Missing the rear wiper nut cover (Replaced promptly by the dealer when I got my first oil change)
Other than that.. NO problems.
So far my family loves our Freestar. It replaced my wife's trusty 1995 Subaru Impreza All Wheel Drive which she misses, but we needed the room.
It has a wonderful ride, quite interior, comfortable seats (Both front and middle. The rear bench is for children, but OK for adults) Purchased with the DVD entertainment package which is wonderfully integrated with the front stereo/CD/Cassette player and 3 zone AC/heating unit.
Mechanical and electrical reliability is excellent so far.. so I guess Ford finally worked out all the bugs from the previous Windstar on this model. Fit and finish surprisingly excellent!
(I own a BMW)
Dealer included a 100 month 100k miles power-train warranty to ease my reservations about this domestic vehicle. I would highly recommend this mini van to anyone looking for a reliable (so far) and comfortable family vehicle.
Let us know how it's doing from time to time.
Like you, I have reservations, and suspect that the Subaru is a more reliable vehicle long-term.
I too can appreciate your sckepticism towards buying a Ford product, but all in all, I think you made a good choice.
For the price, the Freestar is perhaps the best combination of room and convenience offered in a mini van by any manufacturer. Granted Honda and Toyoto are perceived to have better build quality, but, you pay a lot more for them and I really don't think ether models are completely trouble free. They do have great resale values though.
Even though my children have all grown and left the nest, I intend on trading my Kia Sedona for a new Freestar this year. My wife really likes the hide-a-way rear seat that can also be configured to face the rear, similar to the station wagons of old.
I am a bit leary about buying another Ford product, the previous Fords I've owned have proven to be less than stellar, but, according to some automotive journalists, Ford is hanging their reputation on both the Freestar and Freestyle. This remains to be seen. My Sedona was less than stellar too.
You mentioned that your dealer threw in a 100 month / 100,000 mile warranty to persuade you. Is this a Ford or an after-market warranty, what is the retail price of the warranty and, what does it cover? I might be open to a little arm twisting myself to make a deal.
Well good luck with your purchase, keep us posted on your adventures with Ford and your Freestar.
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