Used 1997 Ford Windstar Consumer Reviews
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We have a limited number of reviews for the 1997 Windstar, so we've included reviews for other years of the Windstar since its last redesign.
Why I'll NEVER own another FORD
jennifer, 04/29/2002
1996 Ford Windstar LX 3dr Minivan
0 of 0 people found this review helpful
Transmition failed at 20,000 miles. ENGINE failed at 53,000 miles (yes, after the warrantee expired). A $4,500 repair. Evidently the engine block cracked and caused a rod to break. I am only keeping the car after this repair as a driving billboard against FORD. "Top-of-the-line" stereo replaced at 25,000 miles. Driver side seat pan failed at about 25,000 miles. Misc. interior trim replacements have been a yearly occurrence. FORD service department always keeps the car overnight even with an appointment.
Lemon
UnHappy Ford Owner, 05/03/2002
1996 Ford Windstar LX 3dr Minivan
0 of 0 people found this review helpful
Since we drove it off the lot, it has been a bad experience and Ford has been difficult to deal with. While it was under warrenty, we had everything electrial and the air fixed. As soon as it was out of warrenty, the transmission went out. We asked Ford for assistance and they refused to help us. Now it has 75,000 miles and we have the head gasket problem. s. I been talking with three dealerships about the TSB Ford has out to replace head gaskets if the car is less than 7 years old and 100,000 miles. Non of the dealers are aware of this TSB. I will never buy another Ford. .
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BoDerek, 06/17/2002
1996 Ford Windstar GL 3dr Minivan
0 of 0 people found this review helpful
Repeatedly in dealership for "Check Engine" light. Meticulously well maintained car blew head gasket at 88K miles. Ford resonse: "Sorry, 1995 3.8L Windstars are covered for head gasket problem..." However Ford maintains they "corrected it in '96 and later models..." so too bad if you are having trouble. Local mechanic says 3.8L head gasket woes are a Ford trait, not unique to Windstar, but all 3.8- powered Fords with 60-90K miles. Also clunky transmission makes me very nervous about its future. Lots of interior room though. Soft, quiet ride. Rear seat too heavy--needs two people to remove.
Good Van
windstarok, 07/29/2002
1996 Ford Windstar GL 3dr Minivan
0 of 0 people found this review helpful
We purchased our Windstar new in '96. Just before the 36K mile warranty ran out, I had 2 minor items fixed (tailgate struts and a side-view mirror) I had the transmission fluid and filter replaced at the dealer and the trans checked out a-ok. About 2 months later (after the warranty ran out) the transmission failed. Upon reviewing my case and service records Ford readily paid 90%. This was the only problem until 85K miles(EGR and Oxygen sensor) and at 90K with a cracked engine sub-frame (odd). I've spent $900 in repairs (except routine maintenance)& 3 weeks in the shop for 6 years and 90K+ miles on a van that I saved $4,000 off a Honda or Toyota.
Runs Well at 78K Miles
WIN STAR, 11/28/2002
1996 Ford Windstar LX 3dr Minivan
0 of 0 people found this review helpful
We've owned our Windstar for 5+ years now. I know that people have had problems with them. Our only major one was the tailgate lock failing and having to be replaced. Bought it with 29K miles from a local dealer. The faux leather interior, sound system, All-Trac and load level features continue to make this a pleasure to drive.