transmission problem
8.8
pretty badTypical Repair Cost:
$2,423.00
Average Mileage:
77,669 miles
Number of complaints:
53 complaints
Most common solutions:
- replace transmission (30 reports)
- completely rebuilt (6 reports)
- not sure (6 reports)
- transmission should be replaced at no cost by dealer (6 reports)
- ford should recall it (2 reports)
- got rid of vehicle (2 reports)
Helpful Websites About 2000 Ford Windstar transmission failure
2008Nov 21
Windstar LX 3.8L
- Automatic transmission
- 106,000 miles
Well my husband was driving the van to a birthday party for my daughter and he said there was a loud clunk sound then the van wouldn't go only in reverse so he walked home pissed of course and we had to have it towed it is in the shop and we still are making payments on it.They say somewhere in the range of 1200-1800 so i guess we wait for the call and then cry.We are missing the trip we planned for a wedding we were in and its just great i miss black friday as well i hate ford!We also have problems with the van not wanting to be at a stop in jumps all over and the tac goes up and down i just wish ford would do something for all of us they make it they should stand behind there sh*t.
2008Nov 18
Windstar SEL 3.8L V6
- Automatic transmission
- 92,336 miles
My O/D and Check ABS lights would come on sometimes when I started the van, but not all the time; no pattern to that. Driving down the interstate one morning, took an exit ramp, heard 2-3 clunks (only going about 25 at the time), and it coasted to a stop. Reverse worked, but nothing going forward. Local transmission shop is replacing the tranny for $1,700, which seems like a pretty decent price when I see what other people on this site are having to shell out. We'll probably get it fixed and sell it.
2008Nov 13
Windstar
- Automatic transmission
- 112,000 miles
While driving it felt like trans just slipped into neutral and coated to the side of the road. No forward OR reverse, NOTHING. While in park and revving the engine, it sounds like something's rubbing, as if a belt slipped. Do FWD transmissions have belts? Linkage? God, I wish I was a mechanic. Just waiting for the repair estimate now. Merry f-in Christmas!
2008Nov 10
Windstar SE
- Automatic transmission
- 83,000 miles
Another FAIL for the 2000 Ford Windstar. Transmission went out yesterday as I was pulling away from a traffic light. It felt like someone had hit me from behind it lurched so hard, and then it would not move. We had it towed to our mechanic and they say $2900 to fix it. We're moving on. I had no idea of the problems of this vehicle until I started searching yesterday and read so many stories of the same thing happening to others. We had a few instances of the O/D light flashing over the last couple of months, but didn't connect it to transmission failure for sure.
RUN away from this vehicle.
2008Sep 22
Windstar SEL 3.8L
- Automatic transmission
- 90,000 miles
terrible car since we bought it ,we bought it used in 04 with 38000 miles ,had to replace tie rod ends immediately,intake ,then these little plastic clips on the intake that melted,interior lights flashing on and off,rear hatch sometimes decides to unlock,drivers door refuses to unlock air conditioning compressor went out,and finally CLUNK ta da the transmission ,never ever will buy another ford,my bad and it will never happen again, GM from now on
2008Oct 02
Windstar SE 3.8L V6
- Automatic transmission
- 112,000 miles
We have had this car (in running condition) for an astounding 29 days, now. Being a Ford, that must be some sort of record. Anyway. We didn't notice a leak when we bought it, but within a few days there was a small leak. No big deal. Then it started slipping after about a week. Two weeks into having it, it started jerking when we would take off. Three weeks in, the O/D off light started flashing while I was on the interstate. The RPMs went from 2000 to 4000. When I turned the car off and then on, the light went away. The leak got worse and worse. Four weeks. We took it to the shop to have the seal replaced for $400. The shop called me and said that they would feel bad taking my money to do this. It wasn't going to fix the problem. So, now it's going to cost $1300 to rebuild the transmission. Great. The only reason I settled for a Ford in the first place is because I can't afford anything nicer...
2008Sep 04
Windstar SEL 3.8L V6
- Automatic transmission
- 86,000 miles
I will never buy another Ford vehicle again. I thought I would give an American made car a chance. But this has definitely confirmed what I had thought all along, their quality sucks! The transmission started leaking (steady stream on the garage floor) a month ago. It was on and off. Then it became significant. Brought it to a transmission repair shop and they tell me it needs a complete rebuild for $2200!!!! I am going to donate this car because it is not worth anything to me. Might as well get a tax deduction.
Ford, it is no wonder you are so in debt. If you would build quality, you would have repeat customers. You and every other American made vehicle manufacturer just lost another customer. I hope you are proud of this distinction.
2008Aug 25
Windstar SEL 3.6L V6
- Automatic transmission
- 102,000 miles
A real Monday. At 5;30 in the morning I am parking the Windstar. I have backed into a parking spot, but I am not within the yellow lines. I put the car in drive from reverse and I hear a very loud CLUNK! the car will now not go forward but will back-up. I have it towed to a local repair shop and he advises me that it will cost $3000 to fix. A dealer would charge $5-6000. The car blue books at $3000. A good car if you can drive in reverse!!!!!
I don't know what to do with it??? It is way to big to use as a fishing weight.
2008Jul 15
Windstar LX 3.8L
- Automatic transmission
- 96,313 miles
Transmission problem on my 155000 km 2000 Windstar LX, O/D light was blinking, i had the code checked by a transmission shop and it was indicating faulty TSS, TSS is Turbine Speed Sensor located on the driver's side on the transmission easily accessible by taking off the wheel, i changed the part myself in less than 20 minutes (cost of part +/- 43.00$ at Ford) and O/D start blinking again 2 weeks later. It is now blinking since 6 month/3000km and i am waiting to see what will happen. I also noted that this light blink when atf fluid is very low, by very low i mean 1.5 / 2 liter, i experienced this when my transmission start loosing fluid on highway 95 North near New York during start and stop traffic jam and a cooking hot day. Since this time, my transmission is leaking atf fluid between motor and transmission only when i am stuck in traffic, when i am on the highway or driving around there is not even a small drop that fall off. Seems like it is leaking only when the atf fluid temp is very high caused by stop/start/low revolution, but it is only my feeling. I will have to separate the motor and the transmission to change torque converter oil seal and have the T.C. pressure tested by a local transmission shop. I hate my and all Windstar because all sort of thing died when it is not supposed to: rear wiper motor, electric passenger unlock, the same thing on driver's side one month later, coolant bypass tube exploded, pressure sensor/switch on master cylinder leaking, up and downstream oxygen sensor, ABS sensor. my dash look like a Christmas tree with O/D blinking, abs, motor and door ajar light on.
2008Aug 01
Windstar LX 3.8L
- Automatic transmission
- 133,000 miles
On May 31, 2008 I was driving a 1994 Ford Aerostar that had almost had about 145k miles on it. Another driver pulled out and hit me. We totaled it out. I wanted a new vehicle, and my trans was acting up as well as the ABS light was on for several years...LOL!!! But it ran good and it was a beast that kept on going. Well after the accident I ended up getting a 2000 Windstar lx. It was nice, clean and had a TV/DVD player in it had about 131k miles on it. I have 4 kids and just thought this was the greatest thing ever. Well here we are almost 2.5 months later and the O/D off light is flashing. I have been reading the causes for that and boy was I shocked. I am outraged. My trans has not quit yet but I guess it is on it's way. It drives fine for the most part. It does seem sluggish on take off sometimes, but it gets going. It had jerked kind of hard as well. Then this damn light starts flashing. It resets itself when I restart the van, but after about 45 minutes of driving it is back on flashing again. It is getting more frequent now. We are up to 133k miles now. This is our only vehicle. I drive my husband to work about a half hour to and another half hour home. I make this trip 2x a day. I just can not afford for my trans to go out. I do not have a warranty on it. It was bought from an auto auction. It has been great till now. Now I am wondering how many times the trans has been replaced before I got it. Maybe that's why the Ford dealership had it at the auction.
I have read that Ford will not recall it and does not consider it a safety issue. Well let me tell you...... I drive on the highway and (there are tons of semi's and speeders), and my if trans suddenly fails with my kids in the van as well........that could be a fatal accident. How is that not a safety issue? It is usually moms who drive these vans so obviously their kids are riding in these death traps. Do people had to die for Ford to recall them? If so how many? WAKE UP FORD!!!!!!!! I am not a rich person and can not afford to replace a trans every few months. I am looking into getting an extended warranty before I even have it looked at. With my luck they will tell me I can't get one or if so it won't cover what's wrong with it. How can Ford do this to us? I know all vehicles have issues, especially used ones. Yet you have this many, not just a few cases....and still FORD does not care. I have had several Fords over the years and never had any problems. I just try to get something a little newer and better. I guess newer is not always better. As far as I am concerned Ford stands for Found On Road Dead....cause that is where they end up!!!!!!! Maybe after several familys are killed(hopefully not) from faulty trans failure they will do something about it!!!!!!!
2008Aug 04
Windstar SE 3.8L
- Automatic transmission
- 77,653 miles
I'm getting in line with everyone else. At a stop sign, went to turn, loud crashing sound, started rolling backwards down hill. Van would only go in reverse. $2400 later, got a new transmission. The guy said that the transmission basically exploded inside! I went here: http://www-odi.nhtsa.dot.gov/ and lodged a complaint.
2007Apr 04
Windstar SE V6
- Automatic transmission
- 78,000 miles
We bought a 2000 ford wind star brand new. At 58,000 miles the intake went For covered it because it was still under warranty. The tire rods were bad at 58,000 and other problems. Then at 78,000 miles the transmission blows. Call ford and they won't make good on it. Told them I had to rent a car and could not pay my monthly bill. I asked if they would help fix the transmission and I could resume payments. They said they wouldn't do that. I told them the van was useless to me. I told them to repo it and they refused to take it back. They stated the van was useless to them. They said they were going to sue me. Then they sue me. I never get notification. They place a judgment against me on an account thats not even mine. I will never buy a ford again.
2008Jul 06
Windstar SE
- Automatic transmission
- 75,000 miles
I just bought this car 1.5 months ago so it is still covered under the 60-day warranty issued by the seller. I purchased this vehicle as our families only source of transportation. I owned a 1995 Ford Windstar for 6 years previous and never had transmission problems an thought it was time to upgrade. As we returned from a weekend trip 3 hrs from home suddenly the O/D light starts flashing. Closer to home i smell something burning. Three blocks from my home the entire back of car is smoking!!! I mean its SMOKING. Fluid gushing from underneath the car. My neighbors come out cause of the smell. Thank goodness this didn't erupt on the highway. Thank goodness for that! I go to MY mechanic an he tells me directly my transmission needs to be fixed/replace. I then bring it back to the dealer who holds the warranty, he keeps it for 2hrs, calls me and says they see nothing wrong with it. They just put fluid in an it's driving fine. Their only explanation is "This model has a history of boiling out transmission fluid sometimes, keep extra bottles in back an pull over to refill if this happens again." "Its just something that happens with Ford vans."
Are you kidding me!!! I have NEVER had a car that requires such constant pacifying. I told the dealer this is NOT a solution. I am not happy at all. I will drive it off the lot today, an when the trans dies in another week they will have to replace it than. I guess my next option after my warranty is to buy an extended warranty an face that it may need constant fixes.
2008May 12
Windstar SE 3.8L
- Automatic transmission
- 105,000 miles
I think it is ridiculous that Ford will not pay for this, considering how many complaints they have on this trans. My vehicle just stopped having any forward gears at a stop light. No noise, no lights. They have a problem and you can bet I won't buy another Ford.
2006May 20
Windstar LX 3.8L V6
- Automatic transmission
- 12,000 miles
This van has had the transmission built twice. The second time the seals went out and lost all the fluid. Had to be towed in of course.Would not buy another Ford van.
2008May 26
Windstar SE V6
- Automatic transmission
- 82,000 miles
No 1st,2nd, or drive -- only reverse. never had a transmission go at this low of mileage. Got lucky on the rebuild price by what I see on the net. Dealer should have recalled this problem.
2008May 06
Windstar LX
- Automatic transmission
- 54,800 miles
We have put a lot of money into this Windstar. In 2003 the back sliding doors, which are not automatic, would not open from the inside. This problem obviously had to be addressed immediately due to the danger to my children in the back seats. It cost over $1,000 to fix the doors, and they still don't work perfectly. Our warranty was only up by a couple of months when this problem occurred and Ford would not work with us at all. Then we were absolutely sick that we had to put a new transmission in a vehicle that had only been paid off for one year and only had 55,000 miles on it and cost nearly $25,000 when we bought it in 2000!!! Then just last month when we took the Windstar in for State Inspection we were informed that we needed a new rear axle, that the one on our van had completely rusted through and we were lucky our back wheels had not fallen off, another $700 to repair that problem. I have come to one conclusion after owning this Windstar, that it is my first and last Ford that I will ever own!!
2008May 13
Windstar
- Automatic transmission
- 78,000 miles
There was no sign of any problem. I took the car in to have a timer repaired and picked up the car. The next day I was turning onto a main street, something felt like I went over a curb and the car just stopped going forward. It was like the gears were stuck. No signal or symptoms. That really bites. If one knew a problem was developing, then at least one could make the decision to trade-in or repair. Now I'm just stuck with an expensive repair. I try to buy American made, but Ford just doesn't make the cut. I won't purchase a Ford again.
2008May 06
Windstar LX 3.2L
- Automatic transmission
- 61,250 miles
I wish I had check this web site out before I would of been more informed about the problems Ford hasn't stood behind
2008May 05
Windstar SEL 3.8L
- Automatic transmission
- 77,671 miles
My problems with my Windstar began 5 years ago when it was two years young and had only 40 000km. shy of a month that i had purchased it , the trany went and it was still under warranty. at 70 000km i had to replace it once again myself. five days ago at 125 000kms the trany died again. I hate all Windstars !
2008Apr 14
Windstar LX
- Automatic transmission
- 71,000 miles
While driving my van suddenly a really loud bang happened. Then I had no gears except reverse. Had the car towed to Lee Myles. Needed Another new tranny. This is my second tranney replacement in 4 years. My van has only 71000 miles on it. This is ridiculous. Ford should have done a recall on these faulty tranneys. Ford does not stand behind it's crummy product. I will not ever be buying a Ford again. Ford products are pieces of crap. Sad that that is the best American made car manufacturers can do. It's no wonder America is falling behind other countries in manufacturing etc. Ford is not loyal to it's customers. I see no reason to be loyal to them. No more Fords in my house.
2006Apr 11
Windstar LX 3.8L V6
- Automatic transmission
- 65,000 miles
Since I hit 60,000 miles on our Windstar I've had nothing but problems. I took it to the dealer at least 5 times complaining of a trans fluid leak and had the pan and gasket replaced 2 times. The problem still comes and goes, the more we drive it the more it leaks. The mechanic said he can't find any problem but just today I noticed a pool of fluid under the car again. I checked the fluid but the level is good. I drove it down the street and came home and it's like someone cracked the faucet on the sink. It's a steady stream of red fluid. I spend close to $600 having the trans looked at not to mention all the other crap that I had done and I've decided today it's time to sell. I had a Chevy Astro and put close to 200K miles on it and never had these kind of problems. I'm Done With Ford....
My Brother was right, FORD = Fix Or Repair Daily, And he works for Ford!!
2008Mar 26
Windstar LX 3.2L
- Automatic transmission
- 36,700 miles
purchase the van in 2003 with appx. 20,000 miles. had problems with trans from day one. Noise, loud bangs and slippage. Brought to Coccia Ford on 3 separate occasions concerning this and was told nothing was wrong. Five years later with only an additional 17000 miles the trans completely failed. the extended warranty had expired 6 months earlier. Spoke to salesmen, service manager, general manager,and ford directly.... No one would do a thing. Left 3 messages for the own but never got a return call.
stay clear of ford and if you live in northeastern pa ... make sure to stay away from coccia ford. have never be treated so poorly in my entire life.... thanks for your time.
2007May 15
(reported on)Windstar LX Sport 3.8L
- Automatic transmission
- 53,000 miles
I bought this car new and kept the maintenance on schedule. At 53,000 miles the transmission went out while driving on the interstate on vacation. Of course the warranty had expired and I was out of pocket over $2600 for replacement. This should not have happened to a car with this low mileage. I will not purchase another Ford product.
2008Jan 12
Windstar V6
- Automatic transmission
- 73,322 miles
Really annoying how my 2000 Windstar transmission gave out just several weeks after my regular service check. died at 118k, despite regular service. Quite frankly, wasn't aware of the need for a flush and the dealership never mentioned it either despite the fact I bought from them in 2004 and have brought it to them for service at least twice a year since.
Was wondering about the person who wrote to this site in 2004 and got Ford/the dealership to cover 75% of the cost of a new transmission. I phoned Ford Customer Service today and they were polite but said they couln't help, said it was more a dealership/workmanship issue, despite my referencing the aforementioned case.
Any advice? Anybody else get help from Ford or their dealership to cover the cost?
Regards.
Unhappy Ford owner.
2005Jul 12
Windstar LXE 3.8L
- Automatic transmission
- 74,000 miles
No signs of impending problem. No slippage, fluid leakage, etc... Was away from home and after pulling out of a parking lot, stopping at a light. there was a big bang and I lost everything except reverse. Had towed to nearest AAmco dealer and had rebuilt transmission and torque converter replaced. There is no reason I should have lost the transmission and torque converter at 74000 miles as I do not drive hard and I am very conscientious about maintenance on my vehicle. After getting the car back to New York, from New Jersey, the transmission failed again and I had to take it to the local AAmaco to have it repaired under warranty this time. After going on the web I have since found out this is quite a common problem with this car.
2007Dec 22
Windstar SEL 3.8L
- Automatic transmission
- 11,500 miles
I was driving up the hwy 70mph and it just shift out of OD and in between drive and OD and stay there it slips out of OD all the time but not quite into drive it causes the trans to get really hot and start stinking. My millage is about 12mpg this is nice since gas is so cheap! I was told it was my planetary gears which would cost at the least $2500 if I could afford that I would just trade it in for a TOYOTA at least they stand behind their product. With as many "defects" as I have read and heard of one would think the GOV would get involved and make them make it right!!!!!!!!!!!!! I've got lots more problems with this van than I do time and $$$ so it will just sit and look good for the neighborhood! Someone HELP!!!!
2007Dec 22
Windstar SEL 3.8L
- Automatic transmission
- 78,000 miles
I too bought a wonderful van or someone else's headache. When I bought the van it had about 74000miles when it started shuttering at low speeds it gradually got worse it the shop said it was some sensor in the trans and changed it which did fix that problem sort of. I have many more complaints though!
2007May 18
(reported on)Windstar LX 3.2L
- Automatic transmission
- 32,000 miles
My transmission was replaced under warranty at 32,500. Like clockwork, the transmission failed again at 64,000. The dealer understands goodwill and did not charge me any labor and only charged me about $50 over his cost for the transmission. Although I'm still arguing with Ford, they are refusing to pay the balance on the transmission replacement that the dealer did not already discount. I would except, but not be happy about, replacing the transmission for the first time at 64,000 and having to pay for it because it is out of warranty. But since it was replaced at 32,000 miles, I don't think it is right that I pay for this.
No more Fords for me if FMC doesn't come up with the balance.
2007Nov 10
(reported on)Windstar SEL 3.8L
- Automatic transmission
- 84,400 miles
Mixed emotions. Bought Windstar in march of 07,w/ 78,000 miles. Today at 84,000 miles no warning, no noise, no smell, just hit the gas pedal and pop: going nowhere fast. Good news is certified Ford dealership service dept. manager stopped and checked on us. Looked at van, made 2 phone calls and had a tow truck coming and a free Taurus loner car waiting for us at the dealership all on his day off in less than five minutes. Tow truck dropped us and van off at dealer and in less than ten minutes we were on our way with brand new Taurus loner no questions asked. I've always been a Ford man, had a 77,78 Ford f-150 good trucks, flew a 88 Taurus 90 ft. through air after hitting guard rail at est. 70mph., landed on roof and skid 45 more feet, good car held together well. Owned a '97 Expedition Eddie Bauer ed.4x4 excellent truck. Windstar and new Tauruses I dont know about I think Ford needs to fess up and admit they screwed up and put out a recall. What happened to standing behind your product. As for manager that stopped, Ford should take some of there money from fixing transmissions and give this man a big bonus.
2007Aug 28
(reported on)Windstar
- Automatic transmission
- 124,000 miles
I bought the car at 118000 miles. Two or three weeks later, I was without a vehicle. No warning, no nothing just "POP" and it the transmission would only go in reverse and nothing else. So the dealership sent it to a top named transmission repair place where they rebuilt the transmission for $1100 and gave a six month warranty. Well it hasn't been six months, and the transmission is out again. Can I get a vehicle that will actually run long enough for me to enjoy it??? Not if its a FORD. Last time I sent it to this transmission place, it took them two weeks to fix, I wonder how long it will take when they aren't getting any money for the job?
2007Sep 27
(reported on)Windstar SE 3.8L V6
- Automatic transmission
- 117,000 miles
Well, at 117,000 miles and no warning what so ever my transmission just took a big crap!!!! It will only go in Reverse!!!! no drive no 2nd no 1st only REVERSE!!!! What the heck. No funny noises all fluids fine it just won't go FORWARD!!! a 2000 windstar which I am still making payments on. I can barley afford to keep gas in the thing let alone replace a whole transmission. I am PISSED that auto manufactures are selling us CRAP at insanely high prices. Where is the justice? I guess all I can do is post this on the internet so maybe someone else won't be in my shoes!
2007Sep 23
(reported on)Windstar LX 3.8L
- Automatic transmission
- 74,500 miles
We were on vacation and noted smoke coming from under the van.... pulled into a rest area and the transmission fluid poured from the vehicle... after 3 weeks of arguing with the dealer and having to provide detailed service reports (every oil change and scheduled maintenance record for the past 5yrs) they replaced the transmission with a rebuilt model.. when we looked on-line for common problems we couldn't believe the number of hits... two weeks later our neighbor replace their transmission (same model did not buy extended warranty) it cost them $3500... they now own a Toyota.... More US parts than any Ford on the market.. they get my next purchase.
2007Sep 04
(reported on)Windstar LX V6
- Automatic transmission
- 94,000 miles
To say the least, I'm so pissed off that I would have to purchase a RE-BUILT transmission for a 7 year old vehicle for close to $3000. I knew I was going to get it when I had the van towed into the Ford dealership and they immediately handed me a credit-application. Oh, but it has a warranty! HA! My van has been nothing but a piece of crap since I got it, brand new. I won't go into every little thing but I tell you this deal with the transmission has ruined the Ford name in our family. And believe me, we spread the word. Whenever we hear of someone buying one, we do our best to talk them out of it! I have co-workers that complain and have multiple problems with their Fords. This makes American-made vehicles look really bad. I guarantee you that I will never buy another one. And as soon as I can get rid of this one, I will! I feel sorry for the next sucker who buys one.
2007Aug 20
(reported on)Windstar SEL 3.8L
- Automatic transmission
- 98,000 miles
I'm a novice grease monkey and take care of all my vehicle's routine maintenance, and based upon other responses I read online, it sounds like I have also experienced a broken "reverse sun gear." Luckily this happened only a .5 miles from a relatives' house while leaving with my family all in tow, and they had a spare vehicle to loan my wife and me, so we could drive 50+ miles to get our other car. More importantly, it did not happen while on the Interstate or we could've been in really bad shape.
What bothers me most is that there were no warning signs! No transmission leak, unique smells, or weird sounds except the "pop" the occurred when the car refused to go forward. I still had the reverse gear however, and drove a .5 mile in that gear back to the relatives.
Can someone elaborate on the ongoing court case against Ford for a similar problem in read re: 1998 Windstars with faulty factory transmissions?
2007Aug 18
(reported on)Windstar LX 3.8L V6
- Automatic transmission
- 85,000 miles
This is the 1st complaints. I was driving with my 2 children and my wife & grandparents at night, going to west coast of FL 75 MILES AWAY FROM HOME!!! Then SLIP BANG BOOM!!!. The transmission goes out. Of course the tow truck took 2 hour to get there, my wife & grandparents is sitting in traffic with 2 unhappy kids TOO. 75 MILES AWAY IN THE DARK ON HIGHWAY 60. So, the towing guy shows up and HE TELLS ME $4.00 A MILE . THAT COMES TO $240.00 take the truck home and the cancellation for reservations at the hotel was $145.00 for two rooms. $55.00 TO FILL TANK. AND A WINDSTAR PRICELESS $240+145+55+3400=FUN WITH FORD THANKS FOR NOTHING ???????!!!!!!!!
2007Apr 30
(reported on)Windstar
- Automatic transmission
- 80,000 miles
That's why Ford will file for bankruptcy soon (i hope tomorrow), they have the same damn problem "transmission" with all of thier Focuses, Tauruses and Windstars, i start to believe that is a part of Ford strategy to keep people on buying more cars in a shorter peroid of time so they can make more profit but HILL NO i'll never buy Ford again, it such a rip off, my brother have a Honda van for almost 9 years and all what he had to do just a regular service (oil chage, tires, breakes..), but i had this damn Windstar for 3 years and transmission failed!!! so hey folks just go for imported cars next time, you will pay some extra mony and it's a lot better in general.
2007Mar 05
(reported on)Windstar LE
- Automatic transmission
- 40,000 miles
Had entire transmission replaced - on Ford because still under warranty, thank God. Got reconditioned tranny however due to Windstars no longer being made. We'll see how long it lasts. Thought the problem was ridiculous and too widespread for them not to recall this! Ford sucks & I will never buy another.
2007Feb 23
(reported on)Windstar LX 3.8L
- Automatic transmission
- 125,000 miles
Replaced the tranny for a second time no help from Ford. We have in excess of 160 000km/100 000 miles. This would have been on the scrapheap, but there is a considerable cost in converting to a handicapped vehicle for wheelchair storage.
2007Jan 17
(reported on)Windstar 3.2L V6
- Automatic transmission
- 136,000 miles
my transmission went on my Ford Winstar.. it cost ME!!!! $2900.00 I take very good care of all my car oil, tires, tune-up etc.... I'm very clam right now so I'll only say DO NOT EVER BUY A FORD PRODUCT!!!!!!!!! put them out of business
2006Nov 12
(reported on)Windstar V6
- Automatic transmission
- 80,000 miles
Our transmission blew while on the way to pick up my child at daycare. We did not have the money to fix the problem, so it sat for 9 months until we could get it checked out. We checked in to the local Ford dealer and they were outrageously priced, and they were going to put in a new transmission, however we would have the same problem down the road. We were told by someone who specializes in transmissions that the problem is a lubrication issue, not enough lubrication is getting in to the transmission due to a defect in the transmission. Again it is called a defect, not a safety issue so there is not a recall on the transmission. We did get it fixed, however, everytime we turn around, there is another issue with the van. We bought it with 6k miles. We will never buy another one again. We had a great transmission mechanic who fixed it at a cost
2006Apr 07
(reported on)Windstar LE
- 40,000 miles
I am very pissed off about this problem!! We bought this van 2 years ago. We paid 14000. We had a 2 year warranty when we bought it. We had to replace the brakes, the windshield washer motor. Now 6 months after the warranty is up we are faced with replacing the transmission and the power steering pump. We thought we were buying something that would be trouble free. We were wrong big time!! This is the first time we thought we were buying a good mini van. It is going to cost us $3000 to fix this problem. Money we don't have to spend. It really pisses me off! We have 4 more years to pay on it. What could go wrong next? The motor sure why not! We called Ford , we called the dealer nothing, nobody can do anything for us. oh well we tried. I know right now I will never buy another van.(FORD)!!!!! Thank You For listening.
2006Apr 21
(reported on)Windstar SE
- 83,000 miles
What a piece of junk. I should have known that Ford vehicles were terrible. Only 83,000 miles and the transmission blows. This is unacceptable. From now on, I will buy a Toyota or Honda. Their cars last well into the 100K range.
2006Dec 29
(reported on)Windstar LX 3.2L V6
- Automatic transmission
- 74,000 miles
Driving home from Maine, I noticed that the O/D Off light was flashing on the dash. When I got home, I ran the symptom on the Internet and learned I had a big transmission problem on my hands. I brought the vehicle to the dealer and was informed that the Torque Control Module (TCM) was blown and the entire transmission needed to be replaced at $2700. I asked if this was a common problem with the Windstars, and the dealer replied no, I then questioned why this problem was so prevalent on the Internet. Once again, no response. I told them not to fix the problem. I am trading the van in for a new Toyota Highlander. And Ford wonders why Toyota is about to pass them.
2006Dec 28
(reported on)Windstar SE 3.8L
- Automatic transmission
- 35,000 miles
This is the 1st of 2 complaints. My wife was driving with my 2 small children at night, then bang. The transmission goes out. Of course I just had to be working at the time. The tow truck took 1 hour to get there, wile my wife is sitting in traffic with 2 unhappy kids. So, the towing shows up and takes them to the ford dealership. There I am waiting for them at ford. when I see them pull in to the dealership, the van is smoking! "Why" you ask? Because the tow truck guy forgot to let off the parking brake, and drove for 8 miles!! So now I have a broken transmission and fried rear brakes! But wait, there is more on my next complaint.
2006Dec 28
(reported on)Windstar SE 3.8L
- Automatic transmission
- 67,000 miles
This is the 2nd time the transmission took a crap on us. Now, the van has 67000+ miles on it. My wife, now with our 3 children was taking my oldest son 9 to the doctors. Just before she got there, the van started jerking a little then was OK. After the doctors appointment they got into the car. My wife put the car in reverse, nothing worked. The transmission once again has failed! I'm now waiting to see if it was the same thing as before. The dealer needs to diagnose the problem. We will see what happens. Now I know that a Ford will not be on my Christmas list, ever.
2006Oct 30
(reported on)Windstar LX
- Automatic transmission
- 50,000 miles
The only reason we bought this van is because it was 5 years old with only 33K on it. We got it from an auto brokerage company that we do business with all the time. We bought it for under $7000. We needed a minivan and this happened along at the right time and right price. However, having said that, it's a FORD!
The transmission has been slipping. You can't always pull out in front of people or expect to accelerate in this thing. The reason - it starts off in 2nd gear instead of first. Sometimes, it won't upshift. You just never know what you are going to get with this thing.
There is no reason on this planet why a vehicle with this few miles on it that hasn't been abused (last owner 80 year old man) should be having transmission issues. I am taking it to a transmission shop that wants my repair shop to start doing business with them. If they do right by my van, then I'll start using them. We'll see what they say.
2006Sep 08
(reported on)Windstar
- 62,000 miles
62,000 miles on a 6 year old car that is very rarely driven. I called the dealer and they pretty much told me to go find a transmission shop and have it replaced. Unbelievable. I'm never buying Ford again. Now I know where FORD comes from FOUND ON ROAD DEAD.
2006Aug 31
(reported on)Windstar LX
- 65,000 miles
I bought my windstar for 30,000 and even got the extended warrenty. Within two years I was having problems when I pulled out of my driveway. After shifting into drive the car would not move and it felt like it was in neutral. I complained and they said that there was nothing wrong. At least twice a week this happened and I complained again in 2004. They told me it was because it was a big car and it needed more time to warm up to get its juices flowing. Everytime it happened I would blame myself for not warming it up. Well now that its warranty is up guess what the transmission is shot. I thought and they told me as long as its documented I would be protected. I took excellent care of this van. I only brought it to Ford's service department to get it fixed, and guess what my loyalty got me. We are sorry your dissatisfied will put it in your file, but your warranty is up. I will never buy a Ford again, and I am not going to let this go. This is totally wrong all over the place. Who knew this van was going to self distruct at 65,000. What a piece of junk. Please people listen to me stay away from Ford they show no loyalty to their customers and they will do anything not to fix a problem.
2006Aug 14
(reported on)Windstar SE
- 63,000 miles
had my 2000 windstar in shop many times for electrical problems. All in the first four years under warranty. The dealership, of course, could not find a ploblem. They then said they would keep all this on the record so when I had problems out of warranty, they would take care of it. We have had problems ever since but it was small stuff I didn't want to fool with. Then at about 63000 miles the transmission went out. I call and asked the service desk if this could have happened a result of an electrical problems. No, they said. I went to a transmission shop to get it fixed, they said the sensor that controls the shifting was sending the wrong info, making the transmission shift at the wrong times. But, since the van was no longer under warranty, the dealership would not replace it. I will never, ever buy another Ford.
2006Mar 16
(reported on)Windstar LX
- 93,000 miles
Broken spider gear. This is the second Windstar I've owned that has had transmission breakdowns that needed repairs. I'm tired of paying money out for a vehicle that doesn't last. Since I can't afford to pay the repair bill it sits collecting dust. I want justice and I want it fixed.
2004Sep 09
(reported on)Windstar LE
- 50,000 miles
I purchased a new Ford Windstar in 2000. It now has almost 80,000 km on it. While driving it from a stop sign, the transmission just blew. It is now in with the dealership as the transmission needs to be replaced. Part that malfunctioned: Reverse Sun Gear.
The history: This vehicle has been meticulously maintained by the dealership for four years. Under warranty it was brought in many times with complaints of the transmission (at least 10 times). The most recent time was four weeks ago. Continual diagnosis: nothing wrong. The vehicle is now not under warranty.
The problem: As you know, Ford has had similar problems in the past with transmissions and , specifically, the head gasket issue of the 1996 Windstars. Because of that, the issue went to court here in Canada and the courts decided that so far as not having an extended warranty; it was ruled that the absence of one does not exculpate or absolve Ford from liability in the unreasonably premature failure of a major vehicle component (based on normal, acceptable industry standards) with regard to federal and provincial consumer protection statues. Canadian jurisprudence has already borne this out (see Quebec Small Claims Court, Hull Division, No: 550-32-008335-009 or this web page).
My issue: I have experienced an unreasonable, premature failure of a major vehicle component. When I paid $28,000 four years ago for my vehicle, nowhere in my wildest imagination did i think that I would have to replace the transmission in such a short period of time. And now Ford is stating that because I do not have an extended warranty, that I should be responsible to pay almost $1000 of the over $3000 cost of replacing my transmission. And this is even in their knowledge of the court decision over the '96 Windstars.
I can ill afford the cost of putting $1000 into a vehicle which has prematurely malfunctioned (it is a known manufacturers fault .. the "reverse sun gear malfunction") at absolutely no fault of my own. I have serviced and maintained this vehicle from day one. Why this is of a major concern to others is that there are many people experiencing the same thing with Windstar's transmission (a quick look on the web and you can find dozens and dozens).
Maybe I'm being unrealistic in this. As I said, the dealership and Ford Canada are adament in stating that I'm actually very lucky that they are paying 75% of the cost of replacing my transmission (and they will provide a two year warranty) because my vehicle is considered "out of warranty". But my point is a) the law states otherwise and b) why in the world should I have to pay anything considering that while this vehicle was under warranty, I brought it in almost a dozen times for transmission problems. No transmission should have to be replaced at 80K --- with any cost to the consumer. Especially for a known problem with a manufacturers part.
We have partnered with JustAnswer to offer online auto repair help and advice from expert professional automotive technicians. You describe your transmission problem or ask your question and they try to help you figure it out. The fee is typically $9 to $15, but you can offer to pay more for really tough questions. You will usually receive an answer in 10 minutes or less, and you do not have to pay anything unless you accept the answer.
A D V E R T I S E M E N T S
2008Dec 11
Windstar SEL 3.8L V6
Well, here I am sitting in a hotel room 220 miles from home. My family and I were to drive 600 miles to have an early holiday with our extended family. We were about 150 miles from home, while climbing a hill the O/D off light started flashing and the check transmission warning was displayed. We pulled over at the next exit and it so happened to have a Ford dealership there. We thought what good fortune. We had them check it out and they test drove it 7 miles and could duplicate the problem. They said that the transmission should be flushed, serviced and a sealant additive should take care of it. Two hours and $250 later it was done. They took it for another test drive and said it was fine. We were glad to be on the road again. The first hill we climbed one mile down the road the O/D light started flashing again and the Check Transmission warning came back on. We turned around and went back to the dealer. They said to give it time and it should "soften the seals" in a few hundred miles and will be just fine. They gave me there phone number and said to call them if we had any issues. Well 70 miles later, in the pouring rain, we were in the passing lane starting the climb up a small mountain when the RPM went from 2500 to 4500 and I noticed I had no powertrain. Thank God I was able to weave our way over to the right shoulder before running out of forward momentum. I called the dealership and the said "We're sorry to hear that and feel really bad" however there was nothing they could do. I called AAA to have it towed, they gave the towing company the wrong location but the found us an hour later. The tow truck pulled up and was getting ready to hook it up when they blew a hose. In the meantime while we were waiting for a another tow, the driver told me that the number one car the used to pick up was the Ford Taurus. Now the number one pick up is the Ford Windstar due to transmission failure. I called the next Ford dealer up the road and explained what happened. They were at least honest with me and said this is a common problem and most likely the transmission needs replaced and could put a rebuilt one in for about $3,000 and could have it ready on Monday (this happened Thursday evening) The driver took us to a local hotel. When we got there his shop owner said he had a brand new one with a 3 yr 100,000 mile warranty and could have it replaced for $2,500 and have us on our way by early Friday afternoon. So we are having him do it. If I had only researched the known issues I would have thought twice before buying the Windstar. We have had it for 5 yrs now and only have 88K on it. This has been the first major issue we have had. I guess it is still cheaper than car payments. :-(
Donald T.
Raleigh, NC, USA
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