After bringing the van for a tune-up to a private shop I was told that I may have a problem with the head gasket. I took the van to a Ford dealer and told them of problems I was having with the van (white smoke and a rough idle), I said that I thought it was the head gasket. I was told that they never have had a problem with the head gasket. That lead up to the following bills. 200.00 computer work, 150.00 vacuum line work.
Then they said it looked like I had a head gasket problem, and a timing chamber problem. It would only cost 2500.00+. I asked if it was driveable, they said yes and I drove it home while they waited to hear from Ford if they would cover any cost. Ford would cover it and I would pay a portion. 450.00 so I said that they could expect to take portion off of that bill as well. But when I went to start the van the engine was shot.
In the end they have had my van for just short of 3 months, got it back with a rebuilt engine at no cost and drove it for one day and they got it back again. The motor keeps cutting out. They said that they don't know what the problem is. So I have one of their cars until they figure it out. I hope it's not another 3 months.
P.S- Although I didn't have to pay anything for the engine, I got it by being a constant nag. Now I will wait for them to call me.
Don't get suckerd into one of these vans, you'll pay more in the long run and the comfort doesn't out weigh the stress.
We have a 96 windstar with a blown engine. it was running fine and had not been in the shop. I then found out that this engine was known for problems, but I have received no help from the dealer. I am still paying on the van and have no vehicle to drive.
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