 Just about everything that can go wrong with a car, i've experienced it as the owner of this 1999 ford windstar lx. i've had transmission work done, brake work, replaced tires (twice in 2 years), replace the battery and the starter. i came to this site because the car wouldn't start, wouldn't take a jump, wouldn't make a sound. i called to have it towed and the gentleman jiggled the key in the ignition and the car started. a few days later the same thing happened again. this time no one could start it. testing the battery and primary parts for starting the car proved that these parts were all functioning normal. a few hours and $127.00 later (not including the cost of towing the vehicle) i'm told the problem is with the anti-theft device. it is broken and needs to be replaced to the tune of about $900.00 with a 90-day warranty. recommendations to me were to get rid of the car. this particular part in all ford vehicles is poorly built. i haven't decided what i'm going to do at this point, however, i feel pretty sure my decision will not involve staying with ford. *jb
11/12/200456000
 Transmission on our 1999 ford windstar had to be replaced costs us 2500.00. car has only 56,000 miles on it.*ak
10/14/200479000112/07/2002
 At approximately 79,000 miles, transmission failed catastrohically. i was stopped at a red light, and proceeded forward when the light changed. almost immediately, i felt a violent forward jolt, then the vehicle would no longer go forward, though it would reverse. i had vehicle towed, and was informed the transmission needed replaced, costing $1800 (and that was with a discount for being frequent customers.) also, the o/d light began flashing days after we bought the vehicle used in 2002. dealer repaired free, but informed us that the wiring harness connected to the o/d switch rested on the engine, where normal vibrations caused it to wear through and fail. the technician called it a design flaw.*ak
10/15/200433000206/01/1999
 At 33,000 miles, sudden transmission failure. rebuilt at a local shop for $2600 ... ford contacted, but refused to stand behind its product.*ak
08/24/2003203/26/2003
 When parked on a hill, the vehicle rolled back. *bf when the vehicle rolled, it went a big field and caused damage to the drivers door and muffler. the second incident, the vehicle was sitting in the consumers driveway on a little hill when it rolled and hit a tree and caused damage to the fender and bumper. the consumer stated when both accidents happened the air bags never deployed. also the steering wheel never locked. *jb
05/16/200461280302/01/2004
 Overdrive light will flash repeatedly after approximately driving 20-25 miles on the highway. when this happens, rpms increase and van attempts to lunge forward. also, while putting van into gear loud clunking noise. transmission was flushed completely, but problem persists. first occurance at 61,000 miles while driving family back from vacation. 2nd occurance at 63,000 miles and 3rd occurance at 63,800 miles. *ak
10/12/200499000107/16/2002
 The poorly manufactured aluminum pistons in the transmission fractured and destroyed other components in the transmission at 99,000 miles.*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
05/28/2003537761
 Awful noise coming from front of vehicle with tendency to stall. towed to lee myles transmissions, with diagnosis of a separated 1/2 drum asm epc solenoid. repair cost $2148.03 minus $180.28 plus tax for a transmission cooler with labor. *nm
09/07/200457000107/17/2004
 Driving locally at low speed, upon accelerating from a stop light, the vehicle experienced an abrupt transmission failure. no prior symptoms, just a loud bang and then it would not move forward and had to be towed. dealer where the van was purchased and serviced at offered no recourse as i am out-of-warranty! in process of getting estimates to replace transmission. *ak
09/08/20041
 Transmission failed while shifting from park to drive. a loud squeaking noise wa coming from the front. consumer had the vehicle towed to the dealer for inspection, and mechanic determined that the transmission needed to be replaced. *ak
11/24/200375000105/09/2001
 Complete transmission failure at 75,000 miles. relaced transmission totaling $2,544.00. *ak
07/17/200455600203/07/2003
 Consumer was at a red light of a major intersection, heard a very loud explosion sound, and the car wouldn't move. transmission literally exploded for no reason and no warning. danger because of our location causing traffic problems. car only has 55000 miles on it. we had the trans rebuilt - steel part exploded. costing consumer $2400. ford is not willing to help or acknowledge safety problems when a car just dies - could cause major accidents and injury, especially when you don't know when it's going to stop or die next on you. afraid to drive it now with my family. second time in 4 months this car has caused problems on a major interstate and intersection.*ak
06/21/200468984106/01/1999
 I lost all acceleration while in the outside lane on the interstate. fortunately i was able to coast to the emergency parking lane without incident, however, without the ability to accelerate (no gears at all) it could have been quite dangerous on a busier stretch of highway. i was towed to the nearest ford dealer and had to replace the transmission pump, shaft, valve body and seals. *jb
05/07/2004651231
 The overdrive light began flashing when driving at highway speeds. an electronic diagnostic test performed revealed the failure of the torque converter clutch and the stator. the recommended action was to replace the transmission, at a cost of $3,086.72. a transmission shouldn't fail at 65,000 miles. *nm
08/24/200330000203/26/2003
 The consumer stated the vehicle rolled off a hill, went across the highway into a field there was damage to the drivers door and the muffler. the second time the incident happened the vehicle was in the consumers driveway and crashed into a tree, the vehicle sustained damaged to the fender. in both cases the consumer stated the air bags did not deploy. the steering wheel never locked on the vehicle as well. *ak *jb
05/14/200439379108/31/1999
 While slowing down to 25 mph the vehicle stopped going forward. vehicle was able to go backwards, but not forward. vehicle was towed to a mechanic, who determined that a new transmission was needed. *ak *nm
05/01/2004600002
 I really don't know where to begin. we purchased this vehicle used in 2000. the day after purchase it had to be returned to the dealer for electrical problems. the dealership fixed the problems. we noticed a hard shifting right away and inquired about it with the dealership. they said that it was because it had a large engine and we were just not used to it. we drove it for about 18 months when at 60,000 miles the o/d light began flasing. we took it to a ford dealership and was told the transmission went out. we were lucky and had purchased an extended warranty which after many phone calls and complaints finally put in a new transmission. now 2 years and 30,000 later we need another new transmission. the van starting lurching when stopped at a stoplight and then tried to stall. we has also noted a noise that sounds like the whole front end is about to fall out. we also have electrical problems where the light come on and never go off. the a/c-heat, comes on when you start the van and the blower is in the off position. the electric door locks, which are supposed to lock when the car is put in drive, finally lock about 50 miles down the road. after much research on the van and all the problems it has i can't believe that ford will not do something. i guess the lives of the families with children that drives these vans mean nothing to them. i guess it will take the death of someone's children and a heafty lawsuit to finally get some action. my wife is now afraid to even get behind the wheel of our van since it has a tendency to have its failures in the middle of traffic ( guess we are glad it has a five star safety rating). we would get rid of it but have now found out that it has no value either. *ak
04/09/200472800104/30/1999
 While driving a van full of 6 young girls to a sports practice, the van started jumping when slowing down and accelerating. we stopped at a stop sign and then the car would not move in drive .suddenly, it jumped into drive, all the while , my carfull were very upset and thought we were going to crash. i barely made it to the practice parking lot. the van was jumping the whole drive. it then stalled in the driveway. i attempted to turn the car back on but there came a very loud, scary noise from the engine. i got it on, but it would not drive in drive, only in nuetral. i had to be towed. it was a major hassle. i came to find that th e transmission had gone at 72,000 miles. i had been complaining to the dealer that the engine light was always on. it was evaluated and they said it was a sensor problem that all started at about 30,000 miles. come to think of it, the van jumped from gear to gesr since day 1. ford motor company will also be contacted. it seems pretty fishy that there are so many complaints about the same thing.*ak
01/15/200145000207/15/2000
 Transmission has been replaced twice! first time when we brought it in to dealer - they had no idea what could make the rattle sound (warrenty was still in effect). it was happening around 40mph - whole front end would rattle. they had transmission expert look at it and they said that it was not the transmission. about 10,000 miles later - wham! could not drive. took it back (after warrenty expired) and transmission expert says it is torque converter and it would need new/rebuilt trans - not covered under warrenty. i went else where for the repair, not a cent more to ford - ever. next, after i got my trans rebuilt by 3rd party, it failed again 25,000 miles later. they got all the updates, etc - and trust me, they do a great job on trans (they repair fbi cars). after 2 rebuilds later - we are up and running again - but, if someone offers me money for this car, they can have it! found on road dead - (and changing the name to freestar does not help the cover up)
03/25/20041
 While sitting in traffic the driver applied the accelerate pedal the vehicle rolled backwards then stalled. the driver tried to restart the vehicle, but failed. the vehicle was towed to the dealer for inspection. the mechanic informed the driver a sun gear inside of the transmission needed replacing. please fill in additional information. *jb
03/11/20041
 While driving consumer heard a loud popping sound. when putting the vehicle in drive it went into reverse. *ak
390001
 While driving the consumer heard a popping sound. when depressing the gas pedal, the vehicle would not travel forward and when the vehicle was shifted into reverse the vehicle moved backwards. the mechanic determined that the transmission needed to be replaced. *ak *sc
12/31/200261300106/16/1999
 Transmission went out on my 1999 windstar van ...has 61,300 miles on it....was putting it in drive from a stopped postion and heard a loud noise and almost sounded like explosion of sorts....like a backfire in muffler....does not go in drive at all....speedometer doesnt work when motor is revved ...*ak
01/04/200475000104/30/1999
 Automatic transmission failure at 75000 miles. sudden loss of forward gears. reverse works. this transmission was replaced at 21,000 miles and has been rebuilt at the ford dealer as well. the windstar transmission is a lemon. *la
07/01/2003719001
 Problems with vehicle's transmission and rack and pinion.*mr the rack and pinion type gear had to be replaced at 71,900 miles. one month later while at a traffic light, the consumer stepped on the accelerator and the vehicle did not move, the vehicle was towed to a near by mechanic shop where the transmission was replaced. *jb *nm
10/14/200368000203/07/2001
 We replaced the transmission on our 99 windstar 4 weeks ago...two days ago the power steering started grinding and we brought it in for repairs...replaced the power steering pump within 30 miles of the dealer the noise in the power steering came back and after paying $800.00 for the power steering pump they want to now charge us $600.00 to replace the rack...in the last 4 weeks the repairs on the windstar have been over $4000.00... this on a vehicle with less than 70,000 miles...i have pages of windstar owner complaints of the same nature...the transmission and the power steering on the windstar is faulty and i hope ford listens...this will be the last ford we purchase! *la
10/23/200322000110/01/1999
 Consumer complained repeatedly about transmission problems, but nothing was done because the dealer could not duplicate the problem. *ak the door lock was inoperative with the key, when driven at low speeds a clunk noise was heard, but it was an intermittent problem, the vehicle lurched in low gear and the consumer had to downshift when going up hill. *sc *jb
09/25/200349000
 One day everything worked fine in the car, next day,the car won't shift properly in all gears and shudders while at a stop. two different repair places have told me it is definitly a failed transmission. i'm currently at 49k miles on the car... way too early for this to happen. according to all the posts at cartrackers.com, lots of others have also had the same problem with ford winstars.
08/23/200385000
 Transmission in '99 ford windstar failed after 85,000 miles
09/13/19999500008/21/2002
 My 1999 ford windstar with 95000 miles experienced complete transmission failure due to three now updated problems that ford does not want to recognize or be responsible for. the first is a shudder during the 1-2 upshift caused by a faulty solenoid which is now updated in the reman transmission. the second is a faulty torque converter that was also an updated item and causes my van to not want to shift at the appropriate times. the third is slipping which occurs at highway speeds and is caused due to a faulty clutch piston which is also an updated item in all remanufactured transmissions for that make and model. for it to be a coincidence that all three caused premature trnsmission failure and all three also to be updates is undeniable evidence that the original transmission was not engineered correctly or not manufactured correctly. this should be recalled or be covered by extended warranty because after reading bulletins and similar complaints it is clear that ford know all about this and is trying to just cover it up.
09/04/20031
 Vehicle was parked in the driveway and without warning vehicle popped out of park into reverse. no one was hurt, dealer had been notified. *ak
03/10/2002201/28/2002
 There is a skip in the transmission that is a hard thud when it happens. i took it to the dealer, after several days and over 100 miles they found the problem and fixed it. it started to do it again about 6 months later. i just recently took it in for the console lights flickering when accelerating and told them again about the thumping. they charged me for the diagnoses of there's nothing wrong, it's the a/c compressor that runs all the time. also the brakes squeak horribly when you first start out with it for the day. they said the brakes rust and there wasn't anything they could do about it, that's just the way it goes. the date i'm using is an estimated date of when things first occurred.*ak
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
11/01/2002602811
 Transaxles failed only 2 miles after being serviced by dealer, phil long ford invoice #focs570297. service concluded power-flush, item h. parts invoice lists 14 units of trans fluid @ $3.28 per unit. the manufacturer's owner manual lists maximum dry capacity as 12.25 quarts. the owner's manual also says ...while overfilling can cause foaming and loss of fluid. either condition will cause transaxle damage. *ph
1
 Upon starting driver shifted the gear on the steering column but no movement of the van occurred. also, transmission will make a clunking noise associated with the problem. *ak
07/16/200339000106/21/1999
 My wife was proceeding from a stop,pressed gas and heard a pop or banging sound.car would not move in forward gears,only in reverse.towed to dealer.haven't heard from them yet.but by my reserch into this it appears to be a common problem.vehicle has 39,000 miles,never abused.ford should do something about this before someone is seriously hurt.*ak
170001
 While traveling at 30 mph consumer heard a loud bump noise. felt like the vehicle wanted to stop. dealer stated transmission needed replacement. *ak
04/19/200332621104/22/1999
 Sudden transmission failure on a 1999 ford windstar. the transmission suddenly failed while being driven by a ford dealership technician while test driving the vehicle after replacing a defective air intake manifold. vehicle mileage was 32621 miles. while there was no accident envolved, the suddeness of the failure of a major drive component presents the hazard potential that needs to be investigated. an internet search has revealed significant numbers of complaints of similar premature and sudden failures on this vehicle and other model vehicles that use the transmission found in this vehicle. this complaint is being filed in order to bring it into the federal data base in order to determine if a recall of this transmission is warranted. i have the replaced components and would like to submit them for test and analysis if this agency is interested.*ak
05/22/20035700008/30/1999
 Constant transmission shudder during upshift. unlike the tsb dealing with shudder while cornering, this problem occurs all the time. mechanic indicates that likely cause is failure of the piston in the foward clutch. a very common problem in windstars. consequently, it causes insufficient acceleration form a stop making crossing intersections unsafe.
06/16/2001
 We have owned our 99' windstar since the day it was new, and at first loved it. but there seems to be a major problem with the transmission and as i have found out with ford employed investigators the 99' was a bad year for many areas to include the transmission. our transmission goes into default limp-home mode(overdrive flashes on and off continuously rpm's increase and shifts hard). at 5 miles after starting up and getting under way. the dealer told me the best repair to the problem was to drive the van till the trans dies as this was an easier fix than the bad computer module. supposedly cheaper as well. i strongly urge everyone in the windstar transmission predickament to spread the news as ford should correct this known problem befor it kills someone.
05/19/20031
 While driving, the transmission failed which caused the vehicle to only move in reverse. *jb
04/18/20035897903/19/1999
 Transmission failure. *jb
04/03/200342000404/30/1999
 Vehicle transmission went bad at 42,000 miles, ford windstar- manufacture would not assist in repairs, caused family to be stranded in remote area. had to have a new transmission installed. have had numerous other problems with the windstar. *jb
05/01/20031
 While driving the transmission failed while the consumer attempted to down shift. *nlm
06/28/20021011/01/2001
 I took it to the dealer they said they fixed the problem but he transmission still slips. the last van i had did the same thing it was a 1998 windstar. they told me there was nothing wrong with it and in 3 months i had to have the whole thing rebuilt. *nlm **dimsii ivoq entry posted after 12/12/02 cut-over to artemis*768017
01/31/20033080008/26/1999
 I have mechanical experience and maintain my vehicles religiously as i like to keep them as long as possible. we have a '99 ford windstar and at 30,800 miles the transmission gave out as my wife was driving through a busy intersection. she described it as a loud bang and then it would not go any further. after having it towed to the dealership they advised we had worn out the clutches and the transmision needed to be replaced. i had just driven the vehicle on a ski trip vacation the week before and the transmission did not slip or have any problems, something inside the transmission broke without any prior warning and left my wife and kids stranded in the middle of a busy intersection. after researching on the web and verifying through some connections i found that this is a consistent problem with these transmissions and it usually occurs between 30k to 50k miles. the dealership tried to make us pay since it was 800 miles over the warranty but after much deliberation they agreed to let us purchase an extended warranty and gave us a rebuilt transmision. we had the vehicle in several times previously for transmission recalls and performance issues. we never tow anything with our van and my wife mainly drives around the area to work and transporting our children. where my wife was stranded was on top of a hill in the middle of a 6 lane highway intersection and not only do i feel this is a quality issue perpetuated on ford customers but a safety issue also as was demonstrated at this time.
04/19/200353000108/05/1999
 Sudden transmission failure. *jb
04/10/200359000110/22/1999
 1999 ford windstar with approximately 59,000 miles had unexpected transmission failure while driving at low speed. vehicle lurched like it had hit a box while accelerating from a stop sign. vehicle was immediately stopped to check for any debris; none found. upon re-entering vehicle, it could not be driven forward in drive. vehicle could only be driven in reverse gear. vehicle towed to ford dealership and it was determined that entire transmission needed to be replaced. preventive maintenance was performed on the transmission by same ford dealership in november 2002. two of our in-laws also own 1999 ford windstars, one of whom is now on it's third transmission, and the other is currently experiencing occasional slipping of the transmission during acceleration. *nlm
03/27/200333400103/20/2002
 Transmission fail-forward clutch piston. stopped at stop sign and when i put foot on gas to go it just raced the engine. gears would not engage. no forewarning and only 33,000 miles on a lightly driven car! called ford dealer and corp. and they won't do anything. from what i read this is a very common occurrence and had i pulled into traffic this morning and lost it i would be writing this from a hospital!!! i think this needs to be brought to fords attention! i will be out of almost 2500 when this is over....money in these times that i cannot afford! *nlm
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
10/12/200278846101/15/2000
 1999 ford windstar, transmission experienced a complete failure. 78,000 miles, no warning given. dealer quoted $2500.00 for rebuilt tranny. as i understand, this vehicle has been plaqued with drivetrain problems. i would like to see ford be forced to repair/replace/reimburse owners for repairs that should have never been necessary.*jb
11/14/2003530001
 The transmission failed.*jb
01/18/2003105780204/27/1999
 We just had to replace the transmission in our 1999 ford windstar. it has 107,000 miles on the odometer. when we had 63,000 miles, we had to replace the power steering rack. this is a very expensive vehicle to own - especially with the expensive repairs that it requires.
02/05/20036300010/28/2000
 1999 ford windstar with 63,000 miles transmission failure
02/02/200371000107/15/1999
 Automatic transmission failed @ 71,000 miles, 3 1/2 yr old vehicle. reverse still worked, forward gears acted as though in neutral.
01/20/200343000107/27/1999
 I pulled out of a restaurant parking lot into a roadway median so i could merge into traffic. we felt a jolt and heard a loud thunk sort of sound. the engine revved up high suddenly, but we weren't moving much. i let off the gas. the van rolled for a bit, but once we stopped it wouldn't go any more. no gears at all. dealer advised we need a new transmission. warrenty just expired. only 43,000 miles. i called ford and their response was along the lines of yeah, that's a real shame.
01/12/200336570202/20/2002
 My van was barely out of warranty when the o/d off light began flashing and the check engine light came on. the ford dealer told me that the check engine light was a result of a broken sensor weld on my intake manifold to the tune of approx. $900. they also stated that the o/d off light meant that the entire transmission needed replaced to the tune of $2,700. all this for being 1 month and 500 miles out of warranty. plus, i see that many people with ford windstars are experiencing the same thing at 35,000 miles and 70,000 (twice) so i see that i will undoubtedly have something to look forward to when the warranty runs out on the transmission... almost like the darned thing is deliberately designed to create a huge repair bill the moment it is out of warranty.
01/03/20033500011/30/1998
 The transmission failed on our 1999 ford windstar while my wife was driving down the road causing her to have to unexpectedly pull over. the van only has 35k miles on it. we have to replace the transmission after so few miles. after perusing the internet, i discovered that this is a common problem on this vehicle.
12/27/2002
 Consumer stated that while vehicle was in park the vehicle will jump out of gear into reverse causing an accident and damage to the vehicle. dealer notified. ts
08/02/20022913102/27/1999
 Automatic tranmission failure at 29,131 miles.
10/15/200201/01/2000
 Automatic transmission gears were reduced to metal dust. dt
10/17/2002102/01/2000
 Premature transmission failure with no warning. dt
11/19/2002
 True
02/21/2002105/01/2001
 While driving vehicle i came to a stop at traffic signal. when signal turned green i had no forward vehicle only made noises from the transmission. this incident occured without prior notification. this incident caused me and my family to be stranded also rendering us without a vehicle for 2 weeks. dt
09/16/2002104/01/2000
 Overdrive light began flashing on and off. pulled over immediately and checked transmission fluid, which was slightly low. drove 8 miles to automotive store, purchased fluid and refilled. problem alleviated for two days, then overdrive light began flashing again. disconnected battery to reset systems. two weeks later overdrive light began flashing again. noticed rpms were up to 3 at 69 mph. took van to our mechanic, who told us the overdrive was failing. he then referred us to local ford dealer, who confirmed the overdrive was failing and entire transmission would have to be replaced. contacted ford motor company who told us financial assistance would be up to the dealership that inspected the transmission. they offered no financial assistance. price 1,800 for new transmission, not including labor. when driving home from the dealership, engine began stalling at low idle speeds. engine dies during take off or acceleration at low speeds. our mechanic inspected van and could find no engine failure problems. suspects association with transmission failure. van is high milage, but had 66,000 miles when we bought it in 2000. has been well maintained and is only 3 years old. this seems to be a common problems with ford windstar transmissions. in reading some of the other owners' stories, i feel very lucky my transmission went out slowly and gave us warning. does someone have to actually get killed because of these problems before anything is done to make ford correct the problem? considering most minivans are used to transport families, it seems that immediate action would be taken to correct an obviously life-threatening problem. dt
10/17/20021
 Transmission lurched infrequently from day of purchase. i was told this was normal for a windstar. transmission failed suddenly and without warning while in traffic. no accident occured but easily could have. dt
09/23/2002
 Consumer states vehicle will not go into gear. had vehicle towed. transmission failure. *mr
08/11/2002102/01/2099
 On numerous occasions, both rear doors have failed to open. one time one of the rear doors spontaneously as i was driving down the highway, and had a child in the back seat. problems have been fixed each time by dealer under the warranty but problems reappear every time.*ak
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
05/01/2002
 Consumer applied accelerator at intersection engine revved, but vehicle would not move. dealer rebuilt transmission. in july 2002, transmission would not shift into gear at start up, again transmission was rebuilt.*ak
07/28/2002
 When making a left turn vehicle stalls. it is hard for consumer to keep control vehicle. dealer notified.*ak
3
 After coming to a complete stop hit gas pedal to pull off and vehicle would not accelarate.also, transmission had blown. had transmission replaced 3 times; however, problem still occurred. . contacted dealer. *ak
4
 Automatic transmission will shutter when speeds reach 35-50 mph. dealership has made 3 to 4 attempts to rectify failure, but problem still exists. *ak
06/29/2002108/01/2000
 The transmission on our 1999 windstar has failed prematurely. i have done some research and have found out that this is a common problem with this model vehicle. i am seeking reimbursement for the repairs from ford motor company. i would appreciate any information you can give me regarding complaints filed by other ford customers who have had the same problem. thank you.*ak
06/03/2002
 While driving 30-40 mph heard a whining noise. dealer determined first and second gears have gone out. transmission needs to be replaced.*ak
01/15/2002104/05/1999
 Vehicle stopped for a light, and when attempting to take off, vehicle would not move. consumers foot was pressed on gas pedal, and vehicle just made a noise and would not go. *ak consumer adds even though recall 00b51 was performed on vehicle, the tranny, which is possibly related to the recall, failed. *tt
05/25/200203/01/2099
 No summary listed for above vehicle. *ak
1
 The vehicle began shifting erratically and was revving up when being driven, the dealer has been unable to duplicate the problem. nlm
05/04/2002106/01/2099
 Total failure of transmission occurred at 35 months/48,000 miles - ford's response tough luck!*ak
08/01/2099
 Start vehicle put into drive, vehicle will suddently lunge forward (a sudden thrust) without touching the gas pedal. this happens atleast 95 per-cent of the time when vehicle is started. vehicle has been taken to ashley ford, 395 mt pleasant street, new bedford, ma, 508-996-5611on more than one occassion, this last time 04/16/02 they stated that it was the transmission, and they ordered a new transmission, which is to be installed. on 04/15/02 auto was in my garage started it up put it into gear and it lunged forward almost striking my wife who was walking into the garage from the side, i park my auto facing the street, as i back it into the garage. i believe this is a serious problem have complain to ashley ford several times about this matter. i feel that it may be something else other than the transmission. (tiresize: p215/70rx-)
04/03/2002108/01/1999
 I was stopped at a toll booth and began to accelerate when a loud grinding/clanking sound was heard from the front of the vehicle. i then had no forward gears, however reverse still worked. i was towed to the ford dealer who informed me that there was major internal transmission damage. this should not happen on a vehicle less than 3 years old and 44,000 miles. cost of repairs >$2900.*ak
 While shifting vehicle into park vehicle would not engage properly. vehicle was serviced, and technician replaced steel plate and reverse clutch. please provide further information.*ak
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
105/01/2000
 Van was purchased less than 2 years ago, has been in and out for repairs at least 5 times, the first being within 3 weeks after it was purchased. i am a female so do not know the exact nature of the problems, but believe they were all related to the transmission, which has already been replaced. we continue to experience the same problem each time it needs repairs. hard jerking when you slow down to stop and when you accelerate to go after being stopped, will go dead at times when you are idiling. we just had the alternator replaced a week ago and we out of state when the problem resurfaced 3/15.*ak
03/15/200204/01/1999
 After reversing from a parking space onto street, the vehicle made a loud noise while the gears where changed to drive. vehicle would no long to forward, we were able to put it in reverse and get out of the way of traffic. the transmission needs to be replaced at 41,000 miles.*ak
03/09/2002
 While traveling on highway heard a noise underneath vehicle and transmission locked up. vehicle had to be towed. *ak
02/23/20022
 Vehicle stops moving while driving at highway speed of 70 mph. this is second transmission failure within 69,000 mile of wear. *ak *tt
01/05/2002107/01/1999
 Transmission forward drum broke, had to be replaced. *ak
01/25/2002103/01/1999
 No warning prior to forward sun gear failure , gear had sheared off at welds cleanly. *ak
12/28/2001
 The overdrive off light started flashing on the 27th of dec.2001 and the vehicle was very hard shifting through the gears. on the 28th of dec. 2001 my wife was taking it to the dealer when the transmission had a catastrophic failure on a 2 lane roads steep hill on a curve, the vehicles engine revved up to redline and the vehicle started rolling down the hill no gear would engage. ford did pick up all but 495.00 of the repair cost,but i still found it my obligation to inform other entities of this failure. the indian head ford dealers service dept. was very helpful and i have no problem with the service just the product. *ak
12/23/200102/01/2001
 No summary listed for above vehicle. *ak
11/25/2001109/01/1999
 Transmission sun gear sheared from housing. required transmission overhaul and parts totaling $1855.00. vehicle starting from a dead stop at intersection. driver heard a noise from the transmission at the point of failure. stranded vehilce in intersection. reverse worked but all forward gears inoperable. part design appears to be week inthe area that a gear mounts to metal housing. *ak
11/17/2001105/01/1999
 I have contacted ford to see if i could get some help and they have been giving me the run around. no safety defect mentioned within summary. *ak
10/14/200111/01/1999
 I backed out of my driveway, put van in drive, reached about 25mph, van just locked up(tires did not roll)...threw me forward. i put the van in reverse, then back in drive, but it still wouldn't move forward. backed back into driveway and contacted ford dealer. am now told the transmission is broke. on a car only 2 years old. ford motor company should make this wrong, right!*ak
1
 The vehicle began shifting erratically and was revving up when being driven, the dealer has been unable to duplicate the problem. nlm
09/05/2001105/01/1999
 My transmission is going out at 52,000 miles, and since i don't have an extended warranty, i'm stuck with the bill. this is unacceptable that a transmission on a new vehicle is defective!. *ak
08/01/20002
 Windshield cracked while driving slowly. after taking it to get a new one put in we found that it was never sealed/mounted on the bottom. absolutly no adhesive contact what so ever. also at 28755 miles the o/d light started blinking and the car clucked while making turns and the transmission was replaced under warrantty and now at 37000 miles it doing them same thing again. *ak
08/15/2001
 While driving transmission would start to shutter at high speeds. consumer stated that at 52000 miles transmission should not need replacing. please provide any further information.*ak
07/28/2001107/01/1999
 Transmission failed, seal broken; and transmission fluid pumped onto highway, caught fire under engine compartment; transmission to be replaced; common occurrence with this model; please recall. *ak
05/18/2001103/01/1999
 My wife called me at work stating that there was a grinding sound coming from the van as she parked it in the garage. i went home and popped the hood and did a visual inspection and discovered nothing. i was going to stand in front of the van and listen while she started it to see if i could pinpoint the sound. she was concerned that i should not be near it in case something blew up. i agreed and decided to start it myself and see how it sounded. as i started the van it surged forward (while in park), made a terrible grinding sound, and i had to slam on the brakes to stop it. it just touched the chest freezer in front of it in the garage. i immediately shut it off. started it again and there was no sound and the engine run smoothly. tried all the gears and got nothing. had it towed to the dealer who tore it down and stated the planatery gear had seized. had i stood in front of the van to listen as my wife started it i would have been smashed as it surged forward. seems very dangerous for the vehicle to surge like that, even if the transmission fails.*ak
03/01/2001205/01/1999
 Transmission jerks harshly into second gear after slowing down and accelerating especially on incline. dealer replaced solenoids and torque converter and problem still exists. after returning to dealer they state it needs a new transmission. steering makes loud grinding noises when turning. dealer replaced tie rod, problem returned after 1 week. dealer then replaced rack.*ak
05/12/2001110/01/2000
 No summary listed for above vehicle. *ak
03/01/2001110/01/1999
 First indication of problem was rattling sound going downhill @ about 60 mph. sounded like muffler came loose and was dragging on pavement, except the noise was coming from the front of the car. after investigating and finding nothing, proceeded to drive to destination (about 12 mi). rattle continued off and on; overdrive off light on dash started blinking off and on though od was engaged. drove to a ford dealer (university ford, peoria il). they found transmission full of debris and replaced the transmission under the original warranty.
03/01/2001110/01/1999
 Transmission failure started while on highway @ 60 mph. sounded like muffler dragging on pavement, except it came from front of van. was able to drive to nearest ford dealer -- about 12 miles. dealer reported transmission full of debris and replaced it (part # xf2z-7000-barm). *ak
03/01/199902/01/1999
 Transmission problem - problem noticed immediately after purchase date - problem with slow shifts noticeable at 20 and 40 mph. grinding noise prevelant at these stages. dealership said was normal. around 25000 transmission began to experience quick shifts from acceleration, popping noise from one gear to next as transmission tries to determine appropriate gear for 5-10mph. grinding at 20 and 40mph steadily becoming worse. again dealership indicates normal. at 27mph transmission is beginning to jump into reverse. shifting of gears - bang bang bang. much worse. many trips to dealership yeild same response. new engine, no problems, or yes the engineers hear what you hear but no problem i am afraid that with 2 children and my wife that transmission will quit putting them in an unsafe predicament. notice that there are other complaints that outline the same or similar problem. ford unwilling to recognize.*ak
09/23/20002
 Transmission would shift properly into gears. problem of shifting was intermittent. steering is leaking fluid. took to dealership, mechanic could not locate cause of leakage or reason gears would lock up.*ak
01/27/2001107/01/2000
 Gas gauge hasn't worked a while, and transmission failed a few days ago. *ak
01/01/2000
 Transmission often does not smoothly shift into gear. the overdrive on/off light will flash on and off for 30-40 seconds intermittently. the transmission will seem to have trouble shifting gears and will hesitate or roughly jerk into a gear. we have taken it in to be repaired several times and had it repaired under a transmission recall as well but it still is having problems. *ak
08/23/1999406/01/1999
 Less than two months after purchasing our van we had to jump start it and lost the cable on the power sliding door. since then the car's engine was worked on but still stalls out sometimes.the transmission still jerks in park.(they couldn't find a problem.) for the power sliding door, after a new cable,numerous adjustings,alighnments and two control modules put in. it still works eraticley and the dealership refuses to see a problem. the door will not open, when it finally opens it will not shut. when it is closed it does not latch and the interior and door ajar lights stay on. it constantley makes a racket and popping noise. on occasion the door opens while driving. i have three small children and this is a saftey hazard!! working with a ford rep he states there is nothing they can do but to bring it in again for repairs. but they really can't see a problem. he did state that they would give me 1,500 rebate towards another van or trade in. i told him i wanted this unsafe vehicle mashed no further owners. he said that would not happen. after looking at your report on 1999 and 2000 windstars and the same repeated problems with engines and sliding doors.then comparing to other makes of mini vans and there few problems. i would not want to own another ford!! i will be submitting this problem to the dispute settlement board. i'ts to bad ford does not stand behind there products.*ak
08/01/20001
 Grinding noise which is in time with the tire rotation, dealer is assuming there is a problem with the transmission, vehicle has not been inspected yet. *mjs
08/01/2000105/01/1999
 Transmission problem - problem began with somerough shifts, noticeable at 20 and 40 mph. when went to merge onto tollway, car was unable to go above 40 mph, until as i was about to pull over, car jerked and began to accelerate. i knew something was seriously wrong with car then, so made appointment at dealership. it has been at dealer for 2 weeks waiting for a new transmission. driver sliding door doesn't always want to close. try to close, and it either clicks, or closes a couple of inches and then reopens. shake car, and eventually it will close. it is at dealership for the 4th time, in hopes of a repair. what happens if can't close door at all? can't drive car full of little kids with door open. fuel pump wouldn't work, car had to be towed from a parking lot. no prior warning to this problem, what if this happened while driving?
1
 Consumer was at a traffic light and went to take off, but vehicle did not move forward. consumer's husband worked for ford, and determined it was due to failure of transmission. *ak vehicle will not move in drive gears due to metal presence in the transmission fluid. *yh
08/09/2000106/01/1999
 Abrupt transmission failure without any previous symptoms - failed to engage forward or reverse.
04/01/20001011/01/1998
 Filed for lemon law going to arbitration. no safety defect mentioned in summary. *ak
06/13/20000
 When putting gear in reverse vehicle went forward. consumer had to put gear back into park to reshift. consumer stated that gears operated roughly. *ak
04/14/2000101/01/1999
 Van was running in park and jumped from park to reverse. pinned my leg to a tree, then threw me to the ground and then proceeded into my garage through the closed door. it then stopped. *ak
01/01/1999
 Unknown exact problem at this time grinding noise after the engine has been started and nothing else has been touched. sounds either like gears are shifting like a stick shift car in the wrong gear or like you trying to start the car after it has been started.
09/11/1999
 Consumer had problem with transmission twice. transmission wouldn't shift due to a cable being loose, and dealer replaced transmission twice. also, dealership replaced a cable on the sliding door, and instrument panel performs erratically. *ak
03/17/2000104/01/1999
 Leaving a filling station and returning to the street attempting to stop because of traffic the transmission made a grinding noise, the car kept moving, the engine was not reving up but the van kept moving, i steered to the right as much as i could i was almost side siped by a 18 wheeler. after reaching the street i let up on the brake pedal and the van coasted to a stop. i took it to the garage today and they check the abs brakes but found nothing wrong. it appeared to me that when i stepped on the brake the transmission styed engaged , because when the car came to a stop the grinding noise stopped. the garage did not check the transmission, they felt it couldn't happen. i'm 74 years old in excellent health. the motor was not reving up so i did not have one foot on the gas peddle, as they assumed i did. i tried sat with 1 foot on the gas and the other on the brake and the car would not move. so in my opinon it had to be in the transmisson. if that 18 wheeler would have hit me they would have said the driver failed to stop, and my wife and i would have been dead . *ak
05/25/1999403/13/1999
 Vehicle experiences sudden acceleration on its own up to 15-20 mph. the accelerator pedal does not have to be applied. on occasion transmission appears to be between gears.. *ak
207/01/1999
 If you proceed uphill and come to a stop to park, i place set the emergency parking brake before i put the van in park. when i leave i put my foot on the brake put the van in drve or whichever gear i need and i get an extremely loud clunk as if the trans. is going to fall out. while going uphill, once at approximately 5 to 10 mph and a second time at 45 to 50 mph the transmission slipped for a second all together. then it jumped back into the gear it was in previously, not berfore actually slowing down and almost stopping. i brought the van nto the local ford dealer to be looked at and within a few hours they called me for pick up and said there was nothing wrong. i find that hard to believe, i've been around cars all my life and that sound is not normal and the things that have happened are not normal. i called the dealer and he said it sounds like it may have loww tranny fluid. that has been checked and that is not the case. i feel like i'm getting the run around here and am not gettting any sound answers as to why this happens. i also just found out today from the person at the dealership that the windstar has many technical bulletins out regarding the transmission. i feel a little left out of hte crowd here. i'll be taking my family on a vacation back to minnesota and i want to make sure thevan will make it. after all thats why we pay for the warranties now isn't it. thanks for your help and guidance with this issue. *ak
12/18/1998
 When applying brakes to slow down, transmission would make a loud sound. and vehicle would accelerate. then transmission would make again the same noise & then it would jerk. been to dealer & mechanic could not locate cause of noise. *ak
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.
4010/01/1998
 While slowing down and then accelerating, transmission jumps and jerks into gear.
5010/01/1998
 When putting vehicle in gear, a loud metal-to-metal clunking noise is heard from transmission. dealer says in normal.
02/21/19993
 Vehicle was in park when transmission jumped gears, going forward on its own. the dealer replaced transmission . manufacturer notified. *ak
02/16/1999
 Consumer has been experiencing ongoing problems with following parts: 1. automatic transmission slipping in lower speed; 2. steering would make a popping noise only in wet conditions, and 3. starter woud grind when starting vehicle. dealer/manufacturer notified. *ak
04/24/1999104/23/1999
 Transmission failed. yh
02/08/1999111/01/1998
 Van was returned to dealer to fix a minor problem with the transmission. when slowing down and then accelerating, the transmission would jump and jerk into gear. ford elected to replace the transmission. then the technician discovered the steering problems and replaced the rack and pinion. then discovered the lower steering assembly was defective. therefore, they have had my new van in the shop for 3 weeks. *ak
POWER TRAIN - AUTOMATIC TRANSMISSION - CONTROL MODULE (TCM, PCM)
04/08/200594665409/05/2003
 While driving down the interstate, moving at a speed of 65 mph, the fuse (10)controlling the speed control module, abs module, brake shift interlock solenoid, powertrain control module, etc. etc. blew. instantly, i had no speedometer, abs light came on and my rear a/c began blowing on its own. i have since replaced #10 fuse and it has blown repeatedly. since this past friday, i have also learned that my cruise control is no longer functioning. i have done the research and have found from my fellow ford lemon owners, that this is not an uncommon occurance. i will be replacing the cruise control switch and/or brake pressure switch (which is located by the master cyclinder; which commonly seems to have a short in the circuit due to the wonderful job ford did designing their vehicles. *ak
08/02/20022913102/27/1999
 Automatic tranmission failure at 29,131 miles.
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
POWER TRAIN - AUTOMATIC TRANSMISSION - COOLING UNIT AND LINES
08/03/20001
 Consumer pulled off of the road to a vegetable stand and vehicle caught fire in the engine compartment, fire was found to have resulted from faulty cooling lines, claim 59-v539-348. *slc
07/28/2001107/01/1999
 Failure of transmission at highway speed; fluid spilled onto road caught fire under engine compartment; complained to dealer about hard shifting from 1-2; and van surging forward when coming to a stop; dealer claimed no problem performed b51 service update prior to problem; overdrive slips in and out on incline; requires remanufactured transmission. *ak
206/01/1999
 The transmission coolant line busted, the dealer replaced the line with a rubber hose and two clamps instead of replacing it with another line, the replacement hose has begun to leak. nlm
03/31/2000105/01/1999
 On the highway up the hill i notice smoke coming out from behind my van and when i halted i notice transmission oil coming underneath my van and i call road assistance. *ak
POWER TRAIN - AUTOMATIC TRANSMISSION - GEAR POSITION INDICATION (PRNDL)
08/01/200450000105/30/1999
 Two problems occurred in one month. first, the power steering went crazy. the ford dealer told me that it was leaking and had to replace the entire power steering assembly. but i was not sure because i do not know if ford dealer was trying to rip me off. then i took it to carx in racine, wi to take a look at it. he said same thing but he can't fix it because he had to order the part. then i decided to wait and leave. about 2 miles later, the transmission blew up in the middle of the road. the engine was running but can't drive or gear. i had it towed to towne ford inc. in racine, wi. the towne ford inc said that he found the problem. the problem was one of the gears snapped off the metal part. they had no idea why it happened. so, my option is to replace the entire transmission instead of several parts because of the cost and warranty coverage. but my van isn't old yet. it is 1999 ford windstar and it has 50,000 miles on it. it is still kind of new. why did the transmission blow up at 50,000 miles? what is the life expectancy on transmission? by miles or age? also, why did power steering get leaking?*ak
POWER TRAIN - AUTOMATIC TRANSMISSION - LEVER AND LINKAGE - COLUMN SHIFT
05/25/2007301/20/2007
 The vehicle when parked at any degree of incline or decline has had repeated tendencies not to shift out of park. on this occasion, i had the vehicle on ramps changing my oil and went to put it in neutral to level it out. the vehicle appeared to have gotten stuck in reverse and neither the foot brake nor the emergency brake would stop it. it would not let me shift into any of gear until it reached level ground. i had an appointment with the dealer to look at the transmission on may 31, 2007 because i had been having trouble with the transmission shifting very rough and feeling a jerking sensation when i shifted from park to either drive or reverse. *tr
08/07/2006105200103/01/2003
 Dt*: the contact stated while engine was running with the transmission in park, the engine engaged and the vehicle moved forward hitting another vehicle parked in the driveway. some damage was caused to the other vehicle. the column shift indicator was still in park. the vehicle was taken to the service dealer however the service dealer and the manufacturer have not determined a cause for the problem.
08/08/20051450001
 Park to reverse injury. *jb
POWER TRAIN - AUTOMATIC TRANSMISSION - PARK/NEUTRAL START SWITCH
06/02/2002305/01/2099
 Fire under hood: previous electrical problems: interiors lights coming on and staying on, dealers unable to find problem or duplicate. radio turning on and changing stations, components on its own. replaced on 03/06/2000. sliding doors opening while vehicle is moving and refusing to close. dealer unable to find cause. computerizes keys not working in ignition on two occasions. system being reprogram both times. am side of radio not working at night five days before fire. noted that when headlights are turned off, am works, but when turned back on nothing but static. 2) transmission: several occassions it would hardly pull up a hill, others the car would stay at one speed although my foot was not on the accelerator. extra braking was needed to slow vehicle down or stop. 3) computer module replaced several times and still worked erractic through 08/16/2002. 4) speedometer cluster performed erractic until relaced to include mileage doubling for any mileage driven on a given day. 5) suspension problems: spindle connecting rod replaced 03/07/2002, struts and ball joints replaced 05/29/2002, and lower arms and tie rod ends replaced 06/07/2002.*ak
01/08/20011
 After placing vehicle in park consumer entered house and he was notified by his neighbor that vehicle was on road. vehicle must be in park before key can be removed from ignition. *ak
04/14/2000101/01/1999
 While parked vehicle jumped from park to reverse, pinning my husband against a tree and threw him to the ground and proceeded through the front of our closed garage. *ak
11/01/1999
 Vehicle was parked in the garage with the emergency brakes on and in park, there was loud popping noise, and car apparently engaged in gear and proceeded to go out of the garage, dragging ms davis . car went several hundred feet and then stopped on an incline. emergency brake was still on, and the indicator showed in park. contacted dealer, and dealer suggested to contact manufacturer. *ak
08/12/1999
 Gear was put into neutral without applying the brakes which caused the vehicle to take off with children in the vehicle and run into a creek. dealer has not seen vehicle. *ak
POWER TRAIN - AUTOMATIC TRANSMISSION - TORQUE CONVERTER
02/15/20056200008/27/2002
 Transmission shifting problem, no leak. had speed sensor replaced and while there had fluid flushed and changed. the day after returning home with vehicle noticed small amount of fluid on carport. returned to dealer within 2-3 days. was told that maybe some fluid had spilled while changing. several days later noticed much more fluid on carport. returned to dealer. now they say the torque converter seal was cracked. it was not leaking at all before being serviced. this seal just mysteriously decided to leak immediately after the transmission was serviced?
11/19/200476191110/14/2001
 On oct 30, 2004 engine light came on toke to dealer leaking head gasket costing $459.00 now the transmission has failed which is going to cost 2398.00 to fix two major repairs in 2 weeks this is crap ford so fix the problem with a recall. *ak
08/13/200474000107/01/2002
 First, the o/d light flashed. a few days later, whie driving on the higway with all my kids in the van, i saw tons of smoke coming from behind the van. i pulled off the highway and saw all the transmission fluid pouring out under the front end. i drove to an exit, called for a ride home (it took two separate drivers to come and get me and the kids!) and got the van towed. the torque converter clutch went, and then caused the transmission failure as well--at 74,000 miles. every garage i called said that this is a bad transmission, and they replace/rebuild it all the time. *ak
04/28/20041
 While driving 65 mph, the over drive light appeared on the dashboard and remained on. black smoke poured out of the exhaust pipe . consumer was able to pull over and drive the vehicle home by pouring a quart of the transmission fluid into transmission cooling unit and lines. consumer had a mechanic inspect the vehicle, and mechanic determined that torque converter needed to be replaced due to worn out parts. *ak
11/21/2003704011
 While driving my 1999 winstar the overdrive light came on, so i looked in my rearview mirror and saw smoke comming from under the vehicle. so, i pull over to the side of the road and stop, transmission fluid was leaking out. my winstar van broke down out side of nashville, tn with 70,401 miles on it. the costs at john barker's two rivers ford in nashville was $2017.81.*ak
08/02/20022913102/27/1999
 Automatic tranmission failure at 29,131 miles.
12/05/2001109/10/2000
 The mechanic found the torque converter had failed and spun brass off and ruined the whole transmission. *yd
03/01/2001205/01/1999
 Transmission jerks harshly into second gear after slowing down and accelerating especially on incline. dealer replaced solenoids and torque converter and problem still exists. after returning to dealer they state it needs a new transmission. steering makes loud grinding noises when turning. dealer replaced tie rod, problem returned after 1 week. dealer then replaced rack.*ak
POWER TRAIN - AXLE ASSEMBLY
03/30/2010102000
 Tl*the contact owns a 1999 ford windstar. the contact was driving at approximately 35 mph when he heard a loud popping noise; he immediately pulled over. he then drove the vehicle to a local repair shop where he was informed that the rear axle support bar was cracked. the contact called an authorized dealership who told him that he would be responsible for the repair costs. the vehicle had not been repaired when the complaint was filed. the current and failure mileages were approximately 102,000.
03/09/2010132000
 Tl* the contact owns a 1999 ford windstar. the contact was advised by a mechanic that the rear axle was rusted and was almost entirely cracked. the mechanic stated he observed the failure often in this type of vehicle. the failure mileage was 132,000 miles and the current was 132,000.
01/29/2009118000
 Tl*the contact owns a 1999 ford windstar. when the contact attempted to drive 5 mph in reverse into a parking space he suddenly noticed a large popping sound in the rear of the vehicle. the contact examined the vehicle and noticed that both rear tires were bent inward. the vehicle was taken to a local mechanic where the contact was informed that the rear axle needed to be replaced due to rust. there were no prior warnings and the current and failure mileages were 118000.
12/27/2009148000
 Tl* the contact owns a 1999 ford windstar. while driving approximately 15 mph, he heard a bang noise, and then he experienced difficult steering. he noticed that the tires were bent inward. he took the vehicle to a repair shop. the technician stated that the rear axle assembly had cracked. he was waiting for the parts to be shipped for repairs. he had not contacted the dealership nor the manufacturer to-date. the current and failure mileages were approximately 148,000.
12/16/2009116000
 Tl* the contact owns a 1999 ford windstar. during routine inspection a mechanic stated that the rear axle had fractured. prior to the inspection no symptoms were present. he was in the process of having the vehicle repaired at an of expense $1500.00. he contacted the manufacturer, but no assistance was provided. he still has possession of the failed component. the failure and current mileages were 116,000.
08/11/200990405
 Tl*the contact owns a 1999 ford windstar. while inspecting his vehicle, the contact noticed a crack in the rear axle. the vehicle has not been diagnosed by the dealer. the current and failure mileages were 90,405.
04/30/200945000
 Tl*the contact owns a 1999 ford windstar. the contact stated that the rear axle on his vehicle cracked completely. the vehicle was unable to be driven. the vehicle was taken to the dealer and they stated that the repair would cost $1,641. the contact cannot afford to repair the vehicle. the vin was unknown. the failure mileage was 45,000.
03/28/2009870001
 Tl*the contact owns a 1999 ford windstar. while driving at an unknown speed, the contact heard a strange noise. he inspected the vehicle and noticed that the rear axle was cracked in half and the rear tires were bent. the manufacturer stated that there was no recall available and the vehicle was over the warranty mileage; therefore, they would not assist with the repair. the vehicle has not been repaired. the current and failure mileages were 87,000. updated 04/13/09. *jb
05/11/200787032104/09/1999
 The rear axle beam on a1999 ford windstar (87,032 miles) cracked and snapped into, causing both wheels to pitch the bottom of wheels outward resulting in unstable vehicle control (at highway speeds could cause an accident). ater inspection of failed parts, i believe ford has a manufacturing process that creates stress risers in the part that lead to premature failure. i have the parts and can email a ppd file that shows the failure surfaces. the dealership talked to ford customer relations and did pay for half of the repair. ford customer relations do not want to put me in contact with their engineering department to discuss this issue. i conduct failure analysis for a fortune 100 company and have concerns with the safety of this product. the replace part is manufatured exactly like the original failed part.i did find a report on the internet that describes an accident caused by the same failure. *tr
12/03/20041004953
 Consumer was driving through an intersection and while making a left turn passenger's side front wheel came off, pulling the axle out of the transmission. vehicle has front wheel drive. consumer contacted the dealer, and was told that the sub frame had to be replaced. *ak......according to a few dealerships the subframe has ha dnumerous problems causing the manufacturer to alter the manner in which the tie rod is mounted on the windstar subframe when the tie rod failed rusting completely off . vehicle was pulling out from a stop sign making aleft turn when the wheel shifted and brought vehicle to a complete stop. if it happened earlier it would have happened at 55 which would have been much worse. cost by ford was $1155.00. *ak
01/27/2002106/01/1999
 We know of no incident that could have caused this failure. see photo in email. no safety defect listed. *ak
POWER TRAIN - AXLE ASSEMBLY - AXLE SHAFT - SEAL
02/01/20001
 Pink fluid is leaking from the vehicle, dealer replaced the power steering unit and the transmission seal, vehicle is still experiencing small amounts of leakage. *mjs
POWER TRAIN - DRIVELINE
11/16/2010150000
 While driving on interstate highway the rear axle broke on 1999 ford windstar.almost lost control but managed to get to side of road safely. this is a life and death problem where all of these axles need to be replaced !
11/12/200456000
 Transmission on our 1999 ford windstar had to be replaced costs us 2500.00. car has only 56,000 miles on it.*ak
POWER TRAIN - DRIVELINE - CONSTANT VELOCITY JOINT
12/21/20011
 The vehicle's check engine light illuminated. the vehicle was taken to the dealer who replaced the fuel filter. *nm the alternator, right inner cv boot, abs module, and brake master cylinder were replace. *jb
POWER TRAIN - DRIVELINE - DIFFERENTIAL UNIT
01/15/2002104/05/1999
 Vehicle stopped for a light, and when attempting to take off, vehicle would not move. consumers foot was pressed on gas pedal, and vehicle just made a noise and would not go. *ak consumer adds even though recall 00b51 was performed on vehicle, the tranny, which is possibly related to the recall, failed. *tt
05/18/2001103/01/1999
 My wife called me at work stating that there was a grinding sound coming from the van as she parked it in the garage. i went home and popped the hood and did a visual inspection and discovered nothing. i was going to stand in front of the van and listen while she started it to see if i could pinpoint the sound. she was concerned that i should not be near it in case something blew up. i agreed and decided to start it myself and see how it sounded. as i started the van it surged forward (while in park), made a terrible grinding sound, and i had to slam on the brakes to stop it. it just touched the chest freezer in front of it in the garage. i immediately shut it off. started it again and there was no sound and the engine run smoothly. tried all the gears and got nothing. had it towed to the dealer who tore it down and stated the planatery gear had seized. had i stood in front of the van to listen as my wife started it i would have been smashed as it surged forward. seems very dangerous for the vehicle to surge like that, even if the transmission fails.*ak
POWER TRAIN - DRIVELINE - DRIVESHAFT
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
POWER TRAIN - MANUAL TRANSMISSION
08/14/200453091106/16/2004
 We were driving on the freeway in ohio without any problems. upon exiting the freeway we stopped at a stop sign and barely accelerated and the van hesitated and we barely made a slight turn into a gas station when the van would not switch into gear. we managed to nurse it into a parking spot and put it in park and there is where it stayed, unable to shift into any other gear. we were on our way to florida from michigan. the van only had 53091 miles on it and was maintained well. we had the van towed to a dealer and were told the transmission needed to be replaced due to a faulty sun gear. upon further questioning we were told that something not welded properly just broke loose and destroyed the transmission. *ak
05/10/200251000510/31/2001
 Transmission, sliding door, driver door, rack and pinion, steering pump, intake manifold, front suspension upper link, world's fastest declining vehicle value, world's worst customer service and satisfaction representatives.*ak
12/12/2001403/10/2001
 Consumer stated the overdrive light illuminated on 4 occassions, the dealer replaced both axle seals and the transmission servo was leaking, also the vehicle would not shift properly at times, after the third attempt to try and correct the problem, the dealer installed a rebuilt transmission, however while driving, the overdrive light illuminated and there was a burning smell coming from the vehicle, smoke began coming inside the vehicle, the vehicle was towed to a local mechanic shop and consumer was informed that the transmission had failed, the vehicle was then towed to the dealer where the transmission was replaced for the second time, however after the transmission was replaced, the dealer informed consumer that the vehicle caught fire and was engulfed in flames, they were trying to find the cause of the fire which had started in the engine compartment in the area of the transmission.*jb
10/18/2002
 Consumer states that while driving and no warning the over drive warning light will come on and if will be hard for the consumer to shift gear on the vehicle. dealer will be notified ts
1
 Consumer stated the transmission had to be replaced.*jb
09/25/20011
 Consumer had just stopped at a stop sign, and was gently accelerating into the intersection when something pooped and the vehicle would no longer go foward, consumer was informed that the breakdoen was caused by the failure of the weld which holds the drum and the secondary sun gear together.*yd
1
 The transmission failed and the consumer brought the vehicle to the dealer for service as part of recall, the dealer indicated the recall was not transmission related and wanted to charge the consumer for fixing it. *yh
09/25/20011
 Consumer had just stopped at a stop sign, and was gently accelerating into the intersection when something pooped and the vehicle would no longer go foward, consumer was informed that the breakdoen was caused by the failure of the weld which holds the drum and the secondary sun gear together.*yd
1
 The transmission failed and the consumer brought the vehicle to the dealer for service as part of recall, the dealer indicated the recall was not transmission related and wanted to charge the consumer for fixing it. *yh
05/01/19992
 Transmission experienced a leak. nlm

Some parts © 2024 Advameg, Inc.
Based on public records. Inadvertent errors are possible.
This web site is not associated with, endorsed by, or sponsored by and has no official or unofficial affiliation with the vehicle's manufacturer.