1996 Ford Windstar GL review from North America
"The biggest piece I have ever owned"
What things have gone wrong with the car?
Water pump, 80831 miles, $646.08.
Transmission, 81909 miles, $2260.00.
Check engine light (fouled spark plug), 84212 miles, $399.82.
Driver's door power window, 84330 miles, $188.00.
Check engine light (bad sensor), 87349 miles, $269.95.
Blown wheel bearing and hub, 87840 miles, $299.00.
General comments?
I have never owned a vehicle so poorly made as this Windstar. Although I know that used cars have their quirks, and are subject to wear and tear, I have later learned that the AXOD series of transmissions used in these vehicles have a known failure rate dating back to 1993. When I contacted Ford customer service regarding the transmission failure they denied knowledge of any known failures in these transmissions (the same transmissions that the Taurus had). In a later call to Ford they acknowledged a warranty program for these transmissions, but told me that I didn't qualify. When I asked what the qualifications are they said that they couldn't tell me as that was a confidential Ford document. If quality is Job 1 then denial must be Job 2.
I am planning to sue Ford in small claims court on this transmission. If anyone has successfully done the same or is in the process of doing the same, please email me with your information. I will gladly share with you what I have.
serpas@dnc.net
| Would you buy another car from this manufacturer? | No |
| First year of ownership | 2000 |
| Most recent year of ownership | 2001 |
| Engine and transmission | 3.8 Automatic |
| Performance marks | 1/10 |
| Reliability marks | 0/10 |
| Comfort marks | 6/10 |
| Dealer Service marks | 7/10 |
| Running Costs (higher is cheaper) | 1/10 |
| Distance when acquired | 77000 miles |
| Most recent distance | 89000 miles |
| Previous car | Subaru GL |
| Date of Entry | 2nd June, 2001 |