Faults:

ABS several times.

Transmission slipping.

General Comments:

Frustrated with Ford's indifference to their poor workmanship and customer satisfaction.

Faults:

The engine blew at 83,000 km (51,000 miles).

Minor problems: electrical problems (interior lights wouldn't turn off, warning bell wouldn't stop - dealer couldn't find the problem).

A knocking noise in the front end, transmission clunks when you decelerate, then accelerate in traffic.

General Comments:

Our van was well maintained, but still blew an engine. Ford was not very interested in helping us (dealership, customer service 1-800 number, and regional representative), but eventually paid for half of the engine replacement.

Faults:

Cylinder head gaskets blew at 46K miles, loss of pick-up power since even though repaired by dealership

Power windows had to be replaced twice and serviced thrice.

Oxygen sensor malfunctioning numerous times.

General Comments:

I would definitely stay away from this vehicle if I was out to buying a mini-van. Check web pages on the internet concerning problems with this vehicle. Numerous individuals with similar problems (overheating and transmission problems).

Faults:

At 200 miles had to have the car towed due to failed ABS brakes. It took two trips to the dealer to get it fixed.

At 34,000 miles the transmission went out.

At 56,000 a blown headgasket.

General Comments:

Have heard that others are having the same trouble with this year. When it runs, I love it. Haven't had significant problems since 56,000. Now at 72,000. Possibly will get rid of it when my extended warranty runs out. Can't afford the problems without extended warranty. Think BEFORE you buy.

Faults:

Timing cover gasket needed replacement at 60K, discovered at 60K checkup. The dealer replaced the head cover gasket during this checkup (no cost - under recall).

General Comments:

Van has been great so far. Make sure to maintain vehicle and follow maintenance schedule for "heavy use". Change oil every 3K. Worried about possible transmission problems that other people have complained about.

Faults:

Complete brake repair at 25k miles.

Rebuilt transmission at 42k miles.

Head gaskets replaced at 42k miles.

Power window motor replaces at 25k miles.

General Comments:

Have seen over 300 posts from Windstar owners with the exact same problems.

Ford did a recall on the head gasket and reimbursed owners the full amount, and will cover the defect up to 60k miles.

Transmission is still an out of pockets expense for owners. Dealer would give full rebate per Ford motor company letter sent to me, had to contact local attorney general to get Ford dealer to comply with Ford directive.

Transmission problem was not corrected till later half of 1996 models (forward thrust piston made of aluminium vs steel).