1997 Ford Windstar Transmission and drivetrain Problems

“We believe the sheer number of defect on this car is unbelievable. We purchased it used from my parents. Total cost of non wear and tear repairs is around $5000. This is over 25% of the vehicles original value, and over 50% of the value at time of purchase. While no accidents have occurred, we believe Ford should take responsibility for a bad product.”

“We were driving on the interstate at 70 MPH with the cruise control on. Without any warning, the van went out of gear , the engine revved up, and all acceleration stopped. We pulled off the road and tried to get the van to go back into gear - any gear - and it wouldn't. There was no warning of a problem - no noises or leakage of fluid or anything unusual.”

“Sudden catastrophic failure of the transmission on my 1996 Windstar, 86,000 mi. Proper maintenence had been done. I see there are many complaints here with the same problem. Nhtsa it is time to step up and force a recall. How long do the consumers have to bear the brunt of this obvious defect. We don't have the $3000 they want for repairs. What happened to comsumer rights? The way it stands now I will never buy another amercian car. Is that what you want for the economy. You have to hold corporate america responsibletoput out quality vehicles. You have the power. …”

“Transmission failed, at the time of repair they found that the frame was broken, the van was purchased from them 6 months prior to the failure and they accused me of hitting a bump and making the frame break. I personally do not remember hitting anything in the van I drive it to an from work. If a bump small enough not to recall will break the frame would that mean the frame is defected? I personally feel that I purchased the van with a broken frame and driving it for six months in that condition could of caused my transmission to fail. …”

“I noticed that my speedometer was behaving erratically at about 41000 miles. I contacted the dealer who said that it would have to be replaced at a cost of $250 if I wanted it fixed. I said that I didn't believe the speedometer should fail at that low mileage. The manufacturer contacted me about this and said there was nothing they could do (financially) to help with the replacement. At about 50000 miles I was informed that the right tie rod end was worn and advised it should be replaced. Again, I protested because of the low mileage. …”