Recalls

CampaignManufacturerManufacturing dateType# of units affectedDate Owner notified MfgRecall Initiated byManufacturers of recalled vehicles/productsReport Recieved DateRecord Creation DateRegulation Part NumberFMVSS Number
STRUCTURE - FRAME AND MEMBERS - UNDERBODY SHIELDS
11V030000FORD MOTOR COMPANY V (Vehicle)42528802/21/2011ODIFORD MOTOR COMPANY01/26/201101/26/2011
Defect SummaryFord is recalling certain model year 1999-2003 windstar vehicles originally sold in or currently registered in the states of connecticut, delaware, the district of columbia, illinois, indiana, iowa, kentucky, maine, maryland, massachusetts, michigan, minnesota, missouri, new hampshire, new jersey, new york, ohio, pennsylvania, rhode island, utah, vermont, west virginia, and wisconsin. a separation of a front lower control arm rear attaching bracket may result in a lower control arm separation. a separation of both front subframe rear body mounts may result in separation of the steering intermediate shaft.
Consequence SummaryThis could result in reduced steering control increasing the risk of a crash.
Corrective SummaryDealers will inspect both front lower control arm rear attaching brackets, and both body mount attachments at the rear of the front subframe, and make the necessary repairs free of charge. the safety recall is expected to begin on or before february 21, 2011. owners may contact ford at 1-866-436-7332.
NotesFord's safety recall no. 11s16.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
STRUCTURE
1752501/01/200410007354Windshield cowl panel grille (leaf screen) breaking at the grille opening. *tt06/14/2004
STRUCTURE - BODY
221410/28/200210013062Roof ditch material cracking. this includes 1997-2003 f-150 and 2002 blackwood models. *eh service tip. *tt04/07/2005
1642311/01/200210008350Servicing body side molding or cladding / contact request. *mj07/28/2004
1645212/01/200210008145Interior and exterior trim changes. *tt07/22/2004
STRUCTURE - BODY - DOOR
0218402/09/2004042310007365Power sliding door operation and diagnostic service tips. *tt06/16/2004
1567908/01/200417971636308Sliding door(s) contacting the rear quarter glass. *tt this information updates previous information, dated 03/01/2002. *tt11/07/2002
STRUCTURE - BODY - ROOF AND PILLARS
03010412/01/200210008151Crease in the headliner above the left a-pillar. *tt07/22/2004

Investigations

NHTSA IDManufacturerDate openDate closeSubjectRecall campaign
STRUCTURE - FRAME AND MEMBERS
EA10007FORD MOTOR COMPANY12/20/201003/17/2011Front Subframe Corrosion Failures11V030000
 In a january 26, 2011 defect information report, ford motor company (ford) notified the national highway traffic safety administration (nhtsa) that it will conduct a safety recall to address corrosion related fractures in the front lower control arm rear attaching brackets and body mount attachments at the rear of the front subframe in approximately 425,288 model year (my) 1999 through 2003 ford windstar vehicles manufactured from april 1998 to july 2003 and either sold or currently registered in the following high corrosion (salt-belt) states: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, utah, vermont, west virginia and wisconsin (nhtsa recall no. 11v-030, ford recall no. 11s16).according to ford, separation of a front lower control arm rear attaching bracket may result in a lower control arm separation and separations of both front subframe rear body mounts may result in separation of the steering intermediate shaft.either condition could result in diminished vehicle directional control, increasing the risk of a crash.dealers will inspect the lower control arm rear attachment flanges and the rear body mount sections of the subframe on the right (passenger) and left (driver) sides of the vehicle.owners of vehicles that pass the inspection will be notified when to return for installation of reinforcement brackets to extend the durability of the front subframe assembly in affected areas in the presence of corrosion.owners of vehicles that do not pass inspection, but can be repaired, will be offered transportation until parts become available.repurchase offers will be extended to owners of vehicles that cannot be repaired with the reinforcement brackets.this investigation is closed.
PE10026FORD MOTOR COMPANY07/20/201012/20/2010Front Subframe Corrosion Failures
 The office of defects investigation (odi) has identified 346 complaints to odi and ford alleging fracture, cracking and or excessive corrosion of the front subframes in model year (my) 1999 through 2003 ford windstar vehicles.approximately 97 percent of these complaints (334) involve vehicles that have been operated in salt belt states, which make up approximately 60 percent of the subject vehicle sales in the united states.the front subframe, sometimes referred to as the engine cradle, is a structural component of the windstar vehicles that carries the engine, transaxle, steering rack and certain front suspension components (e.g., lower control arm).for complaints with sufficient information to identify the location of the failure, most describe problems with the rear mounting bracket for the front passenger-side lower control arm with some related to the rear body mount attachment located in the same general area of the subframe (right-rear section near the front passenger wheel).the remainder of the reports allege fracture of the front subframe at other or, most often, unspecified locations.almost all of the complaints that specified the side of the vehicle indicated that the problem occurred on the right/passenger side (106), with only a few indicating the left/driver side (2) or both sides (3) were affected.ford and several complainants attributed the right-side failures to the routing of the air-conditioning lines above the front subframe on that side of the vehicle, further noting that condensation has been observed dripping onto the front subframe in the area of the affected components (the a/c drain tube is also located on the right side, near the front subframe).odi has identified 93 complaints related to lower control arm attachments, including 80 that appear to involve complete separations.all but one of these involved vehicles from salt belt states.all three crash incidents appear to be related to lower control arm separations, including one road departure into a road-side sign resulting in a totalled vehicle and a lane departure into another vehicle.almost half of the odi complaints related to control arm separation occurred at speeds greater than 20 mph and about a quarter occurred at highway speeds.three-quarters of these complaints allege experiencing difficulty controlling the vehicle and about 40 percent appear to have resulted in departures from the intended lane of travel.testing by both ford and nhtsa have demonstrated that lower control arm separation from the rear attachment bracket results in significant toe out of the affected wheel, which affects the driver's ability to control vehicle direction.according to ford, moderate braking improved vehicle controllability by reducing the amount of toe out, possibly explaining incidents that did not allege a loss of control.odi's analysis of complaints related to the rear body mount identified 41 complaints (odi only).these complaints generally report experiencing progressively worsening noise concerns when turning, accelerating or braking.although, some of the complaints that appeared to involve a complete separation of the body mount alleged difficulty steering, the effects on vehicle control from this failure mode do not appear to be as great as those resulting from control arm separation.however, odi is seeking more information regarding two complaints which alleged that body mount failure resulted in disconnection of the steering wheel from the steering rack (one occurred during vehicle service).this investigation has been upgraded to an engineering analysis (ea10-007) for subject vehicles sold or currently registered in salt belt states to further assess the scope, frequency and safety consequences of the alleged defect in these vehicles.odi will continue to gather information about vehicles outside the salt belt as well.
EA10007FORD MOTOR COMPANY12/20/2010Front Subframe Corrosion Failures
 The office of defects investigation (odi) has identified 346 complaints to odi and ford alleging fracture, cracking and or excessive corrosion of the front subframes in model year (my) 1999 through 2003 ford windstar vehicles.approximately 97 percent of these complaints (334) involve vehicles that have been operated in salt belt states, which make up approximately 60 percent of the subject vehicle sales in the united states.the front subframe, sometimes referred to as the engine cradle, is a structural component of the windstar vehicles that carries the engine, transaxle, steering rack and certain front suspension components (e.g., lower control arm).for complaints with sufficient information to identify the location of the failure, most describe problems with the rear mounting bracket for the front passenger-side lower control arm with some related to the rear body mount attachment located in the same general area of the subframe (right-rear section near the front passenger wheel).the remainder of the reports allege fracture of the front subframe at other or, most often, unspecified locations.almost all of the complaints that specified the side of the vehicle indicated that the problem occurred on the right/passenger side (106), with only a few indicating the left/driver side (2) or both sides (3) were affected.ford and several complainants attributed the right-side failures to the routing of the air-conditioning lines above the front subframe on that side of the vehicle, further noting that condensation has been observed dripping onto the front subframe in the area of the affected components (the a/c drain tube is also located on the right side, near the front subframe).odi has identified 93 complaints related to lower control arm attachments, including 80 that appear to involve complete separations.all but one of these involved vehicles from salt belt states.all three crash incidents appear to be related to lower control arm separations, including one road departure into a road-side sign resulting in a totalled vehicle and a lane departure into another vehicle.almost half of the odi complaints related to control arm separation occurred at speeds greater than 20 mph and about a quarter occurred at highway speeds.three-quarters of these complaints allege experiencing difficulty controlling the vehicle and about 40 percent appear to have resulted in departures from the intended lane of travel.testing by both ford and nhtsa have demonstrated that lower control arm separation from the rear attachment bracket results in significant toe out of the affected wheel, which affects the driver's ability to control vehicle direction.according to ford, moderate braking improved vehicle controllability by reducing the amount of toe out, possibly explaining incidents that did not allege a loss of control.odi's analysis of complaints related to the rear body mount identified 41 complaints (odi only).these complaints generally report experiencing progressively worsening noise concerns when turning, accelerating or braking.although, some of the complaints that appeared to involve a complete separation of the body mount alleged difficulty steering, the effects on vehicle control from this failure mode do not appear to be as great as those resulting from control arm separation.however, odi is seeking more information regarding two complaints which alleged that body mount failure resulted in disconnection of the steering wheel from the steering rack (one occurred during vehicle service).this investigation has been upgraded to an engineering analysis for subject vehicles sold or currently registered in salt belt states to further assess the scope, frequency and safety consequences of the alleged defect in these vehicles.odi will continue to gather information about vehicles outside the salt belt as well.

Consumer Complaints

Fail datemilesoccurencesPurchase date
STRUCTURE
01/16/2011
 Tl-the contact owns a 2003 ford windstar. the contact stated that the front end was rusted and shaking violently when the vehicle was being driven. the brake pedal extended to the floorboard when depressed. all the gauges on the instrument panel dropped past zero and the brake light illuminated. all of the lights on the instrument panel also flickered on and off. the rear axle was cracked on each end. the vehicle was taken to an authorized dealer and put two plates on each side of the axle; the contact referenced recall 10v385000 (suspension:rear:axle:non-powered axle assembly) & recall 11v030000 (structure: frame and members:underbody shields) but was concerned with the remedies and felt that they were inadequate. the contact asked the dealer if they could guarantee that the axle would not break with the two plates but received no such guarantee. the contact called the manufacturer who offered no assistance. the current mileage was 127,000. the failure mileage was unknown-bk
03/01/201192000
 Ford windstar was recalled for rear axles. i had that repaired. i got another recall for the front axels. dealer says parts not available and van should be okay until parts are avaible. should be okay is not acceptable!! if there is a recall, the part should be available at the time of the recall, not weeks or months later.
09/24/201081535
 Our 2003 ford windstar has been having mechanical failures for about 3 years. we have heard a loud grinding noise from the rear passeners side of the car that neither our local mechanic nor ford could fix. we replaced shocks and most recently the tire rods on 9/24/10. we have had numerous electronical bugs inclluding abs lights flashing on and off for 2 years requiring multiple fuse changes and electrical testing. our transmission was replaced in 2009 at 59,000 miles. the power locks on the passenger side door and rear passenger doors do not open remotely or with power locks, only key or manual lifting. needless to say, although we have not had any person injuries, we have spent a fortune to keep this car running in what we thought was safe manner.
10/10/201075537
 Our ford winstar van that was manufactured in may 2003 was making a loud noise from the rear. when we took it to the dealer they said the rear axle was cracked in two places and had rust/corrosion holes in it. they said we could not drive it because it was unsafe and they could not get a replacement part until april 2011. we later find out that ford winstar vans from 1999 thru february 2003 have been recalled for this exact problem. because our van was manufactured may 2003 (two months outside the recall time) they will not cover it. we now have a car we can't drive because of safety hazard and even if we wanted to pay to fix it, which we should not have to, the part is not available for seven more months leaving us without a vehicle.
12/12/20045005/12/2004
 My ciggarette lighter pops out onto the floor every time it is pushed in. the distraction of a possible fire can cause a wreck.*ak
09/12/200310002
 Excessive wind noise in front seat area at 65 mph or faster. the dealer was unable to repair. cannot locate problem but recognizes that it exists. *nm
1
 The reflection of the dashboard onto the windshield when the sun shined over head caused a glare. the glare drastically reduced visibility through the windshield. *jb
STRUCTURE - BODY
01/05/2013120000
 There was a safety recall initiated by ford for corrosion of the engine cradle - 2003 ford windstar structure: frame and members:underbody shields nhtsa campaign #11v030000. ford repaired the left side only, leaving the right side rusted and now several significant rust holes have appeared on the right side. ford disclaims any responsibility saying that they made the repair properly but i claim they made the repair inadequately. bad metal is bad metal and regardless of the fact that the holes were discovered over a year later is inapplicable as good metal does not rust through to the point of creating a safety hazard. if the engine cradle fails, the engine will fall from the vehicle, potentially while moving. gas will spew across the road and a fireball will ignite. other drivers will either hit the engine, swerve to miss it and hit other vehicles, and/or get caught in the inferno which will cause significant damage, human harm and needless deaths. ford initiated this safety recall because there was this safety issue and the issue remains. safety was not improved by simply repairing one side of the engine cradle allowing the other side to corrode to the point of sizeable rust holes being created in a short period of time following the initial inadequate repair. once a safety recall is initiated, it is in the best interests of the public to ensure that the repair is properly and completely made and therefore that the safety issue is fully resolved.
06/15/201175000
 Tl- the contact owns a 2003 ford windstar. the contact received notification of nhtsa campaign id number: 11v030000 (structure: frame and members:underbody shields). the contact took the vehicle to the dealer for recall repairs to the front passenger side sub frame and the rear axle. the vehicle was repaired however, the sub frame failed a few months later. the contact went to have an alignment performed on the vehicle and was advised that she needed to take the vehicle to the dealer because the sub frame was rusted. the vehicle was taken to the dealer where they advised that there was a hole in the sub frame and the vehicle was no longer safe to drive. the manufacturer was not notified. the failure mileage was 75,000. kmj
06/15/201175000
 Tl- the contact owns a 2003 ford windstar. the contact received a recall notice. the recall number for ford was 11s16. the contact took the vehicle into ford for them to repair the right front sub frame and the rear axle. the vehicle was repaired and the sub frame failed a few months later. the contact went to get a alignment done on the vehicle and was informed that she needed to take the vehicle to the dealer because the sub frame was rusted. the vehicle was taken to the dealer and they stated that there was a hole in the sub frame and the vehicle was not safe to drive. the manufacturer was not notified. the failure mileage was 75,000. ap
11/01/2011117000
 Tl* the contact owns a 2003 ford windstar. while parked, the contact noticed the rear driver and passenger doors would not open from the interior. the contact exited the vehicle and opened the doors from the exterior so the passengers could exit the vehicle. the same failure occurred to the rear lift gate. the vehicle was not taken to the dealer for a diagnostic test. the vehicle was not repaired. the approximate failure mileage was 117,000.
11/01/2011117000
 Tl-the contact owns a 2003 ford windstar. while parked, the contact noticed the rear driver and passenger doors would not open from the interior. the contact exited the vehicle and opened the doors from the exterior so the passengers could exit the vehicle. the same failure occurred to the rear lift gate. the vehicle was not taken to the dealer for a diagnostic test. the vehicle was not repaired. the approximate failure mileage was 117,000. sm.
11/01/2011117000
 Tl- the contact owns a 2003 ford windstar. while parked the contact noticed the rear driver and passenger side doors would not open from the inside of the vehicle. the contact exited the vehicle and opened the doors from the exterior so the passengers could exit the vehicle. the same failure occurs to the rear lift gate. the vehicle was not taken to the dealer for diagnostic. the vehicle was not repaired. the approximate failure mileage was 117,000. da
02/12/2011107694
 Tl- the contact owns a 2003 ford windstar. the contact stated that nhtsa campaign id number: 11v030000 structure: frame and members: underbody shields repair was performed, but the failure was not corrected. the front subframe developed a new crack due to corrosion, and the rear passenger side subframe was severely corroded within the suspension attachment which developed a crack and a hole. the vehicle did not pass stated inspection and was deemed unsafe to drive. the vehicle was not repaired. the manufacturer was made aware of the failure. the failure mileage was 107,694 and the current mileage was 129,399. rvk
02/12/2011107694
 Tl-the contact owns a 2003 ford windstar. the contact stated that nhtsa campaign id number: 11v030000 structure: frame and members: underbody shields was performed, but the failure was not corrected. the vehicle front subframe develops a new crack due to corrosion, and the rear subframe right side was severely corroded in the suspension attachment area and developed a crack and hole. the vehicle did not pass stated inspection and was not safe to drive. the vehicle was not repaired. the manufacturer was made aware of the failure. the failure mileage was 107,694 and the current mileage was 129,399. li
03/22/201270000
 Tl-the contact owns a 2003 ford windstar. the contact stated that the vehicle was serviced under nhtsa campaign id number: 11v030000 (structure: frame and members: under-body shields) however, the dealer recommended that the sub-frame also be replaced, due to corrosion. the manufacturer was made aware of the dealer 's recommendation to replace the sub-frame, but the manufacturer denied any assistance with the repair. the vehicle was not repaired. the failure and the current mileage was 70,000. kmj
03/22/201270000
 Tl-the contact owns a 2003 ford windstar. the contact stated that nhtsa campaign id number: 11v030000 structure: frame and members: under-body shields, was performed on the vehicle, but the dealer recommended that the sub-frame should be replaced, due to corrosion. the manufacturer was made aware of the dealer recommendation, to replace the sub-frame, but the manufacturer denied the replacement of the sub-frame. the vehicle was not repaired. the failure and the current mileage was 70,000. li
02/10/201190000
 Recently issued recall of 2004 ford co. minivans for input shaft failure, all ford windstars including 2003 models have the same issue. freestar van is nothing but a name change for the same poor unsafe vehicle. along with the many safety issues, owners should be compensated for the repairs made on substandard vehicle. including the frame issues, brakes issue, electrical and engine quality.
12/23/2010101000
 Tl* the contact owns a 2003 ford windstar. the contact stated that the vehicle was experiencing numerous failures with the abs, brake light illumination, slow gear shifting and power windows and door lock failures. the manufacturer was contacted and advised that there were no recalls for the vehicle. the manufacturer denied any assistance with repairs to the vehicle. the vehicle was not taken to the dealer to be diagnosed or repaired. the failure mileage was 101,000 and the current mileage was 104,000.
12/23/2010101000
 Tl-the contact owns a 2003 ford windstar. the contact stated that the vehicle was experiencing numerous failures with the abs, brake light illumination, slow gear shifting and power windows and door lock failures. the manufacturer was contacted and advised that there were no recalls for the vehicle. the manufacturer denied any assistance with repairs to the vehicle. the vehicle was not taken to the dealer to be diagnosed or repaired. the failure mileage was 101,000 and the current mileage was 104,000. kmj
12/23/2010101000
 Tl-the contact owns a 2003 ford windstar. the contact stated the vehicle was experiencing numerous failures the abs, and brake light illuminated, the gear shifted slow and door lock and windows can only be closed manually. the manufacturer took a report 1460552841 and sated that the failures the vehicle was experiencing was not recall related and denied assistance with the repair. the vehicle was not taken to the dealer to be diagnosed. the failure mileage was 101,000 and the current mileage was 104,000. li
05/14/2011119000
 Tl-the contact owns a 2003 ford windstar. the contact stated that the automatic doors would open and close without anyone operating the control buttons. the dealer was notified of the failure and advised that there were no recalls for the failure. the manufacturer was notified and confirmed that there were no recalls and offered no assistance. the failure mileage was 119,000. kmj
05/14/2011119000
 Tl-the contact owns a 2003 ford windstar. the automatic doors on the left and right side of the vehicle open and closes without anyone operating the control buttons. the dealer was notified of the failure and stated there are no recalls or warranty. the manufacturer was notified and stated there are no recalls and offered no assistance. the failure mileage was 119,000. mw
03/01/2009
 Ford vehicles should not only be recalled for rear axle rust. there should also be a recall for rust that constantly occurs around the rear wheel well panels. the rust appears to start from underneath the rear side panel on the windstar. it seems like this is occuring along with the rear axle rust. the sliding side doors have a continuous problem with closing completely when any of the control buttons were used. the doors would reopen over and over. repeated visit to the service department did not solve the problem which seem to involve the pulley system.
07/01/200985000
 I have a 2003 fod windstar with 94,000 on it. bought it second owner with 18,000 miles only on it and a 75,000 mile warranty. my entire frame is rusting from the door panels to the under frame, supports. heck i have a hole that developed the size of my fist in the side frame near the passenger sliding door in the rear. my hitch wont even hold cause the metal just bends inwards. there are cars on the road with 150,000 that do not have the rust my car does. why do i have to pay for the cheap metal they used during this process. now i have to buy a new car that i cannot afford at this time. i was hoping to keep my car for at least a couple more years but now i cannot, its dangerous. they even told me my rear axle is bending. i will continue to drive my car cause i cannot afford another and if i die so be it i guess cause i guess its all about business as usual. nothing personal but i am putting my blood on your hands and fords hands. i cannot drive and lose my job. if it happens it happens when it should have. my sister also has a windstar that collapsed this weekend upon making a turn thankfully at 25 mile per hour. i drive 70 at times where permissible. thank you for listening to my concerns and my distinct rudeness. i am just fed up with holding the bag for big business. i paid alot of money for this car. first owners paid 26,000 i paid 19,000 used only two years old. had it only five years. heck i had my dodge for ten. please please do something before i or someone else dies.
05/19/20081
 My complaint is for a potential problem. i have a 2003 ford windstar that has a water leak in the roof body seams. i took it to a dealer on 5/19 who had a specialist come in to look at it. they said they couldn't do it and suggested taking it to a body shop. i don't think body seams leaking is normal wear and tear and i'm afraid that if i'm in an accident, there could be deadly consequences due to the structural defect. ford is not being helpful at all. i'm a single mom with no money, but i guess i have to take it to another dealer that has a body shop and have them tear it up. help. the car has never been in an accident and i bought it new. it took a while for me to figure it out because the water that comes in goes right into the hatchback/trunk carpet. i kept thinking that my kids spilled something or i left the window cracked, trying to give ford the benefit of the doubt. i don't have time to be bringing my car in. any other complaints? *tr
01/15/20032470012/27/2002
 Body seams not sealed resulting in water intrusion into floor seat anchors of passenger compartment. *nlm
STRUCTURE - BODY - DOOR
07/10/20071
 Tl*the contact owns a 2003 ford windstar. the contact stated that the sliding door behind the driver's seat would not open from the passenger compartment of the vehicle. there were no child proof locks; however, the door would only open from outside of the vehicle. in addition, the driver's side window also failed to operate correctly. once the window was opened, it was unable to be closed. the vin was verified, but was unable to be entered. the failure mileage was unknown and the current mileage was 103,000. updated 03/23/09.
08/01/20042750010007/25/2003
 Continuing problem with power rear sliding doors. non-operational on drivers side and opening by itself on the passenger side. also, does not retract when closing if there is an object in the way as stated in owners manual. happened after 1 year warranty expired. feel quality should be better than 1 year especially since the power doors were a big selling point with the vehicle. one door was fixed within the 1st year, but 3 or 4 months after that we had problems with the other door and now we have it with both doors. we will leave the minivan in the mall parking lot and return with one of the doors open. it also opens automatically, at times, when we close one of the front doors. *jb
05/01/2005107/31/2003
 Dt: contact states the automatic doors are not working properly. the door is taking more resistance before the door backs up. the vehicle has been taken to the dealership twice, and dealership stated the vehicle was fine. the consumer has contacted the manufacturer and the service dealer. *ak
09/20/200310009/03/2003
 The power sliding doors on my 2003 windstar open spontaneously after closing. this is a concern when there are children or pets in the car. two different car dealers have attempted multiple times to fix the problem. they have been unsucessful so far. another issue is the car alarm goes off for absolutely no reason. they have also attemped to fix this problem, with no success.
10/02/2002609/28/2002
 Nar 03-25-2003. the consumer had to return the vehicle to the vehicle to the dealership on numerous occasions because of a problem with the sliding doors. the first time the vehicle was returned to the dealership, the consumer noticed the driver side rear slider panel was hanging on by a few plastic rivets, the doors would pop back open after the closed button was pushed. the dealer made several attempts to fix the door. *jb
06/01/2004106/01/2004
 #2 power slinding door would inadvertently open while in motion. the manufacturer was not notified on june 24, 2004. *ak *jb
06/01/20041
 Sliding door failed to open and close by remote control. *ak the passenger side door did not open or close properly. *sc *jb
06/01/20033505/03/2003
 I am writing about our 2003 ford windstar. our passenger automatic sliding door frequently pops open after it appears to have latched shut. it has opened by itself on three occasions while the van was in drive. recently my three year old daughter almost fell out of the van headfirst onto concrete because the door popped back open as soon as it latched shut. the van has been in to repair this problem seven times without success. we first started having problems with both doors within the first 2 weeks of purchased. the times the door has popped back open are way to numerous to count. the number listed below is a low estimate.*ak
03/31/20041
 The sliding door would close if the vehicle is parked and inclined. it would be unsafe for the consumer while standing between the doors. *ak
01/07/20035
 Problem with power doors on both sides. they do not stop closing if a person is in the way. also, they open back up after they have been closed. i will come back to the van from shopping and one will be open. also, there was a time a could not get one to close without doing it manually.*ak
11/29/20031
 We rented a ford windstar from hertz during a recent vacation. while shutting the manual sliding door, i broke my middle finger and badly bruised my ring finger. the door handle inside the vehicle, used for shutting the door, appears to be too close to the door jam. i was distressed to see online that others had complained of the exact same problem as long ago as 1999, stating that if you didn't grip the handle tightly, but instead left your fingers slightly extended, they would be injured and that ford hoped to have this fixed in the 1999 version.(http://www.cartrackers.com/forums/live/ford/25.html) see the 2nd paragraph. obviously, it's not yet fixed. *la
STRUCTURE - FRAME AND MEMBERS
09/24/2012139379
 Tl* the contact owns a 2003 ford windstar. the contact stated that the sub-frame exhibited a hole due to rust and corrosion. the vehicle was taken to the dealer for inspection where the contact was advised that there was a hole in the sub-frame. the dealer was notified of the failure who then advised that there were no recalls for the sub-frame. the vehicle was not repaired. the manufacturer was notified of the failure who filed a complaint for the contact. the failure mileage was 139,379.
08/24/2011103000
 Tl-the contact owns a 2003 ford windstar. the contact stated the vehicle was recently repaired under the nhtsa campaign id number 11v030000 (structure: frame and members: underbody shields. the remedy repair consisted of attaching a bracket to the rear subframe. after the repair was performed, the vehicle began to vibrate excessively and the bracket protruded into the transmission and caused a hole. the vehicle was not repaired. the manufacturer was notified of the defect and they were unable to provide further assistance pertaining to the repair. the approximate failure mileage was 103,000. kmj
08/24/2011103000
 Tl-the contact owns a 2003 ford windstar. the contact stated the vehicle was recently repaired under the nhtsa campaign id number 11v030000 (structure: frame and members: underbody shields. the remedy repair consisted of attaching a bracket to the rear subframe. after the repair was performed the vehicle began to vibrate excessively and the bracket protruded into the transmission and caused a hole. the vehicle had not been repaired. the manufacturer was notified of the defect and they were unable to provide further assistance pertaining to the repair. the approximate failure mileage was 103,000. js
08/18/2011115000
 2003 ford windstar, inspected for rear axle corrosion recall, passed and parts added in mar 2011. at the same time the rear axle was fixed the vehicle was inspected for front subframe recall and passed. aug 18-2011 the passenger side lower control arm broke while driving at approx 20mph. no letter was ever received from ford to add parts to front subframe (confirmed by a phonecall to ford canada) how did they pass this as it failed 1500 kms later. not feeling safe to drive it again (ford is going to fix it!)
07/05/201182000
 Tl-the contact owns a 2003 ford windstar. the contact stated that after receiving 2 recalls in regards to nhtsa campaign id number 10v385000( suspension:rear:axle:non-powered axle assembly) and 11v030000(structure: frame and members:underbody shields). when taking the vehicle in for regular service the mechanic advised her that the brackets that were placed on the vehicle from the recall were not safe and was not steady. the manufacturer has not been contacted nor has the vehicle been repaired. the failure and current mileages were approximately 82,000. the vin was unavailable. tb
06/25/2011180000
 Tl- the contact owns a 2003 ford windstar. while driving in reverse at approximately 5 mph the contact heard a snapping sound. the contact stopped the vehicle and noticed the front passengers side suspension had detached from the vehicle. the vehicle was towed to an independent mechanic. the mechanic stated the front passenger side lower control arm and suspension had detached from the vehicle. the mechanic advised there was a recall related to the failure. the dealer was contacted and verified there was a recall under nhtsa campaign id number: 11v030000 (structure: frame and members:under body shields) and the vin was included. the vehicle was towed to the dealer. the technician stated the sub frame was corroded and needed to be replaced. the technicians applied the driver and passenger side front lower control arm rear attaching bracket and body mounts. the suspension bar which had detached from the vehicle and the sub frame was not replaced. the vehicle was not repaired. the approximate failure mileage was 180,000. ds
02/18/2011156753
 Saftey recalls concerns: 09v399000, 10v38500, 11v030000. recall on # 10v385000 was repaired but still having a problem with the repair have taken bak three times they couldnt find anything, but there is still a problem it makes a popping noise when vehicle shifts. recall on #11v030000 was not reparied, took in for inspection to ford they said as long as i was in alabama i nothing to be concern about, the recall notice stated if the vehicle passed inspection the dealer is authorized to complete reinforcment, my vehicle passed inspection but no repair was made.recall on 09v399000 i have talk with them several times they informed me there was no recall for this vehicle for that recall .
04/25/200372000
 Have 2003 ford windstar no dealers are willing to take this vechicle in trade becase of frame recall,dealers do not have parts to fix frame yet.ford should buy back all ford winstar .these vans are not safe,transmissions are bad,electric windows do not work half the time.rear axle recall front frame recall.do not buy one of these vans they are junk.
03/20/2011149000
 My 2003 ford windstar limited edition has major electrical problems. the hazzard lights will not go off therefore draining my battery. i have to disconnect it whenever i shut it off. it is currently at bay ridge ford for the recall involving the rear axle. however it has failed emissions for code 171 and 174. i believe there is a major flaw in the design of the windstar van
03/21/2011110000
 Tl* the contact owns a 2003 ford windstar. the contact stated that the vehicle exhibited a loud pop from the front passenger side while the vehicle was parked. the contact noticed that the spring had fractured yet the plate in which the spring was attached was still in place. the contact mentioned that the vehicle was included in nhtsa campaign id number: 11v030000 (structure: frame and members:underbody shields) and contacted the manufacturer. the manufacturer advised that the vehicle would need a diagnostic performed before determining if the failure was related to the recall and if the repairs would be covered. in addition, the contact stated that the vehicle was previously repaired because the front driver side spring failed. the vehicle was not further repaired. the approximate failure mileage was 110,000.
03/20/2011149000
 My 2003 ford windstar limited edition has major electrical problems. the hazzard lights will not go off therefore draining my battery. i have to disconnect it whenever i shut it off. it is currently at bay ridge ford for the recall involving the rear axle. however it has failed emissions for code 171 and 174. i believe there is a major flaw in the design of the windstar van
03/21/2011110000
 Tl- the contact owns a 2003 ford windstar. the vehicle was included in recall nhtsa campaign id number: 11v030000 (structure: frame and members:underbody shields). while parked the contact heard a loud popping sound coming from the front passengers side. the contact noticed the spring had broken on the front passengers side. the contact stated the plate which the spring was attached to was still in place. also, the contact stated a year prior the front drivers side spring had broken as well and was repaired. the manufacturer was contacted and stated the vehicle had to be inspected in order for them to conclude if the repairs would be covered under the recall. the vehicle was not repaired. the approximate failure mileage was 110,000. ds
03/20/2011149000
 My 2003 ford windstar limited edition has major electrical problems. the hazzard lights will not go off therefore draining my battery. i have to disconnect it whenever i shut it off. it is currently at bay ridge ford for the recall involving the rear axle. however it has failed emissions for code 171 and 174. i believe there is a major flaw in the design of the windstar van
03/21/2011110000
 Tl- the contact owns a 2003 ford windstar. the vehicle was included in recall nhtsa campaign id number: 11v030000 (structure: frame and members:underbody shields). while parked the contact heard a loud popping sound coming from the front passengers side. the contact noticed the spring had broken on the front passengers side. the contact stated the plate which the spring was attached to was still in place. also, the contact stated a year prior the front drivers side spring had broken as well and was repaired. the manufacturer was contacted and stated the vehicle had to be inspected in order for them to conclude if the repairs would be covered under the recall. the vehicle was not repaired. the approximate failure mileage was 110,000. ds
03/07/201193000
 While driving at low speed, a loud bang was heard and all steering control was lost.
01/26/2011200000
 Tl* the contact owns a 2003 ford windstar. the contact received notification of nhtsa campaign id numbers: 10v385000 (suspension: rear:axle:non-powered axle assembly) and 11v030000 (structure: frame and members: underbody shields). the contact stated that the manufacturer and dealer were not properly inspecting or handling the recall repairs. the contact had not experienced a failure. the current mileage was 200,000. the vin was unavailable.
11/11/201048000
 Tl-the contact owns a 2003 ford windstar. the contact stated after receiving a recall notice in regards to nhtsa campaign id number 11v030000(structure: frame and members:underbody shields) and 10v385000(suspension:rear:axle:non-powered axle assembly). she took her vehicle into the dealer november of 2010 for both recalls stated above and she still has yet to hear from the dealer about getting any parts in. the manufacturer was contacted and offered no assistance. the failure mileage was approximately 48,000. tb
03/07/201193000
 While driving at low speed, a loud bang was heard and all steering control was lost.
01/02/201171000
 Brought my 2003 ford windstar in to my local ford dealership because it failed state safety inspection as the abs light was on. ford took the vehicle and inspected it based upon a recall on the rear axle and said that it failed. they provided me with a rental. the next day, i called the dealership and asked them to check the abs right away anyway as if they were able to repair the axle issue soon, i would still not be able to drive the vehicle off their lot as it wasn't safe. at the time, the service manager agreed. i waited for a call back and received none. a month later, i placed another call and was told that there was going to be another recall for the front subframe and that ford was going to buyback vehicles that were already in with both issues so i should wait for the recall to become officially in progress. i waited another couple of weeks and when i heard nothing, i called back and inquired about the status. i was told that virtually no cars were failing the inspection for the front subframe, so i would have to wait until an axle was available for me to get my van back. i have still not heard the cost to repair my abs issue, so my question is, am i going to hear anything about this before they repair my axle, as i am going to be past the 60 days that i am allowed to repair the abs issue before massachusetts has the right to revoke my registration for not re-inspecting my vehicle. i am going to call my insurance company tomorrow to find out what i should be doing next, but in the meantime, i am left unknowing what is going to happen. as it stands, i will not have a safe vehicle to drive once they repair the axle as they are unwilling to do any work on the vehicle until they repair the axle.
02/25/201197000
 I went to the service station for recall they first told me my car was'nt abled to be fixed then they tell me it is able to be fix i have to be i little sckeptical when there flip flop like especially when my family life at stake
01/02/201171000
 Brought my 2003 ford windstar in to my local ford dealership because it failed state safety inspection as the abs light was on. ford took the vehicle and inspected it based upon a recall on the rear axle and said that it failed. they provided me with a rental. the next day, i called the dealership and asked them to check the abs right away anyway as if they were able to repair the axle issue soon, i would still not be able to drive the vehicle off their lot as it wasn't safe. at the time, the service manager agreed. i waited for a call back and received none. a month later, i placed another call and was told that there was going to be another recall for the front subframe and that ford was going to buyback vehicles that were already in with both issues so i should wait for the recall to become officially in progress. i waited another couple of weeks and when i heard nothing, i called back and inquired about the status. i was told that virtually no cars were failing the inspection for the front subframe, so i would have to wait until an axle was available for me to get my van back. i have still not heard the cost to repair my abs issue, so my question is, am i going to hear anything about this before they repair my axle, as i am going to be past the 60 days that i am allowed to repair the abs issue before massachusetts has the right to revoke my registration for not re-inspecting my vehicle. i am going to call my insurance company tomorrow to find out what i should be doing next, but in the meantime, i am left unknowing what is going to happen. as it stands, i will not have a safe vehicle to drive once they repair the axle as they are unwilling to do any work on the vehicle until they repair the axle.
02/25/201197000
 I went to the service station for recall they first told me my car was'nt abled to be fixed then they tell me it is able to be fix i have to be i little sckeptical when there flip flop like especially when my family life at stake
01/02/201171000
 Brought my 2003 ford windstar in to my local ford dealership because it failed state safety inspection as the abs light was on. ford took the vehicle and inspected it based upon a recall on the rear axle and said that it failed. they provided me with a rental. the next day, i called the dealership and asked them to check the abs right away anyway as if they were able to repair the axle issue soon, i would still not be able to drive the vehicle off their lot as it wasn't safe. at the time, the service manager agreed. i waited for a call back and received none. a month later, i placed another call and was told that there was going to be another recall for the front subframe and that ford was going to buyback vehicles that were already in with both issues so i should wait for the recall to become officially in progress. i waited another couple of weeks and when i heard nothing, i called back and inquired about the status. i was told that virtually no cars were failing the inspection for the front subframe, so i would have to wait until an axle was available for me to get my van back. i have still not heard the cost to repair my abs issue, so my question is, am i going to hear anything about this before they repair my axle, as i am going to be past the 60 days that i am allowed to repair the abs issue before massachusetts has the right to revoke my registration for not re-inspecting my vehicle. i am going to call my insurance company tomorrow to find out what i should be doing next, but in the meantime, i am left unknowing what is going to happen. as it stands, i will not have a safe vehicle to drive once they repair the axle as they are unwilling to do any work on the vehicle until they repair the axle.
02/25/201197000
 I went to the service station for recall they first told me my car was'nt abled to be fixed then they tell me it is able to be fix i have to be i little sckeptical when there flip flop like especially when my family life at stake
01/02/201171000
 Brought my 2003 ford windstar in to my local ford dealership because it failed state safety inspection as the abs light was on. ford took the vehicle and inspected it based upon a recall on the rear axle and said that it failed. they provided me with a rental. the next day, i called the dealership and asked them to check the abs right away anyway as if they were able to repair the axle issue soon, i would still not be able to drive the vehicle off their lot as it wasn't safe. at the time, the service manager agreed. i waited for a call back and received none. a month later, i placed another call and was told that there was going to be another recall for the front subframe and that ford was going to buyback vehicles that were already in with both issues so i should wait for the recall to become officially in progress. i waited another couple of weeks and when i heard nothing, i called back and inquired about the status. i was told that virtually no cars were failing the inspection for the front subframe, so i would have to wait until an axle was available for me to get my van back. i have still not heard the cost to repair my abs issue, so my question is, am i going to hear anything about this before they repair my axle, as i am going to be past the 60 days that i am allowed to repair the abs issue before massachusetts has the right to revoke my registration for not re-inspecting my vehicle. i am going to call my insurance company tomorrow to find out what i should be doing next, but in the meantime, i am left unknowing what is going to happen. as it stands, i will not have a safe vehicle to drive once they repair the axle as they are unwilling to do any work on the vehicle until they repair the axle.
02/25/201197000
 I went to the service station for recall they first told me my car was'nt abled to be fixed then they tell me it is able to be fix i have to be i little sckeptical when there flip flop like especially when my family life at stake
01/02/201171000
 Brought my 2003 ford windstar in to my local ford dealership because it failed state safety inspection as the abs light was on. ford took the vehicle and inspected it based upon a recall on the rear axle and said that it failed. they provided me with a rental. the next day, i called the dealership and asked them to check the abs right away anyway as if they were able to repair the axle issue soon, i would still not be able to drive the vehicle off their lot as it wasn't safe. at the time, the service manager agreed. i waited for a call back and received none. a month later, i placed another call and was told that there was going to be another recall for the front subframe and that ford was going to buyback vehicles that were already in with both issues so i should wait for the recall to become officially in progress. i waited another couple of weeks and when i heard nothing, i called back and inquired about the status. i was told that virtually no cars were failing the inspection for the front subframe, so i would have to wait until an axle was available for me to get my van back. i have still not heard the cost to repair my abs issue, so my question is, am i going to hear anything about this before they repair my axle, as i am going to be past the 60 days that i am allowed to repair the abs issue before massachusetts has the right to revoke my registration for not re-inspecting my vehicle. i am going to call my insurance company tomorrow to find out what i should be doing next, but in the meantime, i am left unknowing what is going to happen. as it stands, i will not have a safe vehicle to drive once they repair the axle as they are unwilling to do any work on the vehicle until they repair the axle.
02/25/201197000
 I went to the service station for recall they first told me my car was'nt abled to be fixed then they tell me it is able to be fix i have to be i little sckeptical when there flip flop like especially when my family life at stake
01/24/2011170239
 During oil change a visual inspection of surrounding areas revealed a fracture of right rear subframe mount. #1 long term a/c use, #2 rusting of right subframe at rear mount causing fracture of subframe,#3 subframe on order. van has been in florida since sold new in 2003.
12/24/2010174000
 2003 ford windstar rear axle complaint and transmission. first of all, i was left stranded when the transmission went out on christmas eve. merry christmas to me from ford. ford wants $3800 to replace it. the van is only worth that. then i find out that ford has had many complaints and failures with the transmission. why do i have to pay for this. i take care of and maintain my vehicles and i get this handed to me. then the dealer tells me that the axle needs to be replaced and it might be 6 weeks before the part even comes in. they will not buy the van back because it is a 2003. i think they should. they are the ones who sold me this vehicle and now i have to deal with it. buy the time they pay for my rental and fix the axle, it would be cheaper to buy me out and save there customer alot of stress.
12/28/2010105100
 Tl- the contact owns a 2003 ford windstar. the vehicle was taken to the dealer for repairs for a recall (nhtsa campaign id number: 10v385000 component: suspension:rear:axle:non-powered axle assembly) when the technician stated the front sub frame was severely corroded and there was a whole in front of the bolt that holds up the sub frame. the contact stated there was an open investigation on that component (nhtsa action number : ea10007component(s) : structure:frame and members suspension).the vehicle was repaired for the recall but was not repaired for the sub frame.the approximate failure mileage was 105,100. ds
12/24/2010174000
 2003 ford windstar rear axle complaint and transmission. first of all, i was left stranded when the transmission went out on christmas eve. merry christmas to me from ford. ford wants $3800 to replace it. the van is only worth that. then i find out that ford has had many complaints and failures with the transmission. why do i have to pay for this. i take care of and maintain my vehicles and i get this handed to me. then the dealer tells me that the axle needs to be replaced and it might be 6 weeks before the part even comes in. they will not buy the van back because it is a 2003. i think they should. they are the ones who sold me this vehicle and now i have to deal with it. buy the time they pay for my rental and fix the axle, it would be cheaper to buy me out and save there customer alot of stress.
12/28/2010105100
 Tl- the contact owns a 2003 ford windstar. the vehicle was taken to the dealer for repairs for a recall (nhtsa campaign id number: 10v385000 component: suspension:rear:axle:non-powered axle assembly) when the technician stated the front sub frame was severely corroded and there was a whole in front of the bolt that holds up the sub frame. the contact stated there was an open investigation on that component (nhtsa action number : ea10007component(s) : structure:frame and members suspension).the vehicle was repaired for the recall but was not repaired for the sub frame.the approximate failure mileage was 105,100. ds
12/20/2010100000
 Sub frame rusted.
11/25/2010165000
 I own a 2003 ford windstar se that has serious corrosion where the passenger side front control arm bolts into the frame. it has not failed completely, but i feel i should not be responsible for the cost of this repair.
11/02/2010190000
 My 2003 ford windstar was recalled for rear axle the dealer kept the vehicle because crack was found, i spoke to third party mechanic who spoke about front sub frame as well the third party mechanic then showed me the crack in my windstar front sub frame and informe me that it could break off at any time . i then brought this to the attention of the ford dealer who then responded saying its not part of the recall and refeered me to ford canada public reations who also said its not part of the recall and that i should have it fixed at my expense.
11/25/2010165000
 I own a 2003 ford windstar se that has serious corrosion where the passenger side front control arm bolts into the frame. it has not failed completely, but i feel i should not be responsible for the cost of this repair.
11/02/2010190000
 My 2003 ford windstar was recalled for rear axle the dealer kept the vehicle because crack was found, i spoke to third party mechanic who spoke about front sub frame as well the third party mechanic then showed me the crack in my windstar front sub frame and informe me that it could break off at any time . i then brought this to the attention of the ford dealer who then responded saying its not part of the recall and refeered me to ford canada public reations who also said its not part of the recall and that i should have it fixed at my expense.
11/25/2010165000
 I own a 2003 ford windstar se that has serious corrosion where the passenger side front control arm bolts into the frame. it has not failed completely, but i feel i should not be responsible for the cost of this repair.
11/02/2010190000
 My 2003 ford windstar was recalled for rear axle the dealer kept the vehicle because crack was found, i spoke to third party mechanic who spoke about front sub frame as well the third party mechanic then showed me the crack in my windstar front sub frame and informe me that it could break off at any time . i then brought this to the attention of the ford dealer who then responded saying its not part of the recall and refeered me to ford canada public reations who also said its not part of the recall and that i should have it fixed at my expense.
11/25/2010165000
 I own a 2003 ford windstar se that has serious corrosion where the passenger side front control arm bolts into the frame. it has not failed completely, but i feel i should not be responsible for the cost of this repair.
11/02/2010190000
 My 2003 ford windstar was recalled for rear axle the dealer kept the vehicle because crack was found, i spoke to third party mechanic who spoke about front sub frame as well the third party mechanic then showed me the crack in my windstar front sub frame and informe me that it could break off at any time . i then brought this to the attention of the ford dealer who then responded saying its not part of the recall and refeered me to ford canada public reations who also said its not part of the recall and that i should have it fixed at my expense.
11/25/2010165000
 I own a 2003 ford windstar se that has serious corrosion where the passenger side front control arm bolts into the frame. it has not failed completely, but i feel i should not be responsible for the cost of this repair.
11/02/2010190000
 My 2003 ford windstar was recalled for rear axle the dealer kept the vehicle because crack was found, i spoke to third party mechanic who spoke about front sub frame as well the third party mechanic then showed me the crack in my windstar front sub frame and informe me that it could break off at any time . i then brought this to the attention of the ford dealer who then responded saying its not part of the recall and refeered me to ford canada public reations who also said its not part of the recall and that i should have it fixed at my expense.
11/06/201053000
 2003 ford windstar subframe defect
11/05/201088144
 Mounting bracket for the lower control arm on the subframe rusted and broke, making tire change direction while my wife was pulling into the driveway. the axle slid out. subframe has to be replaced. dealership quoted about $1500 to repair. rear axle is involve in recall. i believe this should also be recalled at is a safety concern that should not happen to a vehile only 8 years old.
08/30/201086744
 Rear axle broke in half while driving on august 30, 2010
07/01/200985000
 I have a 2003 fod windstar with 94,000 on it. bought it second owner with 18,000 miles only on it and a 75,000 mile warranty. my entire frame is rusting from the door panels to the under frame, supports. heck i have a hole that developed the size of my fist in the side frame near the passenger sliding door in the rear. my hitch wont even hold cause the metal just bends inwards. there are cars on the road with 150,000 that do not have the rust my car does. why do i have to pay for the cheap metal they used during this process. now i have to buy a new car that i cannot afford at this time. i was hoping to keep my car for at least a couple more years but now i cannot, its dangerous. they even told me my rear axle is bending. i will continue to drive my car cause i cannot afford another and if i die so be it i guess cause i guess its all about business as usual. nothing personal but i am putting my blood on your hands and fords hands. i cannot drive and lose my job. if it happens it happens when it should have. my sister also has a windstar that collapsed this weekend upon making a turn thankfully at 25 mile per hour. i drive 70 at times where permissible. thank you for listening to my concerns and my distinct rudeness. i am just fed up with holding the bag for big business. i paid alot of money for this car. first owners paid 26,000 i paid 19,000 used only two years old. had it only five years. heck i had my dodge for ten. please please do something before i or someone else dies.
08/30/201086744
 Rear axle broke in half while driving on august 30, 2010
07/01/200985000
 I have a 2003 fod windstar with 94,000 on it. bought it second owner with 18,000 miles only on it and a 75,000 mile warranty. my entire frame is rusting from the door panels to the under frame, supports. heck i have a hole that developed the size of my fist in the side frame near the passenger sliding door in the rear. my hitch wont even hold cause the metal just bends inwards. there are cars on the road with 150,000 that do not have the rust my car does. why do i have to pay for the cheap metal they used during this process. now i have to buy a new car that i cannot afford at this time. i was hoping to keep my car for at least a couple more years but now i cannot, its dangerous. they even told me my rear axle is bending. i will continue to drive my car cause i cannot afford another and if i die so be it i guess cause i guess its all about business as usual. nothing personal but i am putting my blood on your hands and fords hands. i cannot drive and lose my job. if it happens it happens when it should have. my sister also has a windstar that collapsed this weekend upon making a turn thankfully at 25 mile per hour. i drive 70 at times where permissible. thank you for listening to my concerns and my distinct rudeness. i am just fed up with holding the bag for big business. i paid alot of money for this car. first owners paid 26,000 i paid 19,000 used only two years old. had it only five years. heck i had my dodge for ten. please please do something before i or someone else dies.
08/30/201086744
 Rear axle broke in half while driving on august 30, 2010
07/01/200985000
 I have a 2003 fod windstar with 94,000 on it. bought it second owner with 18,000 miles only on it and a 75,000 mile warranty. my entire frame is rusting from the door panels to the under frame, supports. heck i have a hole that developed the size of my fist in the side frame near the passenger sliding door in the rear. my hitch wont even hold cause the metal just bends inwards. there are cars on the road with 150,000 that do not have the rust my car does. why do i have to pay for the cheap metal they used during this process. now i have to buy a new car that i cannot afford at this time. i was hoping to keep my car for at least a couple more years but now i cannot, its dangerous. they even told me my rear axle is bending. i will continue to drive my car cause i cannot afford another and if i die so be it i guess cause i guess its all about business as usual. nothing personal but i am putting my blood on your hands and fords hands. i cannot drive and lose my job. if it happens it happens when it should have. my sister also has a windstar that collapsed this weekend upon making a turn thankfully at 25 mile per hour. i drive 70 at times where permissible. thank you for listening to my concerns and my distinct rudeness. i am just fed up with holding the bag for big business. i paid alot of money for this car. first owners paid 26,000 i paid 19,000 used only two years old. had it only five years. heck i had my dodge for ten. please please do something before i or someone else dies.
08/30/201086744
 Rear axle broke in half while driving on august 30, 2010
07/01/200985000
 I have a 2003 fod windstar with 94,000 on it. bought it second owner with 18,000 miles only on it and a 75,000 mile warranty. my entire frame is rusting from the door panels to the under frame, supports. heck i have a hole that developed the size of my fist in the side frame near the passenger sliding door in the rear. my hitch wont even hold cause the metal just bends inwards. there are cars on the road with 150,000 that do not have the rust my car does. why do i have to pay for the cheap metal they used during this process. now i have to buy a new car that i cannot afford at this time. i was hoping to keep my car for at least a couple more years but now i cannot, its dangerous. they even told me my rear axle is bending. i will continue to drive my car cause i cannot afford another and if i die so be it i guess cause i guess its all about business as usual. nothing personal but i am putting my blood on your hands and fords hands. i cannot drive and lose my job. if it happens it happens when it should have. my sister also has a windstar that collapsed this weekend upon making a turn thankfully at 25 mile per hour. i drive 70 at times where permissible. thank you for listening to my concerns and my distinct rudeness. i am just fed up with holding the bag for big business. i paid alot of money for this car. first owners paid 26,000 i paid 19,000 used only two years old. had it only five years. heck i had my dodge for ten. please please do something before i or someone else dies.
08/30/2010106000
 My daughter owns a 2003 ford windstar minivan. after hearing about the recall of these vehicle, we looked at her rear axle and noticed a large crack. when we brought it to a local ford dealer in hanover massachusetts we were told the vin # for her van was not on the recall list. when we told them there was indeed a crack in the axle they said we would have to pay for it to be repaired. we contacted ford motor company who said my daughter's vehicle was manufactured in may 2003 and the recall only covered minivans made up through february of 2003. we are not convinced that the axle in her van is not the same ones used in the cars made up through february. ford said they will not fix it. my daughter has a 2year old and a 4 year old and we lent her one of our cars to use because we are so worried about the safety of our grandchildren. i cannot believe that ford will not own up to this faulty axle and repair it. please help if you can and let me know if you agree with us that ford should be held responsible. my daughter works so hard and does not have the means for an expensive repair. she had to fix the transmission not long ago to the tune of $2000.00. this car has been nothing but a problem and the problems continue. we are filing this complaint, not because of an incident, but to prevent one. thank you for your attention to this matter.
08/24/2010208000
 The right front sub frame on my 2003 windstar corroded causing the lower control arm to separate and wheel to pull out. lost steering. also axles shaft pulled from transmission and fluid ran out. fortunately at slow speed so no accident, but what if i were on a freeway running fast?
08/30/2010106000
 My daughter owns a 2003 ford windstar minivan. after hearing about the recall of these vehicle, we looked at her rear axle and noticed a large crack. when we brought it to a local ford dealer in hanover massachusetts we were told the vin # for her van was not on the recall list. when we told them there was indeed a crack in the axle they said we would have to pay for it to be repaired. we contacted ford motor company who said my daughter's vehicle was manufactured in may 2003 and the recall only covered minivans made up through february of 2003. we are not convinced that the axle in her van is not the same ones used in the cars made up through february. ford said they will not fix it. my daughter has a 2year old and a 4 year old and we lent her one of our cars to use because we are so worried about the safety of our grandchildren. i cannot believe that ford will not own up to this faulty axle and repair it. please help if you can and let me know if you agree with us that ford should be held responsible. my daughter works so hard and does not have the means for an expensive repair. she had to fix the transmission not long ago to the tune of $2000.00. this car has been nothing but a problem and the problems continue. we are filing this complaint, not because of an incident, but to prevent one. thank you for your attention to this matter.
08/24/2010208000
 The right front sub frame on my 2003 windstar corroded causing the lower control arm to separate and wheel to pull out. lost steering. also axles shaft pulled from transmission and fluid ran out. fortunately at slow speed so no accident, but what if i were on a freeway running fast?
08/11/201088000
 Defect identified before an incident occurred. the design/manufacturing defect is as follows: 2003 ford windstar frame/engine cradle rusted through where the front sway bar attaches to the frame on the right side of the vehicle. initially identified by owner because of a disturbing banging sound of the sway bar when driving; and confirmed by visual inspection by owner and a service mechanic. the frame/engine cradle carries all of the lower suspension and drive train components/loads. if this were not repaired when it was, a catastrophic front end failure would have occurred. if failure occurred at high speeds or in a turn a terrible accident (& deaths) could have occurred. i would consider this defect a huge safety concern.
05/21/201086696
 Rear axle snapped and broke apart
09/23/20091200001
 2003 ford windstar rear axle/carrier cracked 120,000 miles vin not available - car in shop being repaired. *tr
12/15/2008958021
 I am entering this info on behalf of my brother, daniel cullen of meadville pennsylvania. dan does not regularly use the internet. his 2003 model year ford windstar has the right front wheel assembly fall off due to rust. the car only had 95,802 miles and was less than 6 years old. the rusted part is called an engine cradle. other instances can be found on the web going back several years. a ford dealer fixed the car at owner expense. the dealer reported that an air conditioning hose dripped on the rusted part contributing to the failure. i reported the problem to ford corporate hotline and they said they would not help my brother financially or take immediate action to correct this obvious safety defect. my brother was scheduled to drive the car next day 400 miles. if this failure had occurred at highway speed death and injury could easily have resulted. please see to it that these vehicles are recalled asap. a recall can be achieved at reasonable cost: first inspect cars and if no rust is present at least reroute the a/c drip line. if rust is present, change the engine cradle for a few hundred dollars. note that the web shows incidents going back several years, yet still these cars are out there turning into ticking time bombs in only 5 years of use! *tr
STRUCTURE - FRAME AND MEMBERS - UNDERBODY SHIELDS
11/10/20121218301
 Mechanics at big mike naughton aurora denver ford, inc, and private mechanic discovered rust and cracks through out rear axle. *tr
05/02/20111
 2003 ford windstar minivan. consumer expresses discontent in regards to vehicle recall and unsafe to drive *tgw the consumer stated the vehicle was recalled. it was then determined the vehicle could not be repaired and was not safe to drive. the consumer was offered a settlement amount of $6,675. he statement the settlement offer was not adequate. *jb
03/01/20111
 2003 ford windstar. consumer writes in regards to the performance of the ford motor company and two safety recalls *tgw the consumer stated the inspections and repairs were not conducted in a timely, efficient, and responsible manner. the consumer stated when he finally received an appointment for the axle inspection, it was determined the axle was cracked in three places. the dealer did not have the replacement parts and the vehicle was deemed unsafe to drive, and therefore, it was left at the dealer for over a month. the consumer stated he then received another recall relating to the subframe. the consumer contacted the dealer regarding the second recall and was informed they were aware of it and he would be contacted when the repairs for the second recall had been completed. the consumer received a voice mail from the dealer stating the parts for the axle had arrived. however, it was discovered the engine had an oil leak, the sway bar link was broken in the front, the right front tire was badly worn on the inside and the left rear shock was completely blown out. *jb
01/16/2011
 Tl*the contact owns a 2003 ford windstar. the contact stated that the front end of the vehicle was covered with rust and shaking violently while driving. the brake pedal also extended to the floorboard when it was engaged. all of the gauges on the instrument panel fell below zero, the brake light illuminated while all of the lights on the instrument panel began to shut on and off. the rear axle was cracked on each end of the vehicle. the vehicle was taken to an authorized dealer who added two plates on each side of the axle. the contact referenced recall 10v385000 (suspension:rear:axle:non-powered axle assembly) & recall 11v030000 (structure: frame and members:underbody shields) but was concerned with the remedies and stated that they were inadequate. the contact asked the dealer if they could guarantee that the axle would not break with the two plates but received no guarantee. the manufacturer offered no assistance. the current mileage was 127,000. the failure mileage was unknown.
03/01/20111
 2003 ford windstar. consumer writes in regards to the performance of the ford motor company and two safety recalls *tgw the consumer stated the inspections and repairs were not conducted in a timely, efficient, and responsible manner. the consumer stated when he finally received an appointment for the axle inspection, it was determined the axle was cracked in three places. the dealer did not have the replacement parts and the vehicle was deemed unsafe to drive, and therefore, it was left at the dealer for over a month. the consumer stated he then received another recall relating to the subframe. the consumer contacted the dealer regarding the second recall and was informed they were aware of it and he would be contacted when the repairs for the second recall had been completed. the consumer received a voice mail from the dealer stating the parts for the axle had arrived. however, it was discovered the engine had an oil leak, the sway bar link was broken in the front, the right front tire was badly worn on the inside and the left rear shock was completely blown out. *jb
01/16/2011
 Tl*the contact owns a 2003 ford windstar. the contact stated that the front end of the vehicle was covered with rust and shaking violently while driving. the brake pedal also extended to the floorboard when it was engaged. all of the gauges on the instrument panel fell below zero, the brake light illuminated while all of the lights on the instrument panel began to shut on and off. the rear axle was cracked on each end of the vehicle. the vehicle was taken to an authorized dealer who added two plates on each side of the axle. the contact referenced recall 10v385000 (suspension:rear:axle:non-powered axle assembly) & recall 11v030000 (structure: frame and members:underbody shields) but was concerned with the remedies and stated that they were inadequate. the contact asked the dealer if they could guarantee that the axle would not break with the two plates but received no guarantee. the manufacturer offered no assistance. the current mileage was 127,000. the failure mileage was unknown.
11/11/2010
 Tl*the contact owns a 2003 ford windstar. the contact stated that after receiving a recall notice in regards to nhtsa campaign id number 11v030000(structure: frame and members:underbody shields) and 10v385000(suspension:rear:axle:non-powered axle assembly). she took her vehicle into the dealer november of 2010 for both recalls and the parts were not available to perform the recall repairs. the manufacturer was contacted and offered no assistance. there are no failures at this time.
06/01/20045
 Consumer arm was pinched while she was resting it on the window ledge of the vehicle. *mr this problem would occur while in the passenger seat. when the lock snapped down, the consumer's arm would be badly pinched. *sc
STRUCTURE - MOTORCYCLE KICKSTAND/CENTERSTAND
04/30/2010115000
 I have a 2003 ford windstar. in april 2010 my rear axle suddenly broke. i paid a small fortune to tow and fix the problem. in july my front axle suddenly broke leaving me with another large towing and repair charge. and now the car just doesn't drive nice and my traction and brake warnings have been lighting up on my dashboard.

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