1998 Ford Windstar LX 3.0 from North America
Summary:
No more Fords
Faults:
Transmission went out at 80000.
Rear air conditioning went out at 82000.
Steering rack has had issues for last 6000.
Tie Rods now need to be replaced.
Strut Arm cracked.
Power steering pump needs replacement.
Intermittent door ajar dinging and interior lights staying on.
General Comments:
Van is a very comfortable ride. Have 3 kids and its nice to have so much room to keep them from fighting and screaming.
Complied with prescribed maintenance, but it seems as though there is one issue after another with this car.
The entire front end is very weak.
Ford customer service has issues they need to resolve, both at the corporate level and at the dealer level. Dealer had supposedly no clue about the interior lights and the chiming staying on. Luckily, I was able to resolve the issue having a background in electronics (cleaned contacts on sliding door with eraser and lubed all latches). Then I find these other similair issues on the Internet.
It seems as though there are common faults with the vehicle as well as the manufacturer after researching on teh internet. What more is there to say?
The car is driven under normal conditions for the most part and my wife doesn't pretend there is a number 3 on the side of the door.
Compared to Dodge minivans, Ford seems to be lacking in reliability. I have driven 3 Dodge's and have had transmission issues on one of them to where it had to be replaced. They were all company cars with about 150,000 on them. Ill be lucky if my Ford lasts that long.
Would you buy another car from this manufacturer? No
Review Date: 27th February, 2004
8th Mar 2004, 15:31
I have now owned my 1998 Ford Windstar GL for a year and can honestly say it is the best van!! I test drove a few other brands and they didn't feel like they could handle much, and almost felt like they were going to tip over if you took a corner a little to sharp. I also love the fact that this van has got some power behind her, it has saved my butt quite a few times when inconsiderate drivers want to speed up while you are trying to merge. I have 2 very large breed dogs and three kids, and this van fits us all VERY comfortably!!!
Only problem I have had on it was the two rear tires, and they were due for a change anyways. The check engine light comes on for even the littlest thing, noticed it tends to have something to do with fluids most times... never anything that has required going into a shop to do.
I give this van a very BIG 10!!!
I am looking forward to our trip across the country this summer in this van!!