2002 FORD WINDSTAR

9 recalls, 1,928 complaints - 123 TSBs

SUSPENSION:REAR:AXLE:NON-POWERED AXLE ASSEMBLY

Defect Description

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 been misinstalled. ... Read more

Consequence

If the brackets were not installed properly, the rear axle may fracture, affecting the vehicle handling and increasing the risk of a crash.

Remedy

Ford will notify owners, and dealers will inspect the brackets to verify their proper installation. If a bracket is found to have been misinstalled, the rear axle will be replaced. These repairs will be performed free of charge. The began on October 21, 2015. Owners may contact Ford customer ser... Read more

283,413 vehicles affected

Manufacturer: Ford Motor Company

POWER TRAIN:AXLE ASSEMBLY

Defect Description

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. CORROSION AND STRESS CAN LEA... Read more

Consequence

A FRACTURED AXLE CAN AFFECT VEHICLE HANDLING AND INCREASE THE RISK OF A CRASH.

Remedy

FORD WILL NOTIFY OWNERS, AND DEALERS WILL INSPECT AND INSTALL REAR AXLE REINFORCEMENT BRACKETS, OR REPLACE THE AXLES, AS NECESSARY. THIS SERVICE WILL BE PERFORMED FREE OF CHARGE. THE RECALL BEGAN ON JUNE 19, 2012. OWNERS MAY CONTACT FORD AT 1-866-436-7332.

27,000 vehicles affected

Manufacturer: FORD MOTOR COMPANY

SUSPENSION:FRONT:CONTROL ARM

Defect Description

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.

Consequence

A SEPARATION OF A FRONT LOWER CONTROL ARM REAR ATTACHING BRACKET MAY RESULT IN A LOWER CONTROL ARM SEPARATION. A SEPARATION OF BOTH FRONT SUBFRAME REAR BODY MOUNTS MAY RESULT IN SEPARATION OF THE STEERING INTERMEDIATE SHAFT. EITHER CONDITION COULD RESULT IN SIGNIFICANT LOSS OF STEERING CONTROL, ... Read more

Remedy

DEALERS WILL INSPECT BOTH FRONT LOWER CONTROL ARM REAR ATTACHING BRACKETS AND BOTH BODY MOUNT ATTACHMENTS AT THE REAR OF THE FRONT SUBFRAME AND MAKE THE NECESSARY REPAIRS FREE OF CHARGE. THE RECALL BEGAN ON JUNE 18, 2012. OWNERS MAY CONTACT FORD AT 1-866-436-7332.

23,000 vehicles affected

Manufacturer: FORD MOTOR COMPANY

SUSPENSION:REAR:AXLE:NON-POWERED AXLE ASSEMBLY

Defect Description

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.

Consequence

A FRACTURED AXLE MAY RESULT IN A LOSS OF VEHICLE CONTROL, INCREASING THE RISK OF A CRASH.

Remedy

FORD WILL NOTIFY OWNERS, AND DEALERS WILL INSPECT AND INSTALL A REINFORCEMENT BRACKET ON THE REAR AXLE OR REPLACE THE AXLES, AS NECESSARY. THIS SERVICE WILL BE PROVIDED FREE OF CHARGE. THE RECALL BEGAN ON JUNE 1, 2012. OWNERS MAY CONTACT THE FORD MOTOR COMPANY CUSTOMER RELATIONSHIP CENTER AT 1-8... Read more

9,192 vehicles affected

Manufacturer: FORD MOTOR COMPANY

STRUCTURE:FRAME AND MEMBERS:UNDERBODY SHIELDS

Defect Description

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 HAMPSHIRE, NEW JERSEY, N... Read more

Consequence

THIS COULD RESULT IN REDUCED STEERING CONTROL INCREASING THE RISK OF A CRASH.

Remedy

DEALERS WILL INSPECT BOTH FRONT LOWER CONTROL ARM REAR ATTACHING BRACKETS, AND BOTH BODY MOUNT ATTACHMENTS AT THE REAR OF THE FRONT SUBFRAME, AND MAKE THE NECESSARY REPAIRS FREE OF CHARGE. IF REPAIRS CANNOT BE MADE TO A VEHICLE, FORD WILL OFFER TO REPURCHASE THE VEHICLE. THE SAFETY RECALL IS EXPECTE... Read more

425,288 vehicles affected

Manufacturer: FORD MOTOR COMPANY

SUSPENSION:REAR:AXLE:NON-POWERED AXLE ASSEMBLY

Defect Description

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, MASSACHUSETTS, MICHIGAN, MINN... Read more

Consequence

A FRACTURED AXLE CAN AFFECT VEHICLE HANDLING AND INCREASE THE RISK OF A CRASH.

Remedy

AS PARTS BECOME AVAILABLE, DEALERS WILL INSPECT AND IF NECESSARY INSTALL THE REAR AXLE REINFORCEMENT BRACKETS FREE OF CHARGE. THIS SERVICE WILL BE PERFORMED FREE OF CHARGE. THE SAFETY RECALL BEGAN ON OCTOBER 20, 2010. OWNERS MAY CONTACT FORD AT 1-866-436-7332.

492,650 vehicles affected

Manufacturer: FORD MOTOR COMPANY

VEHICLE SPEED CONTROL

Defect Description

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 EQUIPPED WITH THE TEXAS ... Read more

Consequence

A VEHICLE FIRE COULD OCCUR WITH OR WITHOUT THE ENGINE RUNNING.

Remedy

FORD WILL NOTIFY OWNERS THAT DEALERS WILL INSTALL A FUSED WIRING HARNESS IN LINE WITH THE SCDS. ON 1999-2003 WINDSTAR VEHICLES WITH A LEAKING SCDS, DEALERS WILL ALSO INSPECT THE ABS CONTROL MODULE CONNECTOR AND REPAIR AS NECESSARY. REPAIRS WILL BE COMPLETED FREE OF CHARGE. THE SAFETY RECALL BEGAN... Read more

4,500,000 vehicles affected

Manufacturer: FORD MOTOR COMPANY

FUEL SYSTEM, GASOLINE

Defect Description

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 THE PERSON MAKING THE... Read more

Consequence

FAILURE OF THIS CONNECTION COULD LEAD TO FUEL SPILLAGE AND, IN THE PRESENCE OF AN IGNITION SOURCE, A FIRE COULD OCCUR.

Remedy

UFI WILL NOTIFY OWNERS AND REPLACE THE FILTERS FREE OF CHARGE. THE RECALL BEGAN ON AUGUST 4, 2006. OWNERS MAY CONTACT UFI FILTERS USA AT 800-230-5876.

58,640 vehicles affected

Manufacturer: UFI FILTERS USA

SEATS:MID/REAR ASSEMBLY

Defect Description

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 SECOND ROW OF SEATS... Read more

Consequence

IF THE LATCHES ON TH4E SECOND OR THIRD ROW SEATS OF THE VEHICLE RELEASE IN A CRASH, THE POTENTIAL FOR OCCUPANT INJURY IS INCREASED.

Remedy

DEALERS WILL REPLACE THE SEAT-TO-FLOOR LATCHES ON THE SECOND AND THIRD ROW OF SEATS. OWNER NOTIFICATION BEGAN ON NOVEMBER 21, 2003. OWNERS SHOULD CONTACT FORD AT 1-800-392-3673.

257,119 vehicles affected

Manufacturer: FORD MOTOR COMPANY

Complaint Statistics

1,928 total complaints 70 crashes 73 fires 71 injuries 2 deaths

Top Reported Components

Component	Complaints
SERVICE BRAKES, HYDRAULIC	260
ELECTRICAL SYSTEM	236
SERVICE BRAKES	233
SUSPENSION	163
VEHICLE SPEED CONTROL	130
SUSPENSION:REAR	87
SERVICE BRAKES, ELECTRIC	83
POWER TRAIN	46
UNKNOWN OR OTHER	46
STEERING	30

Incident date: Feb 3, 2026

Vehicle: 2019 Infiniti QX50 Mileage at engine replacement: 31,830 miles Date of engine replacement: August 2023 (recall-related repair) The engine in my 2019 Infiniti QX50 was replaced under recall at 31,830 miles in August 2023. Approximately 18,633 miles later, the vehicle began experiencing tran... Read more

Incident date: Feb 3, 2026

Incident date: May 12, 2025

Back up camera not working and showing a blank screen. Says to contact dealership.

Incident date: May 12, 2025

The contact owns a 2023 BMW X1. The contact received notification of NHTSA Campaign Number: 24V104000 (Electronic Stability Control (ESC), Service Brakes, Hydraulic); however, the part to do the recall repair was not yet available. The local dealer was contacted and confirmed that parts were not yet... Read more

Incident date: Oct 23, 2024

The rear driver side seatbelt will not pull out, when I went to the garage to have it looked at to see what the problem was they told me it was the seatbelt retractor. I have not fixed this yet because it is expensive to fix.

Incident date: Oct 23, 2024

rotator/control arm issue

Incident date: Oct 23, 2024

My steering all of a sudden was stiff and I can barely turn at low speeds. Not safe due to uncontrolled steering. I replaced the pump thinking that would fix it, and it did not. I’m taking it to a dealer after the holiday weekend. No warnings at all.

Incident date: Jun 14, 2024

I noticed my paint peeling bad around the edges of my windshield, I have not done anything to it to make this happen and upon reading further into the forums there is a large amount of escape owners who have the same issue, it is flaking away so bad I can clearly see metal, I would like to make a fo... Read more

Incident date: Dec 30, 2023

My 2019 Infotainment systems has begun delamination from the outer glass on the back side. It is causing ghost operations of the systems. Access to my safety features are through the system.

Incident date: Aug 25, 2023

While traveling a message appear "power reduced" a noise was heard like whistle (air whooshing). The time Car was started the engine light was on. The car was serviced by GM/Chevrolet dealership service. They found water in the spare tire compartment, but didn't not agree that it was the cause of m... Read more

Incident date: Jun 22, 2022

TSB 19-2172 Check Engine light lit due to a rough startup condition. ODB codes indicated the vehicle had a misfire of cylinder three. Replaced 4 spark plugs and the 3rd cylinder coil pack. 2 days later the car began to overheat to low coolant levels. "Engine Coolant Over Temperature" Added 3/4 gal... Read more

Incident date: Aug 18, 2022

Sound system randomly stops working and makes an extremely load cracking and popping sounds. Usually happens a few minutes after start up

Incident date: Aug 18, 2022

Oil pump on 2020 models is a constant issue. They fail after about 15k miles and BMW refuses to recognize this as a recall issue.

Incident date: Aug 18, 2022

Sound system randomly stops working and makes an extremely load cracking and popping sounds. Usually happens a few minutes after start up

Incident date: Mar 10, 2023

Part number 12703596 that feeds the fuel line has an L bracket that holds the line in place. This bracket is secured to the CylinderbHead on the driverside of the vehicle. The bracket separated from the fuel line at the weld creating a hole. This caused a fuel leak. This fuel leak sprayed fuel... Read more

Incident date: Mar 9, 2023

The engine on my Rav4 suddenly stopped without any notification while I was driving it on the freeway. I could have been severely injured from the risk of being rear ended by vehicles behind me. I have experienced this twice now, and both times, I have been on a busy highway in the middle of rush h... Read more

Incident date: Feb 9, 2023

The contact owns a 2022 Subaru Outback. The contact stated that while driving approximately 1 to 2 mph on two occasions into a parking spot, the vehicle hesitated then accelerated and crashed into a pole. There were no warning lights illuminated. There were no reported injuries, air bag deployment, ... Read more

Crash

Incident date: Feb 9, 2023

On 2/16/23 I was driving on the highway when I heard a loud pop/bang like an explosion or loud crash on the top of my car. There were barely any cars around, no trucks spewing debris, I wasn’t going under an overpass, and I didn’t see anything fly up from the road. I had a passenger in the car w... Read more

Incident date: Oct 15, 2022

The contact owns a 2017 Subaru Forester. The contact stated while driving at an undisclosed speed, the vehicle made an abnormally loud sound. The oil temperature, ABS, and traction control warning lights were illuminated. Additionally, the AWD failed to operate, and only the FWD was operable. The ve... Read more

Incident date: Oct 15, 2022

The contact owns a 2013 Hyundai Sonata. The contact received notification of NHTSA Campaign Number: 22V312000 (Fuel System, Gasoline) however, the part to do the recall repair was not yet available. The local dealer was contacted. The contact stated that the manufacturer had exceeded a reasonable am... Read more

Incident date: Aug 16, 2022

The driver and passenger side sliding doors tend to not open or close correctly sometimes you have to manually pull them open or they do not completely close and you have to bump the back end of it to close right

Incident date: Nov 29, 2022

The gauges are acting crazy which causes the engine to jerk or the transmission and then it starts making the lights flicker in the interior and the gauges start sticking. It seems to make the overflow on the radiator to empty more because it is causing the sensors in the electrical for the parts to... Read more

Incident date: Nov 29, 2022

Incident date: Jan 26, 2022

The rear axle of my 2002 Ford Windstar completely fractured while traveling on Interstate 75. The rear axle broke while driving about 60 miles per hour on Interstate 75 in Florida. By the grace of GOD my passenger and I survived. In attempting to stop, the van hit the guard rail on the Highway. I wa... Read more

Incident date: Sep 19, 2021

My tire starting making a whistle screech sound and a sway and I look under my tire is crooked and my axel beam was cracked. Thankfully my kids were not with me and no one was hurt

Incident date: Aug 1, 2021

The contact owns a 2002 Ford Windstar. The contact stated while driving approximately 30 MPH, the vehicle experienced severe vibration when the rear axle fractured causing the driver to almost lose control of the vehicle. The cause of the failure was not determined. The local dealer and manufacturer... Read more

Incident date: Jul 2, 2021

Broken rear axle on the van. The axle has broken where the reinforcements were welded in from the recall in 2010. NHTSA action number is PE10016. So, the corrective action did not work and now I have broken axle as a result. The axle broke while driving the van and we were very fortunate to be d... Read more

Incident date: Apr 12, 2021

THE REAR AXLE BROKE IN HALF WITHOUT WARNING WHILE DRIVING DOWN THE ROAD. PRIOR TO BREAKING THE AXLE LOOKED TO BE IN GOOD SHAPE. UPON LOOKING IT UP FORD HAD PREVIOUSLY RECALLED THIS PART FOR THAT SPECIFIC REASON. I CALLED FORD AFTER THIS HAPPENED AND THE INFORMED ME THERE WAS NO OPEN RECALL CURRENTL... Read more

Incident date: Jan 29, 2021

REAR AXLE CRACKED THROUGH ON THE DRIVER'S SIDE, EVEN AFTER A RECALL PATCH/REPAIR WAS MADE. NO COLLISIONS, NO HARD DRIVING. NOT A CORROSION ISSUE. METAL IS CRACKED PERPENDICULAR TO THE AXLE..ACROSS THE GRAIN. AXLE WAS HEARD TO MAKE NOISE WHILE BACKING OUT OF DRIVEWAY, THEN VEHICLE FELT FISH-TAILI... Read more

Incident date: Jan 29, 2021

Incident date: Dec 21, 2020

ABS AND BRAKE LIGHT COMES ON INTERMITTENTLY. I DO NOT HAVE ABS FUNCTION WHILE THE LIGHTS ARE ON AND IT SEEMS TO HAPPEN MORE OFTEN IN WARMER WEATHER. WHEN VEHICLE IS TURNED OFF IT RESETS AND DOESN'T COME BACK ON UNTIL DRIVEN A FEW MILES AGAIN. ACCORDING TO SEVERAL FORUMS, THIS SEEMS TO BE HAPPENING O... Read more

Incident date: Oct 1, 2020

I TOOK MY VAN FOR INSPECTION AND WAS TOLD I CANNOT GET IT INSPECTED BECAUSE THE REAR AXEL CORRODED AND HAS HUGE HOLE ON IT. I WAS TOLD IT WAS A DANGER TO CONTINUE TO DRIVE THE VAN LIKE. I'VE CALLED FORD AND WAS TOLD THERE IS NO LONGER A RECALL FOR MY VAN BUT YET THERE WAS A RECALL BACK IN EARLY 2010... Read more

Incident date: Aug 18, 2020

TL* THE CONTACT OWNS A 2002 FORD WINDSTAR. THE CONTACT STATED WHILE DRIVING 75 MPH, THE REAR AXLE SEIZED WITHOUT WARNING, CAUSING THE CONTACT TO ALMOST LOSE CONTROL OF THE STEERING WHEEL. THE CONTACT MANAGED TO REGAIN CONTROL OF THE STEERING VEERING THE VEHICLE TO THE SHOULDER OF THE ROADWAY. THE CO... Read more

Incident date: Sep 1, 2020

TL* THE CONTACT OWNS A 2002 FORD WINDSTAR. THE CONTACT STATED THAT AFTER REPLACING THE DRIVER'S AND PASSENGER'S SIDE REAR TIRES, THE TIRES STARTED TO WEAR TO THE INNER CORD. THE VEHICLE WAS PREVIOUSLY TAKEN TO AN INDEPENDENT MECHANIC TO BE ALIGNED HOWEVER, THE CONTACT WAS INFORMED THAT THE REAR SUSP... Read more

Incident date: Aug 29, 2020

ON SATURDAY AUGUST 29, 2020 I WAS DRIVING IN MY 2002 FORD WINDSTAR DOWN A ROAD THAT WAS UNDER CONSTRUCTION. THE SPEED LIMIT OF THE ROAD IS 35 MPH AND THERE IS A CURRENT BUMP IN THE ROAD AT AN ASPHALT ELEVATION CHANGE. AS SOON AS I WENT OVER THE BUMP IT WAS OBVIOUS THAT SOMETHING WAS SEVERELY WRONG W... Read more

Incident date: Aug 29, 2020

Incident date: Aug 21, 2020

REAR AXLE BROKE INTO TWO PIECES. CAR WAS BEING DRIVEN ON TWO LANE ROAD AND HAD JUST GONE OVER RR TRACKS.

Incident date: Aug 6, 2020

WE WERE DRIVING DOWN THE ROAD AND THE CAR RANDOMLY CUTS OFF IN THE MIDDLE OF THE ROAD SOMETIMES IT CUTS OFF IN THE MIDDLE OF A INTERSECTION CAUSING US TO ALMOST GET HIT IN THE SIDE OF THE CAR SEVERAL TIMES THIS HAS HAPPEND NUMORUS TIMES

Incident date: Jul 4, 2020

THE REAR AXLE BROKE WHILE DRIVING ON THE INTERSTATE. THIS VEHICLE HAS ALREADY BEEN SEEN AT A DEALERSHIP FOR A PREVIOUS RECALL ABOUT BROKEN REAR AXLES.

Incident date: Jul 3, 2020

ON JULY 02, 2020, I WAS DRIVING ALONG THE SOUTHFIELD FREEWAY IN DETROIT. THE TRAVEL SPEED WAS 20 MPH DUE TO A POLICE SITUATION (ROAD RAGE SHOOTING) WHICH CAUSED ALL MOTORISTS TO EXIT AT SEVEN MILE ROAD. AFTER EXITING ON SEVEN MILE ROAD, I DROVE TO GREENFIELD ROAD (5 MINUTES). I PROCEEDED DOWN G... Read more

Incident date: Aug 30, 2019

TL* THE CONTACT OWNS A 2002 FORD WINDSTAR. THE CONTACT STATED THAT WHILE STOPPED, THE CONTACT HEARD AN UNKNOWN PART DETACH FROM THE VEHICLE. THE CONTACT STATED THAT THE STEERING WHEEL THEN BECAME DIFFICULT TO TURN. THE VEHICLE WAS TOWED TO THE RESIDENCE. AN INDEPENDENT MECHANIC WAS CONTACTED BY PHO... Read more

Incident date: Aug 30, 2019

Incident date: Apr 19, 2020

RED AND YELLOW BRAKE LIGHTS ON DASHBOARD COME ON AND GO OUT EVEN WHEN MASTER CYLINDER IS FULL OF FLUID.

Incident date: Apr 17, 2019

I TOOK MY VEHICLE TO FORDS AND THEY SAY MY BRACKET GUARD NEAR REAR AXLE IS DEFECTED AND WAS UNDER FORD RECALL AND THAT IT IS A SAFETY HAZARD , THOUGH WHEN TERRY HENDRICKS FORD SENT IN A CLAIM THEY SAD IT HAD EXPIRED ALTHOUGH I NEED IT RECALLED FOR REPAIR

Incident date: Apr 17, 2019

Incident date: Mar 16, 2020

TL* THE CONTACT OWNS A 2002 FORD WINDSTAR. THE CONTACT STATED WHILE DRIVING 20 MPH SHE STATED SMELLING BURNT RUBBER AND THEN NOTICE SMOKE COMING FROM THE REAR DRIVER'S SIDE TIRE. THE CONTACT PULLED OVER AND CALLED HER MECHANIC WHO STATED TO HER "NOT TO DRIVE THE VEHICLE." THE VEHICLE WAS TOWED TO T... Read more

Fire

Incident date: Mar 6, 2020

ENGINE CRADLE RUSTED THROUGH AND SNAPPED WHILE BACKING OUT OF A PARKING SPOT LEAVING ME STUCK WITH TIRES IN TWO DIFFERENT DIRECTIONS

Incident date: Mar 6, 2020

ENGINE CRADLE RUSTED THROUGH AND SNAPPED WHILE BACKING OUT OF A PARKING SPOT LEAVING ME STUCK WITH TIRES IN TWO DIFFERENT DIRECTIONS

Incident date: Mar 13, 2020

TL* THE CONTACT OWNS A 2002 FORD WINDSTAR. THE CONTACT STATED THAT WHILE DRIVING AT A LOW RATE OF SPEED, THE REAR AXLE FAILED. DUE TO THE FAILURE, THE VEHICLE WAS TOWED TO AN INDEPENDENT MECHANIC WHERE THE VEHICLE WAS DIAGNOSED WITH A FRACTURED REAR AXLE. UPON INVESTIGATION, THE CONTACT ASSOCIATED N... Read more

Showing 50 of 1,928 complaints.

Technical Service Bulletins, 2002 FORD WINDSTAR

123 manufacturer communications from 121 unique bulletins. TSBs describe known problems and recommended fixes from the manufacturer.

Most Affected Components

Component	Bulletins
110000 ELECTRICAL SYSTEM	12
980000 UNKNOWN OR OTHER	11
020000 SUSPENSION	8
061000 ENGINE AND ENGINE COOLING:ENGINE	6
061100 ENGINE AND ENGINE COOLING:ENGINE:GASOLINE	6
100000 POWER TRAIN	4
140000 AIR BAGS	3
162300 STRUCTURE:BODY:DOOR	3

160000 STRUCTURE

For 1999-2003 Windstar vehicles Safety Recall 11S16 has been issued for vehicles that are operated in high corrosion areas for an extended period, where a front subframe lower control arm (LCA) rear attaching flange or rear body mount could

020000 SUSPENSION

For 1998-2003 Windstar vehicles Safety Recall 10S13 has been issued for vehicles that are operated in high corrosion areas for an extended period, where the rear axle could potentially fracture. If the rear axle should completely fracture,

020000 SUSPENSION

Safety recall 10S13 - Rear axle corrosion - requests for recall service action

023000 SUSPENSION:MULTIPLE AXLE

Safety recall 10S13 - Rear axle corrosion - requests for recall service action

160000 STRUCTURE

Safety recall 11s16 - LCA rear attaching flanges or rear subframe body mount corrosion - requests for recall service action

022520 SUSPENSION:REAR:AXLE:NON-POWERED AXLE ASSEMBLY

SUMMARY TO BE PROVIDED ON A FUTURE DATE.

022520 SUSPENSION:REAR:AXLE:NON-POWERED AXLE ASSEMBLY

FORD: SAFETY RECALL CONCERNING REAR AXLE FRACTURING IF VEHICLE IS OPERATED IN HIGH CORROSION AREAS FOR AND EXTENDED PERIOD. MODEL 1998-03 WINDSTAR. *PE

021530 SUSPENSION:FRONT:CONTROL ARM:LOWER ARM

FORD: SAFETY RECALL ON FRONT SUBFRAME LOWER CONTROL ARM (LCA) REAR ATTACHING FLANGE OR REAR BODY MOUNT THAT CAN SEPARATE FROM SUBFRAME IF VEHICLE IS OPERATED, FOR EXTENDED PERIOD, IN HIGH CORROSION AREAS. MODEL 1999-03 WINDSTAR.

161000 STRUCTURE:FRAME AND MEMBERS

021530 SUSPENSION:FRONT:CONTROL ARM:LOWER ARM

FORD: A SAFETY RECALL HAS BEEN ISSUED ON MINIVANS WHERE LOWER CONTROL ARM (LCA) OF FRONT SUBFRAME ATTACHING REAR FLANGE OR REAR BODY MOUNT CAN SEPARATE DUE TO CORROSION. MODEL 1999-2003 WINDSTAR. *PE

022510 SUSPENSION:REAR:AXLE:SPINDLE

FORD: ON SOME MINIVANS, REAR AXLE WILL FRACTURE, IN HIGH CORROSION AREA, AFTER OPERATING FOR AN EXTENDED TIME PERIOD, AND VEHICLE HANDLING ABILITY WILL BE AFFECTED. MODEL 1998-2003 WINDSTAR. *PE

151300 SEAT BELTS:FRONT:RETRACTOR

SAFETY BELT RETRACTION SPEED. *TT

282100 BACK OVER PREVENTION:WARNINGS:EXTERNAL/PEDESTRIAN ALERT

FALSE PARKING AID WARNINGS. *TT

282100 BACK OVER PREVENTION:WARNINGS:EXTERNAL/PEDESTRIAN ALERT

FALSE PARKING AID WARNINGS. *TT UPDATE. *TT

150000 SEAT BELTS

SAFETY BELT WEB STOP BUTTON SERVICE. *EH

110000 ELECTRICAL SYSTEM

WARNING INDICATORS-PARKING AID-REVERSE SENSING SYSTEM (RSS) AND FORWARD SENSING SYSTEM (FSS)-FALSE ACTIVATION OF WARNING TONE-SERVICE TIPS. *MJ UPDATE. *TT

110000 ELECTRICAL SYSTEM

DIAGNOSTIC TROUBLE CODE B1342 (RESTRAINTS CONTROL MODULE (RCM) FAULT. *TT UPDATE. *TT

138200 VISIBILITY:DEFROSTER/DEFOGGER/HVAC SYSTEM:REAR WINDOW

REAR WINDOW DEFROSTER GRID/INTEGRAL ANTENNA DIAGNOSIS AND REPAIR - TERMINAL TAB REPAIR. *TT

103100 POWER TRAIN:AUTOMATIC TRANSMISSION:CONTROL MODULE (TCM/PCM/TECM)

GENERAL (PCM) POWER TRAIN CONTROL MODULE PROGRAMMING PROCEDURES. *TT

061000 ENGINE AND ENGINE COOLING:ENGINE

SPARK KNOCK ON ACCELERATION - VEHICLES EQUIPPED WITH 3.8L ENGINE ONLY. *TT

110000 ELECTRICAL SYSTEM

MALFUNCTION INDICATOR LAMP (MIL) ILLUMINATED - SYSTEM LEAN DIAGNOSTIC TROUBLE CODES (DTC'S) - SERVICE TIPS. VARIOUS MODELS INCLUDING 2004 F-SERIES. *TT

138120 VISIBILITY:DEFROSTER/DEFOGGER/HVAC SYSTEM:WINDSHIELD:ELECTRICAL HEATING ELEMENT

REAR WINDOW DEFROSTER GRID/INTEGRAL ANTENNA DIAGNOSIS AND REPAIR - TERMINAL TAB REPAIR. *TT

162300 STRUCTURE:BODY:DOOR

SLIDING DOOR(S) CONTACTING THE REAR QUARTER GLASS. *TT THIS INFORMATION UPDATES PREVIOUS INFORMATION, DATED 03/01/2002. *TT

110000 ELECTRICAL SYSTEM

BEEPING SOUND FROM THE INSTRUMENT PANEL WHEN DRIVING AT/OVER 75 MPH, TRACTION CONTROL OFF INDICATOR ILLUMINATE WHEN VEHICLE IS NOT EQUIPPED WITH TRACTION CONTROL, AND/OR DIAGNOSTIC TROUBLE CODE B2477 (MODULE CONFIGURATION FAILURE) STORED IN

100000 POWER TRAIN

GROAN/BUZZ/VIBRATION WHEN THE GEAR SELECTOR IS IN PARK WITH THE VEHICLE PARKED ON AN INCLINE. *TT THIS BULLETIN UPDATES PREVIOUS BULLETIN 17358, DATED 11/01/2003 TO INCLUDE 2005 MODELS. *TT

138120 VISIBILITY:DEFROSTER/DEFOGGER/HVAC SYSTEM:WINDSHIELD:ELECTRICAL HEATING ELEMENT

INOPERATIVE ELECTRIC REAR WINDOW DEFROSTER (HEATED BACKLITE) GRID LINES, INTEGRAL ANTENNA CONCERNS. *TT

110000 ELECTRICAL SYSTEM

STREAMLINED DIAGNOSTIC PROCEDURE FOR VEHICLES WITH MALFUNCTION INDICATOR LAMP (MIL) ON AND DIAGNOSTIC TROUBLE CODES (DTCS) P0401, P0402, P1400 OR P1401. ADDITIONAL SYMPTOMS MAY INCLUDE RUNS ROUGH, LACKS POWER, SURGE, POOR FUEL ECONOMY.

063130 ENGINE AND ENGINE COOLING:EXHAUST SYSTEM:EMISSION CONTROL:GAS RECIRCULATION VALVE (EGR VALVE)

CUSTOMER SATISFACTION PROGRAM 02M01 SUPPLEMENT #4. CERTAIN FORD 2000 THROUGH 2003 VEHICLES EQUIPPED WITH A TUBE-MOUNTED EGR PRESSURE SENSOR - ADDITIONAL EGR PRESSURE SENSOR WARRANTY COVERAGE. *TT SUPPLEMENT #3. *MJ SUPPLEMENT #6

015000 STEERING:HYDRAULIC POWER ASSIST SYSTEM

POWER STEERING NOISE. *TT

110000 ELECTRICAL SYSTEM

TRAILER TOW ELECTRIC BRAKE SWITCH/MODULE CONNECTOR MAY BE DIFFICULT TO LOCATE IN THE VEHICLE AND FOR CERTAIN 1999-2001 VEHICLES, THE LOCATION IS NOT CLEARLY IDENTIFIED IN THE WIRING DIAGRAM MANUAL. *TT

162300 STRUCTURE:BODY:DOOR

POWER SLIDING DOOR OPERATION AND DIAGNOSTIC SERVICE TIPS. *TT

110000 ELECTRICAL SYSTEM

STREAMLINED DIAGNOSTIC PROCEDURE FOR VEHICLES WITH MALFUNCTION INDICATOR LAMP ON AND DIAGNOSTIC TROUBLE CODES (DTCS) P0401, P0402, P1400 OR P1401. ADDITIONAL SYMPTOMS MAY INCLUDE RUNS ROUGH, LACKS POWER, SURGE, POOR FUEL ECONOMY. *TT

160000 STRUCTURE

WINDSHIELD COWL PANEL GRILLE (LEAF SCREEN) BREAKING AT THE GRILLE OPENING. *TT

114000 ELECTRICAL SYSTEM:WIRING

TRAILER TOW SERVICE KIT - SERVICE TIP. *TT

220000 SEATS

REPLACEMENT OF LOWER SEAT-TO-FLOOR LATCHES ON VEHICLES EQUIPPED WITH 2ND AND 3RD ROW SEATS. DEMONSTRATION / DELIVERY HOLD. COMPLIANCE RECALL 03C05. *TT

110000 ELECTRICAL SYSTEM

MALFUNCTION INDICATOR LAMP ILLUMINATED WITH DIAGNOSTIC TROUBLE CODES (DTCS) P0442, P0455, P0456, P0457 OR P1442 OR A CHECK FUEL CAP LAMP ILLUMINATED WITH DTC P0457 FOR THE EVAPORATIVE EMISSION SYSTEM. *TT

110000 ELECTRICAL SYSTEM

REMOTE KEYLESS ENTRY (RKE) - SERVICE TIPS. *TT

061000 ENGINE AND ENGINE COOLING:ENGINE

TICKING/TAPPING NOISE WITH THE ENGINE WARMED UP AND THE TRANSMISSION IN GEAR AT IDLE. 2003 E150 INCLUDED. *TT

061000 ENGINE AND ENGINE COOLING:ENGINE

CHECK ENGINE LIGHT ON AND LEAN DIAGNOSTIC TROUBLE CODES (DTC'S) P0171/P0174 (SYSTEM TOO LEAN BANK 1 OR 2) STORED IN MEMORY. *TT

034510 SERVICE BRAKES, HYDRAULIC:FOUNDATION COMPONENTS:DISC:CALIPER

FRONT CALIPER SEEPAGE IN EXTREME COLD TEMPERATURES. *TT

061000 ENGINE AND ENGINE COOLING:ENGINE

MALFUNCTION INDICATOR LAMP (MIL) ON / NO START / ERRATIC SHIFTING. *TT

103600 POWER TRAIN:AUTOMATIC TRANSMISSION:COOLING UNIT AND LINES

NEW TRANSMISSION COOLER FLUSHER - SERVICE TIPS. 2003 ESCORT AND SUPER DUTY F SERIES INCLUDED. *TT

030000 SERVICE BRAKES, HYDRAULIC

SLIGHT AMOUNT OF FLUID RESIDUE ON THE OUTSIDE OF THE REAR WHEEL CYLINDER DUST BOOT ON VEHICLES WITH REAR DRUM BRAKES. *TT

103700 POWER TRAIN:AUTOMATIC TRANSMISSION:TORQUE CONVERTER

TORQUE CONVERTER CLUTCH NOT ENGAGING WHEN COMMANDED AND/OR DIAGNOSTIC TROUBLE CODES P0741 OR P1744 STORED IN MEMORY. MODELS FROM 1996 TO 2003. *TT

030000 SERVICE BRAKES, HYDRAULIC

STABILITY ASSIST SYSTEMS (ADVANCETRAC) MAY NOT BE RECALIBRATED PROPERLY USING WDS. *TT

980000 UNKNOWN OR OTHER

LEAN DIAGNOSTIC TROUBLE CODES P0171/P0174 STORED. NEW SERVICE ISOLATOR BOLT ASSEMBLY RELEASED FOR SERVICE. *TT

090000 FUEL SYSTEM, OTHER

MALFUNCTION INDICATOR LAMP (MIL) ILLUMINATION WITH DIAGNOSTIC TROUBLE CODES P0442, P0455, P0456, P0457, P1442 OR CHECK FUEL CAP LAMP ILLUMINATED WITH DIAGNOSTIC TROUBLE CODE P0457. *TT

071100 FUEL SYSTEM, GASOLINE:STORAGE:TANK ASSEMBLY

SLOW TO FILL FUEL TANK - SERVICE TIPS. *TT

060000 ENGINE AND ENGINE COOLING

MALFUNCTION INDICATOR LAMP ON WITH OR WITHOUT ROUGH RUNNING, LACK OF POWER, SURGE OR POOR FUEL ECONOMY WITH DIAGNOSTIC TROUBLE CODES P0401, P0402, P1400, P1401. *TT *JB

110000 ELECTRICAL SYSTEM

AIR BAG WARNING LAMP ILLUMINATED WITH THE DIAGNOSTIC TROUBLE CODE B2290. *TT *JB

140000 AIR BAGS

AIR BAG WARNING LAMP ILLUMINATED WITH DIAGNOSTIC TROUBLE CODES (DTC) CODE B2290. *TT *JB

061000 ENGINE AND ENGINE COOLING:ENGINE

STREAMLINED DIAGNOSTIC PROCEDURE FOR VEHICLES WITH MALFUNCTION INDICATOR LAMP (MIL) ON AND DIAGNOSTIC TROUBLE CODES (DTCS) P0401, P0402, P1400 OR P1401, OR RUNS ROUGH, LACKS POWER, SURGE, POOR FUEL ECONOMY, AND THE ABOVE LISTED DTCS WITHOUT

221600 SEATS:FRONT ASSEMBLY:POWER ADJUST

POWER SEAT THAT MOVES IN A ARC RATHER THAN STRAIGHT FORWARD OR BACK. *TT

162900 STRUCTURE:BODY:ROOF AND PILLARS

CREASE IN THE HEADLINER ABOVE THE LEFT A-PILLAR. *TT

061000 ENGINE AND ENGINE COOLING:ENGINE

ENGINE-GEAR DRIVEN SYNCHRONIZERS-INCORRECT INSTALLATION-CAMSHAFT POSITION SYNCHRONIZER (CMP) INSTALLATION TOOL CORRECT APPLICATION. *MJ

021100 SUSPENSION:FRONT:STABILIZER BAR

CLUNK/SQUEAK FROM THE FRONT STABILIZER BAR AREA (QSF). *TT

021000 SUSPENSION:FRONT

SQUEAK NOISE FROM THE FRONT SPRING AREA. *TT

162000 STRUCTURE:BODY

SERVICING BODY SIDE MOLDING OR CLADDING / CONTACT REQUEST. *MJ

162000 STRUCTURE:BODY

ROOF DITCH MATERIAL CRACKING. THIS INCLUDES 1997-2003 F-150 AND 2002 BLACKWOOD MODELS. *EH SERVICE TIP. *TT

357100 EQUIPMENT:APPLIANCE:AIR CONDITIONER

CLIMATE CONTROL A/C SERVICE TECH TIPS. *EH

353000 EQUIPMENT:ELECTRICAL

COMPASS DISPLAYS INCORRECT DIRECTION READING. *TT

140000 AIR BAGS

RESTRAINT SYSTEM-AIR BAG DEPLOYMENT STRATEGY WITH ADVANCED RESTRAINT SYSTEM. *MJ

125100 EXTERIOR LIGHTING:BRAKE LIGHTS:SWITCH

LAMP-BRAKE-INVADVERTENT DISABLING OF BRAKE SHIFT INTERLOCK. *MJ

020000 SUSPENSION

SOME VEHICLES MAY EXHIBIT A POPPING / GRINDING NOISE FROM THE FRONT OF THE VEHICLE WHEN GOING OVER BUMPS OR MAKING TURNS. *TT

220000 SEATS

SOME VEHICLES MAY EXHIBIT A FRONT SEAT BACK FRAME(S) BENDING. *TT

032200 SERVICE BRAKES, HYDRAULIC:BRAKE FLUID LOW WARNING: LAMP

SOME VEHICLES MAY EXHIBIT THE REAR BRAKE LAMPS REMAINING ILLUMINATED AFTER EXITING THE VEHICLE. *TT

020000 SUSPENSION

GRUNT / POPPING NOISE COMING FROM THE FRONT SUSPENSION AT SPEEDS BELOW 20 MPH WHEN TURNING. *TT

111000 ELECTRICAL SYSTEM:12V/24V/48V BATTERY

BATTERY DRAIN SERVICE TIPS. *TT

020000 SUSPENSION

SOME VEHICLES MAY EXHIBIT A RATTLE NOISE FROM THE REAR SUSPENSION. *TT

020000 SUSPENSION

SOME VEHICLES MAY EXHIBIT A CONDITION OF POPPING OR GRINDING NOISE ORIGINATING FROM THE FRONT END OF THE VEHICLE. *TT

061100 ENGINE AND ENGINE COOLING:ENGINE:GASOLINE

INFORMATION PERTAINING TO A HARD START / LONG CRANK CONDITION. *TT

116200 ELECTRICAL SYSTEM:IGNITION:MODULE

SUBJECT REGARDING DIAGNOSTIC TROUBLE CODE P0156 - H02 / CATALYST MONITOR SENSOR (CMS) CIRCUIT FAILURE) CONTAMINATION. *TT

020000 SUSPENSION

SOME VEHICLES MAY EXHIBIT AN EXTERIOR NOISE ORIGINATING FROM THE FRONT OF THE VEHICLE. *TT

020000 SUSPENSION

SU0BJECT REGARDING NOISE FROM FRONT OF VEHICLE. *TT

353400 EQUIPMENT:ELECTRICAL:RADIO/TAPE DECK/CD ETC.

SUBJECT REGARDING FAMILY OR REAR SEAT ENTERTAINMENT SYSTEM HANDLE CONCERNS. *TT

061100 ENGINE AND ENGINE COOLING:ENGINE:GASOLINE

SOME VEHICLES MAY EXHIBIT A INTERMITTENT HARD START AND / OR LONG CRANKING TIMES OF 4 TO 10 SECONDS. *TT

034500 SERVICE BRAKES, HYDRAULIC:FOUNDATION COMPONENTS:DISC

SOME VEHICLES MAY EXHIBIT A SQUEAL NOISE FROM THE FRONT BRAKES DURING BRAKE APPLICATION. *TT

980000 UNKNOWN OR OTHER

INFORMATION ON LOW TIRE WARNING INDICATOR ILLUMINATION WITH NO DIAGNOSTIC TROUBLE CODES PRESENT. *TT

140000 AIR BAGS

AN AIR BAG LAMP ILLUMINATED AND / OR DIAGNOSTIC TROUBLE CODES B2296 OR B2295. *TT

125000 EXTERIOR LIGHTING:BRAKE LIGHTS

SUBJECT REGARDING REAR BRAKE LAMP ILLUMINATION AFTER EXITING VEHICLE. *TT

100000 POWER TRAIN

SOME VEHICLES EQUIPPED WITH AN AX4N/4F50N TRANSAXLE MAY EXHIBIT A SHUDDER DURING A 3-4 SHIFT. *TT

034500 SERVICE BRAKES, HYDRAULIC:FOUNDATION COMPONENTS:DISC

SOME VEHICLES MAY EXHIBIT A SQUEAL NOISE FROM THE FRONT BRAKES WHEN STOPPING. *TT

171100 LATCHES/LOCKS/LINKAGES:DOORS:LATCH

SOME VEHICLES MAY EXHIBIT A PARTIAL LATCH CONDITION WHEN USING THE POWER SLIDING DOORS FEATURE. *TT

116200 ELECTRICAL SYSTEM:IGNITION:MODULE

SOME VEHICLES MAY EXHIBIT DIAGNOSTIC TROUBLE CODE B1213, B1342, B1601, B2431. *TT

010000 STEERING

SOME VEHICLES BUILT MARCH 1, 2001 THROUGH JANUARY 2002 MAY EXHIBIT A WHISTLE / WHINE NOISE FROM THE STEERING SYSTEM DURING WARM UP. *TT

980000 UNKNOWN OR OTHER

THIS BULLETIN INVOLVES PROPER PROCEDURES FOR PREPARATION OF SERVICE SHEET METAL PARTS COATED WITH ELECTRO DEPOSITION PRIMER (E-COAT). *TT

111000 ELECTRICAL SYSTEM:12V/24V/48V BATTERY

INFORMATION REGARDING DISCHARGED BATTERY CHARGING SERVICE TIPS AND GUIDELINES. *TT

036400 SERVICE BRAKES, HYDRAULIC:ANTILOCK/TRACTION CONTROL/ELECTRONIC LIMITED SLIP:ABS WARNING LIGHT

EXHIBITING INTERMITTENT ANTI-SKID BRAKE SYSTEM AND / OR RED BRAKE LAMP ON AT TIMES WHILE DRIVING. *TT

110000 ELECTRICAL SYSTEM

INFORMATION ON VEHICLES WITH PROGRAMMABLE MODULES. *TT

034400 SERVICE BRAKES, HYDRAULIC:FOUNDATION COMPONENTS:DRUM

SOME VEHICLES MAY EXHIBIT REAR DRUM BRAKES THAT DRAG OR WILL NOT RELEASE PROPERLY WHEN OPERATED IN WET CONDITIONS AND / OR BELOW FREEZING TEMPERATURES. *TT

171100 LATCHES/LOCKS/LINKAGES:DOORS:LATCH

SOME VEHICLES MAY EXHIBIT AN INOPERATIVE SLIDING DOOR LOCK. *TT

353400 EQUIPMENT:ELECTRICAL:RADIO/TAPE DECK/CD ETC.

SOME VEHICLES WITH THE REAR SEAT ENTERTAINMENT SYSTEM MAY EXHIBIT AN INOPERATIVE CONDITION. *TT

980000 UNKNOWN OR OTHER

CHECK ENGINE LIGHT ON AND DIAGNOSTIC TROUBLE CODE P0460. *TT

061100 ENGINE AND ENGINE COOLING:ENGINE:GASOLINE

SOME ENGINE ASSEMBLIES WITH ALUMINUM CYLINDER HEADS REPAIRED IN-VEHILE HAVE BEEN FOUND TO LEAK COOLANT AND/OR OIL FROM THE CYLINDER HEAD GASKET AREA. *TT

010000 STEERING

SOME VEHICLES MAY EXHIBIT A WHISTLE/WHINE NOISE FROM THE STEERING SYSTEM DURING WARM UP. *TT

980000 UNKNOWN OR OTHER

SOME VEHICLES MAY EXPERIENCE LOW TIRE WARNING LAMP ILLUMINATING.*YH

061100 ENGINE AND ENGINE COOLING:ENGINE:GASOLINE

CONCERNS WITH OIL IN THE COOLING SYSTEM. *YH

071100 FUEL SYSTEM, GASOLINE:STORAGE:TANK ASSEMBLY

SUBJECT REGARDING SLOW/HARD TO FILL FUEL TANK. *YH

980000 UNKNOWN OR OTHER

SOME VEHICLES WITH REMOTE KEYLESS ENTRY (RKE) MAY EXHIBIT AN INABILITY TO UNLOCK ONE OR MORE DOORS. *TT

136000 VISIBILITY:WINDSHIELD WIPER/WASHER

SOME VEHICLES MAY EXHIBIT A LOOSE REAR WIPER ARM. *TT

Showing 100 of 123 bulletins.

NHTSA Safety Investigations, FORD WINDSTAR

Investigations opened by NHTSA into potential safety defects. These are separate from recalls and may or may not result in a recall.

EA, Closed , Model Year: 1999

Front Subframe Corrosion Failures

In a January 26, 2011 Defect Information Report, Ford Motor Company (Ford) notified the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) that it will conduct a safety recall to address corrosion related fractures in the front lower control arm rear attaching brackets and body mount attachments... Read more

DP, Closed , Model Year: 2003

Rear Axle Fracture Recall Scope

On November 5, 2010, NHTSA received a Defect Petition from the owner of a MY 2003 Ford Windstar vehicle registered in the state of New York requesting that the scope of Recall 10V-385 be expanded to include additional MY 2003 vehicles experiencing the defect condition.The petitioner initially filed ... Read more

PE, Closed , Model Year: 1999

Front Subframe Corrosion Failures

The Office of Defects Investigation (ODI) has identified 346 complaints to ODI and Ford alleging fracture, cracking and or excessive corrosion of the front subframes in model year (MY) 1999 through 2003 Ford Windstar vehicles.Approximately 97 percent of these complaints (334) involve vehicles that h... ave been operated in Salt Belt states, which make up approximately 60 percent of the subject vehicle sales in the United States.The front subframe, sometimes referred to as the engine cradle, is a structural component of the Windstar vehicles that carries the engine, transaxle, steering rack and certain front suspension components (e.g., lower control arm).For complaints with sufficient information to identify the location of the failure, most describe problems with the rear mounting bracket for the front passenger-side lower control arm with some related to the rear body mount attachment located in the same general area of the subframe (right-rear section near the front passenger wheel).The remainder of the reports allege fracture of the front subframe at other or, most often, unspecified locations.Almost all of the complaints that specified the side of the vehicle indicated that the problem occurred on the right/passenger side (106), with only a few indicating the left/driver side (2) or both sides (3) were affected.Ford and several complainants attributed the right-side failures to the routing of the air-conditioning lines above the front subframe on that side of the vehicle, further noting that condensation has been observed dripping onto the front subframe in the area of the affected components (the A/C drain tube is also located on the right side, near the front subframe).ODI has identified 93 complaints related to lower control arm attachments, including 80 that appear to involve complete separations.All but one of these involved vehicles from Salt Belt states.All three crash incidents appear to be related to lower control arm separations, including one road departure into a road-side sign resulting in a totalled vehicle and a lane departure into another vehicle.Almost half of the ODI complaints related to control arm separation occurred at speeds greater than 20 mph and about a quarter occurred at highway speeds.Three-quarters of these complaints allege experiencing difficulty controlling the vehicle and about 40 percent appear to have resulted in departures from the intended lane of travel.Testing by both Ford and NHTSA have demonstrated that lower control arm separation from the rear attachment bracket results in significant toe out of the affected wheel, which affects the driver's ability to control vehicle direction.According to Ford, moderate braking improved vehicle controllability by reducing the amount of toe out, possibly explaining incidents that did not allege a loss of control.ODI's analysis of complaints related to the rear body mount identified 41 complaints (ODI only).These complaints generally report experiencing progressively worsening noise concerns when turning, accelerating or braking.Although, some of the complaints that appeared to involve a complete separation of the body mount alleged difficulty steering, the effects on vehicle control from this failure mode do not appear to be as great as those resulting from control arm separation.However, ODI is seeking more information regarding two complaints which alleged that body mount failure resulted in disconnection of the steering wheel from the steering rack (one occurred during vehicle service).This investigation has been upgraded to an Engineering Analysis (EA10-007) for subject vehicles sold or currently reRead more

PE, Closed , Model Year: 1998

Rear Axle Cracking

In a letter dated August 26, 2010, Ford Motor Company (Ford) submitted a Defect Information Report notifying NHTSA that it will conduct a safety recall (NHTSA Recall No. 10V-385) to address a rear axle defect in model year (MY) 1998 through 2003 Ford Windstar vehicles built at the Oakville assembly ... plant from September 1, 1997 through February 28, 2003 and either sold or currently registered in high corrosion (Salt-Belt) states where the use of salt and other corrosive chemicals may be used to treat snow/ice covered roads.The following states are included in Ford's recall:Connecticut, Delaware, District of Columbia, Illinois, Indiana, Iowa, Kentucky, Maine, Maryland, Massachusetts, Michigan, Minnesota, Missouri, New Hampshire, New Jersey, New York, Ohio, Pennsylvania, Rhode Island, Vermont, West Virginia and Wisconsin. The subject vehicles utilize a Stamped/Formed axle assembly manufactured by Benteler automotive Corporation of Galesburg, MI.According to Ford, after many years of vehicle service in the Salt-Belt states, corrosion can weaken the rear axle, making it susceptible to torsional stress.There is a risk that the combined effects of corrosion and stress can lead to cracks which, if undetected, can propagate and result in a complete fracture of the axle.A completely fractured axle can affect vehicle handling and increase the risk of a crash.To correct the safety defect, Ford will initially inspect all of the subject vehicles brought into Ford/Lincoln-Mercury dealerships for possible cracked axles.Owners of vehicles without cracked axles will be notified when to return for the installation of reinforcement brackets to extend the axle durability in the presence of corrosion.Owners who have vehicles with cracked axles will either be offered a repair or alternative transportation until parts become available. On May 13, 2010, the Office of Defects Investigation (ODI) opened PE10-016 to investigate complaints of rear axle cracking in MY 1999 through 2003 Ford Windstar minivans.Combining ODI and Ford complaint data, ODI is aware of a total 891 complaints alleging rear axle cracking in the subject vehicles.Over a third of the complaints (334) allege that the cracking progressed to a complete fracture of the rear axle, including 8 allegations of crashes resulting in 3 injuries. Approximately 57 percent of the subject vehicles (524,661) were sold in Salt-Belt states covered by Ford's recall and Ford estimates that approximately 463,000 of these remain in service.Ninety-six percent of the complaints (858) and all of the complaints alleging complete fracture were from the recall region.The action taken by Ford is sufficient to resolve the issues raised by this investigation.Accordingly, this investigation is closed.Read more

EA, Closed , Model Year: 1995

ENGINE COMPARTMENT FIRES

EA08-021 IS CLOSED WITH FORD'S ACTIONS IN RECALL 09V-399 RECALLING APPROXIMATELY 4.5 MILLION VEHICLES EQUIPPED WITH TEXAS INSTRUMENTS SPEED CONTROL DEACTIVATION SWITCHES (SCDS).WITH THIS RECALL FORD HAS NOW RECALLED ALL OF THE APPROXIMATE 16 MILLION FORD MODEL VEHICLES THAT WERE MANUFACTURED FROM MY... Read more

PE, Closed , Model Year: 1995

ENGINE COMPARTMENT FIRES

ODI HAS RECEIVED 134 CONSUMER COMPLAINTS, 285 MANUFACTURER COMPLAINTS, AND 137 MANUFACTURER WARRANTY CLAIMS ALLEGING INCIDENTS OF ENGINE COMPARTMENT FIRE IN MODEL YEAR (MY) 1995 THRU 2003 FORD WINDSTAR VEHICLES.TWO OF THE ODI COMPLAINTS ALLEGE THE FIRES CAUSED STRUCTURAL DAMAGE TO THE COMPLAINANT'S ... Read more

RQ, Closed , Model Year: 1995

HYDRAULIC BRAKE LINE FAILURE

ON APRIL 4, 2002, FORD MOTOR COMPANY NOTIFIED ODI OF A DEFECT CONDITION THAT COULD RESULT IN EXTENDED STOPPING DISTANCES IN APPROXIMATELY 250 THOUSAND MODEL YEAR (MY) 1995 AND 1996 WINDSTAR MINIVANS SOLD OR REGISTERED IN SALT BELT STATES (RECALL 02V-101).ACCORDING TO FORD, IMPROPER BRAKE LINE ROUTIN... Read more

PE, Closed , Model Year: 1999

POWER SLIDING DOOR OPENING

THE SUBJECT VEHICLES ARE EQUIPPED WITH SINGLE OR DUAL POWER SLIDING DOORS (PSD).APPROXIMATELY 111,000 VEHICLES HAVE DUAL POWER SLIDING DOORS.THE PSD IS OPENED BY ANY OF 5 METHODS, THE INSIDE OR OUTSIDE MANUAL DOOR HANDLE, THE KEY FOB, THE OVERHEAD CONSOLE SWITCH AND THE B-PILLAR SWITCH.THE DOOR MAY ... BE OPENED ONLY UNDER THESE CONDITIONS: IGNITION KEY IS IN OFF/ACCESSORIES/ON/START POSITION, GEAR SELECTOR IN PARK, VEHICLE SPEED LESS THAN 6 MPH, AND DOOR UNLOCKED.THE PSD LATCH IS LOCATED AT THE REAR OF THE DOOR AND HAS A SECONDARY AND PRIMARY LATCH POSITION.FULL AND PROPER CLOSURE ENGAGES BOTH THE SECONDARY AND PRIMARY LATCH.WITH THE IGNITION IN THE ON POSITION, AS THE GEAR SELECTOR IS MOVED OUT OF PARK THE DOOR AUTOMATICALLY LOCKS AND THAT ACTION MECHANICALLY ISOLATES THE LATCH, SECONDARY AND PRIMARY, FROM ALL LATCH RELEASE CONNECTIONS.IN ADDITION TO THE REPORTS ALLEGING DOOR OPENING WHILE DRIVING, FORD HAS RECEIVED APPROXIMATELY 5,700 REPORTS THAT ALLEGE THE DOOR DOES NOT CLOSE PROPERLY OR POPS OPEN WITH NO MENTION OF WHILE DRIVING.FORD'S INVESTIGATION INTO THESE REPORT INCLUDED OWNER INTERVIEWS, VEHICLE BY-BACKS AND TESTING OF CONSUMER VEHICLES.IT FOUND THAT ALLEGATIONS OF DOOR OPENING WHILE DRIVING WERE IN FACT REPORTS OF DOORS NOT BEING PROPERLY CLOSED INITIALLY AND SUBSEQUENTLY OPENING TO THE SECONDARY LATCH POSITION AS A RESULT OF VEHICLE VIBRATIONS OR DRIVING MANEUVERS.FORD'S TESTING OF CONSUMER VEHICLES DID NOT RESULT IN ANY RECURRENCE OF PSD OPENING WHILE BEING DRIVEN.ODI INTERVIEWS WITH OWNERS AFFIRMED THE ALLEGATIONS OF PSD OPENING WHILE DRIVING; HOWEVER OWNERS INDICATED THE EVENT IS NOT A REGULAR OCCURRENCE (I.E.,IT OCCURRED ONLY ONCE OR HAS NOT OCCURRED RECENTLY) AND THAT THE UNINTENDED PSD OPENING MAY NOT BE ABLE TO BE DUPLICATED.IN CONTRAST, THE IMPROPER CLOSING OF THE PSD (LATCHING ON THE SECONDARY BUT NOT THE PRIMARY LATCH) CAN BE DUPLICATED, AND ODI VERIFIED THIS DURING AN INSPECTION OF A CONSUMER VEHICLE.IN THIS CONDITION (SECONDARY BUT NO PRIMARY LATCH), WHEN THE VEHICLE'S GEAR SELECTOR IS MOVED OUT OF PARK POSITION, A WARNING CHIME SOUNDS AND WARNING MESSAGE APPEARS ON THE INSTRUMENT PANEL.MOST REPORTS AND WARRANTY CLAIMS WERE FILED IN THE EARLY SERVICE-LIFE OF THE VEHICLE AND PEAKED AROUND THE 18-MONTH IN-SERVICE TIME PERIOD.ODI AND MFR COMPLAINT TRENDS ARE DECLINING OVER THE LAST 8 QUARTERS.THERE IS NO ALLEGED INJURY ASSOCIATED WITH OCCUPANT FALLING OUT WHILE THE VEHICLE IS IN MOTION.NO FAILURE MODE CAUSING FULL DOOR OPENING WHILE VEHICLE IS IN MOTION HAS BEEN VERIFIED (REPRODUCED BY ODI OR BY TRAINED SERVICE TECHNICIANS AT DEALERSHIPS) DURING THIS INVESTIGATION.A SAFETY-RELATED DEFECT HAS NOT BEEN IDENTIFIED AT THIS TIME AND FURTHER USE OF AGENCY RESOURCES DOES NOT APPEAR TO BE WARRANTED.ACCORDINGLY, THIS INVESTIGATION IS CLOSED.THE CLOSING OF THIS INVESTIGATION DOES NOT CONSTITUTE A FINDING BY NHTSA THAT A SAFETY-RELATED DEFECT DOES NOT EXIST.THE AGENCY WILL MONITOR THIS ISSUE AND RESERVES THE RIGHT TO TAKE FURTHER ACTION IF WARRANTED BY THE CIRCUMSTANCES.Read more

EA, Closed , Model Year: 1997

WHEEL STUD FRACTURE

THE SUBJECT VEHICLES RANGE IN AGE FROM 4?7 YEARS IN SERVICE, WITH AVERAGE MILEAGES ESTIMATED TO RANGE FROM 50 TO 100 THOUSAND MILES.AT THESE MILEAGES, THE SUBJECT WHEELS ARE LIKELY TO HAVE BEEN REMOVED AND REINSTALLED MULTIPLE TIMES FOR VARIOUS SERVICE PROCEDURES.ODI IS CONCERNED ABOUT THE HIGH WHEE... Read more

PE, Closed , Model Year: 1998

WHEEL STUD FRACTURE

ANALYSIS OF ODI AND FORD DATA HAS IDENTIFIED 1619 INCIDENTS OF WHEEL STUD FRACTURE IN MY 1998 THROUGH 2000 FORD WINDSTAR VEHICLES, INCLUDING 69 WHEEL SEPARATIONS AND 11 CRASHES.FORD HAS NOT BEEN ABLE TO IDENTIFY ANY DESIGN OR MANUFACTURING DEFECTS IN ITS ANALYZIS OF THE PROBLEM.FORD MAINTAINS THAT T... Read more

RQ, Closed , Model Year: 1995

FUEL TANK FATIGUE CRACKING

SEE ATTACHED REPORT.

EA, Closed , Model Year: 1995

SUSPENSION COIL SPRING BREAKAGE