TroubleAtlas Score
FORD WINDSTAR (1995–2003) Manual — Codes, Tyres & Parts
Built 1995–2003 · all production years covered on this single page
3.8L V6 • Gasoline
© Wikimedia Commons CC BY-SA
TroubleAtlas Score
An independent value score for the Ford Windstar (1995–2003) — reliability, safety, cost, parts, upkeep and documentation. Owing nothing to the manufacturer.
Scorecard · each voice 0–10
Reliabilityn/a
Safety & recallsn/a
Repair cost8.6
Parts & repairability4.5
Maintenance & durability7.1
Documentation & support8.4
Independent · Verified · Never for sale
Every figure on this Ford Windstar (1995–2003) page is aggregated and cross-checked against more than 6.6 million real workshop operations, NHTSA records and OEM technical sources — and updated continuously. No invented estimates.
The Ford Windstar (1995–2003) uses Motorcraft 5W-20 Synthetic Blend engine oil. Its battery is group 65 (BCI), rated at 650A cold-cranking amps. It is powered by a 3.8L V6 engine. Its OEM tyre size is 215/55 R16. Use the sections below for verified fluids, battery, OEM tyres, the maintenance schedule, recommended parts and the most commonly reported OBD2 fault codes for this vehicle.
Common problems
Common repairs
Scheduled maintenance
Fluids & lubricants
Battery
Fault codes (OBD2)
Dashboard lights
Parts comparator
Accessories & tools
Tyres
Recalls & TSB
Complaints
Workshops nearby
COMMON PROBLEMS
Engine overheatingFREQUENT
Engine temperature over limits — check coolant level, thermostat and radiator.
Related codes: P0217
Oil pressure sensor: low signalFREQUENT
ECU detects insufficient oil pressure — check oil level and sensor.
Related codes: P0522
Insufficient oil pressureFREQUENT
Oil pressure below critical threshold — stop the engine and check immediately.
Related codes: P0524
Engine control module (PCM) faultFREQUENT
Faulty ECU processor — requires specialist workshop diagnosis.
Related codes: P0606
Throttle actuatorFREQUENT
Throttle actuator motor circuit open — loss of throttle response.
Related codes: P2100
COMMON REPAIRS
Front brake pads
Difficulty: Medium
1.2h
€84 – €108
Rear brake pads
Difficulty: Medium
1.2h
€84 – €108
Engine oil change
Difficulty: Easy
0.5h
€35 – €45
ABS Module
Difficulty: Hard
2.4h
€168 – €216
AVERAGE INDICATIVE COSTS
Prices may vary by area and workshop.
Full service
€ 120 – € 200
Full brake service
€ 180 – € 300
Spark plug replacement
€ 80 – € 140
Electronic diagnosis
€ 40 – € 70
OFFICIAL LABOUR TIMES (OLP)
Standard labour hours from a database of 6.6M+ real shop operations, with an indicative labour-cost estimate for your country.
Brakes8 operations
| Operation | Labour hours (OLP) | Est. labour cost |
|---|---|---|
| ABS Module | 2.4h | € 108–€ 180 |
| ABS Pump | 2.4h | € 108–€ 180 |
| ABS Tone Ring | 1.8h | € 81–€ 135 |
| ABS Wheel Speed Sensor - Front | 1.8h | € 81–€ 135 |
| ABS Wheel Speed Sensor - Rear | 1.8h | € 81–€ 135 |
| Brake Bleed - All Four | 1.8h | € 81–€ 135 |
| Brake Booster | 3.6h | € 162–€ 270 |
| Brake Booster Check Valve | 1.2h | € 54–€ 90 |
Cooling8 operations
| Operation | Labour hours (OLP) | Est. labour cost |
|---|---|---|
| Coolant Bypass Pipe | 1.8h | € 81–€ 135 |
| Coolant Flush | 0.8h | € 36–€ 60 |
| Coolant Reservoir | 1.8h | € 81–€ 135 |
| Coolant Temperature Sensor | 1.2h | € 54–€ 90 |
| Cooling Fan Assembly | 1.8h | € 81–€ 135 |
| Cooling Fan Motor | 1.8h | € 81–€ 135 |
| Cooling Fan Relay | 1.2h | € 54–€ 90 |
| Engine Oil Cooler | 1.8h | € 81–€ 135 |
Electrical8 operations
| Operation | Labour hours (OLP) | Est. labour cost |
|---|---|---|
| Airbag - Driver | 1.8h | € 81–€ 135 |
| Airbag - Passenger | 1.8h | € 81–€ 135 |
| Airbag - Side | 1.8h | € 81–€ 135 |
| Airbag Module/Computer | 1.8h | € 81–€ 135 |
| Alternator | 2.4h | € 108–€ 180 |
| Alternator Belt | 1.8h | € 81–€ 135 |
| Amplifier | 1.8h | € 81–€ 135 |
| Antenna | 0.6h | € 27–€ 45 |
Engine8 operations
| Operation | Labour hours (OLP) | Est. labour cost |
|---|---|---|
| Camshaft Position Sensor | 1.8h | € 81–€ 135 |
| Camshaft R&R | 5.4h | € 243–€ 405 |
| Connecting Rod Bearings | 1.8h | € 81–€ 135 |
| Crankshaft Position Sensor | 1.8h | € 81–€ 135 |
| Crankshaft R&R | 1.8h | € 81–€ 135 |
| Cylinder Head R&R | 5.4h | € 243–€ 405 |
| Cylinder Head Resurface | 5.4h | € 243–€ 405 |
| Engine Mount - Front | 3.6h | € 162–€ 270 |
Exhaust8 operations
| Operation | Labour hours (OLP) | Est. labour cost |
|---|---|---|
| Air Injection Check Valve | 1.8h | € 81–€ 135 |
| Catalytic Converter - California | 2.4h | € 108–€ 180 |
| Catalytic Converter - Direct Fit | 2.4h | € 108–€ 180 |
| Catalytic Converter - Universal | 2.4h | € 108–€ 180 |
| Downpipe | 2.4h | € 108–€ 180 |
| EGR Cooler | 1.8h | € 81–€ 135 |
| EGR Tube | 1.8h | € 81–€ 135 |
| EGR Valve | 1.8h | € 81–€ 135 |
Fuel system8 operations
| Operation | Labour hours (OLP) | Est. labour cost |
|---|---|---|
| Charcoal Canister | 1.8h | € 81–€ 135 |
| EVAP Purge Valve | 1.8h | € 81–€ 135 |
| EVAP Vent Valve | 1.8h | € 81–€ 135 |
| Fuel Cap | 0.4h | € 18–€ 30 |
| Fuel Filler Neck | 3.6h | € 162–€ 270 |
| Fuel Filter | 1.2h | € 54–€ 90 |
| Fuel Filter - In-Tank | 1.2h | € 54–€ 90 |
| Fuel Injector - Single | 3.6h | € 162–€ 270 |
HVAC8 operations
| Operation | Labour hours (OLP) | Est. labour cost |
|---|---|---|
| AC Accumulator | 2.4h | € 108–€ 180 |
| AC Clutch Coil | 1.8h | € 81–€ 135 |
| AC Compressor | 2.4h | € 108–€ 180 |
| AC Compressor Clutch | 2.4h | € 108–€ 180 |
| AC Compressor Oil Add | 2.4h | € 108–€ 180 |
| AC Condenser | 2.4h | € 108–€ 180 |
| AC Evaporator | 2.4h | € 108–€ 180 |
| AC Expansion Valve (TXV) | 2.4h | € 108–€ 180 |
Steering8 operations
| Operation | Labour hours (OLP) | Est. labour cost |
|---|---|---|
| Center Link/Drag Link | 1.8h | € 81–€ 135 |
| Electric Power Steering Module | 1.8h | € 81–€ 135 |
| Electric Power Steering Motor | 1.8h | € 81–€ 135 |
| Idler Arm | 1.2h | € 54–€ 90 |
| Pitman Arm | 1.8h | € 81–€ 135 |
| Power Steering Fluid Flush | 0.5h | € 22–€ 37 |
| Power Steering Gear Box | 2.4h | € 108–€ 180 |
| Power Steering Hose - High Pressure | 1.8h | € 81–€ 135 |
Suspension8 operations
| Operation | Labour hours (OLP) | Est. labour cost |
|---|---|---|
| Air Line | 1.8h | € 81–€ 135 |
| Air Spring/Air Bag | 1.8h | € 81–€ 135 |
| Air Suspension Compressor | 1.8h | € 81–€ 135 |
| Air Suspension Height Sensor | 1.8h | € 81–€ 135 |
| Air Suspension Valve Block | 1.8h | € 81–€ 135 |
| Ball Joint - Lower | 2.4h | € 108–€ 180 |
| Ball Joint - Upper | 2.4h | € 108–€ 180 |
| Ball Joints - Upper and Lower | 2.4h | € 108–€ 180 |
Transmission8 operations
| Operation | Labour hours (OLP) | Est. labour cost |
|---|---|---|
| Clutch Cable | 1.8h | € 81–€ 135 |
| Clutch Disc | 1.8h | € 81–€ 135 |
| Clutch Kit | 5.4h | € 243–€ 405 |
| Clutch Master Cylinder | 2.4h | € 108–€ 180 |
| Clutch Slave Cylinder | 2.4h | € 108–€ 180 |
| Flywheel Resurface | 5.4h | € 243–€ 405 |
| Kickdown Cable | 1.8h | € 81–€ 135 |
| Neutral Safety Switch | 1.8h | € 81–€ 135 |
WORKSHOP LABOUR RATES BY COUNTRY
Average independent-workshop hourly labour rates, to estimate repair costs in your country.
🇩🇪Germany€95/h
🇪🇸Spain€55/h
🇫🇷France€75/h
🇮🇹Italy€45/h
🇬🇧UK£80/h
🇺🇸USA$120/h
Reference rate
€45/h
Source: Eurostat 2024
💧 FLUIDS & LUBRICANTS
🔧 SCHEDULED MAINTENANCE
Wiper Blades12 months
Engine Oil And Filter8,000 km / 6 months
Tire Rotation8,000 km / 6 months
Chassis Lubrication8,000 km / 6 months
Tire Pressure And Condition8,000 km / 1 months
Brake System Inspection16,000 km
Steering And Suspension Components16,000 km
Cabin Air Filter32,000 km
📋 RECALLS & TSB (38)
NHTSA 00V020000
Visibility › Glass, Side/Rear
Date: 31/01/2000
VEHICLE DESCRIPTION: MINI VANS. THESE VEHICLES MAY HAVE BEEN BUILT WITH INCORRECT URETHANE, RESULTING IN AN ADHESIVE BOND RATHER THAN THE INTENDED MOLECULAR BOND FOR THE FRONT WINDSHIELD AND REAR LIFTGATE GLASS.
NHTSA 00V351000
Electrical System › Wiring › Interior/Under Dash
Date: 30/10/2000
VEHICLE DESCRIPTION: MINIVANS BUILT WITH INSTRUMENT CLUSTERS WITHOUT THE MESSAGE CENTER, FAIL TO COMPLY WITH THE REQUIREMENTS OF STANDARD NO. 118, "POWER-OPERATED WINDOW, PARTITION, AND ROOF PANEL SYSTEMS." THE POWER WINDOWS MAY BE OPERABLE AFTER THE IGNITION HAS BEEN TURNED…
NHTSA 97V165000
Steering › Gear Box › Shaft Sector
Date: 30/09/1997
VEHICLE DESCRIPTION: PASSENGER VEHICLES AND MINI-VANS. THE RACK AND PINION STEERING GEARS MAY HAVE DAMAGED INPUT SHAFT BEARINGS.
NHTSA 98I003000
Service Brakes, Hydraulic › Foundation Components › Disc › Caliper
Date: 30/07/1998
THIS IS NOT A SAFETY RECALL IN ACCORDANCE WITH THE SAFETY ACT. HOWEVER, IT IS DEEMED A SAFETY IMPROVEMENT CAMPAIGN BY THE AGENCY. MINI VANS SOLD DURING THE MONTHS OF DECEMBER 1996, AND JANUARY, FEBRUARY AND MAY 1997. FRONT BRAKE CALIPER ANCHOR PLATE TO HUB AND SPINDLE ASSEMB…
NHTSA 15V608000
Suspension › Rear › Axle › Non-Powered Axle Assembly
Date: 29/09/2015
Ford Motor Company (Ford) is recalling certain model year 1998-2003 Windstar vehicles manufactured September 2, 1997, to July 3, 2003. The affected vehicles were previously remedied to safeguard against the rear axle cracking from corrosion, however, the remedy brackets may have…
NHTSA 10V385000
Suspension › Rear › Axle › Non-Powered Axle Assembly
Date: 26/08/2010
FORD IS RECALLING CERTAIN MODEL YEAR 1998-2003 WINDSTAR VEHICLES MANUFACTURED FROM SEPTEMBER 1, 1997 THROUGH FEBRUARY 28, 2003 AND CURRENTLY REGISTERED OR ORIGINALLY SOLD IN CONNECTICUT, DELAWARE, DISTRICT OF COLUMBIA, ILLINOIS, INDIANA, IOWA, KENTUCKY, MAINE, MARYLAND, MASSACHUS…
NHTSA 11V030000
Structure › Frame And Members › Underbody Shields
Date: 26/01/2011
FORD IS RECALLING CERTAIN MODEL YEAR 1999-2003 WINDSTAR VEHICLES ORIGINALLY SOLD IN OR CURRENTLY REGISTERED IN THE STATES OF CONNECTICUT, DELAWARE, THE DISTRICT OF COLUMBIA, ILLINOIS, INDIANA, IOWA, KENTUCKY, MAINE, MARYLAND, MASSACHUSETTS, MICHIGAN, MINNESOTA, MISSOURI, NEW HAMP…
NHTSA 95E006002
Air Bags › Frontal
Date: 24/02/1995
THE PASSENGER SIDE AIR BAG HAS AN INFLATOR BODY THAT CRACKED DURING FORMING OF THE CURL THAT RETAINS THE IGNITER PLUG IN THE END OF THE INFLATOR. ALSO THE IGNITER END CAP CAN SEPARATE FROM THE INFLATOR.
NHTSA 01V207000
Vehicle Speed Control › Accelerator Pedal
Date: 22/06/2001
VEHICLE DESCRIPTION: MINIVANS EQUIPPED WITH AN ADJUSTABLE PEDAL OPTION. THE DRIVER FLOOR MAT COULD INTERFERE WITH THE ACCELERATOR PEDAL.
NHTSA 97V180000
Structure › Body › Hood
Date: 20/10/1997
VEHICLE DESCRIPTION: PASSENGER VEHICLES AND MINI VANS. TEARING OF THE BOND BETWEEN THE INNER AND OUTER HOOD PANELS DURING MINOR FRONT END COLLISIONS CAN RESULT IN A GAP AT THE LEADING EDGE OF THE HOOD. AIR FORCED BETWEEN THE INNER AND OUTER PANELS CAN PRODUCE ENOUGH PRESSURE T…
NHTSA 00V168000
Exterior Lighting
Date: 19/06/2000
VEHICLE DESCRIPTION: MINI VANS, LIGHT PICKUP TRUCKS, AND SPORT UTILITY VEHICLES. OFF LEASE CANADIAN VEHICLES EQUIPPED WITH DAYTIME RUNNING LIGHTS WHICH MEET CANADIAN REQUIREMENTS AND NOT THE PHOTOMETRIC REQUIREMENTS OF FMVSS 108, "LAMPS, REFLECTIVE DEVICES, AND ASSOCIATED EQUIP…
NHTSA 00V164000
Fuel System, Gasoline › Delivery
Date: 19/06/2000
VEHICLE DESCRIPTION: MINI VANS. THESE VEHICLES MAY HAVE INCORRECTLY FUEL LINE END FORMS WHICH COULD RESULT IN A LOWER THAN SPECIFIED PULL APART FORCE FOR THE INSTALLED FUEL LINE CONNECTION.
NHTSA 00V228001
Seat Belts
Date: 18/08/2000
VEHICLE DESCRIPTION: PASSENGER VEHICLES, LIGHT DUTY TRUCKS, SPORT UTILITY VEHICLES, AND MINI VANS EQUIPPED WITH TRW SEAT BELT BUCKLE ASSEMBLIES. THE BUCKLE BASE OF THESE SEAT BELT ASSEMBLIES WERE NOT PROPERLY HEAT TREATED AND THEREFORE DO NOT PASS THE LOAD BEARING REQUIREMENT O…
NHTSA 01V199000
Suspension › Front › Springs › Coil Springs
Date: 18/06/2001
ON CERTAIN MINIVANS ORIGINALLY SOLD IN OR CURRENTLY REGISTERED IN THE STATES OF CONNECTICUT, DELAWARE, ILLINOIS, INDIANA, IOWA, MAINE, MARYLAND, MASSACHUSETTS, MICHIGAN, MINNESOTA, MISSOURI, NEW HAMPSHIRE, NEW JERSEY, NEW YORK, OHIO, PENNSYLVANIA, RHODE ISLAND, VERMONT, WEST VIRG…
NHTSA 01V227001
Seat Belts › Front › Buckle Assembly
Date: 16/07/2001
VEHICLE DESCRIPTION: PASSENGER AND SPORT UTILITY VEHICLES, PICKUP TRUCKS, AND MINIVANS. EQUIPPED WITH SEAT BELTS SUPPLIED BY TRW. IT IS POSSIBLE THAT THE DRIVER'S AND/OR FRONT PASSENGER'S OUTBOARD SEAT BELT BUCKLE MAY NOT FULLY LATCH.
FORD CROWN VICTORIA BUILT AT ST. THOMAS …
NHTSA 01V262000
Equipment › Appliance › Air Conditioner
Date: 15/08/2001
VEHICLE DESCRIPTION: MINI VANS EQUIPPED WITH AUXILIARY REAR AIR-CONDITIONING. IF THE AUXILIARY AIR-CONDITIONING BLOWER MOTOR STOPS TURNING WHILE IN THE MEDIUM-LOW BLOWER SPEED SETTING, THERE IS THE POTENTIAL THAT THE RESISTOR MAY BECOME HOT AND SMOKE.
NHTSA 01V261000
Visibility › Windshield Wiper/Washer › Motor
Date: 15/08/2001
VEHICLE DESCRIPTION: MINI VANS. CONTAMINANTS SUCH AS WATER, SALT, AND WINDSHIELD WASHER SOLUTION CAN ENTER THE WIPER MOTOR COVER ASSEMBLY THROUGH PINHOLES ON THE EXTERIOR OF THE COVER THAT ARE USED IN THE MOLDING PROCESS. IN ADDITION, ON CERTAIN OF THE VEHICLES BUILT BETWEEN…
NHTSA 99V147000
Service Brakes, Hydraulic › Foundation Components › Master Cylinder
Date: 14/06/1999
VEHICLE DESCRIPTION: MINIVANS. THE BRAKE FLUID MASTER CYLINDER IS RECESSED AND ORIENTED IN THE ENGINE COMPARTMENT SO THAT THE BRAKE FLUID WARNING STATEMENT EMBOSSED ON BOTH THE TOP OF THE FILLER CAP AND THE SIDE OF THE RESERVOIR BODY ARE NOT ENTIRELY VISIBLE BY DIRECT VIEW. TH…
NHTSA 96V086000
Power Train › Automatic Transmission
Date: 14/05/1996
THE PARK PAWL SHAFT WAS IMPROPERLY POSITIONED WHEN THE ROLL PIN THAT RETAINS IT WAS INSTALLED DURING TRANSMISSION ASSEMBLY. IF THE SHAFT WAS NOT PROPERLY POSITIONED, THE ROLL PIN MAY NOT HAVE LINED UP WITH THE GROOVE IN THE SHAFT AND HAVE BEEN CRUSHED AT ASSEMBLY. ALSO, A BURR…
NHTSA 09V399000
Vehicle Speed Control
Date: 13/10/2009
FORD IS RECALLING MODEL YEARS 1995-2003 WINDSTAR, 2000-2003 EXCURSION DIESEL, 1993-1997 AND 1999-2003 F-250 SD THROUGH F-550 SD DIESEL, 1992-2003 E-150 THROUGH E-550, 1995-2002 EXPLORER, 1997 AND 2002 MERCURY MOUNTAINEER, 1995-1997 AND 2001-2003 RANGER, AND 1994 F53 VEHICLES EQUI…
NHTSA 00V270000
Air Bags
Date: 13/09/2000
CERTAIN PASSENGER VEHICLES, LIMOUSINES, AND MINI VANS WERE BUILT WITH A NEWLY DESIGNED RESTRAINT CONTROL MODULE (RCM). IN SOME CASES, THE RCM DOES NOT RECOGNIZE CERTAIN SYSTEM FAULTS THAT COULD RESULT IN AN AIR BAG OR SEAT BELT PRE-TENSIONER UNEXPECTEDLY ACTIVATING DURING THE S…
NHTSA 06E056000
Fuel System, Gasoline
Date: 13/06/2006
CERTAIN AFTERMARKET FUEL FILTERS SOLD UNDER THE PUROLATOR BRAND NAME, P/N F65277, SHIPPED FROM JANUARY 16 THROUGH JUNE 2, 2006, FOR USE ON THE ABOVE LISTED PASSENGER VEHICLES. DUE TO INCORRECT DESIGN, THE QUICK CONNECTORS MAY NOT FULLY SEAT WITH THE TUBE INTERFACE, EVEN THOUGH T…
NHTSA 01I007000
Suspension › Front › Springs › Coil Springs
Date: 12/07/2001
THIS IS NOT A SAFETY RECALL IN ACCORDANCE WITH THE SAFETY ACT. HOWEVER, IT IS DEEMED A SAFETY IMPROVEMENT CAMPAIGN BY THE AGENCY. VEHICLE DESCRIPTION: 1995-1998 FORD WINDSTAR MINIVANS. THE FRONT COIL SPRINGS COULD POTENTIALLY FRACTURE DUE TO CORROSION. NOTE: THE 1997-1998 …
NHTSA 02V072000
Trailer Hitches
Date: 11/03/2002
IN SOME MINIVANS, WATER AND OTHER CONTAMINANTS (DIRT, SALT, ETC.) CAN ENTER INTO THE RIGHT REAR PASSENGER COMPARTMENT DUE TO A MISSING BODY SEALER.
NHTSA 97V097000
Power Train › Automatic Transmission
Date: 09/06/1997
VEHICLE DESCRIPTION: PASSENGER VEHICLES EQUIPPED WITH AX4S AUTOMATIC TRANSAXLES. THE LOW/INTERMEDIATE SERVO COVER CAN SEPARATE FROM THE TRANSAXLE WHILE THE VEHICLE IS BEING DRIVEN. IF THIS OCCURS, TRANSMISSION FLUID WILL LEAK CONTACTING THE CATALYTIC CONVERTER.
NHTSA 00V412000
Air Bags › Frontal › Sensor/Control Module-Inactive
Date: 06/12/2000
VEHICLE DESCRIPTION: MINIVANS AND PASSENGER VEHICLES. A RESTRAINT CONTROL MODULE (RCM) OR A SIDE OR FRONT CRASH SENSOR MAY HAVE BEEN ASSEMBLED WITH ONE OR MORE OF THE SCREWS THAT MOUNT THE CIRCUIT BOARD IN THE HOUSING MISSING. IF SOME OR ALL OF THE SCREWS ARE MISSING, THE PE…
NHTSA 03V459000
Seats › Mid/Rear Assembly
Date: 06/11/2003
CERTAIN MINIVANS FAIL TO COMPLY WITH THE REQUIREMENTS OF FEDERAL MOTOR VEHICLE SAFETY STANDARD NO. 225, "CHILD RESTRAINT ANCHORAGE SYSTEM." DURING TESTING, A THIRD ROW BENCH FLOOR-TO-SEAT LATCH RELEASED BEFORE THE STRENGTH REQUIREMENT WAS MET. IDENTICAL LATCHES ARE USED IN THE…
NHTSA 96V166000
Power Train › Automatic Transmission › Gear Position Indication (Prndl)
Date: 05/09/1996
THE PARK PAWL ABUTMENT BRACKET HAS A SHARP EDGE WHICH CAN CAUSE THE PARKING PAWL TO HANG UP AND NOT ENGAGE THE PARK GEAR. THIS WOULD ALLOW THE VEHICLE TO MOVE EVEN THOUGH THE GEAR SHIFT INDICATOR SHOWS THAT THE VEHICLE IS IN PARK.
NHTSA 94V223000
Electrical System › Alternator/Generator/Regulator
Date: 04/11/1994
THE ALTERNATOR OUTPUT WIRE WAS NOT CONNECTED TIGHTLY TO THE POWER DISTRIBUTION BOX.
NHTSA 94V222000
Electrical System › Wiring › Front Underhood
Date: 04/11/1994
THE WIRING HARNESS INSULATION CAN ABRADE ON A BRACE THAT RUNS FROM THE INSTRUMENT PANEL TO THE COWL.
NHTSA 02V101000
Service Brakes, Hydraulic › Foundation Components › Hoses, Lines/Piping, And Fittings
Date: 04/04/2002
ON CERTAIN MINIVANS ORIGINALLY SOLD IN OR CURRENTLY REGISTERED IN THE STATES OF CONNECTICUT, DELAWARE, ILLINOIS, INDIANA, IOWA, MAINE, MARYLAND, MASSACHUSETTS, MICHIGAN, MINNESOTA, MISSOURI, NEW HAMPSHIRE, NEW JERSEY, NEW YORK, OHIO, PENNSYLVANIA, RHODE ISLAND, VERMONT, WEST VIRG…
NHTSA 12V193000
Power Train › Axle Assembly
Date: 03/05/2012
FORD IS RECALLING CERTAIN MODEL YEAR 1998-2003 WINDSTAR VEHICLES MANUFACTURED FROM SEPTEMBER 1, 1997, THROUGH JULY 3, 2003, AND CURRENTLY REGISTERED OR ORIGINALLY SOLD IN VIRGINIA. OVER TIME,
CORROSION CAN WEAKEN THE REAR AXLE MAKING IT SUSCEPTIBLE TO TORSIONAL STRESS. CORROSIO…
NHTSA 12V195000
Suspension › Rear › Axle › Non-Powered Axle Assembly
Date: 03/05/2012
FORD IS RECALLING CERTAIN MODEL YEAR 1998-2003 WINDSTAR VEHICLES MANUFACTURED FROM SEPTEMBER 1, 1997, THROUGH JULY 3, 2003, REGISTERED IN PUERTO RICO. DUE TO INCREASED STRESSES CAUSED BY HIGH CYCLES OF TORSIONAL LOADING, SPECIFIC TO THIS MARKET, THE REAR AXLE CAN CRACK.
NHTSA 12V194000
Suspension › Front › Control Arm
Date: 03/05/2012
FORD IS RECALLING CERTAIN MODEL YEAR 1999-2003 WINDSTAR VEHICLES ORIGINALLY SOLD IN OR CURRENTLY REGISTERED IN THE STATE OF VIRGINIA. CORROSION-RELATED FRACTURES OF THE FRONT LOWER CONTROL ARM REAR ATTACHING BRACKETS AND BODY MOUNT ATTACHMENTS MAY OCCUR.
NHTSA 99V309000
Fuel System, Gasoline › Storage › Tank Assembly
Date: 02/11/1999
VEHICLE DESCRIPTION: MINIVANS WHICH WERE ORIGINALLY SOLD OR CURRENTLY REGISTERED IN THE FOLLOWING HOT WEATHER STATES: ALABAMA, ARIZONA, ARKANSAS, CALIFORNIA (10 SOUTHERN COUNTIES), FLORIDA, GEORGIA, HAWAII, LOUISIANA, MISSISSIPPI, NEVADA (CLARK COUNTY ONLY), OKLAHOMA, SOUTH CA…
NHTSA 99I001000
Structure › Body
Date: 02/06/1999
THIS IS NOT A SAFETY RECALL IN ACCORDANCE WITH THE SAFETY ACT. HOWEVER, IT IS DEEMED A SAFETY IMPROVEMENT CAMPAIGN BY THE AGENCY. VEHICLE DESCRIPTION: MINIVANS. THE OVERHEAD CONSOLE REAR RETAINING BRACKET CAN DEVELOP CRACKS AND SEPARATE, ALLOWING THE OVERHEAD CONSOLE TO BEC…
NHTSA 96V114000
Seats
Date: 01/07/1996
THE FOUR FASTENERS SECURING THE DRIVER'S SEAT TO THE FLOORPAN WERE NOT TORQUED TO PROPER SPECIFICATIONS.
NHTSA 97V051000
Child Seat
Date: 01/04/1997
VEHICLE DESCRIPTION: MINIVAN EQUIPPED WITH SECOND ROW BENCH SEATS WITH OPTIONAL INTEGRATED CHILD SEAT (ICS). THE HEADREST LOCKOUT MECHANISM ON THE SEATS MAY NOT ENGAGE AND LOCK THE HEADRESTS IN THE "DOWN" POSITION, AS INTENDED, WHEN THE ICS IS DEPLOYED. A VEHICLE OCCUPANT COUL…
COMMON OBD2 CODES TO CHECK
P0420
P0420
Powertrain
P0171
P0171
Powertrain
P0300
P0300
Powertrain
P0441
EVAP Incorrect Purge Flow
Powertrain
P0128
P0128
Powertrain
P0455
P0455
Powertrain
P0700
P0700
Transmission
P0507
Idle Air Control System RPM Higher Than Expected
Powertrain
P0174
System Too Lean Bank 2
Powertrain
All documented fault codes for this vehicle
The most documented diagnostic codes for this model, by system and severity. Tap a code for the full guide.
P1233
powertrain
HIGHP1651
powertrain
LOWP1650
powertrain
LOWP1641
powertrain
HIGHP1579
powertrain
HIGHP1537
powertrain
LOWP1455
powertrain
MODERATEP1451
powertrain
LOWP1409
powertrain
MODERATEP1383
powertrain
MODERATEP1285
powertrain
HIGHP1270
powertrain
LOWP1237
powertrain
HIGHP1235
powertrain
HIGHP1152
powertrain
MODERATEP1117
powertrain
LOWP1116
powertrain
LOWP1103
powertrain
MODERATEP1783
powertrain
CRITICALP1746
powertrain
HIGH
DASHBOARD WARNING LIGHTS — UNIVERSAL GUIDE
57 warning lights classified by urgency. Appears on your vehicle? Check the urgency level.
Show all dashboard warning lights
🔴 IMMEDIATE STOP — pull over
Oil Pressure WarningEngine
Engine Temperature WarningCooling
Brake System WarningBrakes
Immobilizer / Key FaultSecurity
Low Oil Pressure (Ford)Engine
🟠 WARNING — check soon
Malfunction Indicator Light (MIL) / Check EngineEngine
Diesel Particulate Filter (DPF)Emissions
Battery / Charging SystemElectrical
Low Fuel WarningFuel
ABS WarningBrakes
Brake Pad Wear IndicatorBrakes
Electronic Parking Brake (EPB)Brakes
Power Steering WarningSteering
ESC / Stability Control FaultChassis
Tire Pressure Warning (TPMS)Chassis
Transmission Temperature WarningTransmission
Transmission / Gearbox FaultTransmission
Airbag / SRS WarningActive safety
EGR / Exhaust Gas Recirculation FaultEmissions
Catalytic Converter / Emissions FaultEmissions
AdBlue / DEF Level LowEmissions
Coolant Level LowCooling
Hybrid / EV System WarningHybrid
EV Charge System FaultHybrid
12V Battery (Hybrid/EV Auxiliary)Hybrid
Suspension Fault / Air SuspensionSuspension
CAN Bus / Network Communication FaultNetwork
Water in Fuel FilterFuel
Diesel Injector FaultFuel
Steering Angle Sensor FaultSteering
Turbo / Boost Pressure FaultEngine
Regenerative Braking Fault (Hybrid/EV)Hybrid
🟡 MONITOR
Fuel Cap / Evap SystemEmissions
4WD / AWD SystemDrivetrain
Bulb Failure WarningLighting
Headlight Range / Leveling FaultLighting
Service / Maintenance DueMaintenance
A/C System FaultHvac
Clutch Wear WarningTransmission
Cruise Control / ACC FaultADAS
AdvanceTrac Off (Ford)Chassis
SYNC System Fault (Ford)Electrical
🔵 INFORMATION
Engine Temperature Low (Blue)Cooling
Glow Plug / Diesel PreheatEngine
Traction Control / ESC OffChassis
Seatbelt ReminderActive safety
Rear Fog Light IndicatorLighting
Lane Departure / LDWS WarningADAS
Forward Collision Warning (FCW/AEB)ADAS
Blind Spot Monitor FaultADAS
Rear Parking Sensor / Camera FaultADAS
Windshield Washer Fluid LowMaintenance
Door Open WarningBody
Hood / Trunk Open WarningBody
Gear Shift Indicator (Manual)Transmission
Sport / Performance Mode ActiveTransmission
MyKey Speed Limit (Ford)Electrical
REPORTED COMPLAINTS & PROBLEMS (NHTSA)
14075 owner complaints filed with the U.S. National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) for the Ford Windstar across model years 1995–2003. These are real, verified reports submitted by vehicle owners.
512 crash reports 419 fires 489 injuries 13 deaths
Complaints by model year (most reported first)
Model year 19953326
Model year 20011686
Model year 20001674
Model year 19991521
Model year 20031509
Model year 19981429
Model year 19961385
Model year 20021353
Most reported components (all years)
Service Brakes3284
Engine And Engine Cooling2546
Power Train2470
Hydraulic2057
Suspension1962
Electrical System1480
Sample reports
TL* THE CONTACT OWNS A 2003 FORD WINDSTAR. THE CONTACT STATED THAT WHILE DRIVING 40 MPH, THE REAR AXLE BECAME FRACTURED. THE VEHICLE WAS PREVIOUSLY REPAIRED UNDER NHTSA CAMPAIGN NUMBER: 12V195000 (SUSPENSION). THE CONTACT MENTIONED THAT… (MY 2003)
WE WERE PULLING INTO A PARKING LOT AND SMOKE CAME FROM UNDER THE HOOD. I IMMEDIATELY SHUT THE VEHICLE OFF AND RAISED THE HOOD. I AM FAMILIAR WITH AUTOMOBILES AND DETERMINED THAT IT WAS NOT OIL OR COOLANT SMOKE BUT AN ELECTRICAL BURN IN T… (MY 1999)
THE ABS LIGHT HAS COME ON AND THE ABS BRAKING SYSTEM HAS BECOME INOPERABLE. *TR (MY 2003)
TL* THE CONTACT OWNS A 2003 FORD WINDSTAR. THE CONTACT STATED THAT THE REAR AXLE EXHIBITED TWO LARGE FRACTURES. THE CONTACT REFERENCED NHTSA CAMPAIGN ID NUMBER 12V195000 (SUSPENSION:REAR:AXLE:NON-POWERED AXLE ASSEMBLY) HOWEVER, THE VIN W… (MY 2003)
Source: NHTSA complaints database (U.S. data.gov). Figures cover production years 1995–2003.
Frequently Asked Questions
Does the Ford Windstar have any safety recalls?
Yes — 38 official NHTSA recall campaign(s) affect this model, mainly: VEHICLE SPEED CONTROL, SUSPENSION:FRONT:SPRINGS:COIL SPRINGS, SERVICE BRAKES. Check the recalls section for your exact year/VIN.
What does fault code P0300 mean on the Ford Windstar?
Random/Multiple Cylinder Misfire Detected This code is among the most documented for this model — tap it in the OBD2 section for the full step-by-step guide.
What does fault code P0128 mean on the Ford Windstar?
Coolant temperature below thermostat regulating temperature — thermostat stuck open or faulty This code is among the most documented for this model — tap it in the OBD2 section for the full step-by-step guide.
What does fault code P0011 mean on the Ford Windstar?
A Camshaft Position Timing Over-Advanced or System Performance (Bank 1) This code is among the most documented for this model — tap it in the OBD2 section for the full step-by-step guide.
Are brakes problems common on the Ford Windstar?
Yes — 696 of 4000 real owner reports filed with NHTSA mention the brakes. One owner reported: “WHILE DRIVING BACK FROM ROME GA TO CARTERSVILLE GA MY VAN MADE A FUNNY NOISE AND MY SPEED DROPPED FROM 60 TO 50 AND THEN MY BACK TIRES FELT FUNNY LIKE I HAD RUN OVER SOMETHING BUT I KNOW I HAD NOT HIT…” See the owner-reported complaints section below for more.
Are transmission problems common on the Ford Windstar?
Yes — 772 of 4000 real owner reports filed with NHTSA mention the transmission. One owner reported: “TL* THE CONTACT OWNS A 1995 FORD WINDSTAR. THE CONTACT STATED THAT WHILE DRIVING AT 35 MPH, THE REAR AXLE SHIFTED AND FRACTURED. THE VEHICLE WAS NOT DIAGNOSED OR REPAIRED. THE MANUFACTURER WAS MADE AW…” See the owner-reported complaints section below for more.
Are engine problems common on the Ford Windstar?
Yes — 1316 of 4000 real owner reports filed with NHTSA mention the engine. One owner reported: “TL* THE CONTACT OWNS A 1995 FORD WINDSTAR. WHEN THE VEHICLE WAS SHIFTED TO THE DRIVE POSITION, THE VEHICLE ACCELERATED AND THE CHECK ENGINE WARNING INDICATOR ILLUMINATED CONTINUOUSLY. THE CONTACT STAT…” See the owner-reported complaints section below for more.
What tyres does the Ford Windstar (1995–2003) use?
The original OEM tyre size for the Ford Windstar (1995–2003) is 215/55 R16. Compatible alternative sizes: ["225/60R16", "245/45R19", "205/70R15", "215/65R16", "215/70R15"]. See the Tyres section on this page to compare offers from the main suppliers.
What is the right battery for the Ford Windstar (1995–2003)?
The battery specified for the Ford Windstar (1995–2003) is group 65 (BCI), with a cold cranking rating of 650A. See the Battery section on this page for the main cross-references between brands.
What engine oil should I use on the Ford Windstar (1995–2003)?
The engine oil specification for the Ford Windstar (1995–2003) is Motorcraft 5W-20 Synthetic Blend. Always use the viscosity grade approved by the manufacturer: a different oil can reduce engine protection and void the warranty. Check the change interval in the Maintenance section.
Which OBD2 fault codes are commonly documented for the Ford Windstar (1995–2003)?
Commonly documented OBD2 codes across many vehicles include: P0420, P0300, P0171. Find the full description, likely causes and estimated repair costs in the OBD2 Codes section on this page.
How often should the Ford Windstar (1995–2003) be serviced?
Routine maintenance for the Ford Windstar (1995–2003) typically includes an oil change every 6,000–9,000 miles (10,000–15,000 km), an air filter every 12,000–18,000 miles (20,000–30,000 km) and a brake inspection every 12,000 miles (20,000 km). Check the full plan with specific intervals in the Scheduled Maintenance section on this page.
Have a specific fault code on your Ford Windstar (1995–2003)? Search the code in the OBD2 section of this page or use the full TroubleAtlas DTC database. Need tyres? Compare prices and compatible sizes in the TroubleAtlas comparator.