1995 Ford Windstar GL 3.8L from North America
Summary:
Costly kid carrier
Faults:
I had this vehicle in for repairs 3 times in the first 2 weeks of ownership!
Engine overheated a couple of days after purchase (on a weekend) so we changed the thermostat. The following Tuesday, engine again overheated, leaving me stranded, towed the vehicle to dealer (my expense as the roadside assistance that was part of my warranty put me on hold for 30 minutes) head gasket was replaced by Ford motor.
The sensor on the exhaust was replaced next, then the motors on both rear windows. I never did replace the motor on the rear window wiper (too costly for such a simple part), nor did I replace the sensor on the carriage door, actually the dealer took care of the first time... the next time they refused to even work on it even at my expense. I replaced the belt at least yearly. The transmission leaked from day one. The tensioner broke also, leaving me stranded we a van load of groceries and kids... another tow at my expense. There are probably more repairs that I am forgetting.
Oh, yea... I couldn't keep air in the tires because the rims were bad.
It handled like a bus, took corners poorly, and never seemed to idle smoothly.
General Comments:
I like sitting up high and needed lots of room for family. The van was purchased without any research into the history... will never do that again.
Even for all it's faults I would still be driving if I hadn't stumbled upon the vehicle I am driving now. Once you put that much money into repairs you hate to quit and chance having the same problems on another vehicle. Basically, I felt as though I had replaced everything and therefore was comfortable that I would get to where I was going.
Would you buy another car from this manufacturer? Don't Know
Review Date: 18th August, 2003