1996 Ford Windstar LX 3.8L V6 200HP 233LBS from North America
Summary:
Trouble maker for some, and a sweet heart for others
Faults:
I had several problems with my Windstar, but it still was the best minivan I ever drove compared to: Dodge Caravan, Chevrolet Lumina APV, Mazda MPV and the Toyota Previa, but it was a little bit lower class than the Chrysler Town & Country.
My problems were:
Fuel injection problem at 50 000 kms.
Transmission problem at 150 000 kms.
Engine fluid problem at 178 230kms.
General Comments:
The Windstar has excellent performance; better than any other minivan. Back in 1995, the acceleration from 0-60mph in just 7.9 seconds was 2 full seconds quicker then the Caravan, and 1.8 seconds quicker than the Previa. The brakes were also the best in its class, stopping this 5630 LBS minivan in just 155 feet (from 70mph to 0).
In fact the Windstar had options which made the owner happy, like the standard overdrive, ABS, airbags, and more. Some of the options are the power windows, power door locks, the powered and heated seats with lumbar support, and side heated and powered side mirrors, with the 10 CD changer, which were options I couldn't find in other minivans.
Would you buy another car from this manufacturer? Yes
Review Date: 14th June, 2003
30th Aug 2003, 22:24
I drive a 1998 Ford Windstar. I bought it used and it was previously an executive driven fleet vehicle. It had about 135,000 km on it when I bought it (about 84,000 miles) and it now has about 180,000 km on it (112,000 miles). The van had been well looked after by the previous driver, and we have taken good care of it too. It still looks and runs great. I do all the service work on it myself, and I have never had any major problems with it. It is nice to drive, both winter and summer (and it gets plenty cold and snowy in Canada), and we have every faith in its integrity. I know not everyone is this pleased with their Windstar, but we like ours just fine!