1996 Ford Windstar GL review from North America
"Good van, but poor service from Ford"
What things have gone wrong with the car?
Speedometer/speedo-head went bad after 50K. $450 to replace.
Power window/lock motors/solenoid needed replacement after 60K.
Rear seat latch completely broken.
2 alternators have gone bad.
O2 sensors went bad, told repeatedly by dealer to just clear the fault by unplugging the battery. In the end it cost $600 to repair.
Check engine light comes on constantly. Ford dealership keeps nickel/diming me due to emission sensors and the like.
General comments?
I actually like the comfort, the ride, and the look of this 1996 GL.
I love the rear AC.
The captain chairs in the back are very comfortable.
I hate changing the air filter. Why can't they make it easier?
The reason I will never buy another Ford is the service from the various dealers I've been to.
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| Disppointed with the dealer's service. Keep it for sentimental reason, but will choose others otherw |
| Would you buy another car from this manufacturer? | No |
| Year of manufacture | 1996 |
| First year of ownership | 1997 |
| Most recent year of ownership | 2003 |
| Engine and transmission | 3.8L V6 Automatic |
| Performance marks | 7 / 10 |
| Reliability marks | 7 / 10 |
| Comfort marks | 8 / 10 |
| Dealer Service marks | 2 / 10 |
| Running Costs (higher is cheaper) | 4 / 10 |
| Overall marks (average of all marks) | |
| Distance when acquired | 12000 miles |
| Most recent distance | 88000 miles |
| Previous car | Hyundai Excel |
| Date of Entry | 5th March, 2003 |