Used Ford Windstars

The Ford Windstar has served many people well and let many people down. But this is common among almost all vehicle types. There are good ones and lemons.

Ford produced the Windstar from 1994 until 2003. After 2003 they changed over to producing the Freestar. All the Windstars were built in Ontario, Canada, so they really aren't an American vehicle, but close, coming from just across the border.

There are couple things to be aware of when buying the Windstar used. First the 3.8 L V6 Essex engine is susceptible to headgasket failure while the 3.0 L V Vulcan engine was completely different and did not suffer from this problem. The engine issue began in 1995 until they redesigned the vehicle in 1999.

Also the first generation Windstar had issues with the transaxle. It would crack the forward and reverse clutch pistons and was a real problem on the 3.8 liter engine. The smaller 3.0 liter engine didn't have the same issue.

The first generation Windstar was given a "Good" crash test rating. This covered the 1995-1998 models.

Second Generation Ford Windstar

The next generation of Windstars ran from 1999-2003. These vehicles were better and the 2002 model was awarded the JD Powers dependability survey after three years in service in 2005. This made the 2002 Windstar more reliable then the Honda Odyssey and the Toyota Sienna.

The second generation Windstar received a "Acceptable" crash safety rating.

After 2002 the name was changed to Freestar, it was virtually the same vehicle and suffered the same issues. After 2007 even the Freestar was pulled from the market in favor of trying a Crossover vehicle which was called the Ford Flex.