1996 Ford Windstar GL review from North America
"Decent van when it's not in the shop"
What things have gone wrong with the car?
Engine threw a rod at 62K.
1st transmission blew at 70k, second one at 125k.
Brake and power steering lines completely rusted through, fixed in 2005.
Rear windows intermittently work.
Both strut bearings are seizing.
Replaced both front wheel bearings twice.
ABS light has been on for 9 years (no interest in fixing).
Power steering pump is currently whining again.
General comments?
This vehicle has had its problems for sure. Fords made during this era seem to be designed for expensive failure - components are poorly engineered and costly to repair. If the parts cost don't get you then the labor will.
That said, when the van is working it is very comfortable to drive. It is slow as all hell and does NOT like to be floored, but doing so doesn't net much extra speed anyways - so drive it lazy. Gas mileage isn't horrific, my VR6 Jetta gets about 1-2mpg more overall, but I do drive that car much more aggressively.
Lots of space in the van and it's a decent people hauler, but don't expect to tow anything even approaching the 3500lb tow rating.
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| Would you buy another car from this manufacturer? | Don't Know |
| Model year | 1996 |
| Year of manufacture | 1996 |
| First year of ownership | 2000 |
| Most recent year of ownership | 2009 |
| Engine and transmission | 3.8L Automatic |
| Performance marks | 4 / 10 |
| Reliability marks | 3 / 10 |
| Comfort marks | 7 / 10 |
| Dealer Service marks | |
| Running Costs (higher is cheaper) | 4 / 10 |
| Overall marks (average of all marks) | |
| Distance when acquired | 60000 miles |
| Most recent distance | 145000 miles |
| Previous car | Volkswagen Jetta |
| Date of Entry | 12th August, 2009 |