1998 Ford Windstar GL review from North America

Rear A/C control (vacuum switch clogged) - I fixed it myself for $23 (dealer $180+)

Passenger side window motor - I fixed it for $70 (dealer wanted $250)

Check Engine Light Code P1538 - replaced right intake manifold runner control myself for $213 parts + tax (Dealer wanted $400+ for a 30 minute R&R job) Guy at Autozone cleared the Check Engine Light for free.

Interior lights stayed on constantly - fixed by applying WD40 to latches on rear hatch.

Tie rods started to groan loudly when turning. Injected grease into rubber boots and noise is gone.

BTW, I'm an engineer and figured out how to fix most of this stuff myself by using the Internet and a crappy Haynes manual that really sucks.

I love driving the Windstar and it has it's little quirks that really tick off people who don't know anything about cars. This van has been fairly reliable for us and I haven't had any trouble with the engine or transmission (we change the oil and transmission fluid quite regularly). I haven't taken the van to the dealer after the warranty expired because I don't trust them. I tried to talk my wife out of buying this minivan because they are so hard to work on and the parts are expensive. I am surprised that we have not had more problems with the vehicle.