The Ford Windstar was a minivan produced by the Ford Motor Company from 1995 to 2003. A front-wheel-drive vehicle, the first generation model was built through 1998, and the second generation model from then until the end of its model run. Never a huge seller for Ford or particularly reliable, the Windstar was eventually replaced by the Freestar.
Because the 1996 model was part of the first generation Windstar, many of the problems experienced by owners that year were also common in 1995, 1997 and 1998 models. Verify your Windstar's model year to see if these problems may also apply to your minivan.
According to Carcomplaints.com, the most common problems for the 1996 Windstar were engine-related. Two engines were sold that year: a 3.0L V-6 and a 3.8L V-6. Owners reported problems with both engines with engine codes displaying either a cylinder misfiring or intake manifold runner control stuck open. Check vacuum line to ensure tightness and clean the throttle body.
You may have noticed problems with your Windstar's air-conditioning system, particularly for the back seats. Owners have noted that cool air will sometimes fail to blow out of the roof and side vents, with some remarking that all they had was hot air. Check the selector switch in the front air conditioning control panel; replace worn part with new switch.
Indicator lights in the 1996 Windstar have a reputation for lighting up spontaneously. Owners have complained about interior lights staying on, warning chimes dinging incessantly and latches and doors not closing. Get a can of WD-40 to spray latches and other locking mechanisms. Redo procedure until doors lock and interior lights and chimes turn off. Replace defective latches as necessary.
The rear hatch of the Windstar tends to get stuck, a problem some owners have attributed to wintertime icing. Check the release cable to ensure that it is working and use WD-40 to spray on the locking mechanism. Replace defective parts as needed.
While still under warranty, some Ford Windstar owners have complained about head gasket problems, particularly early failure of the same. This problem was peculiar to the larger 3.8L V-6, with Ford agreeing to extend warranty coverage for up to 100,000 miles. Contact Ford if your Windstar with fewer than 100,000 miles is still covered
Other Windstar problems have included transmission, brake, paint, seating and suspension problems.
Current 1996 Ford Windstar owners are dealing with an aged minivan that is likely at or beyond its useful lifespan. Unless you're handy and patient, consider whether any additional maintenance is worth pouring into a vehicle with a host of reliability issues.
