1995-98 Ford Windstar
Ford's Missed Opportunity
It looked like Chrysler's all-conquering
but aging minivans were finally vulnerable. The year was 1994 and Ford
unveiled their biggest challenge yet - the Windstar. It duplicated and
improved upon almost all of Chrysler's successful formula. Its ride,
comfort and handling were first rate, it was big and it had an air of
technical sophistication that the Chryslers lacked.
But they didn't add the second sliding
door. All their focus groups, interviews and consumer clinics told
them they didn't need it. So they chose not to add it. Big mistake.
Chrysler would've been trumped by nearly two years and it's quite
possible that Ford would've taken a commanding position in the minivan
segment. Sometimes car design requires leadership and original
thinking - not decisions by committees.
Strengths
|
Weaknesses
|
- Low noise
levels
- Power (200hp
V6)
- Room
- Interior
Design
- Bang for the
buck
|
- Uninspired
exterior design
- No fourth door
- Power (3.0L
V6)
|
What's Available
Windstars were initially available in
two trim levels, the entry level GL and the upmarket LX. The Windstar
could also be ordered as a cargo van. Starting with the 1997 model
year, a price leader base model was added. It was basically a slightly
decontented GL.
For it's final year, the
top-of-the-line Limited was introduced. As you might expect, the
limited was largely a loaded LX, with all kinds of stuff such as quad
leather seats, 16-inch wheels and a chrome grille added to the
standard equipment list. A larger driver's door with a tip/slide
driver's seat for easy access was added in 1997 to LX and later,
Limited models. It was offered as an option on the GL. It helps rear
seat entry, but was clearly a stop-gap measure until the new '99
models arrived with dual sliding rear doors.
The GL interior is a pretty attractive
place to begin with, and the LX and Limited add slightly richer
materials and more standard gizmos. That pretty much holds true with
the exterior as well, with the biggest difference being standard cast
aluminum wheels on the LX and slightly larger tires.
For the introductory model year, only
the 3.8 liter V6 was available, coupled with a 4spd automatic
overdrive transmission. Beginning in '96, the 3.8L V6 was standard on
the LX and optional on the GL. A 3.0 liter V6 became the standard
powerplant on the GL and subsequent base models.
Exterior Design
The Windstar broke no new ground in the
styling department. Clean and contemporary would best describe the
look. However, what was contemporary in '94 when the Windstar was
introduced looks somewhat frumpy today. It has not aged particularly
well. To make matters worse, it received a slight facelift for '97
that gave it a larger grille opening for better cooling. It created a
rather somber and frumpy looking nose.
Interior
Things improve markedly here. A
stylish, integrated, and functional dash greets the driver. A full set
of gauges (on 3.8L equipped vans), logically positioned heating,
ventilating and air-conditioning controls, and convenient power assist
controls are an easy reach away. The rich-looking materials make for
quality presentation.
The stereo controls aren't the greatest
however, and the small buttons and knobs require too much attention to
use -- distracting the driver from the business of driving.
Thoughtful features abound, such as an
optional convex mirror that drops from the headliner so you can keep
an eye on the ruckus in the back, and available integrated child
seats, adding to the family-friendly environment. Fit and finish were
excellent on both the GL and the LX models we examined.
Room and Comfort
The Windstar's strong suits are its
convenient passenger and cargo room and its comfortable cabin. Besides
the already mentioned thoughtfulness of the interior design, the belts
and seating position are very comfortable, as are the seats
themselves. The third seat is rather limited in the leg room
department, at least for adults. Available power front seats offer an
array of adjustment, but are not really necessary to achieve a
comfortable position. Seating arrangements are typical for the class
-- 2 front buckets, a middle and rear bench or 4 buckets and a really
heavy (over 100lbs) rear bench.
A tilt steering wheel was standard
equipment, except in the base model introduced in '97.
Many Windstars were equipped with a
center console between the two front seats. While handy for storage
and a great idea on paper, in the real world it often gets in the way
-- it's harder to reach the screaming baby in the back!
Noise levels are very low, with road
noise especially well muffled. The LX model, with its extra sound
insulation was particularly quiet. During hard acceleration, however,
the engine note becomes rather obtrusive and it's not a particularly
pleasant on refined sound.
Ride/Handling/Performance
No surprises here - the Windstar's a
smooth, comfortable cruiser with average, but adequate, handling. The
ride conveys a solid, well-built feeling to its occupants. In fact,
its highway ride is still competitive with the newest generation of
mivinvans.
When pushed, the Windstar leans
modestly and the tires howl in protest, but it all remains safe and
predictable. There were no handling options available to firm things
up, and the suspension is the same in the base model right on through
the Limited model, so don't go looking for any suspension options or
upgrades. A heavy-duty suspension came with the optional towing
package.
There were two engine choices. We
strongly recommend the larger 3.8L 200hp (155hp in 1995) engine. The
3.0L 145hp motor is barely adequate, most always working hard, making
a bunch of noise, and not moving the big Windstar with any confidence.
One local dealer we know wouldn't even order Windstars with the
smaller engine - he felt they were unsatisfactory. The torquey 3.8
liter V6 makes a big - no huge - difference. The 4-speed overdrive
automatic always shifts smoothly with both engines, but downshifts
much more frequently with the smaller mill.
On most Windstars, braking chores are
handled by the standard ABS equipped front disc/rear drum setup.
Performance was not exceptional, with some pronounced nose-dive, but
stops were straight and smooth.. The ABS pulsates strongly when
engaged.
Safety
All Windstars have ABS brakes, dual
front airbags, and adjustable front safety belts. Traction control was
an option beginning in 1996 in combination with 4-wheel disc brakes.
This duo was only available on 3.8L V6 equipped vans.
The government crash tested a '97
Windstar and awarded it 5 stars for both the driver and the front
passenger -- an exceptional performance.
Reliability
Ford's usual weak point, transmissions,
tend to break sooner than, say, GM or Toyota models, but you should
get to 100,000 miles before that becomes a factor. Our latest customer
hotline database search, however, shows an upturn in reports of
earlier failures for Ford transmissions.
UPDATE 3/05/2000 - Ford has announced a generous repair allowance
and/or buyback program for owners of 1995 Windstars with the 3.8 liter
engine. Over 700,000 engines are believed to have faulty head
gaskets. Ford will reimburse for past repairs, replace the
engine or buy the car. Other models with this engine are
also being covered. Letters will be sent in March to owners
outlining the program. Contact Ford
Motor Company (or 800-392-3673) for details.
There also have been reports of
excessive engine temperatures on the '95 and '96 models. Get the
vehicle up to operating temperature and then let it idle for 10
minutes with the A/C running. The temperature gauge shouldn't go over
the two-thirds mark.
Windstars have had their fair share of
safety recalls, and while not indicative of overall reliability, you
should check to make sure the work was done.
There are also an unusually large
number of technical service bulletins (TSBs) associated with the
Windstar, which is a sign of poor reliability. Most appear
to be information bulletins for dealers, or minor isolated issues on a
limited number of models, but the sheer number of them causes some
concern. Again, check the vehicle's history.
Service
Routine maintenance and service weigh
in below average for the Windstar. Helping in this department is the
lack of any timing belt to replace (both engines are overhead valve
designs), a stainless steel exhaust system, and below average prices
for most parts.
Recommendations
The minivan segment is tough when it
comes to picking a winner. All the players have certain strengths and
weakness. Some offer superior reliability, others more features for
the money, still others are downright bargains. None are bad choices.
We can't declare the Windstar the winner among these choices in any of
the categories. We'd look elsewhere.
|
What They Said When New |
|
"The S-shaped dashboard sweeping gradually into the door panels
looks like a design proposal for the Lincoln Mark
VIII."............ Road & Track 1994
"...Clean lines,
unruffled ride; a passenger-friendly motorized den."....Car &
Driver 1995
"Equally
reassuring was the well-fitted and attractive cabin, which
remained in excellent shape even after 36,980 miles. In spite of
it's hard use....the interior still looks new."......Automobile
1995
"The Windstar
doesn't feel like a house on the road, though, and perhaps the
most pleasant surprise is how will it drives."......Automobile
1995
"A fine
all-around performer -- but reliability continues to
disappoint.".........Consumer Reports 1997 |
| |
General Specifications |
|
|
General
Trim Levels: Base
('97 & '98), GL, LX, Limited ('98)
Body Styles: 3-dr
Van
Dimensions &
Capacities
Weight: 3750
-4000 lbs
Length: 201.2"
Wheelbase: 120.7"
Width: 75.4"
Height: 68"
EPA Class:
Specialty Van
Interior Vol: n/a
Trunk Vol : 22 cu
ft (w/3rd seat in place); 66.5 (w/3rd seat out); 144 cu ft.
(max)
Fuel: 20 gallons
(25 on LX & Ltd.) |
Mechanical
Layout:
Front-engine, Front-wheel drive;
Engines: 3.0L
(6cyl-145/150hp) 3.8L (6cyl-155hp) (1995) 3.8L (6cyl-200hp)
(1996-1998)
Transmission:
4-speed automatic w/overdrive
Brakes: Front
disc/rear drum; front & rear disc available
Performance
(3.8L-200hp)
0-60mph: 9.5
seconds 1/4 mile: 17.0 seconds Top Speed: 105 mph
EPA Mileage:
17/25 (city/hwy) (3.0L) 17/23 (city/hwy) (3.8L)
|
Safety
ABS Brakes:
Standard
Air Bags: Dual
standard
NHTSA Safety
Rating:
Driver *****
Passenger *****
Overall:
Excellent
Key:
Best: ***** No or
minor injuries probable
Worst: * Serious
injury probable
IIHS 40 mph Crash
Rating:
Not tested
Original
Warranty:
3yr/36,000 mile
bumper-to-bumper 6yr/unlimited miles corrosion |
|
Running Changes |
|
1995:
New model.
1996:
3.8 Liter
V6 gets big power boost to 200hp along with a higher final drive
ratio; traction control with 4-wheel disc brakes optional; GL
model now has 3.0L V6 as base engine.
1997:
New front
fascia; wider driver's door for easier rear seat entry; new
alloy wheels and exterior moldings; interior gets headrests on
second and third row seats; new entry-level base model
introduced.
1998:
Base 3.0L V6
boosted to 150hp; carryover year - all new model arrived for
1999. |
|
Parts/Service Costs |
Parts Only |
Parts & Labor |
|
Accessory belt(s) |
$30-$40 |
$50-$80 |
|
Alternator (new) |
$180-$410 |
$240-$390 |
|
*Brakes (pads only) Front |
$40-$60 |
$150-$190 |
| Rear |
$20-$40 |
$150-$190 |
| CV
Joints (outer ea.) |
$100-160 |
$225-325 |
|
Exhaust (full) |
$n/a |
$250-$350 |
|
Headlamp assembly |
$130 |
$200 |
|
Struts- Front (ea.) |
$50-$65 |
$90-140 |
| Tube
shocks-Rear (ea.) |
$50-$65 |
$90-$140 |
|
Timing belt |
$35-$45 |
$180-$150 |
|
Water pump |
$90-$175 |
$200-$300 |
|
Note: Pricing comes from dealers, wholesale mail-order companies
and independent parts stores. Average labor rate computed at
$50/hr. Pricing can vary
widely - shop around. |
| *Brakes include
turning rotors/pricing for front disc/rear drum setup |
|
Safety Recalls |
|
Number: 94V222000: Potential Number of Units Affected: 72000
Model Year: 1995:
Manufactured From: JAN 1994 To: JUN 1994
Year of Recall:
'94
Summary:
THE WIRING
HARNESS INSULATION CAN ABRADE ON A BRACE THAT RUNS FROM THE
INSTRUMENT PANEL TO THE COWL. THIS CONDITION CAN RESULT IN AN
ELECTRICAL SHORT AND POSSIBLY A VEHICLE FIRE.
DEALERS WILL INSTALL A SHIELD ON THE
INSTRUMENT PANEL TO COWL BRACE, AND INSTALLATION OF A PIECE OF
CONVOLUTE WRAP MATERIAL ON ONE OF THE ADJACENT HARNESSES.
Number:
94V223000: Potential Number of Units Affected: 112000
Model Year: 1995:
Manufactured From: JAN 1994 To: SEP 1994
Year of Recall:
'94
Summary:
THE
ALTERNATOR OUTPUT WIRE WAS NOT CONNECTED TIGHTLY TO THE POWER
DISTRIBUTION BOX. THIS CAN RESULT IN OVERHEATING OF THE
CONNECTION AND A POSSIBLE VEHICLE FIRE. DEALERS WILL INSPECT AND
TIGHTEN THE CONNECTION.
VEHICLES WITH VISIBLE DAMAGE TO THE PLASTIC POWER DISTRIBUTION
BOX HOUSING WILL HAVE THE UNDERHOOD HARNESS, INCLUDING THE POWER
DISTRIBUTION BOX, REPLACED.
Number:
95E006002: Potential Number of Units Affected: 8600
Model Year: 1995:
Manufactured From: JAN 1995 To: FEB 1995
Year of Recall:
'95
Summary:
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. THE PASSENGER SIDE AIR BAG MAY NOT INFLATE PROPERLY
RESULTING IN REDUCED OCCUPANT PROTECTION IN A VEHICLE ACCIDENT.
IF THE IGNITER END CAP SEPARATES IN A FRONTAL COLLISION, HOT
GASES CAN BE RELEASED AND IGNITE FLAMMABLE MATERIAL OR CAUSE
BURN INJURIES. DEALERS
WILL REMOVE AND REPLACE THE PASSENGER SIDE AIR BAG MODULE.
Number:
96V086000: Potential Number of Units Affected: 100000
Model Year: 1996:
Manufactured From: JUL 1995 To: OCT 1995
Year of Recall:
'96
Summary:
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 COULD HAVE BEEN RAISED ON THE SHAFT. THIS
COULD RESULT IN THE PARK PAWL
OCCASIONALLY NOT ENGAGING WHEN THE TRANSMISSION SELECTOR LEVER
IS PLACED IN THE PARK POSITION. THIS COULD RESULT IN THE VEHICLE
ROLLING AS IF IN NEUTRAL IF THE VEHICLE OPERATOR DOES NOT APPLY
THE PARKING BRAKE. DEALERS WILL
INSPECT THE PARK PAWL SHAFT ROLL PIN. IF THE ROLL PIN IS
DAMAGED, BOTH THE ROLL PIN AND THE PARK PAWL SHAFT WILL BE
REPLACED. IN ADDITION, OWNERS WILL BE REMINDED TO FULLY APPLY
THE PARKING BRAKE, IN ADDITION TO PLACING THE TRANSMISSION IN
PARK.
Number:
96V114000: Potential Number of Units Affected: 200
Model Year: 1996:
Manufactured From: MAY 1996 To: MAY 1996
Year of Recall:
'96
Summary:
THE FOUR
FASTENERS SECURING THE DRIVER'S SEAT TO THE FLOORPAN WERE NOT
TORQUED TO PROPER SPECIFICATIONS. THE DRIVER'S SEAT MAY NOT
PROPERLY HOLD IN THE EVENT OF A VEHICLE ACCIDENT RESULTING IN
PERSONAL INJURY TO THE OCCUPANT.
DEALERS WILL INSPECT THE DRIVER'S SEAT
FASTENERS AND RETORQUE TO PROPER SPECIFICATIONS.
Number:
96V166000: Potential Number of Units Affected: 40000
Model Year: 1996:
Manufactured From: AUG 1996 To: AUG 1996
Year of Recall:
'96
Summary:
The park
pawl abutment bracket has a sharp edge which can cause the
parking pawl to hand up and no engage the park gear. This would
allow the vehicle to move even though the gear shift indicator
shows that the vehicle is in park. Unintended and unexpected
vehicle movement can result in personal injury and property
damage. Dealers will inspect
and, if necessary, replace the park pawl abutment bracket.
Number:
97V051000: Potential Number of Units Affected: 202
Model Year: 1998:
Manufactured From: JAN 1997 To: JAN 1997
Year of Recall:
'97
Summary:
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 could move the headrest to the "up" position.
As a result of the headrest being in the "up" position, a child
seated in the ICS would receive less than the intended
protection in the child head area in the event of a crash.
The second row bench seats have
been replaced with seats built with revised headrest lockout
mechanisms. Owner Notification: All owners have been notified
and the seats have been replaced in the affected vehicles.
Number:
97V097000: Potential Number of Units Affected: 100000
Model Years:
1997-1998: Manufactured From: NOV 1996 To: MAR 1997
Year of Recall:
'97
Summary:
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.
The catalytic converter temperature may be hot enough to ignite
the transmission fluid and cause a vehicle fire.
Dealers will inspect the transmission and
replace these servo covers.
Number:
97V165000/97V1650001: Potential Number of Units Affected:
2250/750
Model Year: 1998:
Manufactured From: SEP 1997 To: SEP 1997
Year of Recall:
'97
Summary:
Vehicle
Description: Passenger Vehicles and Mini-Vans. The rack and
pinion steering gears may have damaged input shaft bearings.
This condition can increase steering efforts, affecting steering
control. Dealers will inspect the date code on the rack and
pinion steering gear, and, if
necessary, replace those rack and pinion assemblies that fall
within the suspect date code range. The date codes for Windstar
model vehicles are 97JC08; 97JC09 or 97JC08.
Number:
97V180000: Potential Number of Units Affected: 769000
Model Years:
1995-96: Manufactured From: JAN 1994 To: DEC 1995
Year of Recall:
'97
Summary:
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 to force the outer panel upward. This
condition can result in total separation of the outer hood
panel. Dealers will inspect the hood area for any damage along
the leading edge of the hood. If
there is any evidence of bond separation, the hood will be
replaced. If there is no evidence of bond separation, additional
adhesive will be applied between the inner and outer hood
panels.
Number:
98I003000: Potential Number of Units Affected: 174000
Model Year: 1998:
Manufactured From: DEC 1996 To: MAY 1997
Year of Recall:
'98 |
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