1998 Ford Windstar Minivan

Good ol van

by IceBerge on Aug 1, 2010
Vehicle: 1998 Ford Windstar Limited 3dr Minivan

We've had this van for about 12 years now, buying it used from a rental car company, instead of an Explorer. Considering it's age and mileage it's held up quite well. Only real issues ore the common door sensor problem and the engine uses a little bit of oil, though no leaks. The car is extremely comfortable to drive, the ride is very smooth whether with just a driver or fully loaded with passengers. The seats are very comfortable and make longer road trips a easier thing to handle. The rear bench is a little heavy and cumbersome to remove but the middle captain chairs are as simple as can be. 107,000 miles and going strong, we plan on keeping this thing till it dies.

Beater still getting it

by Daddy on Jul 1, 2010
Vehicle: 1998 Ford Windstar 3dr Minivan

We bought this red wagon new because Mama needed a grocery getter and a young'n hauler. It's been a good machine. A few typical wear-and-tear items: water pump, alternator, a steering rack, brakes. All in all, not bad. Kids have puked in it and chewed holes in the upholstery. Automatic door locks quit working, and we've had some power window issues. Had to unplug the door sensors to keep the lights and bells off when door is closed, but I can fix the small stuff and we put up with the rest. Kids call it the "Beater." But it is paid for and is still kickin'. I keep the oil changed regularly and Mama keeps the interior clean. It's been "Ford tough." No major transmission or engine issues

2 of 2 people found this review helpful

Exceeds expectations

by Jay Connor on Apr 14, 2010
Vehicle: 1998 Ford Windstar GL 3dr Minivan

230,000 after 12 years & still going strong despite slight oil and radiator leaks. Very dependable 22mpg av. Drivers door damaged by 3rd party, $1,990 estimate to repair! Found complete salvaged door and professional paint job all for under $500. Easy to do. Four bolts and door is off, pull wiring harness out of body not door and unhook two snap connectors- interior trim comes off easily after extracting 4 screws, 3 on exterior last is visible when you extract control panel which snaps off. Had same dinging problem but in wet, caused by faulty sensors beside lock mechanisms. Highly recommend vehicle but you should change engine oil regularly, transmission oil and rear axle oil after 130,000

Great van

by AMAZING VAN on Mar 4, 2010
Vehicle: 1998 Ford Windstar LX 3dr Minivan

Bought this van back in 2001 and it has ran like a champ since then. It has had no problems in all the years I have owned it. The transmission is very strong I once was going down a hill and bumped it into reverse it shut of the engine but restated and kept on driving. I have put on 50,000 miles since then.

Transmission hint for you

by C Perry on Aug 10, 2009
Vehicle: 1998 Ford Windstar GL 3dr Minivan

It sounds like this vehicle is hit or miss with a lot of folks. For us, it's been a total hit with a few caveats. Bought used in '04 for $6k, from day one the cruise control didn't work and every once in awhile the dome lights will not turn off. Spray some W2-40 on all contacts for each door seems to fix (and a hint I read elsewhere). Otherwise, the master cylinder went out but no biggie. This thing holds a ton of stuff and is very roomy. It's been an awesome family car for us. Be aware there is 1 side door, not two like most these days.

Some problems with age

by Dan Meyers on Jul 13, 2009
Vehicle: 1998 Ford Windstar GL 3dr Minivan

The car is not that bad. I purchased it new. Occassionally the Check engine light flares , due to ethanol fuel. Ethanol is corn,which attracts water. Disconnect the battery, remove the fuel filter, blow out the gas and water,add a bottle of Rubbing alcohol to only 5 gals of gas, reconnect the battery after 5 minutes to reset the ECM.and it's good for the next few weeks. If I can retrofit a glass bowl purge type system ,that might eliminate the water. Also, I just replaced that dual speed fan control switch for $38..and saved plenty. Ford said it'll cost about $800 . That little fan switch controls the A/C vacum doors, power brake boosters, speed control and other do dads. Running good now.