2000 Ford Windstar
Safety record from NHTSA: recalls, owner complaints, investigations and service bulletins.
Have the VIN?
Vehicles › Ford › Windstar › 2000
These records cover every 2000 Ford Windstar. To see whether one car still needs a recall repair, decode its VIN or check it with NHTSA.
Recalls
16 recalls name the 2000 Ford Windstar. Newest first.
Ford Motor Company (Ford) is recalling certain model year 1998-2003 Windstar vehicles manufactured September 2, 1997, to July 3, 2003. The affected vehicles were previously remedied to safeguard against the rear axle cracking from corrosion, however, the remedy brackets may have been misinstalled. The incorrect bracket installations may limit the…
Risk and remedy
Risk
If the brackets were not installed properly, the rear axle may fracture, affecting the vehicle handling and increasing the risk of a crash.
Remedy
Ford will notify owners, and dealers will inspect the brackets to verify their proper installation. If a bracket is found to have been misinstalled, the rear axle will be replaced. These repairs will be performed free of charge. The began on October 21, 2015. Owners may contact Ford customer service at 1-866-436-7332. Ford's number for this recall is 15S27.
Ford IS recalling certain model year 1998-2003 windstar vehicles manufactured from september 1, 1997, through july 3, 2003, and currently registered or originally sold in virginia. Over time, corrosion can weaken the rear axle making it susceptible to torsional stress. corrosion and stress can lead to cracks which, if undetected, can increase and result…
Risk and remedy
Risk
A fractured axle can affect vehicle handling and increase the risk of a crash.
Remedy
Ford will notify owners, and dealers will inspect and install rear axle reinforcement brackets, or replace the axles, as necessary. this service will be performed free of charge. The recall began on june 19, 2012. owners may contact ford at 1-866-436-7332.
Ford IS recalling certain model year 1999-2003 windstar vehicles originally sold in or currently registered in the state of virginia. Corrosion-related fractures of the front lower control arm rear attaching brackets and body mount attachments may occur.
Risk and remedy
Risk
A separation of a front lower control arm rear attaching bracket may result in a lower control arm separation. a separation of both front subframe rear body mounts may result in separation of the steering intermediate shaft. either condition could result in significant loss of steering control, increasing the risk of a crash.
Remedy
Dealers will inspect both front lower control arm rear attaching brackets and both body mount attachments at the rear of the front subframe and make the necessary repairs free of charge. The recall began on june 18, 2012. owners may contact ford at 1-866-436-7332.
Ford IS recalling certain model year 1998-2003 windstar vehicles manufactured from september 1, 1997, through july 3, 2003, registered in puerto rico. due to increased stresses caused by high cycles of torsional loading, specific to this market, the rear axle can crack.
Risk and remedy
Risk
A fractured axle may result in a loss of vehicle control, increasing the risk of a crash.
Remedy
Ford will notify owners, and dealers will inspect and install a reinforcement bracket on the rear axle or replace the axles, as necessary. this service will be provided free of charge. the recall began on june 1, 2012. owners may contact the ford motor company customer relationship center at 1-866-436-7332.
Ford IS recalling certain model year 1999-2003 windstar vehicles originally sold in or currently registered in the states of connecticut, delaware, the district of columbia, illinois, indiana, iowa, kentucky, maine, maryland, massachusetts, michigan, minnesota, missouri, new hampshire, new jersey, new york, ohio, pennsylvania, rhode island, utah, vermont…
Risk and remedy
Risk
This could result in reduced steering control increasing the risk of a crash.
Remedy
Dealers will inspect both front lower control arm rear attaching brackets, and both body mount attachments at the rear of the front subframe, and make the necessary repairs free of charge. If repairs cannot be made to a vehicle, ford will offer to repurchase the vehicle. The safety recall IS expected to begin on or before february 21, 2011. owners may contact ford at 1-866-436-7332.
Ford IS recalling certain model year 1998-2003 windstar vehicles manufactured from september 1, 1997 through february 28, 2003 and currently registered or originally sold in connecticut, delaware, district of columbia, illinois, indiana, iowa, kentucky, maine, maryland, massachusetts, michigan, minnesota, missouri, new hampshire, new jersey, new york, ohio…
Risk and remedy
Risk
A fractured axle can affect vehicle handling and increase the risk of a crash.
Remedy
As parts become available, dealers will inspect and if necessary install the rear axle reinforcement brackets free of charge. this service will be performed free of charge. the safety recall began on october 20, 2010. owners may contact ford at 1-866-436-7332.
Ford IS recalling model years 1995-2003 windstar, 2000-2003 excursion diesel, 1993-1997 and 1999-2003 F-250 sd through F-550 sd diesel, 1992-2003 E-150 through E-550, 1995-2002 explorer, 1997 and 2002 mercury mountaineer, 1995-1997 and 2001-2003 ranger, and 1994 F53 vehicles equipped with the texas instruments speed control deactivation switch (scds). the…
Risk and remedy
Risk
A vehicle fire could occur with or without the engine running.
Remedy
Ford will notify owners that dealers will install a fused wiring harness in line with the scds. on 1999-2003 windstar vehicles with a leaking scds, dealers will also inspect the ABS control module connector and repair as necessary. repairs will be completed free of charge. the safety recall began on october 27, 2009. owners may contact ford at 1-888-222-2751.
Certain aftermarket fuel filters sold under the purolator brand name, p/n f65277, shipped from january 16 through june 2, 2006, for use on the above listed passenger vehicles. due to incorrect design, the quick connectors may not fully seat with the tube interface, even though the person making the connection may believe that the quick connector IS fully…
Risk and remedy
Risk
Failure of this connection could lead to fuel spillage and, in the presence of an ignition source, a fire could occur.
Remedy
Ufi will notify owners and replace the filters free of charge. the recall began on august 4, 2006. owners may contact ufi filters USA at 800-230-5876.
In some minivans, water and other contaminants (dirt, salt, etc.) can enter into the right rear passenger compartment due to a missing body sealer.
Risk and remedy
Risk
This could cause a short circuit in the electrical connector at the rear wire harness. a short circuit can lead to malfunctions of the rear lighting system, reverse park-aid system, or trailer tow electrical system. a sustained short circuit can result in melted connectors and potentially lead to a fire.
Remedy
Dealers will inspect the electrical connector and surrounding area for absence of body sealing and corrosion. if corrosion IS present, dealers will service the body gaps, repair corroded connectors, and apply a protective patch to the connector assembly and body hole. if corrosion IS not present but the body sealer IS missing, dealers will service the body gaps and apply a protective patch to the connector assembly and body hole. owner notification began april 5, 2002. owners who take their vehicles to an authorized dealer on an agreed upon service date and do not receive the free remedy within a reasonable time should contact ford at 1-866-436-7332.
Vehicle description: MINI vans. contaminants such as water, salt, and windshield washer solution can enter the wiper motor cover assembly through pinholes on the exterior of the cover that are used in the molding process. in addition, on certain of the vehicles built between february and august 2000, a switch located in the plastic cover of the wiper…
Risk and remedy
Risk
Switch malfunction IS most likely to occur when the intermittent setting of the wipers IS being used, or when snow or ice obstructs the blades from returning to the "parked" position at the bottom of the windshield. loss of visibility while driving increases the risk of a crash.
Remedy
Dealers will install a new wiper cover with improved sealing and water resistance. owner notification begain august 27, 2001. owners who take their vehicles to an authorized dealer on an agreed upon service date and do not receive the free remedy within a reasonable time should contact ford at 1-866-436-7332.
Vehicle description: MINI vans equipped with auxiliary rear air-conditioning. if the auxiliary air-conditioning blower motor stops turning while in the medium-low blower speed setting, there IS the potential that the resistor may become hot and smoke.
Risk and remedy
Risk
The motor could potentially catch on fire.
Remedy
Dealers will install a jumper wire that will ensure that the medium-low blower speed setting IS protected by the thermal limiter. owner notification began augsut 27, 2001. owners who take their vehicles to an authorized dealer on an agreed upon service date and do not receive the free remedy within a reasonable time should contact ford at 1-866-436-7332.
Vehicle description: minivans equipped with an adjustable pedal option. the driver floor mat could interfere with the accelerator pedal.
Risk and remedy
Risk
This can result in a stuck throttle, increasing the risk of a crash.
Remedy
Dealers will replace both front driver and passenger side floor mats in the vehicle. owner notification began july 6, 2001. owners who take their vehicles to an authorized dealer on an agreed upon service date and do not receive the free remedy within a reasonable time should contact ford at 1-800-392-3673.
Vehicle description: minivans built with instrument clusters without the message center, fail to comply with the requirements of standard no. 118, "power-operated window, partition, and roof panel systems." the power windows may be operable after the ignition has been turned to the "off" position and the front doors are opened.
Risk and remedy
Risk
The standard requires that power operated windows may be closed only when the key IS in the "on," "start," or "accessory" positions, or during the interval between the time the key IS turned off, and the opening of either of the vehicle's front doors.
Remedy
Dealers will reconfigure the vehicle front end electronic module.
Vehicle description: passenger vehicles, light duty trucks, sport utility vehicles, and MINI vans equipped with trw seat belt buckle assemblies. the buckle base of these seat belt assemblies were not properly heat treated and therefore do not pass the load bearing requirement of federal motor vehicle safety standard no. 209, "seat belt assemblies."
Risk and remedy
Risk
In the event of a vehicle crash, the occupant may not be properly restrained.
Remedy
Dealers will inspect the date code on certain seat belt buckles of your vehicle and replace all seat belt buckles that fall within the suspect date code range. owner notification began october 26, 2000. owners who take their vehicles to an authorized dealer on an agreed upon service date and do not receive the free remedy within a reasonable time should contact ford at 1-800-392-3673.
Vehicle description: MINI vans. these vehicles may have incorrectly fuel line end forms which could result in a lower than specified pull apart force for the installed fuel line connection.
Risk and remedy
Risk
Fuel leakage, in the presence of an ignition source, could result in a fire.
Remedy
Dealers will install a redundant fuel line clip on the fuel supply and return line connections at the rear of the chassis fuel line bundle.
Vehicle description: MINI vans. these vehicles may have been built with incorrect urethane, resulting in an adhesive bond rather than the intended molecular bond for the front windshield and rear liftgate glass.
Risk and remedy
Risk
If the bond deteriorates, it could provide less than the intended level of glass retention in the event of a crash.
Remedy
Dealers will replace the windshield and liftgate glass.
Owner complaints
1,675 complaints62 involved a crash55 involved a fire61 injuries3 deaths
What owners report most
Latest complaints
- Electrical system · Engine · Visibility
The contact owns a 2000 Ford Windstar. The contact stated the vehicle failed to start, and the rear glass was out of the frame by about three-quarters of an inch. Additionally, the front driver's and passenger’s side windows failed to go up or roll down and were inoperable. The contact also stated…
The contact owns a 2000 Ford Windstar. The contact stated the vehicle failed to start, and the rear glass was out of the frame by about three-quarters of an inch. Additionally, the front driver's and passenger’s side windows failed to go up or roll down and were inoperable. The contact also stated that the instrument panel and anti-theft system were inoperable. The service engine, anti-theft, overdrive, speedometer, ABS system, and door ajar warning lights were illuminated. The contact stated that the failure was related to NHTSA Campaign Number: 00V351000 (Electrical System) and 00V020000 (Visibility). The contact called the dealer and was referred to the manufacturer for assistance. The vehicle was towed to the local dealer, but the vehicle was not diagnosed or repaired. The manufacturer was contacted, and confirmed there were no associated recalls with the VIN and referred the contact to the NHTSA Hotline. The failure mileage was approximately 180,000.
- Suspension · Wheels
The rear axle broke for the second time on a Ford Windstar, after already breaking prior to a recall in 2010. It appears to have broken where a clamp was attached. This caused the rear wheels to fall into, and grind against the wheel well. This happened on a side street near my house. Had it…
The rear axle broke for the second time on a Ford Windstar, after already breaking prior to a recall in 2010. It appears to have broken where a clamp was attached. This caused the rear wheels to fall into, and grind against the wheel well. This happened on a side street near my house. Had it happened at highway speeds, the rear wheels could have locked up or perhaps broken free causing loss of control. The axle problem has been known to Ford, but it is concerning that this is the second one to fail. I have not yet contacted ford or a a repair facility to evaluate. There were no warning lamps or other indication. The axle simply broke abruptly. I thought it was a tire blow out until I saw the wheels tilted in. The vehicle is older, but I maintain it well.
- Suspension › Front › Springs › Coil springs
The contact owns a 2000 Ford Windstar. The contact stated while reversing at an undisclosed speed, there was an abnormal booming sound coming from the vehicle. The contact stated that the front spring had fractured and punctured the passenger’s side front tire. There were no warning lights…
The contact owns a 2000 Ford Windstar. The contact stated while reversing at an undisclosed speed, there was an abnormal booming sound coming from the vehicle. The contact stated that the front spring had fractured and punctured the passenger’s side front tire. There were no warning lights illuminated. The local dealer was not contacted. The vehicle was not diagnosed nor repaired. The manufacturer was not contacted. The failure mileage was approximately 75,000.
- Engine
Going down the road car starts to sputter and then we'll cut off while driving and black smoke goes every dangerous it's happened twice already got it checked says nothing
- Engine
Car overheats even though it does not shown on the meter and when stopped and cut off it bubbles severely
- Unknown or other
Sliding rear door drivers side opened own it's own while i was driving. would not close, kept reopening, had to muscle closed. it has continued to happen frequently. I have seen many complaints on the year, model, for this issue. Why has there been no safety recall done? This is very dangerous.I have not taken for repairs, I have a very modest SS income and jut can not afford that. Car can be inspected at any time.
- Suspension
TL* the contact owns a 2000 ford windstar. The contact stated that while driving approximately 25-35 mph, the vehicle was making a squealing noise and then started to smell like burning rubber. The contact took the vehicle to cover-jones motor (403 w. 3RD st, alliance, ne 69301, (800) 344-9288) who…
TL* the contact owns a 2000 ford windstar. The contact stated that while driving approximately 25-35 mph, the vehicle was making a squealing noise and then started to smell like burning rubber. The contact took the vehicle to cover-jones motor (403 w. 3RD st, alliance, ne 69301, (800) 344-9288) who stated that the rear axle had fractured. The vehicle was not repaired. The axle had previously been replaced under recall. The manufacturer was not made aware of the failure. The approximate failure mileage was 176,481.
- Electrical system · Engine · Service brakes
Going down the road traction control will go off and on . It will make the steering very hard. Then when you turn the engine off. It IS very hard to start up . Some times you have to wait for about two or three hours then it will start right up. The electric system IS very bad. Sometimes when the…
Going down the road traction control will go off and on . It will make the steering very hard. Then when you turn the engine off. It IS very hard to start up . Some times you have to wait for about two or three hours then it will start right up. The electric system IS very bad. Sometimes when the traction control starts to have a problem the van IS very hard to even keep it in control I'm disabled and can't afford to get a better van. I've tried to take it back to ford but they don't know what to do with it. All they tale me IS to get anew one .but I can't. The power on the door locks are bad the locks will go locked and unlock as you drive it down the road. been doing this for about. 3 years. Or more. Had it in to ford many times.
- Structure › Body
While I was driving on the high way my rear axle broke I safety made it to the shoulder but while doing that my tire blew and left me stranded on the high way. *tr
- Steering
The steering started to fail to return to normal position. I had the original recall bracket put on my vehicle as can be seen in the photo but this did not actually make the steering arm any better and probably made it worse by allowing the bracket to collect road salt. Ford as been evasive toward…
The steering started to fail to return to normal position. I had the original recall bracket put on my vehicle as can be seen in the photo but this did not actually make the steering arm any better and probably made it worse by allowing the bracket to collect road salt. Ford as been evasive toward providing any help. I believe that ford's evasiveness IS result of the previous attempted fix which was unproductive and should have been engineered to have been actually effective in terms of the steering arm. I believe recalls ea10007 and pe10026 may provide some guidance. I am awaiting advice on what to do with my vehicle that IS unsafe to drive and probably not cost worthy to fix.
- Structure › Body
TL* the contact owns a 2000 ford windstar. While driving 15 mph and veering to the right, the contact heard a loud metal scrapping noise. The contact pulled over and noticed that the rear axle was fractured. The vehicle was towed to a friend's residence. The vehicle was not taken to a dealer or…
TL* the contact owns a 2000 ford windstar. While driving 15 mph and veering to the right, the contact heard a loud metal scrapping noise. The contact pulled over and noticed that the rear axle was fractured. The vehicle was towed to a friend's residence. The vehicle was not taken to a dealer or independent mechanic for diagnostic testing or repairs. The manufacturer was made aware of the failure and informed the contact that the vin was included in nhtsa campaign number: 15v608000 (suspension). The failure mileage was approximately 133,000. *Ln*jb consumer stated I have attached the images of my 2000 ford windstar se's axle breakage to this email.*jb
- Structure › Body
TL* the contact owns a 2000 ford windstar. The contact stated that the vehicle was repaired per nhtsa campaign number: 11v030000 (structure); however, the recall remedy failed to repair the vehicle. The contact stated that the entire subframe should have been replaced. When the vehicle was taken to…
TL* the contact owns a 2000 ford windstar. The contact stated that the vehicle was repaired per nhtsa campaign number: 11v030000 (structure); however, the recall remedy failed to repair the vehicle. The contact stated that the entire subframe should have been replaced. When the vehicle was taken to an independent mechanic for new struts, he was informed that the frame was rusted. The vehicle was not taken to a dealer for diagnostic testing. The manufacturer was not made aware of the failure. The failure mileage was 166,000. *Tr*jb
- Unknown or other
Rear axle cracked
- Engine
TL* the contact owns a 2000 ford windstar. While driving approximately 65 mph, the vehicle stalled. The vehicle was left on the side of the road overnight and was driven home the following day. The vehicle was not diagnosed or repaired. The dealer and manufacturer were not contacted. The failure mileage was unknown.
- Electrical system
The instrument panel goes crazy, doesn't work or works just fine. This happens weather I'm driving on the highway or in the city..
- Suspension › Rear
TL* the contact owns a 2000 ford windstar. While driving 45 mph, the rear of the vehicle shook and an unknown warning indicator illuminated. The contact continued to drive home and noticed that the rear driver's side tire was leaning. The vehicle was not taken to a dealer or an independent mechanic…
TL* the contact owns a 2000 ford windstar. While driving 45 mph, the rear of the vehicle shook and an unknown warning indicator illuminated. The contact continued to drive home and noticed that the rear driver's side tire was leaning. The vehicle was not taken to a dealer or an independent mechanic for diagnostic testing. The contact called ford customer service at 866-436-7332 and advised them that she received a recall notice for manufacturer number: 15s27 (suspension) on the rear axle. The manufacturer informed the contact to have the vehicle towed to a ford dealer and provided case number: 21985359. The approximate failure mileage was 200,000.
- Suspension
TL* the contact owns a 2000 ford windstar. While driving 10 mph over a speed bump, the contact heard an abnormal noise coming from the rear of the vehicle. The contact depressed the brake pedal and was able to park the vehicle in a nearby parking lot. There were no warning indicators illuminated.…
TL* the contact owns a 2000 ford windstar. While driving 10 mph over a speed bump, the contact heard an abnormal noise coming from the rear of the vehicle. The contact depressed the brake pedal and was able to park the vehicle in a nearby parking lot. There were no warning indicators illuminated. The contact inspected the vehicle and noticed that the rear driver's side tire was bent inward towards the vehicle. The vin was included in nhtsa campaign number: 15v608000 (suspension). The vehicle was towed to the contact's home and then towed to superior ford of plymouth (9700 56TH ave n, plymouth, mn 55442, (877) 735-4755). The dealer stated that the vehicle did not qualify to be included in the recall. The manufacturer was not informed of the failure. The failure mileage was 173,000.
- Suspension
TL* the contact owns a 2000 ford windstar. While driving 10 mph, the contact heard an abnormal sound coming from the rear passenger side of the vehicle. The vehicle was towed to an independent mechanic and was informed that the rear axle fractured. The vehicle was not repaired. The vehicle was not…
TL* the contact owns a 2000 ford windstar. While driving 10 mph, the contact heard an abnormal sound coming from the rear passenger side of the vehicle. The vehicle was towed to an independent mechanic and was informed that the rear axle fractured. The vehicle was not repaired. The vehicle was not included in nhtsa campaign number: 12v194000 (suspension). The dealer was not contacted. The manufacturer was made aware of the failure. The approximate failure mileage was 123,000.
- Unknown or other
I like to bring to your attention a still ongoing life-threatening safety issue with the ford windstar 2000 rear axle. As you know, the windstar's were recalled for this safety issue in 2010. My particular car was reinforced with 2 brackets under safety recall 10s13 at the most critical part of the…
I like to bring to your attention a still ongoing life-threatening safety issue with the ford windstar 2000 rear axle. As you know, the windstar's were recalled for this safety issue in 2010. My particular car was reinforced with 2 brackets under safety recall 10s13 at the most critical part of the axle and I think in the area were the brackets are installed the axle will hold up even with a lot of corrosion present. The problem IS the axle IS cracking just 1 inch to the right beside the reinforced bracket in my case the driver's side of the car. The only reason I found out about this, a few weeks ago I had my car serviced and I did an inspection on the axle and that's when I found that big crack half way around the axle!!! that same day I went to my ford dealer (bill brown) to bring it to their attention, unfortunately for the service manager this was not a recall matter anymore and he had no interest of inspecting the axle without charging me $ 125.00. Naturally I refused to pay that amount.
- Suspension
I started hearing a sound from the rear of the vehicle while driving especially when turning. I inspected under the rear of the vehicle and found a significant crack in the rear axle. I discovered that there IS a recall for this issue with my make and model and year; however, my vin IS not included in the recall. I have parked the vehicle in the garage and am afraid to drive it. *js
- Unknown or other
My 2000 ford windstar axle just broke had repair done when I got recall notice , vehicle was stored in my garage for the winter when we came back in the spring left rear tire was flat when chrysler dealer fixed flat they noticed broken axle
- Structure › Frame and members › Underbody shields · Suspension
TL* the contact owns a 2000 ford windstar. The contact stated that the rear axle and frame associated with the undercarriage of the vehicle had extensive rust and corrosion. There was also a crack that extended from the rear axle when the contact inspected under the vehicle. An abnormal noise was…
TL* the contact owns a 2000 ford windstar. The contact stated that the rear axle and frame associated with the undercarriage of the vehicle had extensive rust and corrosion. There was also a crack that extended from the rear axle when the contact inspected under the vehicle. An abnormal noise was heard. Lance cunningham ford (4101 east clinton hwy, knoxville, tn 37912, 1-(866) 591-3943) was notified of the failure. The vehicle was not diagnosed or repaired. The vehicle was unable to be safely driven due to the failure. The manufacturer was notified of the failure. The approximate failure mileage was 158,000.
- Suspension
My rear axle broke while I was driving under normal conditions on a city street. I twice got the previous recall work done on the axle (the "bracket fix" and the subsequent inspection of the "fix"). I was told my the dealer that the axle looked good and I didn't need to replace the axle for the…
My rear axle broke while I was driving under normal conditions on a city street. I twice got the previous recall work done on the axle (the "bracket fix" and the subsequent inspection of the "fix"). I was told my the dealer that the axle looked good and I didn't need to replace the axle for the discounted $300 price. I don't understand how the nhtsa allowed ford to charge money for an actual fix and only offer a stop gap fix that would eventually fail anyway as a solution. in my attached picture, you can see where the axle failed under the recall repair bracket. Fortunately, I was on a city street and able to quickly get my van into a parking place. If this had happened at highway speeds, the result could have been much worse. I am writing mainly to implore your agency to never again allow a piecemeal recall like this again. I was under the impression my axle was fixed by the previous recall.
- Suspension · Wheels
Went to "credit karma" and was informed that my vehicle was the subject of a ford nhtsa recall. ford failed to notify me of recall on my vehicle. Recall ID # 233939 dated 10/21/2015. please help resolve this as I don't want to be driving an unsafe vehicle
- Power train › Axle assembly
TL* the contact owns a 2000 ford windstar. While driving 70 mph, the rear axle detached from the vehicle. The contact was able to coast the vehicle to the side of the road. The vehicle was towed to westland ford (located at 3450 wall ave, ogden, ut 84401, (801) 629-5500) where it was diagnosed that…
TL* the contact owns a 2000 ford windstar. While driving 70 mph, the rear axle detached from the vehicle. The contact was able to coast the vehicle to the side of the road. The vehicle was towed to westland ford (located at 3450 wall ave, ogden, ut 84401, (801) 629-5500) where it was diagnosed that the rear axle needed to be replaced. The vehicle was not repaired due to the repair fees. The contact stated that the vehicle was previously inspected regarding nhtsa campaign number: 12v193000 (power train). The manufacturer was notified of the failure and provided case number: 16366106. The approximate failure mileage was 212,000.
Defect investigations
NHTSA’s Office of Defects Investigation opened these reviews into vehicles including this one.
- Front Subframe Corrosion Failures
In a January 26, 2011 Defect Information Report, Ford Motor Company (Ford) notified the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) that it will conduct a safety recall to address corrosion related fractures in the front lower control arm rear attaching brackets and body mount attachments at the rear of the…
In a January 26, 2011 Defect Information Report, Ford Motor Company (Ford) notified the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) that it will conduct a safety recall to address corrosion related fractures in the front lower control arm rear attaching brackets and body mount attachments at the rear of the front subframe in approximately 425,288 model year (MY) 1999 through 2003 Ford Windstar vehicles manufactured from April 1998 to July 2003 and either sold or currently registered in the following high corrosion (Salt-Belt) states:Connecticut, Delaware, District of Columbia, Illinois, Indiana, Iowa, Kentucky, Maine, Maryland, Massachusetts, Michigan, Minnesota, Missouri, New Hampshire, New Jersey, New York, Ohio, Pennsylvania, Rhode Island, Utah, Vermont, West Virginia and Wisconsin (NHTSA Recall No. 11V-030, Ford Recall No. 11S16).According to Ford, separation of a front lower control arm rear attaching bracket may result in a lower control arm separation and separations of both front subframe rear body mounts may result in separation of the steering intermediate shaft.Either condition could result in diminished vehicle directional control, increasing the risk of a crash.Dealers will inspect the lower control arm rear attachment flanges and the rear body mount sections of the subframe on the right (passenger) and left (driver) sides of the vehicle.Owners of vehicles that pass the inspection will be notified when to return for installation of reinforcement brackets to extend the durability of the front subframe assembly in affected areas in the presence of corrosion.Owners of vehicles that do not pass inspection, but can be repaired, will be offered transportation until parts become available.Repurchase offers will be extended to owners of vehicles that cannot be repaired with the reinforcement brackets.This investigation is closed.
- Front Subframe Corrosion Failures
The Office of Defects Investigation (ODI) has identified 346 complaints to ODI and Ford alleging fracture, cracking and or excessive corrosion of the front subframes in model year (MY) 1999 through 2003 Ford Windstar vehicles.Approximately 97 percent of these complaints (334) involve vehicles that have been operated…
The Office of Defects Investigation (ODI) has identified 346 complaints to ODI and Ford alleging fracture, cracking and or excessive corrosion of the front subframes in model year (MY) 1999 through 2003 Ford Windstar vehicles.Approximately 97 percent of these complaints (334) involve vehicles that have been operated in Salt Belt states, which make up approximately 60 percent of the subject vehicle sales in the United States.The front subframe, sometimes referred to as the engine cradle, is a structural component of the Windstar vehicles that carries the engine, transaxle, steering rack and certain front suspension components (e.g., lower control arm).For complaints with sufficient information to identify the location of the failure, most describe problems with the rear mounting bracket for the front passenger-side lower control arm with some related to the rear body mount attachment located in the same general area of the subframe (right-rear section near the front passenger wheel).The remainder of the reports allege fracture of the front subframe at other or, most often, unspecified locations.Almost all of the complaints that specified the side of the vehicle indicated that the problem occurred on the right/passenger side (106), with only a few indicating the left/driver side (2) or both sides (3) were affected.Ford and several complainants attributed the right-side failures to the routing of the air-conditioning lines above the front subframe on that side of the vehicle, further noting that condensation has been observed dripping onto the front subframe in the area of the affected components (the A/C drain tube is also located on the right side, near the front subframe).ODI has identified 93 complaints related to lower control arm attachments, including 80 that appear to involve complete separations.All but one of these involved vehicles from Salt Belt states.All three crash incidents appear to be related to lower control arm separations, including one road departure into a road-side sign resulting in a totalled vehicle and a lane departure into another vehicle.Almost half of the ODI complaints related to control arm separation occurred at speeds greater than 20 mph and about a quarter occurred at highway speeds.Three-quarters of these complaints allege experiencing difficulty controlling the vehicle and about 40 percent appear to have resulted in departures from the intended lane of travel.Testing by both Ford and NHTSA have demonstrated that lower control arm separation from the rear attachment bracket results in significant toe out of the affected wheel, which affects the driver's ability to control vehicle direction.According to Ford, moderate braking improved vehicle controllability by reducing the amount of toe out, possibly explaining incidents that did not allege a loss of control.ODI's analysis of complaints related to the rear body mount identified 41 complaints (ODI only).These complaints generally report experiencing progressively worsening noise concerns when turning, accelerating or braking.Although, some of the complaints that appeared to involve a complete separation of the body mount alleged difficulty steering, the effects on vehicle control from this failure mode do not appear to be as great as those resulting from control arm separation.However, ODI is seeking more information regarding two complaints which alleged that body mount failure resulted in disconnection of the steering wheel from the steering rack (one occurred during vehicle service).This investigation has been upgraded to an Engineering Analysis (EA10-007) for subject vehicles sold or currently re
- Rear Axle Cracking
In a letter dated August 26, 2010, Ford Motor Company (Ford) submitted a Defect Information Report notifying NHTSA that it will conduct a safety recall (NHTSA Recall No. 10V-385) to address a rear axle defect in model year (MY) 1998 through 2003 Ford Windstar vehicles built at the Oakville assembly plant from…
In a letter dated August 26, 2010, Ford Motor Company (Ford) submitted a Defect Information Report notifying NHTSA that it will conduct a safety recall (NHTSA Recall No. 10V-385) to address a rear axle defect in model year (MY) 1998 through 2003 Ford Windstar vehicles built at the Oakville assembly plant from September 1, 1997 through February 28, 2003 and either sold or currently registered in high corrosion (Salt-Belt) states where the use of salt and other corrosive chemicals may be used to treat snow/ice covered roads.The following states are included in Ford's recall:Connecticut, Delaware, District of Columbia, Illinois, Indiana, Iowa, Kentucky, Maine, Maryland, Massachusetts, Michigan, Minnesota, Missouri, New Hampshire, New Jersey, New York, Ohio, Pennsylvania, Rhode Island, Vermont, West Virginia and Wisconsin. The subject vehicles utilize a Stamped/Formed axle assembly manufactured by Benteler automotive Corporation of Galesburg, MI.According to Ford, after many years of vehicle service in the Salt-Belt states, corrosion can weaken the rear axle, making it susceptible to torsional stress.There is a risk that the combined effects of corrosion and stress can lead to cracks which, if undetected, can propagate and result in a complete fracture of the axle.A completely fractured axle can affect vehicle handling and increase the risk of a crash.To correct the safety defect, Ford will initially inspect all of the subject vehicles brought into Ford/Lincoln-Mercury dealerships for possible cracked axles.Owners of vehicles without cracked axles will be notified when to return for the installation of reinforcement brackets to extend the axle durability in the presence of corrosion.Owners who have vehicles with cracked axles will either be offered a repair or alternative transportation until parts become available. On May 13, 2010, the Office of Defects Investigation (ODI) opened PE10-016 to investigate complaints of rear axle cracking in MY 1999 through 2003 Ford Windstar minivans.Combining ODI and Ford complaint data, ODI is aware of a total 891 complaints alleging rear axle cracking in the subject vehicles.Over a third of the complaints (334) allege that the cracking progressed to a complete fracture of the rear axle, including 8 allegations of crashes resulting in 3 injuries. Approximately 57 percent of the subject vehicles (524,661) were sold in Salt-Belt states covered by Ford's recall and Ford estimates that approximately 463,000 of these remain in service.Ninety-six percent of the complaints (858) and all of the complaints alleging complete fracture were from the recall region.The action taken by Ford is sufficient to resolve the issues raised by this investigation.Accordingly, this investigation is closed.
- Engine compartment fires
Ea08-021 IS closed with ford's actions in recall 09v-399 recalling approximately 4.5 million vehicles equipped with texas instruments speed control deactivation switches (scds).with this recall ford has now recalled all of the approximate 16 million ford model vehicles that were manufactured from my 1992 through 2003…
Ea08-021 IS closed with ford's actions in recall 09v-399 recalling approximately 4.5 million vehicles equipped with texas instruments speed control deactivation switches (scds).with this recall ford has now recalled all of the approximate 16 million ford model vehicles that were manufactured from my 1992 through 2003 with a texas instruments scds.nhtsa will continue to monitor the recalled vehicles to ensure remedies installed by ford tomitigate the potential for scds related fires are effective.the agency reserves the right to take further action if warranted by the circumstances.see attached closing report for further details.
- Engine compartment fires
Odi has received 134 consumer complaints, 285 manufacturer complaints, and 137 manufacturer warranty claims alleging incidents of engine compartment fire in model year (my) 1995 thru 2003 ford windstar vehicles.two of the odi complaints allege the fires caused structural damage to the complainant's home.of the 134 odi…
Odi has received 134 consumer complaints, 285 manufacturer complaints, and 137 manufacturer warranty claims alleging incidents of engine compartment fire in model year (my) 1995 thru 2003 ford windstar vehicles.two of the odi complaints allege the fires caused structural damage to the complainant's home.of the 134 odi complaints, 36 allege the fire occurred while the vehicle was parked, 72 allege the fire occurred while the vehicle was running and 26 of the complaints do not specify if the vehicle was running or not.further review of the odi complaints shows that 72 allege that the speed control deactivation switch (scds) caused the fire and 10 allege that the scds leaked brake fluid on to the ABS module resulting in the fire.there were 52 that did not identify a cause or that identified miscellaneous other causes.odi has also received 89 complaints ( not counted in this resume) alleging that the scds developed a brake fluid leak.thirteen of these complaints say that the leak at the scds resulted in braked fluid reaching the ABS module.this pe has been upgraded to an engineering analysis (ea) to further evaluate the cause of the fires and assess the scope, frequency, and safety consequences of the alleged defect.
- Power sliding door opening
The subject vehicles are equipped with single or dual power sliding doors (psd).approximately 111,000 vehicles have dual power sliding doors.the psd IS opened by any of 5 methods, the inside or outside manual door handle, the key fob, the overhead console switch and the b-pillar switch.the door may be opened only…
The subject vehicles are equipped with single or dual power sliding doors (psd).approximately 111,000 vehicles have dual power sliding doors.the psd IS opened by any of 5 methods, the inside or outside manual door handle, the key fob, the overhead console switch and the b-pillar switch.the door may be opened only under these conditions: ignition key IS in off/accessories/on/start position, gear selector in park, vehicle speed less than 6 mph, and door unlocked.the psd latch IS located at the rear of the door and has a secondary and primary latch position.full and proper closure engages both the secondary and primary latch.with the ignition in the on position, as the gear selector IS moved out of park the door automatically locks and that action mechanically isolates the latch, secondary and primary, from all latch release connections.in addition to the reports alleging door opening while driving, ford has received approximately 5,700 reports that allege the door does not close properly or pops open with no mention of while driving.ford's investigation into these report included owner interviews, vehicle by-backs and testing of consumer vehicles.it found that allegations of door opening while driving were in fact reports of doors not being properly closed initially and subsequently opening to the secondary latch position as a result of vehicle vibrations or driving maneuvers.ford's testing of consumer vehicles did not result in any recurrence of psd opening while being driven.odi interviews with owners affirmed the allegations of psd opening while driving; however owners indicated the event IS not a regular occurrence (i.e.,it occurred only once or has not occurred recently) and that the unintended psd opening may not be able to be duplicated.in contrast, the improper closing of the psd (latching on the secondary but not the primary latch) can be duplicated, and odi verified this during an inspection of a consumer vehicle.in this condition (secondary but no primary latch), when the vehicle's gear selector IS moved out of park position, a warning chime sounds and warning message appears on the instrument panel.most reports and warranty claims were filed in the early service-life of the vehicle and peaked around the 18-month in-service time period.odi and mfr complaint trends are declining over the last 8 quarters.there IS no alleged injury associated with occupant falling out while the vehicle IS in motion.no failure mode causing full door opening while vehicle IS in motion has been verified (reproduced by odi or by trained service technicians at dealerships) during this investigation.a safety-related defect has not been identified at this time and further use of agency resources does not appear to be warranted.accordingly, this investigation IS closed.the closing of this investigation does not constitute a finding by nhtsa that a safety-related defect does not exist.the agency will monitor this issue and reserves the right to take further action if warranted by the circumstances.
- Wheel stud fracture
The subject vehicles range in age from 4?7 years in service, with average mileages estimated to range from 50 to 100 thousand miles.at these mileages, the subject wheels are likely to have been removed and reinstalled multiple times for various service procedures.odi IS concerned about the high wheel separation rates…
The subject vehicles range in age from 4?7 years in service, with average mileages estimated to range from 50 to 100 thousand miles.at these mileages, the subject wheels are likely to have been removed and reinstalled multiple times for various service procedures.odi IS concerned about the high wheel separation rates in the my 1997-98 windstar vehicles equipped with aluminum alloy wheels.however, analysis of failure data indicates that most of the incidents in that population of vehicles occur after the vehicles had accumulated 30 thousand miles of service. The factors that increase the risk that inadequate clamp loads may be achieved during service-related wheel installation are not unique to the subject vehicles.testing conducted by ford and vrtc indicate that the my 1998 windstar aluminum wheel fastening system performs similar to the wheel fastening systems on peer minivans.no design or manufacturing defects were identified in the wheel fastening systems of the subject vehicles. Ford will send a mailing to owners of windstar vehicles with aluminum wheels that have high wheel separation rates that reviews the appropriate wheel fastening procedures and states that the wheel nuts should be tightened to the nominal torque, 100 ft-lbs (136 nm), and re-tightened to the same torque after 500 miles.ford?s letter also states that it IS ?a good practice to be sure that before installing the wheel the aluminum wheel mounting surface, wheel lug nut area, and the mounting flange are free from dirt, debris, and loose rust to ensure the wheel IS seated correctly and the wheel lug nuts remain fully tightened.? Odi will continue to monitor the incidence of wheel fastener failures in the subject vehicle population.accordingly, this investigation IS closed.the closing of this investigation does not constitute a finding by nhtsa that a safety-related defect does not exist.the agency will take further action if warranted by the circumstances. For additional information, see the attached closing report.
- Wheel stud fracture
Analysis of odi and ford data has identified 1619 incidents of wheel stud fracture in my 1998 through 2000 ford windstar vehicles, including 69 wheel separations and 11 crashes.ford has not been able to identify any design or manufacturing defects in its analyzis of the problem.ford maintains that the failures are…
Analysis of odi and ford data has identified 1619 incidents of wheel stud fracture in my 1998 through 2000 ford windstar vehicles, including 69 wheel separations and 11 crashes.ford has not been able to identify any design or manufacturing defects in its analyzis of the problem.ford maintains that the failures are caused by either:(1) inadvertent overtorquing of lug nuts during removal or installation; or (2) fatigue due to insufficient clamp load between the wheel and the brake rotor or drum and hub assembly.according to ford, corrosion, dirt, or damage present on the road wheel at the nut inteface could contribute to the latter condition. Analysis of odi complaint data indicates that the subject vehicles experience wheel stud failures at significantly higher rates than peer minivans.this investigation has been upgraded to further assess the frequency, scope, and trend of the alleged defect condition in my 1997 through 2000 windstar minivans.
Service bulletins
Technical service bulletins and other communications the manufacturer sent dealers about this vehicle. Ask a dealer for the full document by its number.
- 10205035Safety recall 10S13 - Rear axle corrosion - requests for recall service action
- 10205030Safety recall 11s16 - LCA rear attaching flanges or rear subframe body mount corrosion - requests for recall service action
- 10183771For 1998-2003 Windstar vehicles Safety Recall 10S13 has been issued for vehicles that are operated in high corrosion areas for an extended period, where the rear axle could potentially fracture. If the rear axle should completely fracture, vehicle handling may be affected which could increase the risk of a crash.
- 10183766For 1999-2003 Windstar vehicles Safety Recall 11S16 has been issued for vehicles that are operated in high corrosion areas for an extended period, where a front subframe lower control arm (LCA) rear attaching flange or rear body mount could separate from the vehicle subframe. Separation of one LCA attachment or both rear body mounts may result in a loss of vehicle directional control, increasing the risk of a crash.
- 10074725Summary to be provided on a future date.
- 10058105Ford: safety recall on front subframe lower control arm (lca) rear attaching flange or rear body mount that can separate from subframe if vehicle IS operated, for extended period, in high corrosion areas. Model 1999-03 windstar.
- 10058104Ford: safety recall concerning rear axle fracturing if vehicle IS operated in high corrosion areas for and extended period. Model 1998-03 windstar.
- 10056623Ford: on some minivans, rear axle will fracture, in high corrosion area, after operating for an extended time period, and vehicle handling ability will be affected. Model 1998-2003 windstar.
- 10056612Ford: a safety recall has been issued on minivans where lower control arm (lca) of front subframe attaching rear flange or rear body mount can separate due to corrosion. Model 1999-2003 windstar.
- 10026389Ford: certain 1999-2001 model year vehicles up to 6000 lb gvwr registered in new york and certain 2001 vehicles up to 6000 lb gvwr registered in the state of maine, certified for sale in california-federal emission warranty refund.
- 10016808Erratic fluid level reading on transaxle dipstick-leaks-4f50n, AX4N, AX4S transaxle.
- 10014138Safety belt retraction speed.
- 10014086General (pcm) power train control module programming procedures.
- 10014062Rear window defroster grid/integral antenna diagnosis and repair - terminal tab repair.
- 10013116Malfunction indicator lamp (mil) illuminated - system lean diagnostic trouble codes (dtc's) - service tips. Various models including 2004 f-series.
- 10013062Roof ditch material cracking. This includes 1997-2003 F-150 and 2002 blackwood models. Service tip.
- 10013060Climate control a/c service tech tips.
- 10012954Safety belt web stop button service.
- 10011159Rear window defroster grid/integral antenna diagnosis and repair - terminal tab repair.
- 10010714Spark knock on acceleration - vehicles equipped with 3.8L engine only.
- 10009321Inoperative electric rear window defroster (heated backlite) grid lines, integral antenna concerns.
- 10008580Lamp-brake-invadvertent disabling of brake shift interlock.
- 10008350Servicing body side molding or cladding / contact request.
- 10008320Clunk/squeak from the front stabilizer bar area (qsf).
- 10008304Engine-gear driven synchronizers-incorrect installation-camshaft position synchronizer (cmp) installation tool correct application.
- 10008273Trailer tow service kit - service tip.
- 10008272Malfunction indicator lamp (mil) on with multiple diagnostic trouble codes (dtcs).
- 10008240Power steering noise.
- 10008201Warning indicators-parking aid-reverse sensing system (rss) and forward sensing system (fss)-false activation of warning tone-service tips. Update.
- 10008183Groan/buzz/vibration when the gear selector IS in park with the vehicle parked on an incline. This bulletin updates previous bulletin 17358, dated 11/01/2003 to include 2005 models.
- 10008151Crease in the headliner above the left a-pillar.
- 10007386Trailer tow electric brake switch/module connector may be difficult to locate in the vehicle and for certain 1999-2001 vehicles, the location IS not clearly identified in the wiring diagram manual.
- 10007365Power sliding door operation and diagnostic service tips.
- 10007354Windshield cowl panel grille (leaf screen) breaking at the grille opening.
- 10004921Beeping sound from the instrument panel when driving at/over 75 mph, traction control off indicator illuminate when vehicle IS not equipped with traction control, and/or diagnostic trouble code b2477 (module configuration failure) stored in the instrument cluster module (icm). This information dated 10/01/2003 has been updated to include 2005 monterey.
- 10004886Malfunction indicator lamp illuminated with diagnostic trouble codes (dtcs) p0442, p0455, p0456, p0457 or p1442 or a check fuel cap lamp illuminated with dtc p0457 for the evaporative emission system.
- 10004027Remote keyless entry (rke) - service tips.
- 10003853Slight amount of fluid residue on the outside of the rear wheel cylinder dust boot on vehicles with rear drum brakes.
- 10003748New transmission cooler flusher - service tips. 2003 escort and super duty f series included.
- 10003166Malfunction indicator lamp (mil) on / no start / erratic shifting.
Every Ford Windstar model year
Bars are owner complaints, dots mark years with recalls. Select a year to open its report.