1997 Ford Windstar Steering Problems
- Complaints
- 13about this part
- Share
- 7%of 192 total for the year
- Median mileage
- 75,172miles
- Trend
- Not enough dataFewer than 15 complaints, too few for a reliable trend.
NHTSA recorded 13 complaints about the steering of the 1997 Ford Windstar, 7% of the 192 complaints for this model year. Where a mileage was given, the median is 75,172 miles. 2 of these say a crash was involved, according to the filers.
Fewer than 15 complaints name this part, so treat the figures as a rough indication only.
Example complaints
Selected from NHTSA records; personal details are removed. They are consumer reports, not findings.
“Dt: the contact states has been having several problems with vehicle since 2002. On april 28, 2004 the speedometer was not providing an accurate speed reading. On december 9, 2004 the sliding door would not unlock or slide properly. The dealer replaced the door lock actuator and determined that the slide wheels were dry. The dealership replaced the door latch, and now it needed replacement again. On february 5, 2005 the engine was replaced at 75, 172 miles, and on november 21, 2005 the power steering failed and was replaced. All repairs have been done at contact's expense.”
NHTSA complaint #10144086, filed 2005-11, 75,172 miles“The contact owns a 1997 Ford Windstar. While driving at 45 MPH the power steering failed. The front spring failed and punctured the front passenger tire. The contact was able to drive the vehicle to the side of the road. The contact stated that recall #01i007000: suspension:front:springs:coil springs was related to the failure. The manufacturer advised the contact that the recall expired. The current and failure mileage was 142,000.”
NHTSA complaint #10184352, filed 2007-03, 142,000 miles“While turning at low speeds, the driver heard a loud noise coming from the end of the vehicle. The vehicle was taken to the dealer for inspection. The mechanic informed the driver that the rack and pinion needed to be replaced.”
NHTSA complaint #10076098, filed 2004-06“Left side tie rod broke while driving at 50 MPH. Vehicle taken to dealer for repairs, also, suspension joints needed to be welded. Please provide any further details on this matter .”
NHTSA complaint #884336, filed 2001-03“Steering locked up on right turns at low speeds. By forcing the wheel to turn, there was an audible popping sound and then the steering unlocked and functioned properly.”
NHTSA complaint #538930, filed 1998-07Steering: other model years
| Year | Complaints | Share of year |
|---|---|---|
| 2003 | 40 | 3% |
| 2002 | 35 | 3% |
| 2001 | 70 | 4% |
| 2000 | 72 | 4% |
| 1999 | 184 | 12% |
| 1998 | 143 | 10% |
| 1997 | 13 | 7% |
| 1996 | 50 | 4% |
| 1995 | 75 | 2% |
| 1985 | 1 | 20% |
Other parts of the 1997 Ford Windstar
43 complaintsEngine cooling
38 complaintsSuspension
38 complaintsBrakes
28 complaintsVehicle speed control
21 complaintsBody and structure
8 complaintsElectrical system
7 complaintsSeats
6 complaintsWheels
6 complaintsFuel system
5 complaintsOther or unknown
4 complaintsTires
4 complaints
← All problems reported for the 1997 Ford Windstar
About this data. Data from NHTSA (ODI) complaints, recalls, TSBs and investigations, updated Oct 27, 2026. Complaints are unverified consumer reports and may be duplicated or inaccurate.
To check a specific vehicle for open recalls, use its VIN at nhtsa.gov/recalls. Methodology