Faults:

Nothing.

General Comments:

My family was growing, so it was time to take the plunge into the minivan market. My wife and I did all our homework, read the reviews, and went to dozens of used car dealers to find the mini van that would meet all our needs.

Lo and behold, we found the Ford Windstar! I didn't want a minivan, much less a Ford (I always thought they were ugly, but it's grown on me), and we have always been partial to imports. Honda's and Toyta's were too expensive, and KIA's were nearly impossible to find. The Windstar had all the features we wanted, safety being the biggest concern, and all the power we could ask for. We have had no problems with this vehicle, nor did the previous owners. It was kept in tip-top shape with regular maintenance and runs like a top! It has TONS of room, and some conveniences that make it a joy to drive.

Though the engine is a little loud during take-off, it's acceptable. We knew of this drawback when making the purchase.

The suspension is a little bouncy, which is typical of Fords, but again, being the informed shoppers we aspire to be, my wife and I were aware of this possibility when we considered this van.

All in all, the pro's far outweigh the con's. We couldn't ask for a better vehicle (except maybe one with a DVD player!).

Faults:

Two months after purchasing this vehicle, the windshield wipers quit working. I had to have the wiper motor replaced.

I also had to have one of the sliding doors adjusted just a few weeks after getting the vehicle.

At 46,000 miles the transmission had to be rebuilt. The transmission fluid also had water in it. The transmission began changing really hard and it sounded like it was going to fall out. It would constantly change as I was driving down the road.

In December 2002 I had to have the seat latches replaced due to a recall for them being faulty.

When driving down the road there is a crackling noise in the windshield. I'm not sure what is causing this, but I sure hope the windshield doesn't blow out on me.

The paint is starting to pop out and crack.

I have also spoke to Ford Motor Co. about my great dissatisfaction with the transmission and I have also e-mailed the U.S. Attorney General with my concern for the safety of these vehicles. I will do whatever it takes to try to get some satisfaction from Ford Motor Co.

General Comments:

This vehicle is very roomy and is good for families with children.

The interior lighting is very dim.

This is not an airtight vehicle.

When I first got the vehicle it was a pretty smooth riding vehicle. Now it is not quite as smooth as it should be.