2001 Ford Windstar LX from North America - Comments

Nothing.

My family was growing, so it was time to take the plunge into the minivan market. My wife and I did all our homework, read the reviews, and went to dozens of used car dealers to find the mini van that would meet all our needs.

Lo and behold, we found the Ford Windstar! I didn't want a minivan, much less a Ford (I always thought they were ugly, but it's grown on me), and we have always been partial to imports. Honda's and Toyta's were too expensive, and KIA's were nearly impossible to find. The Windstar had all the features we wanted, safety being the biggest concern, and all the power we could ask for. We have had no problems with this vehicle, nor did the previous owners. It was kept in tip-top shape with regular maintenance and runs like a top! It has TONS of room, and some conveniences that make it a joy to drive.

Though the engine is a little loud during take-off, it's acceptable. We knew of this drawback when making the purchase.

The suspension is a little bouncy, which is typical of Fords, but again, being the informed shoppers we aspire to be, my wife and I were aware of this possibility when we considered this van.

All in all, the pro's far outweigh the con's. We couldn't ask for a better vehicle (except maybe one with a DVD player!).

I also purchased my first Ford vehicle which was Ford Windstar 2001 in July of 2002 and fell in love with it immediately. It has been the most reliable vehicle I have ever owned and definitely looking forward to purchase a Freestar when I need to replace my Windstar.

I have taken 3 long vacations and have driven across several states without any problem. Very comfortable ride, plenty of room, good gas mileage, powerful engine, adjustable pedal, and many more features have made this vehicle very special to my family.

These comments came from a letter I sent to Ford a week ago with no response yet:

Ford Motor Company

Dear Sir or Madam:

I am an owner of a 2001 Ford Windstar that I purchased when I was stationed in Okinawa with the US Air Force. The van served me well for about 2 years then it started falling apart completely. I just recently spent over $1200+ in repairs with about $1400+ more in repairs deferred until I can afford it. I brought this information to one of your dealers in Aiea, HI and the impression I got was that this is what I could expect from a Ford. I expected the van to last me more than 100K miles.

Problems:

Engine blew up at 58K miles. Cost approx $5,000.00

Power steering cylinder leaking /replaced

BOTH Wheel bearing assemblies. Cost $525+

BOTH brake rotors. Cost $500+

FOUR tie rods. Cost $500+

BOTH Shock absorbers and BOTH struts. $600+ (NOT YET REPLACED)

ABS Computer $800.00 (NOT YET REPLACED)

I had 94,000 miles when I brought it in for maintenance this last time. Nothing above was replaced by Ford. You only had a 3 year/36K mile warranty on this vehicle.

Maintenance:

Oil Changed regularly

Transmission flushed twice

Tires constantly changed

Several alignments.

I expected when I paid for this new vehicle I could expect some pride in workmanship. I would like my car fixed and my costs reimbursed (at least partially). This vehicle might not be a lemon in the official definition, but it sure looks like one. I would like an official response from Ford.