2000 Ford Windstar SEL from North America
Summary:
A frustrating experience so far
Faults:
We have had several problems with our van since we purchased it used from a large, national used car dealer.
Some are things that I believe were fixed/replaced in an attempt to correct an ongoing problem with a shimmy/vibration when the vehicle reaches 60 mph and greater:
Replaced left front bearing and axle.
Replaced rear shocks.
Replaced a bent wheel.
Rotated and balanced tires several times (to no avail)
Front wheel alignment.
Replaced all four tires (most recently)
Brake repair (shoes/pads/resurfaced rotors)
General Comments:
This hasn't cost us anything besides time and convenience (we do not have our own van to drive on the average of 2-3 per month since Oct.'03). The used car dealer has provided us with loaners.
However, the shimmy/vibration/tremor is still there! Nothing has helped and it is now beyond frustrating. It seems to be coming from the rear of the van - passengers in the back definitely feel it and when no one is in the third bench seat, you can see the headrests shaking as if someone were throttling them with their hands.
Has anyone else experienced this? It is now being sent to a Ford service dept. and I have a nagging suspicion we will be told that it is "normal," when, in fact, it simply isn't.
I love the extras with the van (leather seats, power sliding doors, lots of room, DVD player) but I am beginning to regret this purchase.
Would you buy another car from this manufacturer? Don't Know
Review Date: 15th January, 2004
18th Mar 2004, 18:33
I noticed that you didn't mention replacing the stabilizer bar bushings, ball joints or tie-rod ends, these are the main causes for the problem you described. I want to suggest that you check the steering gear mounting bushings as well. I own a 2000 Windstar XL and it's a great vehicle.
27th Apr 2004, 19:18
Beware of the 2000 Windstar. Our SEL was a smooth ride, and needed only minor repairs at first. I was initially very happy. At 47,000 miles the check engine light went on. At 55,000 mies, the transmission went. After two weeks in the shop, they tell us the computer is malfunctioning and they haven't been able to fix it yet. Not knowing the reputation of the car and having driven all of our former vehicles (Toyota, Nissan, Chevy) over 140,000 miles each with no major problems, we did not buy the extended warranty. Poor decision, as we will be out close to $4000.
28th Jun 2004, 10:12
Your vibration/shimmy may be the result of the auto transmission shifting. There is history with these transmissions that give a shudder or vibration as the lock-up engages. My 2000 Windstar is doing the same thing. Needs filter and fluid change to fix. Also these transmissions don't last. Lots of web info to that effect. Hope this helps you out.
13th Feb 2004, 21:50
Something is definitely wrong with your Wind-star. Though I think quality is questionable in many areas, the one thing that excels in the 2000 Wind-star that I drive is the ride. It's the most comfortable van I've ever driven.