1996 Ford Windstar GL review from North America

Engine problems, and various other things.

The van is big and comfy, enough room to seat our family, but it's had a lot of problems. I think this vehicle was once reliable, but it's over due for a retirement.

Our engine "blew" at about 120,000 miles, and I thought it must have been my fault, but after reading the reviews and how common of a problem this is, I realize that it probably wasn't (a huge relief)

I've also experienced power steering fluid leaks and a problem with the serpentine thing. Last week it started leaking oil, and water, and we can't figure out from where. It's not losing from the radiator, it's being lost from the rear of the engine.

I would not recommend that a family purchase this vehicle unless by some miracle they found one with very few miles on it, otherwise, it is just an unneeded expense. Believe me, we owe my in-laws thousands of dollars in repair loans for this vehicle. At it's age, with how many miles it has on it, it has become nothing more than a sinking ship.

A word to the wise - a 10 year old vehicle with high mileage is never a good deal unless it's free, because you'll only end up paying more in repairs than what the car is worth.