Recalls


CampaignManufacturerManufacturing dateType# of units affectedDate Owner notified MfgRecall Initiated byManufacturers of recalled vehicles/productsReport Recieved DateRecord Creation DateRegulation Part NumberFMVSS Number
SERVICE BRAKES, HYDRAULIC - FOUNDATION COMPONENTS - MASTER CYLINDER
99V147000FORD MOTOR COMPANYfrom 06/16/1996 to 05/31/1999V (Vehicle)78972306/16/1999OVSCFORD MOTOR COMPANY06/14/199906/16/1999571135
Defect SummaryVehicle description: minivans. the brake fluid master cylinder is recessed and oriented in the engine compartment so that the brake fluid warning statement embossed on both the top of the filler cap and the side of the reservoir body are not entirely visible by direct view. these vehicles may not fully comply with requirements of fmvss no. 135, passenger car brake systems.
Consequence Summary
Corrective SummaryOwners will be provided with new labels and installation instructions.
NotesOwner notification began june 16, 1999.owners who take their vehicles to an authorized dealer on an agreed upon service date and do not receive the free remedy within a reasonable time should contact ford at 1-800-392-3673.also contact the national highway traffic safety administration's auto safety hotline at 1-888-dash-2-dot (1-888-327-4236).

Bulletins


BulletinBulletin dateReplacement BulletinItem no.SummaryAdded
SERVICE BRAKES, AIR - ANTILOCK - INTERCONNECTING ASSEMBLY(WIRING)
1340810/01/19996092207Subject regarding trailer tow electric brake connector. *tt11/27/2000
732010/01/1999609605Subject regarding the trailer tow electric brake connector location. *tt04/04/2000
SERVICE BRAKES, HYDRAULIC
1698707/01/200310003853Slight amount of fluid residue on the outside of the rear wheel cylinder dust boot on vehicles with rear drum brakes. *tt11/04/2003
SERVICE BRAKES, HYDRAULIC - ANTILOCK
1223012/01/1998615491All vehicles with antilock brake module concerns that require a module replacement, the technician must call for approval before removing and / or replacing the module. *tt01/17/2001
SERVICE BRAKES, HYDRAULIC - ANTILOCK - ABS WARNING LIGHT
1568203/01/2002636312Exhibiting intermittent anti-skid brake system and / or red brake lamp on at times while driving. *tt11/07/2002
SERVICE BRAKES, HYDRAULIC - FOUNDATION COMPONENTS
9919409/20/19996090082Information for servicing and diagnosing brake vibration, brake inspection, and brake friction material replacement. *tt03/06/2000
SERVICE BRAKES, HYDRAULIC - FOUNDATION COMPONENTS - DISC
1582204/01/2002637558Some vehicles may exhibit a squeal noise from the front brakes when stopping. *tt12/02/2002
1538511/01/2001630398Some vehicles may exhibit a front brake lining click or rattle noise while driving over bumps or rough roads. *tt04/16/2002
SERVICE BRAKES, HYDRAULIC - FOUNDATION COMPONENTS - DISC - CALIPER
1701608/01/200310003151Front caliper seepage in extreme cold temperatures. *tt10/09/2003
SERVICE BRAKES, HYDRAULIC - FOUNDATION COMPONENTS - DRUM
1571903/01/2002636361Some vehicles may exhibit rear drum brakes that drag or will not release properly when operated in wet conditions and / or below freezing temperatures. *tt11/07/2002
SERVICE BRAKES, HYDRAULIC - FOUNDATION COMPONENTS - DRUM - DRUM
1465602/01/2001619160Some vehicles may exhibit rear drum brakes that drag or will not release properly when operated in wet conditions and / or below freezing temperatures. *tt05/17/2001
SERVICE BRAKES, HYDRAULIC - SWITCHES - BRAKE LIGHT
0217609/02/200210008580Lamp-brake-invadvertent disabling of brake shift interlock. *mj08/05/2004

Investigations


NHTSA IDManufacturerDate openDate closeSubjectRecall campaign
SERVICE BRAKES, HYDRAULIC
EA08021FORD MOTOR COMPANY09/17/200810/14/2009ENGINE COMPARTMENT FIRES09V399000
 Ea08-021 is closed with ford's actions in recall 09v-399 recalling approximately 4.5 million vehicles equipped with texas instruments speed control deactivation switches (scds).with this recall ford has now recalled all of the approximate 16 million ford model vehicles that were manufactured from my 1992 through 2003 with a texas instruments scds.nhtsa will continue to monitor the recalled vehicles to ensure remedies installed by ford tomitigate the potential for scds related fires are effective.the agency reserves the right to take further action if warranted by the circumstances.see attached closing report for further details.
SERVICE BRAKES, HYDRAULIC - ANTILOCK
EA08021FORD MOTOR COMPANY09/17/200810/14/2009ENGINE COMPARTMENT FIRES09V399000
 Ea08-021 is closed with ford's actions in recall 09v-399 recalling approximately 4.5 million vehicles equipped with texas instruments speed control deactivation switches (scds).with this recall ford has now recalled all of the approximate 16 million ford model vehicles that were manufactured from my 1992 through 2003 with a texas instruments scds.nhtsa will continue to monitor the recalled vehicles to ensure remedies installed by ford tomitigate the potential for scds related fires are effective.the agency reserves the right to take further action if warranted by the circumstances.see attached closing report for further details.
SERVICE BRAKES, HYDRAULIC - ANTILOCK - CONTROL UNIT/MODULE
EA08021FORD MOTOR COMPANY09/17/200810/14/2009ENGINE COMPARTMENT FIRES09V399000
 Ea08-021 is closed with ford's actions in recall 09v-399 recalling approximately 4.5 million vehicles equipped with texas instruments speed control deactivation switches (scds).with this recall ford has now recalled all of the approximate 16 million ford model vehicles that were manufactured from my 1992 through 2003 with a texas instruments scds.nhtsa will continue to monitor the recalled vehicles to ensure remedies installed by ford tomitigate the potential for scds related fires are effective.the agency reserves the right to take further action if warranted by the circumstances.see attached closing report for further details.

Consumer Complaints


Fail datemilesoccurencesPurchase date
SERVICE BRAKES
09/12/2012140000
 Tl* the contact owns a 1999 ford windstar. the contact stated that the abs light illuminated. the vehicle was not repaired. the manufacturer was not notified. the failure mileage was 140,000. the vin was unavailable.
07/30/2012
 I have been having this problem for about 7 months. the abs light comes after 2 minutes of driving and it stays on till i shut off the engine. i have taken it to mechanic to see if its something simple but replacement would cost too much. so far i have been driving it. whether or no its safe-don't know. hoping the brakes would still function correctly.
06/06/2012150000
 Tl* the contact owns a 1999 ford windstar. the contact stated that after starting the vehicle, the abs warning light illuminated until the engine was turned off. the vehicle was not repaired. the manufacturer was not notified of the problem. the approximate failure mileage was 150,000. the vin was unavailable.
06/06/2012150000
 Tl- the contact owns a 1999 ford windstar. the contact stated that after starting the vehicle, the abs warning light illuminated until the engine was turned off. the vehicle was not repaired. the manufacturer was not notified of the problem. the approximate failure mileage was 150,000. the vin was unavailable. mah
06/06/2012150000
 Tl-the contact owns a 1999 ford windstar. the contact started the ignition and the abs warning indicator illuminated continuously until the engine was turned off. the vehicle had not been diagnosed or repaired. the manufacturer was notified of the problem. the approximate failure mileage was 150,000. the vin was unavailable. js
02/01/20131590001
 Abs light stays on. *tr
02/01/2013159000
 Abs light stays on.
10/01/20121230001
 The abs light comes on randomly while driving. ford dealership determined that the abs module was bad, and replacement would cost $1250, however, i would be safe driving it without the repair. the regular brakes would still function correctly, i just would not have the anti-lock brake system. because the vehicle is 14 yrs old, i opted not to have the repair done at this time. *tr
10/01/2012123000
 The abs light comes on randomly while driving. ford dealership determined that the abs module was bad, and replacement would cost $1250, however, i would be safe driving it without the repair. the regular brakes would still function correctly, i just would not have the anti-lock brake system. because the vehicle is 14 yrs old, i opted not to have the repair done at this time.
09/01/20121000001
 Abs lights been on and off intermittently for a very long time since i've owned this van ford need to fix these. *tr
09/01/2012100000
 Abs lights been on and off intermittently for a very long time since i've owned this van ford need to fix these.
11/15/20101500001
 I was driving my van and i tried to stop and could not stop and hit the back of another car had feet all the way down on brake and van would not stop!! i was terrified and my 10 year old lil girl is traumatized!!!! *tr
11/15/2010150000
 I was driving my van and i tried to stop and could not stop and hit the back of another car had feet all the way down on brake and van would not stop!! i was terrified and my 10 year old lil girl is traumatized!!!!
07/28/2011100000
 The abs lights comes on after the speed of the car goes above 5-10mph.
10/28/20112500001
 After purchasing van, not even one month later all lights started to turn on engine, abs now n and its a rear light on gauge panel also we are in the middle of trying to get decent price for the freeze plug which also needs to be replaced because there is a leak of coolant from the bottom of van. other wise its ok to drive. one i thing i didn't mention is the seat its struck it wont move back or forward with the electrical button. *tr
10/28/2011250000
 After purchasing van, not even one month later all lights started to turn on engine, abs now n and its a rear light on guage panel also we are in the middle of trying to get decent price for the freeze plug withch also needs to be replaced because there is a leak of coolant from the bottom of van. other wise its ok to drive. one i thing i didn't mention is the seat its struck it wont move back or forward with the electrical button.
09/09/20111
 My abs light has been on since i bought this car and now i am hearing about many other people with the same problem. is it dangerous? *tr
09/09/2011
 My abs light has been on since i bought this car and now i am hearing about many other people with the same problem. is it dangerous?
09/01/2011120000
 The abs light periodically comes on. the brakes, for no reason, occasionally seem to go into abs mode (and seems unrelated to the light being on or off). the brakes get softer and seem to pump. i've experienced real abs working when braking in north east ice and snow. i'm now driving in the south and the braking seems pretty close to what i remember for actual abs actuation. i replaced the master cylinder and had a complete fluid change but to no effect.
06/01/20121200001
 The abs warning light on the dashboard began glowing. *tr
09/01/2011120000
 The abs light periodically comes on. the brakes, for no reason, occasionally seem to go into abs mode (and seems unrelated to the light being on or off). the brakes get softer and seem to pump. i've experienced real abs working when braking in north east ice and snow. i'm now driving in the south and the braking seems pretty close to what i remember for actual abs actuation. i replaced the master cylinder and had a complete fluid change but to no effect.
06/01/20121200001
 The abs warning light on the dashboard began glowing. *tr
09/01/2011120000
 The abs light periodically comes on. the brakes, for no reason, occasionally seem to go into abs mode (and seems unrelated to the light being on or off). the brakes get softer and seem to pump. i've experienced real abs working when braking in north east ice and snow. i'm now driving in the south and the braking seems pretty close to what i remember for actual abs actuation. i replaced the master cylinder and had a complete fluid change but to no effect.
06/01/2012120000
 The abs warning light on the dashboard began glowing.
09/01/2011120000
 The abs light periodically comes on. the brakes, for no reason, occasionally seem to go into abs mode (and seems unrelated to the light being on or off). the brakes get softer and seem to pump. i've experienced real abs working when braking in north east ice and snow. i'm now driving in the south and the braking seems pretty close to what i remember for actual abs actuation. i replaced the master cylinder and had a complete fluid change but to no effect.
06/01/2012120000
 The abs warning light on the dashboard began glowing.
07/02/2012920001
 The abs light goes on about 5-10 minutes after starting. when car shut off & restarted abs light is off and then goes back on after a few minutes. *tr
06/01/2012120000
 The abs warning light on the dashboard began glowing.
07/02/201292000
 The abs light goes on about 5-10 minutes after starting. when car shut off & restarted abs light is off and then goes back on after a few minutes.
07/03/20121925071
 Abs light comes on after engine warm-up and remains on. after engine compartment has cooled, light is off at restart. it will then come on again after engine warmup. speed control is intermittently inop. *tr
07/03/2012192507
 Abs light comes on after engine warm-up and remains on. after engine compartment has cooled, light is off at restart. it will then come on again after engine warmup. speed control is intermittently inop.
08/01/20112000001
 Abs light illuminated a few months after a recall was complied by ford. the recall consist of replacing a brake pressure switch, cruise control part, and abs module. *tr
07/01/20121230001
 The abs warning light comes on intermittently while driving, for no apparent reason, if it comes on, it will sometimes go off during the trip. sometimes doesn't come on except during start up. *tr
08/01/20112000001
 Abs light illuminated a few months after a recall was complied by ford. the recall consist of replacing a brake pressure switch, cruise control part, and abs module. *tr
07/01/20121230001
 The abs warning light comes on intermittently while driving, for no apparent reason, if it comes on, it will sometimes go off during the trip. sometimes doesn't come on except during start up. *tr
08/01/20112000001
 Abs light illuminated a few months after a recall was complied by ford. the recall consist of replacing a brake pressure switch, cruise control part, and abs module. *tr
07/01/20121230001
 The abs warning light comes on intermittently while driving, for no apparent reason, if it comes on, it will sometimes go off during the trip. sometimes doesn't come on except during start up. *tr
08/01/2011200000
 Abs light illuminated a few months after a recall was complied by ford. the recall consist of replacing a brake pressure switch, cruise control part, and abs module
07/01/2012123000
 The abs warning light comes on intermittently while driving, for no apparent reason, if it comes on, it will sometimes go off during the trip. sometimes doesn't come on except during start up
01/02/20121200001
 Abs light illuminated on dash. *tr
01/02/2012120000
 Abs light ilmuminated on dash
05/11/20051
 Abs light comes on and off along with overdrive light. *tr
SERVICE BRAKES, ELECTRIC
08/19/2011120006
 1999 ford windstar - abs light- internmittant, no apparent cause.. reduced brake function. happening for more than 4 years, brakes, sensors, master cylinder replaced. still get the abs light without a reason. ford says if there's dust in there, the light will come on.. really? so why does it come on when it's raining too?
08/16/2011147670
 Vehicle: 99 ford windstar lx problem: the abs light has being turned on and off from time to time for about three years. the light will be on randomly while driving. it can be shut down after the vehicle is turned off and then restart. the abs light will be turned on again at any time while driving. the reported vehicle has been send to ford dealer for diagnosis. the service department determined that the problem was caused by a broken front tone ring. after the tone ring is replaced, the abs light is turned on as soon as the vehicle was moving on the road.
08/19/2011120006
 1999 ford windstar - abs light- internmittant, no apparent cause.. reduced brake function. happening for more than 4 years, brakes, sensors, master cylinder replaced. still get the abs light without a reason. ford says if there's dust in there, the light will come on.. really? so why does it come on when it's raining too?
08/16/2011147670
 Vehicle: 99 ford windstar lx problem: the abs light has being turned on and off from time to time for about three years. the light will be on randomly while driving. it can be shut down after the vehicle is turned off and then restart. the abs light will be turned on again at any time while driving. the reported vehicle has been send to ford dealer for diagnosis. the service department determined that the problem was caused by a broken front tone ring. after the tone ring is replaced, the abs light is turned on as soon as the vehicle was moving on the road.
08/19/2011120006
 1999 ford windstar - abs light- internmittant, no apparent cause.. reduced brake function. happening for more than 4 years, brakes, sensors, master cylinder replaced. still get the abs light without a reason. ford says if there's dust in there, the light will come on.. really? so why does it come on when it's raining too?
08/16/2011147670
 Vehicle: 99 ford windstar lx problem: the abs light has being turned on and off from time to time for about three years. the light will be on randomly while driving. it can be shut down after the vehicle is turned off and then restart. the abs light will be turned on again at any time while driving. the reported vehicle has been send to ford dealer for diagnosis. the service department determined that the problem was caused by a broken front tone ring. after the tone ring is replaced, the abs light is turned on as soon as the vehicle was moving on the road.
07/25/201150000
 Yellow abs light on even after recall fixed by ford. the braking distance has increased even though there are no propblems with the brakes. the abs isn't working .
10/21/2010160000
 Recall id# 09v399000 was completed few months sgo, now abs on dash is on few minutes after the vehicle is put in motion. dealer pinpointed trouble to abs control module. overheating of the board could be the resoult of the leaking scds on the module connector. dealer wants to charge me $ 1,000 to fix the problem.
12/11/20091035241
 This is a follow-up complaint, regarding ford recall 09s09, the speed control deactivation switch (scds). our 1999 ford windstar was serviced on 11dec09. the vehicle's abs dash light is still coming on, indicating that the system turned off. lately, the abs light is coming on more frequently, within minutes of start-up and a short driving distance (within a mile away of the previous starting point). as a result, the vehicle does not have abs braking capability or traction control capability (as the traction control turns off along w/ the abs system). the recall service was completed by performance ford, 11910 w. dodge road omaha ne 68154. at this time, we are considering another repair shop, as we believe the ford dealer failed to adequately repair the recall and have subsequently put our family at risk. the dealer inspection found the following upon initial repair: found switch leaking with no heat damage. inspect servo switch no heat damage and no heat damage to abs connector applied grease to both connectors ok after repair. please press ford to have their dealers complete the recall and repair as necessary, because they are not completing the work as promised. *tr
05/21/20091450001
 I was having trouble with the dashboard on my 1999 ford windstar last spring. all the gauges would go wacky and the abs light would come on. i took it into the luther ford dealer in fargo, nd and they could not figure it out. offered to replace front board where the gauges are for no charge i would just pay for the labor. i said no. went this way all summer and then the rpm needle just quit. this van has given me so much trouble regarding the wiring. i also had to replace the board in the back right panel of the van. and am always replacing light bulbs in the back. disgusted!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!! i did take it in for the recall. the abs light is off now. do i have abs??????????? i felt they just wanted to get rid of me. *tr
12/17/20091350001
 We were driving when we smelled something burning. the abs brake light displayed on the dash and smoke was coming from under the hood. when we stopped and lifted up the hood there were flames in the engine compartment. there is what we think is a sensor under master cylinder it was on fire. *tr
08/12/20091257211
 My abs light is on, brake light comes off and on, now my speedometer and the rpm meter are not working... *tr
05/08/2007900001
 1999 ford windstar. abs light appears on dash randomly. this indicates that something is wrong with the abs system. through research, i have noticed that parts near a circuit board are getting hot causing expansion causing the abs system to malfunction. this could cause a fire and furthermore the brake system isn't functioning the way it was designed to. i carry my precious family in my van. ford needs to address this serious issue. *tr
05/01/2001390001
 I have a 1999 ford windstar sel with traction control that i purchased new january of 1999. it has never been outside of southern california and is stored inside. current mileage is 140,000. this abs problem started after warranty period expired at approx 39,000 miles. the van developed an abs light and trac off light. dealership diagnosis was a faulty abs master relay (code c1185 as well as several othersrequiring a new abs module to the tune of more than 1200$. with the other problems ie: having to replace the vacuum hoses, intake manifold, valve cover, door seals, heater blend door, interior light flickering, and transmission 3 times over the last 9 years, this was one fix we elected to forgo as i perform all maintenance outside the dealership and this si a dealer only fix. i have been following this for years with interest and just now decided to file as there appears to be thousands with this same problem. dash lights have been on for the last 100,000 miles. apparent problem as found on web - abs ecm failure - abs brake light. the issue of the abs brake light is critical in that the abs brake system does not function as designed by ford. the issue is caused by heat in the abs (anti-lock brake system) ecm (electronic control module) (2c219) module causing expansion of a large aluminum plate (heat sink) in the ecm which is attached to the ecm main circuit board at all points. the expansion occurs when the unit gets warm especially in the summer months and causes intermittent electrical connection in the unit because the fragile board is being stretched and malformed. the code most commonly scanned by professional mechanics is code c1185. seen by us owners as a yellow abs brake light. *tr
01/20/20081
 The abs light comes on when the car has been running for over 30 minutes. received following codes. c1185 c1194 c1198 c1210 c1214 c1242 c1246 c1250 c1254. *tr
08/10/20081220001
 I have a red brake light intermittently illuminating, and my cruise control quit working. the brake switch just below the master cylinder has evidence of leakage and it is seeping onto the wiring and speed control box. if it continues without service serious damage is eminent. *tr
07/12/2008990001
 Ongoing failure of fuse that controls the speedometer/ac and abs. leak from under master break cylinder onto switch. fixed by repair shop. 1999 ford windstar. *tr
07/17/2008300001
 Abs light comes on in my van after the car warms up. each day when i use the vehicle the abs light is not on, after the car warms up, the light comes on again. i found information about the ecm is defective and the circuit board warps when heated. the issue is caused by heat in the abs (anti-lock brake system) ecm (electronic control module) (2c219) module causing expansion of a large aluminum plate (heat sink) in the ecm which is attached to the ecm main circuit board at all points. the expansion occurs when the unit gets warm especially in the summer months and causes intermittent electrical connection in the unit because the fragile board is being stretched and malformed. the code most commonly scanned by professional mechanics is code c1185. seen by us owners as a yellow abs brake light. *tr
01/01/2001300001
 Abs light comes on at times. has done this since about 30,000 miles and van has 150,000 currently. at first it would randomly come on about every other month and i thought that was normal, now it comes on every other day or multiple times a day. abs computer is defective and needs to be replaced. failure codes that are in the abs computer: 1145rf wheel speed input circuit failure 1185power relay output circuit failure 1198lf isolation valve circuit failure 1194lf dump valve circuit failure 1254rr isolation valve circuit failure 1246rr dump valve circuit failure 1250lr isolation valve circuit failure 1242lr dump valve circuit failure 1214rf isolation valve circuit failure 1210rf dump valve circuit failure as you can see from the codes the abs computer has failed. the abs computer will be deactivated until a replacement can be installed. *tr
06/01/20081150001
 I have a 1999 ford windstar, 3.8l engine. abs brake light on, no speedometer, no odometer, no air conditioning. took to a repair shop, they found fuse #10 was blown. replaced the fuse and smoke started to come up from the master cylinder area, he removed the electrical connection plug for the brake pressure switch located on the bottom of the master cylinder. thankfully this did not occur while my wife and children in the vehicle, so no one was injured. i have read on the internet of several windstars with this same problem, and believe ford should do something to rectify this problem. *tr
02/19/2008980001
 I own a 1999 ford windstar. the mileage on my car is 98,000. two months ago my abs brake light would not switch off, then my odometer quit working as well as my speedometer. i took it to a mechanic who said he has seen this problem in many ford windstars and would not even work on it due to the complexity of the problem. he said what happens is that the brake fluid leaks causing some kind of issue with the electrical system which ends up being very expensive to fix. in my research i have learned there are many other people with this exact problem. it seems like the brake fluid leak is a defect in the system. *tr
06/10/2005133000408/10/2002
 1999 ford windstar 135,000 miles. used for sales. master cylinder (abs) light on and short at line running into master cylinder. pulled fuse after blowing several. affected part of dash (speedo, and odomiter) and cruise now does not work. had my son confirm were smoked wire was while putting in new fuse and watching under hood with my son starting van. note: same problem as see in news reports on other ford products but windstar was not listed. my mechinic does not do wiring but he did point out tosted harrness and connection at master cylinder.
SERVICE BRAKES, HYDRAULIC
01/01/2012142000
 I start my 99 ford windstar with my wife inside the vehicle and my two daugthers and my son when i saw smoke comming true the hood then i open the hood and my surprise was the brake pressure differential deactivation switch on fire i was so scared then i just take my kids and wife out of the vehicle and comback to stop the fire thanks god i have fire extinguisher close but we have to stop this from happening to someone else
12/17/2011150000
 1999 ford windstar: the brake pressure differential deactivation switch (scds) (2b264) located under the master cylinder (behind the air filter) has leaked an excessive amount of brake fluid. the fluid accumulates on the power connectors for the abs brake system which are powered by fuses 101 and 102 and are both 40 amp. the cruise control has failed and we are fearful that this leaking brake fluid will cause a fire.
12/22/200480000
 Braking distance suddenly increased, abs light on. while at the dealership for other issues, they checked the abs system, said a new ecm would fix it... $300 part!!!! this seems to be a very common issue on the windstars.
12/01/201040000
 Tl-the contact owns a 1999 ford windstar. the contact stated that the cruise control, speedometer, odometer, tacometer and the fuel gauge were inoperable. the contact also stated that the anti lock braking light was constantly illuminated. in addition, the contact had to replace the brake fluid numerous times. the vehicle was not taken to have the failures diagnosed or repaired. the manufacturer was not made aware of the failures. the failure mileage was 40,000. kmj
08/12/2009
 First occurance of the abs light coming on resulted in producing diagnostic codes of c1185 c1242 and an abs rear sensor code. the abs light was very intermittent a first but now has become much more frequent. the light will display more so on bumpy roads and hot days. i depend on my abs system because i am handicaped and live in northern climate (snow and ice conditions). i can know longer depend on my abs system to help prevent an accident or an impact.
12/01/201040000
 Tl-the contact owns a 1999 ford windstar. the contact stated that the cruise control, speedometer, odometer, tacometer, and fuel gauge no longer function. the contact also stated that the anti lock braking light was constantly illuminated. in addition, the contact had to replace the brake fluid on numerous occasions. the vehicle was not taken to have the failure diagnosed or repaired. the manufacturer was not made aware of the failure. the failure mileage was 40,000. sm.
08/12/2009
 First occurance of the abs light coming on resulted in producing diagnostic codes of c1185 c1242 and an abs rear sensor code. the abs light was very intermittent a first but now has become much more frequent. the light will display more so on bumpy roads and hot days. i depend on my abs system because i am handicaped and live in northern climate (snow and ice conditions). i can know longer depend on my abs system to help prevent an accident or an impact.
05/25/2011118201
 Intermittent problem: problems indicated by on board message center reads check brake lamps, check tail lamps check head lamps check rear turn lamps, check front turn lamps, noticed that interior lights will not work, auto locks will not work, key remote will not lock or unlock vehicle or open doors. get no codes from o b d ii. scanner. have replaced battery because it was 6 years old and wasn't putting out proper amps. thought would solve problem. it didn't. thought disconnecting battery for 30 min. would reset computer. seamed to work a couple of times, however, now believe it was just coincidence. sometimes when i start the vehicle everything is fine, however while driving, the message reappears and none the above mentioned, no longer work again. this is a driving hazard.
07/01/2007
 The abs system light comes on when car operating temp or outside air temp is warm. reported to ford on numerous occasions & they tell me it's my problem. i believe that ford has produced a faulty part which has been well documented by other windstar owners on ford forum sites etc. apparently when the abs board gets hot, one of the electronic parts separates causing the fault error code. i think ford has some responsibility with this issue and should issue a recall to fix the problem!
05/25/2011118201
 Intermittent problem: problems indicated by on board message center reads check brake lamps, check tail lamps check head lamps check rear turn lamps, check front turn lamps, noticed that interior lights will not work, auto locks will not work, key remote will not lock or unlock vehicle or open doors. get no codes from o b d ii. scanner. have replaced battery because it was 6 years old and wasn't putting out proper amps. thought would solve problem. it didn't. thought disconnecting battery for 30 min. would reset computer. seamed to work a couple of times, however, now believe it was just coincidence. sometimes when i start the vehicle everything is fine, however while driving, the message reappears and none the above mentioned, no longer work again. this is a driving hazard.
07/01/2007
 The abs system light comes on when car operating temp or outside air temp is warm. reported to ford on numerous occasions & they tell me it's my problem. i believe that ford has produced a faulty part which has been well documented by other windstar owners on ford forum sites etc. apparently when the abs board gets hot, one of the electronic parts separates causing the fault error code. i think ford has some responsibility with this issue and should issue a recall to fix the problem!
05/25/2011118201
 Intermittent problem: problems indicated by on board message center reads check brake lamps, check tail lamps check head lamps check rear turn lamps, check front turn lamps, noticed that interior lights will not work, auto locks will not work, key remote will not lock or unlock vehicle or open doors. get no codes from o b d ii. scanner. have replaced battery because it was 6 years old and wasn't putting out proper amps. thought would solve problem. it didn't. thought disconnecting battery for 30 min. would reset computer. seamed to work a couple of times, however, now believe it was just coincidence. sometimes when i start the vehicle everything is fine, however while driving, the message reappears and none the above mentioned, no longer work again. this is a driving hazard.
07/01/2007
 The abs system light comes on when car operating temp or outside air temp is warm. reported to ford on numerous occasions & they tell me it's my problem. i believe that ford has produced a faulty part which has been well documented by other windstar owners on ford forum sites etc. apparently when the abs board gets hot, one of the electronic parts separates causing the fault error code. i think ford has some responsibility with this issue and should issue a recall to fix the problem!
05/25/2011118201
 Intermittent problem: problems indicated by on board message center reads check brake lamps, check tail lamps check head lamps check rear turn lamps, check front turn lamps, noticed that interior lights will not work, auto locks will not work, key remote will not lock or unlock vehicle or open doors. get no codes from o b d ii. scanner. have replaced battery because it was 6 years old and wasn't putting out proper amps. thought would solve problem. it didn't. thought disconnecting battery for 30 min. would reset computer. seamed to work a couple of times, however, now believe it was just coincidence. sometimes when i start the vehicle everything is fine, however while driving, the message reappears and none the above mentioned, no longer work again. this is a driving hazard.
07/01/2007
 The abs system light comes on when car operating temp or outside air temp is warm. reported to ford on numerous occasions & they tell me it's my problem. i believe that ford has produced a faulty part which has been well documented by other windstar owners on ford forum sites etc. apparently when the abs board gets hot, one of the electronic parts separates causing the fault error code. i think ford has some responsibility with this issue and should issue a recall to fix the problem!
07/25/201150000
 Yellow abs light on even after recall fixed by ford. the braking distance has increased even though there are no propblems with the brakes. the abs isn't working .
05/02/2011
 Abs light on/off intermittently. module replaced by ford dealer twice. light still keeps coming on.
12/03/2010110000
 Tl. the contact owns a 1999 ford windstar. the contact stated while driving 35 mph the rear axle broke. the contact pulled over to the side of the road. the contact had the vehicle towed to a local mechanic. the mechanic would not except the vehicle due a nhtsa campaign id number: 10v385000 (suspension:rear:axle:non-powered axle assembly). the vehicle was then towed to a dealer. the dealer repaired the rear axle under the recall remedy. the contact stated while picking up the vehicle from the dealer the brake locked up in the dealers parking lot. the dealer is repairing the brakes. the contact stated the vehicle is unsafe to drive and does not want the vehicle. the failure mileage was 110,000. jo
03/30/2011137000
 1999 ford windstar abs malfunction - abs and check engine lights illuminated. after skidding and striking a pole while parking, i brought this to the dealer who inspected the vehicle and described to problem as an annoyance at worst and that the vehicle's brakes work fine, the vehicle is safe to drive, and recommended not spending $1000 to fix the problem. when pressed for details, the dealer said that the abs ecu ($1000 part) has failed but no big deal. just the anti-lock portion of our braking wasn't working. i think this is a pretty big deal consider abs is required for vehicle safety and the vehicle may not pass licensing inspections.
09/01/200255000
 Bought the van in sept. 2002 with 55,000 miles, engine light came on within a week of having it. took it back to car lot where we bought it, they took it to the ford dealer, couldn't find anything except that it came up a lean code they told me i didn't know how to put gas cap on the right way. that is not the problem. kept dealing with light on to this day. may 2003 had to have the transmission replaced, got it back starting having same problems,took it back they said they forgot to replace a wire, still having problems to this day with transmission in fact oct. 2010 had to have it towed they said shavings found in motor will need transmission replaced again. dome lights flash all the time. the gauges go haywire all the time, peg from one side to the other. had that replaced and did it again. took it in for recall dec. 28,2010 cracked rear axle still at dealer. now just heard that the recall for sub frame will get papers in feb. guess it will be there longer. our dumb mistake we bought another windstar in sept. 2010 a 2003 all we could afford, that has problems with abs light. told over $800 to fix. we need two new cars, don't feel safe in either.
01/17/2011101700
 Abs light came on and lost control of the vehicle during a snow covered road causing the vehicle to spin 180 degrees. which could have caused a fatal t-bone accident on a busy road. luckily i was on a secondary road. i had my children in the van at the time.
08/14/2010
 Braking distance suddenly increased ivoq n n n n v
09/13/2010117000
 Catastrophic failure of the brake abs unit leading to brake pedal going to the floor with total loss of brakes without any warning. brakes were fine when van was started. at some point pressing on the pedal resulted in absolutely no braking effort being applied to stop the vehicle. when vehicle was stopped using emergency brakes and evasive maneuvering (thankfully without an accident) and shut off the abs pump continued to run until fuses for abs unit were pulled to cut off power. vehicle had to be towed to repair facility. this is a severe safety issue that could lead to injury or death since there is no warning that anything is about to go wrong that causes driver to lose all brakes
08/02/2010109409
 Corrosion related failure front right sub-frame. losss of stearing control, right front wheel shaking, right front brake locked up. also abs brake lights on in dash, abs no longer works, traction control light on, works no more.
04/15/2009
 1999 ford windstar abs light
08/02/2010109409
 Corrosion related failure front right sub-frame. losss of stearing control, right front wheel shaking, right front brake locked up. also abs brake lights on in dash, abs no longer works, traction control light on, works no more.
04/15/2009
 1999 ford windstar abs light
07/27/2010120000
 My 1999 ford windstar still has a abs light on after takining it to the deler (don selly kalmazoo mi) and ponting out the abs light, the recall and that we are notiicng it takes much longer to stop this vechile then it used to.
06/15/2010125000
 Braking distance suddenly increased with yellow abs brake light coming on. this is critical in that the abs brake system does not function as designed by ford. the issue is caused by heat in the abs (anti-lock brake system) ecm (electronic control module) (2c219) module causing expansion of a large aluminum plate (heat sink) in the ecm which is attached to the ecm main circuit board at all points. the expansion occurs when the unit gets warm especially in the summer months and causes intermittent electrical connection in the unit because the fragile board is being stretched and malformed resulting in code c1185.
06/30/200790000
 1999 ford windstar. began leaking brake fluid from scds onto transaxle and down firewall. scds has since been replaced under recall. once i became aware of the scds problem i found brake fluid splattered all around the master cylinder area of the engine compartment. concurrent with the leaking fluid, i noticed the abs light would sometimes come on, the speedometer became erratic, the o/d off lamp sometimes flashed, the cruise control was often non-functional. all of these things have gotten progressively worse. the abs light now comes on almost instantly, thus i have no anti-lock brakes, an obvious safety issue. the speedometer is always erratic and jumpy, thus it is difficult to tell my actual speed. the cruise control tries to follow the bouncy speedometer, as thus is useless.
07/27/2010120000
 My 1999 ford windstar still has a abs light on after takining it to the deler (don selly kalmazoo mi) and ponting out the abs light, the recall and that we are notiicng it takes much longer to stop this vechile then it used to.
06/15/2010125000
 Braking distance suddenly increased with yellow abs brake light coming on. this is critical in that the abs brake system does not function as designed by ford. the issue is caused by heat in the abs (anti-lock brake system) ecm (electronic control module) (2c219) module causing expansion of a large aluminum plate (heat sink) in the ecm which is attached to the ecm main circuit board at all points. the expansion occurs when the unit gets warm especially in the summer months and causes intermittent electrical connection in the unit because the fragile board is being stretched and malformed resulting in code c1185.
06/30/200790000
 1999 ford windstar. began leaking brake fluid from scds onto transaxle and down firewall. scds has since been replaced under recall. once i became aware of the scds problem i found brake fluid splattered all around the master cylinder area of the engine compartment. concurrent with the leaking fluid, i noticed the abs light would sometimes come on, the speedometer became erratic, the o/d off lamp sometimes flashed, the cruise control was often non-functional. all of these things have gotten progressively worse. the abs light now comes on almost instantly, thus i have no anti-lock brakes, an obvious safety issue. the speedometer is always erratic and jumpy, thus it is difficult to tell my actual speed. the cruise control tries to follow the bouncy speedometer, as thus is useless.
07/27/2010120000
 My 1999 ford windstar still has a abs light on after takining it to the deler (don selly kalmazoo mi) and ponting out the abs light, the recall and that we are notiicng it takes much longer to stop this vechile then it used to.
06/15/2010125000
 Braking distance suddenly increased with yellow abs brake light coming on. this is critical in that the abs brake system does not function as designed by ford. the issue is caused by heat in the abs (anti-lock brake system) ecm (electronic control module) (2c219) module causing expansion of a large aluminum plate (heat sink) in the ecm which is attached to the ecm main circuit board at all points. the expansion occurs when the unit gets warm especially in the summer months and causes intermittent electrical connection in the unit because the fragile board is being stretched and malformed resulting in code c1185.
06/30/200790000
 1999 ford windstar. began leaking brake fluid from scds onto transaxle and down firewall. scds has since been replaced under recall. once i became aware of the scds problem i found brake fluid splattered all around the master cylinder area of the engine compartment. concurrent with the leaking fluid, i noticed the abs light would sometimes come on, the speedometer became erratic, the o/d off lamp sometimes flashed, the cruise control was often non-functional. all of these things have gotten progressively worse. the abs light now comes on almost instantly, thus i have no anti-lock brakes, an obvious safety issue. the speedometer is always erratic and jumpy, thus it is difficult to tell my actual speed. the cruise control tries to follow the bouncy speedometer, as thus is useless.
10/01/2009120000
 Tl- the contact owns a 1999 ford windstar. the abs light remained illuminated. the vehicle was taken to the garage for the abs failure the diagnose didn
05/12/2010
 Tl- the contact owns a 1999 ford windstar. the contact stated that the driver side rear sliding door will not close. the vehicle was taken to ford and they replaced the alternator but it did not solve the failure. the contact also stated that her abs light comes on and stays on. she also stated that the driver side front seat belt get covered with oil everytime it retracts. the dealer has been unable to repair the failures. ford motor company will be contacted. the failure mileage was unknown. the current mileage is approximately 95,000. rd
05/01/2010118236
 I had recall # 09s09 performed at lithia ford in roseburg, oregon on 4/16/10/. since that date the following issue has continued to arise, braking distance suddenly increased. the abs warning dash light keeps coming on. this issue was not addressed with the recall.
05/22/2010
 This was a ford 1999 windstar recall on the abs system. the recall stated that a fire may occur in connection with the abs. i took the car in, however the brake fluid leak inside the car has gotten worse. from time to time the car smokes up, and there is a burning smell. the abs light continues to come on. my fear is that this is still a hazard with all the flamable brake fluid in the car. i looked it up and others have called this problem braking distance suddenly increased service brakes, hydraulic. brake fluid leaking into the car. this seems to occur constantly. i have cleaned my car with the thought that i spilled oil, however after reading up found out that this was the problem. when i took it in for the recall, this was not mentioned at all to me by the ford dealer. i will be taking it to the dealer that fixed it to see what they will do or say. i guess i am wondering if there is anything else to do.
08/01/2008187000
 Braking distance suddenly incresed and abs was not reliable. abs would activate when turning on dry roads. back up radars and traction control also stopped working. speedometer is erratic above 55 mph.
02/15/2010115000
 Antilock braking system and traction control randomly disconnect resulting in loss of traction and unanticipated skidding.
04/27/201097800
 1999 ford windstar with antilock brakes. after driving the car the abs dashboard warning light comes on and stays on. turning the car off and starting it again makes the abs warning light go off and it usually stays off. this is an intermittent problem and occurs every few weeks. when the abs dashboard warning light is on i experience increased braking distance.
12/01/2009130000
 I am filing a complaint on the abs light in my 2001 ford windstar se sport. the abs light and brake light both come on sporadically as i drive the van. the research i have done indicates this is a failure of the ecm, which can cause greater distance travel in an emergency stop. i also own a 1999 ford windstar lx, which has the same abs light indication. during a full speed (75 mph) emergency stop in december of 2009 with my 1999 ford windstar lx, i skidded on the interstate and lost control, ending up on the left-lane shoulder before coming to a complete stop. the 1999 windstar also had sporadic abs light indications (6 months) until the light remained illuminated constantly beginning in late 2006. it is my understanding that the ford windstar has this issue regularly. in fact my fiancee is considering buying another 1999 ford windstar lx and the abs light is also constantly illuminated in that van as well. i believe this to be more than a mere coincidence.
10/20/2009674281
 Abs traction control lights are on and off intermittently. *tr
09/13/20091553671
 1999 ford windstar minivan abs light keeps coming on which is blowing a fuse causing my speedometer, odometer and cruise control not to work. after much internet research this looks to be a common problem with catastrophic results if not disabled. after reading these results i immediately had someone disconnect the abs module under the hood which disabled my abs brake system to prevent a fire. in turn my odometer and speedometer are now working but more importantly a possible fire was prevented! i would appreciate attention being taken in this matter seeing as how it is not the first time this problem is being reported. *tr
08/20/2009786001
 1999 ford windstar. last week of july/2009, had ford dealer replaced front rotors & pads + rear shoes & machined rear drums. within 1st week after brakes job abs light began cycling on & off. after the 4th week, the abs light stayed solid. cruise control is also not functioning. ford dealer says might have to replace abs control module. read somewhere that controls of these two components might be affected by brake fluid leaking from master cylinder into a switch thereafter moisture will accumulate in the switch causing a short blowing fuse #10. also read that this brake fluid leakage might lead to a fire subsequently. repairs have been quoted to be high. will repair once have sufficient money saved. *tr
04/01/20051100001
 The abs light keeps coming on and it is intermittently. we have had the abs checked and told it is fine, but it makes no sense that the light keeps coming on. incidents have been ongoing for the last 4 or so years. *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
08/21/20091066531
 We recently purchased a used 1999 ford windstar sel minivan. we took it to an auto shop to have an oil change, and air filters replaced. upon returning home that evening, we noticed and smelled smoke from underneath the hood. when we went to look at it, we found white smoke coming up from behind the air filter and in front of the master brake cylinder. we thought that some fluids had been spilt and were simply burning off. when we went to drive it later that evening, the entire inside of the vehicle went dark. all of the interior lights, the odometer, speedometer, computer station, radio, climate control, windows, door locks, a/c, instrument panel, cruise control, and turn signals stopped working. we made it home safely as the head and tail lights were still working. upon inspection the following day, we found that the brake pressure differential deactivation switch (2b264) located under the master cylinder (behind the air filter) developed a leak. it had been leaking for some time and had literally eaten away the electrical plug. the wires had been eaten through as well and had crossed and caused the short. *tr
07/28/2009750001
 My abs light comes on daily. within a few minutes of start up. *tr
10/19/20081380001
 My cruise control stopped working on my 1999 ford windstar van, i would smell a electrical fire smell after driving it and a little smoke under the hood. my dada and myself checked and found a small brake fluid leak that was getting on a electrical connection. this was also causing some fuses to blow. i went online and found out it was the abs ecm module switch under the brake fluid reservoir. i purchased a new switch and replace it, and have not had any more problems with it. *tr
05/23/2007750001
 I have had a lot of electrical problems with my 1999 windstar se. the inside fan goes on when opening/closing doors, lights flicker off and on, for no apparent reason, my master cylinder leaks and i have had abs problems. we've replaced the rack and pinion three times. i love my van, but it has a lot of problems. the horn only works on occasion which caused me to be backed into! *tr
07/01/2009923521
 Loss of brake fluid, brake light on after service,brake light red, 15 amp fuse blowing out, smoke coming from under the hood or from engine compartment,speedometer and odometer stopped working, cruise control will not activate or deactivates without warning, abs warning light is on. *tr
01/31/2008970001
 Abs light on dashboard keeps coming on.. 1999 ford windstar... no problem with brakes.. just light keeps coming on....is there a recall on this problem... thanks. *tr
05/05/200901
 Connector coming from the bottom of the sensor on the brake reservoir on my 1999 windstar 3.8 liter is burned - melted. this caused the brake light to come on and the abs to shut down and the light to come on. also, the a/c doesn't work and the fans don't work. *tr
05/11/20091070601
 1999 ford windstar abs electronic control module failure. abs warning light in dash has become illuminated and diagnostic codes indicate abs ecm relay failure. failure is due to a poor design, and poor materials choice in the construction of the anti-lock brake system electronic control module. module failure effects the traction control system and results in unexpected, random braking of the vehicle. removal of fuses of circuits 101 and 102, de-energize abs system and traction control and makes the vehicle operable again, without abs brakes or traction control. *tr
05/15/20091090001
 Abs and trac off lights come on when driving. *tr
04/29/20091
 Abs light came on without warning. *tr
07/19/2008950001
 Abs light on. *tr
04/04/20081030001
 April 2008 lost fuel pump, and guage for gas level had fuel pump sending unit and filter replaced but gauge didnt come back it stayed on as a low fuel light permanently. brake fluid leaking or excessive use by braking system had to fill about once weekly brakes though they had been replaced would just go out with no warning abs light wasnt indicative due to fact its lighting up and staying lit was errratic. replaced braking system and front end components (linkage pins gone, rotor that had gotten very hot and possibly started on fire due to brakes going out and heavy breaking needed to avoid accident death had to pump brakes rapidly to try to stop sometimes unable to stop brake pedal would stick on hard pumping when attempting to stop passenger side sliding door lock engaged and unable to engage. *tr
11/01/20071050001
 I am seeing an intermittant yellow abs light come on on my 1999 ford windstar se 3.8 liter. it comes and goes, after seeing the pictures of what can happen and that my indications are symptomatic or this i had to report it. the brakes are still working and the light does not remain on continually. i will take it in to have it fixed and wait for your findings. *tr
03/01/20081200001
 Brake pressure deactivation switch leaking down wires causing fuses to blue along with other major problems. *tr
11/01/20081070461
 Brake leak under master cylinder. can apparently cause other items to falter if not fixed and can even cause fire in the abs circuitry. *tr
06/12/20051
 Abs light almost constantly on in my 1999 ford windstar lx, 3.8 liter. *tr
09/12/20081120001
 Brake fluid leaking out of the speed control brake differential deactivation switch. possible fire hazard. *tr
09/06/2008830001
 Abs module system failure and electrical fire due to pressure switch leak. according to ford, 1999 model year windstar is not part of recall but my vehicle exhibited the same failure as other model years as listed on the www.fordwindstarrecallinfo.com website. *tr
08/01/20081350001
 Brake pressure deactivation switch leaking fluid causing cruise control not to work and possibly causing problems with the ecm control module. also a possible risk of fire caused by the leaking fluid into the wiring for the ecm control module causing it to short out. abs brakes not working due to faulty ecm control module. parts have been priced,but no repairs have been scheduled yet due to a lack of money to pay for repairs. *tr
03/05/20081
 Our abs light continue to be on and we had brought it to the mechanic several time, however we could not understand why it was on since the brakes was all newly changed. i found out through researching and the failure of our speedometer, mileage counter and ac control died on us yesterday, 08/05/08 while driving that there is an issue with the brake differential deactivation switch can cause a leak and short out fuse 10. sure enough we had one. thus i am writing to inform of this problem. i am not the only one according to my research that this has occurred to several other vehicle owners. and what scares me the most it can cause fire especially i have 2 children one of which is a toddler age who sits in a car seat that could get caught in the vehicle. *tr
06/26/2008910001
 Abs light keeps on turn off and on, tacking light keeps coming on. replaced brakes twice. *tr
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
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
07/05/200386000107/04/2003
 I bought this car used and from the day i drove it off the lot i have put a few thousand dollars in it. the engine light keeps coming on with codes 171/174 lean on bank 1 and 2 i have replaced the o2, the egr, the differential, i have had the upper intake gasket replaced and the egr hoses cleaned. the light still burns. i have had nothing but trouble with this car since buying it and i will never buy another one.i also had to replace the brakes, the struts and the stablizer bar , as well as one of the tie rods. this van might look great but it runs like crap we have spent enough on this used van to have bought a new one. *la
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.
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.
10/12/200376504109/13/2003
 The consumer complained about an alignment problem. the vehicle pulled to the left and made a ticking noise underneath the vehicle when the brakes were applied. the vehicle was constantly in the repair shop but the mechanic are was unable to solve the problem. *ak also the check engine light illuminated. *jb
SERVICE BRAKES, HYDRAULIC - ANTILOCK
03/10/2007590001
 On my 1999 ford windstar se, the antilock brake system ecm is defective because the computer board is mounted on an aluminum plate which expands from engine and summer heat, causing the dashboard abs light to come on and possibly failure of the abs system. *tr
08/01/2001270001
 Abs and brake lights would turn on at times while driving at various speeds. added extra fluid in brake reservoir (over filled) and brake light stopped turning on. abs light used to turn on about 2 times a months with 38000 miles on the car. now light turns on almost all the time with 1400000 miles on the car. brakes have been completely replaces, calipers, pads, rotors and all other worn parts. all front suspension parts, including struts are new. rear has new shocks and brake parts as well. all brakes properly bled but the abs light continues almost every time it is driven. car is driven daily. mpg was about 21mpg average before 35k miles but now only about 17 mpg. engine and transmission has all maintenance completed on schedule - transmission mercon v fluid replaced each 30k motor oil by schedule in manual. car has had other electrical problems - like the dome light turning on randomly while driving down the road - this is very dangerous at night. i do not know if the two problems are related. also the rear ac would turn on randomly since new, but ford said they could not find the problem. i finally figured it out - the dash control switch for the rear ac is incorrectly maid and the lever goes past the off position. this causes the rear ac to randomly turn on and would probably be considered a short. the car was purchased new in 1999 from hub city ford in lafayette, la. there appears to be several electrical shorts in the van that they were never able to diagnose or fix. is this dangerous? the clicking sound from the rear ac system? the abs randomly turning on? the mpg dropping so drastically when the abs started turning on? the front of the car sounding like it is hitting large bumps in the road when there are only minor imperfections? this has continued for over 100000 miles and we would like to know if it is dangerous or just an extreme irritation. guillory *tr
10/15/20071000001
 The abs braking system on my 1999 ford windstar has been malfunctioning for about the past 6-9 months. they will come on at inappropriate times (when conditions don't warrant the use of abs brakes) and will stop working altogether at other times. the cruise control has not worked for about the past year and a half and the speedometer intermittently works. brake fluid is leaking down under the master cylinder in my engine-all over wires. the constant problems with the abs braking system are causing unnecessary wear and tear on my brakes making constant replacement a necessity. i have disconnected the abs braking system in my van in order to prevent a fire or catastrophic failure of the brakes that would endanger my family. *tr
02/02/200811500010008/14/1999
 The abs warning light activates intermittently (it might be fine for a couple of days then will suddenly come on). when the vehicle is shut off, the abs seems to reset and the light will be off when the vehicle is restarted. the code is c1185. my mechanic wants to replace the hydraulic pump and ehcu ($1000) the vehicle is a ford windstar 1999 se 125,000 miles. *tr
01/07/2007950000
 Tl* - the contact had a 1999 ford windstar with an odometer reading of 95000 miles and the brakes failed. the contact stated that when she applied the brakes at any speed the vehicle will not slow down ,and she would feel a pulsating vibration. the contact said that the anti lock brake light stayed on at all times, and the brake pedal went to the floor before the vehicle stopped. the weather has not been a factor when this occurred.. the contact took the vehicle to a repair shop, and they stated that they had fixed the problem, but did not give her a repair order. *ak
07/11/2006110000109/14/2004
 Anti-lock brake light went on. i drove it this way for two months. 15 codes in the system. ford dealer states it's the hydraulic and electric box. to repair both would cost 800.00 or so, which is including labor and parts. states it's a known problem of 1999 ford windstars. i have no anti-lock brakes when the abs light is on. declining to fix at this time, but a huge liablility for myself. possiblity of brake failure not discussed at this time. i have already had to repair the upper intake manifold 500.00+ (at a ford dealer) and also had the door ajar problem, which was fixed at home here for 0$. this is the third and final problem listed on consumer reports that this vehicle is known for. *jb
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
01/01/20042
 Front heater does not work. thumping noise from dashboard. dealer (person ford, laverne, ca) wants $500 to replace heating valve/flap. abs light stays on dealer could not figure out the cause. *jb
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
02/26/200213319107/01/1999
 The abs motor switch became stuck while braking and resulted in noise from the abs system. the consumer turned the vehicle off but the noise persisted. *nlm *nlm
01/06/200370200207/27/1999
 On two occasions the brakes in my 1999 windstar failed. both occasions involved damage to my windstar. the first accident occured in november 2002 and in that accident two other autos were involved. in both accidents the brakes did not engage even though i stepped on the brakes hard. i told the dealer (koon's ford in falls church, va) on both occasions that the brakes did not engage properly. they told me nothing was wrong with the brakes. i felt so scared driving my windstar that i just traded it it at a big loss (us$4,000 trade in) for a new 2003 toyota sequoa. i took possession of my new auto today 1/18/03). the brakes simply did not engage on these two occasions. while they worked fine at other times. this is a problem that needs to be looked into.
12/13/200253000108/17/1999
 While driving at 35/40 mph the brake warning light came on and the abs failed. the consumer applied the brakes and the abs engaged without cause. the parts replaced is unknown. the check engine light also appeared on dash. ts *jb
05/05/2002
 Consumer applied brakes at 55 mp and, brake pedal felt normal. abs system never kicked in. consumer lost control of vehicle, went into ditch and rolled over. passenger suffered 11 fractures/ driver minor injuries. vehicle was totalled.*ak
09/20/200125
 Vehicle has had intermittent brake failure, pedal went to the floor at any speed. this has happened 20-25 times. vehicle taken to dealer 4 times, could not find a cause. *ak
12/09/1999105/01/1999
 I have had more than 4 problems with this car in past two years that have been major problems. i would just like to see if other people have had as much problems with the steering and the van it's self. *ak
01/10/200101/01/2000
 Approached stop sign and pressed brakes which made a loud grating metal sound which had never happened before. as i slid into intersection i flipped gears to park which finally stopped the car. took car to dealer and was told the rear brakes were practically unused and the front brakes were worn out which led them to believe the rear brakes were not connected or functioning and had not done so for some time. ford refused to cover this under our bumper to bumper warranty even though there is obviously some type of defective faulty part involved. luckily no accident came of this incident. *ak
08/31/2000404/01/1999
 Power steering under carridge wentout which taken the power steering to the wheel. vehicle is at the dealership waiting for parts. *ak the stereo system failed. brake makes grinding noise. the rear door light keeps falling down whenever the door closed.
09/10/2000201/01/1999
 Travelling at approx. 43 mph speed and applied brake. vehicle accelerated instead of slowing down to stop as it supposed to do and caused auto accident. at the time of accident, vehicle had only 2 person, if the mini van was fully loaded with max. wt., result could be much worse. tried to test the brake again on a straight asphalted highway under the same speed and condition, pressed the brake pedal, vehicle accelerate first and then slow down to stop in long distance. *ak
06/03/2000
 While pulling up into driveway, going slowly, applied brakes and vehicle didn't stop, it crashed into the garage door. contacted dealer. consumer was told that abs brakes were okay. *ak
 When brakes pedal was applied vehicle accelerated instead of slowing down to stop as it should. dealer has inspected vehicle, and could not find the cause.*ak
 When brake pedal was applied during a turn wheels locked up. pedal was normal,and the brakes did respond. dealer has been contacted. *ak
03/24/2000
 Abs brake problem; while approaching a stop sign and applying brakes on a residential street, brake pedal went to the floorboard, van kept going and crashed into a parked vehicle. this happened on a smooth and dry road surface. van is being repaired by the dealership. please provide any further information.
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
11/02/19990
 While driving at about 10 to 25 mph, if consumer puts on brakes or slows down, will experience a loud bang. consumer says this is a very scary sound. *ak
02/29/2000101/01/1999
 Abs module wire burned out; odometer and speedometer did not work. *ak
12/17/1999204/01/1999
 Brakes failed and was unable to stop. put vehicle in park while moving, and finally stopped on sidewalk, at a school where the problem could have been desasterious.
08/12/1999
 Vehicle has been experiencing the following problems: 1. steering column out of alignment, causing difficulty in steering; 2. power steering pump making grinding sounds when engine is cold and, intermittently, when the engine gets hot; 3. ongoing problem with windshield fogging up and dealer is unable to correct the proble;. 4. brake pedal goes to the floor before stopping, causing extended stopping distance; and 5. a loud sound coming from the front of vehicle. seeking help from nhtsa in this matter. *ak
SERVICE BRAKES, HYDRAULIC - ANTILOCK - ABS WARNING LIGHT
06/11/20091
 The abs light continues to come on and after investigation the mechanic indicated that the ecm needs to be replaced. the abs light comes on every day and the braking of the vehicle is reduced. have not replaced the module as we can not locate one locally. *tr
04/29/20091
 Abs light came on without warning. *tr
06/26/2008910001
 Abs light keeps on turn off and on, tacking light keeps coming on. replaced brakes twice. *tr
06/29/20081430001
 1999 ford windstar brake, abs brake stays on, cruise control went out, and speedometer/odometer went out. fuse blew and continues to blow. ford has a redesigned brake pressure switch, but will not say it is a recall. *tr
01/01/2006112/20/1998
 Abs brake light issue. *tr
03/12/2008940001206/06/2005
 Abs light comes on more and more often. stopping and restarting the vehicle eliminates the problem for a week or two. *tr
02/02/200811500010008/14/1999
 The abs warning light activates intermittently (it might be fine for a couple of days then will suddenly come on). when the vehicle is shut off, the abs seems to reset and the light will be off when the vehicle is restarted. the code is c1185. my mechanic wants to replace the hydraulic pump and ehcu ($1000) the vehicle is a ford windstar 1999 se 125,000 miles. *tr
12/11/2002520006004/22/2001
 Abs light comes on frequently. i had the problem checked twice, the first time numerous codes occurred, it was reset and a switch was replaced. auto shop cannot find anything wrong with the abs. i keep taking it in at a cost of $70 each to have the problem rechecked because the abs light still continued to come on. i have written to ford corporation and local ford dealership where i purchased vehicle. *jb
08/01/20001
 The abs light does not turn off when the vehicle is started on an intermittent basis, consumer unaware if the system is faulty of the light. *mjs
SERVICE BRAKES, HYDRAULIC - ANTILOCK - CONTROL UNIT/MODULE
07/28/2009100000
 Tl* the contact owns a 1999 ford windstar. while driving 15 mph the abs light and traction warning lights were illuminated on the instrument control panel. she restarted the vehicle. the dealer was notified, and she was advised that the abs control module needed to be repaired at an expense of $ 825.00 dollars. the failure mileage was 100000. the current mileage was 101000. the vehicle identification number was unavailable.
03/06/20091070001
 1999 ford windstar 3.0l 4sp auto. anti lock brake control module (tested at my expense $70) has gone bad, seems to be a big problem as many people have reported this. i have no odometer, speedometer or anti lock brakes. the engine also shuts off on its own on occasion, don't know if that's related or not. van runs good otherwise, has 107000 miles on it i think, since the odometer hasn't worked for 3 months. i cant even get a replacement module unless i go to ford and then i have to pay to have it programmed too. its shameful how much of the gauges are affected. i could live without the antilock, but i need a speedometer, my van is dead in the driveway until i work enough overtime to pay for something that shouldn't have gone out. *tr
10/24/2008898841
 Passenger side brake light went out, took it to the ford dealer and found the rear electronic module bad. rem costs $740 for removal and replacement. whatever happened to keeping things simple? this is a disgrace that the auto industry makes all of these terrible engineering enhancements for their bottom line but will not produce cars that are more fuel efficient to reduce global warming. what a joke this situation is and hopefully, the nhtsa doesn't oversee these senseless designs and approves them. *tr
10/01/20078300010004/01/2004
 Frequent abs and trac warning lights after vehicle warms up. almost always off initially. *tr
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
SERVICE BRAKES, HYDRAULIC - FOUNDATION COMPONENTS
09/17/2001106/01/2000
 Front brake caliper on driver's side froze up. brakes were worn down and were not working properly. contacted dealer to have brakes checked because of recalls. dealer never did service, and was told nothing was wrong with brakes. consumer went to another dealer and found brake problem.*ak
1
 Brakes fade almost resulting in accidents due to extended stopping distances. *slc
1
 Vibration is felt by the driver upon pressing brake pedal. yh
SERVICE BRAKES, HYDRAULIC - FOUNDATION COMPONENTS - DISC - PADS
04/22/20010
 At 3000 miles brake pads were squeaking, yesterday while drying consumer pressed brakes and there were no brakes.*ak
SERVICE BRAKES, HYDRAULIC - FOUNDATION COMPONENTS - DISC - ROTOR
05/20/20032
 While applying the brakes vehicle vibrated uncontrollably. consumer was able to maintain control of the vehicle, and drove it to the dealer for inspection. mechanic determined that the rotors needed to be rotated. mechanic rotated the rotors, and the problem recurred. *ak
 Premature wear of brake rotors. dealer has been notified.*ak
SERVICE BRAKES, HYDRAULIC - FOUNDATION COMPONENTS - HOSES, LINES/PIPING, AND FITTINGS
08/20/20091080001
 I own a ford windstar esl 99, yesterday the wires of the sensor of the brakes fluid burned, i was lucky to be in a tire shop and they checked and disconnected it. i was told by a mechanic the van is on recall, he has sent me different articles from the internet about ford fires recall that includes my vehicle model. calling ford recall information they said vin# doesn't shows any recall. they took the complaint that i'm asking ford to repair it even it is not in recall as they said but it is listed in other sources, they will investigate and let me know by mail in 10-15 labor days. i will have to take my van to a ford dealer for my safety as i can't drive it without the sensor working properly. i want to complain in order to accelerate the ford reimburse and that they include the 99 windstar esl in their list, as it is in others, even attorneys having lawsuits currently against ford. it happens to me already, and my experience could have been terrible. the failure didn't make any more damage than wires burned, so far. i need them to respond properly as this is a manufacturer failure with high safety consequences. *tr thank you,
09/12/20031
 The brake fuild leaked into the wiring causing the vehilce controls to malfunction. dealer has been contacted. please provide any additional information. *nlm
SERVICE BRAKES, HYDRAULIC - FOUNDATION COMPONENTS - MASTER CYLINDER
06/21/200983000
 Tl*the contact owns a 1999 ford windstar. the contact took his vehicle in for a routine inspection and was informed that brake fluid was leaking from the master cylinder. he called the dealer and manufacturer in reference to nhtsa campaign id number 99v147000 (service brakes, hydraulic:foundation components:master cylinder) and was informed that his vin was not included in the recall. the vehicle has not been repaired. the failure and current mileages were 83,000.
07/01/200783000108/20/1999
 On july 1, 2007 during the operation of my 1999 ford windstar, smoke started coming from under the hood of the vehicle. the vehicle was stopped and shutdown at which time the smoke stopped. the engine compartment was inspected by myself at that time and i found nothing that appeared abnormal. restarted the vehicle and the smoke did not reappear but the odometer readings went to dashes, speedometer was inoperative, the abs light was on, and the air conditioner was inoperative. drove the vehicle home and performed a more detailed inspection of it. this inspection revealed a blown fuse, as #10 of the interior fuse block. this fuse was replaced and the vehicles ignition switch was turned on, again smoke came out from the engine compartment of the vehicle and i determined at that time it was caused by the cruise control deactivation switch connector. the ignition switch was turned off immediately and the connector was disconnected from the deactivation switch located on the brake master cylinder. i found the connector both internally and externally wet with brake fluid. the connector showed signs of overheating as it was partially melted on the inside. cleaned all the brake fluid from the deactivation switch connector and the deactivation switch itself. i left the connector disconnected from the switch and turned on the ignition switch. this resulted in no smoke from the engine compartment. the connector was left disconnected from the switch but the vehicle will not be used until i have performed or ford performs repairs to it. i found that ford had recalled several vehicles for what appears to be the same problem that i have with my 1999 windstar but it was not on the recall list. i feel that this could have developed into a dangerous situation for my family. i would like to state that i am a certificated air frame and power plant technician by the faa and have worked in that capacity for 28 years for fedex express on their aircraft. *ak
10/24/2006204000102/15/1999
 Without warning, the brake pedal went to the floor. my daughter was unable to stop and collided with the vehicle in front of her. the brake fluid reservoir is full. the car was serviced regularly but had no recent brake work completed. i have been told that the master cylinder completely failed. the party that was struck is now claiming injury. we do not know the severity of their injuries. *nm
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
SERVICE BRAKES, HYDRAULIC - PEDALS AND LINKAGES
05/27/20031
 The brake pedal and the gas pedal were designed too close together, which made the vehicle difficult to drive. *nlm. *ak *ts *jb
11/01/199911/21/1998
 Due to the design and location of the brake pedal, occupant with a large standard foot size can press the brake pedal and the gas pedal at the same time, which may result in sudden acceleration. *ak
11/21/1998
 When the brake pedal is applied the pedal goes below the level of the accelerator pedal, causing driver's foot to hit the accelerator pedal when trying to stop. ford has been contacted. *ak *ml
SERVICE BRAKES, HYDRAULIC - SWITCHES - BRAKE LIGHT
07/01/20081571001
 The brake pressure switch also known as the cruise control cutoff switch malfunctioned on my vehicle. i was told that the brake fluid leaking out of it will cause a massive fire. i have 3 kids and have to drive everyday that's why im filing this complaint. i no im not the only person with this problem because the ford dealer who repaired my car says he knows of quite a few people that this has happened to. *tr