Used 1997 Ford Windstar Consumer Reviews
96 Ford Windstar
I bought this van new in 1996 at a very good price. It has been a good vehicle overall, with just a few minor problems at this point, 60K miles. I plan on keeping it for at least another 60K miles, even if I have to pit some money into it for repairs it will still be cheaper than buying a new one.
Lemon
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. .
Be Wary
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
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
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.