2000 Ford Windstar LX 3.8L from North America
Summary:
Do not ever buy this van. Stick with Chevy
Faults:
1). Reverse sun gear of the transmission. This seems to be a re-occuring problem, and so far I haven't heard a comment from Ford. I stopped at a stop sign in town, hit the gas to get through the intersection, and heard a "BANG". Then nothing worked. You could put it into reverse, but otherwise no power at all. Cost to us: $2500 and counting. Also had problems with Tie rod ends, power steering fluid leak, Antifreeze mysteriously leaking, then stopping. Do not ever buy this van. Over 50% of them end up with transmission problems. It is not worth the time or money. I for one will never buy a ford.
General Comments:
Never buy this van, even if you are desperate for a vehicle.
Would you buy another car from this manufacturer? No
Review Date: 13th March, 2005
6th Jun 2005, 13:07
My van had exactly the same problem. Just over 3 years old, 38,000 miles. Stopped at an intersection, light turns green, I apply light acceleration, BANG! No forward movement, only reverse. Ford wanted about $3500 for rebuilt transmission. I had a local shop repair it for $2500.
Sometimes the transmission would thud loudly when pulling the lever out of park. I think this is related.
Same overall conclusion: This will be my one and only Ford, ever.
12th Apr 2005, 00:23
I completely agree with this post. I just got back from my dealership: they say my transmission needs to be replaced at a cost of $3300!!! what a scam. never a ford.