2003 FORD WINDSTAR

9 recalls, 2,056 complaints - 73 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

2,056 total complaints 51 crashes 31 fires 46 injuries 1 deaths

Top Reported Components

Component	Complaints
SERVICE BRAKES	296
ELECTRICAL SYSTEM	262
SERVICE BRAKES, HYDRAULIC	209
SUSPENSION	177
POWER TRAIN	113
POWER TRAIN:AUTOMATIC TRANSMISSION	94
VEHICLE SPEED CONTROL	74
SERVICE BRAKES, ELECTRIC	69
SUSPENSION:REAR	48
STRUCTURE:BODY	44

Incident date: Apr 3, 2026

Vehicle: 2026 Honda Civic Sport Hatchback VIN: [XXX] Mileage at time of complaint: 1,500 miles Description of Problem: The vehicle jerks/shudders when turning at low RPM. This occurs consistently during low-speed maneuvers such as parking lot turns and slow cornering. The issue is repeatable and ha... Read more

Incident date: Jun 17, 2025

I purchased a new 2025 Tucson Limited Hybrid model. I owned it for five days when the dash display went blank, leaving me without any speedometer, warning indicators, or safety features, such as lane departure warnings. There is a manufacturers bulletin on this defect. Took it back to the dealer, an... Read more

Incident date: Apr 4, 2025

The contact owns a 2018 Toyota Rav4. The contact received notification of NHTSA Campaign Number: 23V734000 (Electrical System); however, the part to do the recall repair was unavailable. The contact stated that the manufacturer had exceeded a reasonable amount of time for the recall repair. The cont... Read more

Incident date: Oct 22, 2024

The contact owns a 2014 Buick Verano. The contact stated while driving at an undisclosed speed, the steering failed to function as intended. Additionally, several unknown warning lights were illuminated. The contact turned off and restarted the vehicle to reset the vehicle. The vehicle was taken to ... Read more

Incident date: Nov 1, 2019

I bought my 2014 C250 back in 2017 with 17K miles and currently has 58,570 miles. The issue is with fast acceleration from a stop or slow moving. When trying to accelerate to merge with traffic after a few seconds the vehicle goes into limp mode and the check engine light comes on. In limp mode I... Read more

Incident date: May 27, 2024

Forward safety system error on dashboard. Forward safety system not working.

Incident date: May 6, 2024

The contact owns a 2016 Ford Explorer. The contact stated that while driving approximately 60 MPH, the passenger's side A-pillar trim detached from the vehicle. The vehicle was not diagnosed or repair. The contact received notification of NHTSA Campaign Number: 24V031000 (Structure) however, the par... Read more

Incident date: Aug 1, 2023

The contact owns a 2017 Ram 2500. The contact stated that while driving in inclement weather at approximately 65 MPH, the brake pedal was depressed; however, the ABS failed to operate as needed. The traction control and ABS warning lights were illuminated. The vehicle was taken to a dealer where it... Read more

Incident date: Jun 14, 2023

The contact owns a 2016 Kia Soul. The contact stated that while driving at an undisclosed speed, the check engine warning light illuminated. The contact stated that the vehicle was previously repaired under NHTSA Campaign Number: 19V120000 (Engine, Engine and Engine Cooling). The vehicle was taken t... Read more

Incident date: Jun 14, 2023

The contact owns a 2018 Forest River Cherokee equipped with Castle Rock tires, the Tire Line was unavailable , ST205/75R15, DOT Number was unavailable. The contact stated that while driving at an undisclosed speed, the passenger tire exploded. The manufacturer was not made aware of the failure. The ... Read more

Incident date: Jun 14, 2023

Incident date: Feb 10, 2023

The contact owns a 2016 Chevrolet Suburban. The contact stated that while driving at an undisclosed speed, the vehicle shuddered and stalled. Additionally, the contact was unable to shift the gear shifter into reverse(R) or drive(D). No warning lights were illuminated. The vehicle was taken back to ... Read more

Incident date: Jan 3, 2023

The contact owns a 2003 Ford Windstar. The contact had taken her vehicle to an independent mechanic and was informed that the rear axle had cracked due to severe corrosion. The mechanic informed her that the vehicle was unsafe to drive. The contact was also informed that the vehicle might be include... Read more

Incident date: Oct 13, 2022

The contact’s son owns a 2003 Ford Windstar. The contact stated that while her son was driving 10 MPH and making a turn into a parking lot, the vehicle stopped as the rear tires collapsed inside the wheel well. The contact was able to park the vehicle. The vehicle was towed to the dealer where it ... Read more

Incident date: Oct 13, 2022

Incident date: Oct 23, 2022

The contact owns a 2003 Ford Windstar. The contact stated while driving 25 MPH, the vehicle was wobbling. Once the contact arrived at her residence, her husband noticed that the rear of the subframe was fracture. The dealer was contacted and stated that the vehicle was not included in NHTSA Campaign... Read more

Incident date: Oct 23, 2022

Incident date: Oct 3, 2022

My family and I went to pull out of an entersection when the 03 Ford Windstar I purchased suddenly stopped pulling .almost getting rearended

Incident date: Oct 3, 2022

My family and I went to pull out of an entersection when the 03 Ford Windstar I purchased suddenly stopped pulling .almost getting rearended

Incident date: May 22, 2022

On May 23rd 2022 I was driving on interstate 45 the speed limit through where I was driving was 75 all of a sudden with no warning no engine light on my transmission stopped working and I could not break I was able to safely get over thank goodness but there is a recall on my transmission which almo... Read more

Incident date: May 10, 2022

The contact owns a 2003 Ford Windstar. The contact stated while his wife was exiting the vehicle, she noticed that the rear driver’s side wheel was leaning in towards the frame of the vehicle. The contact stated no warning light was illuminated. The contact took the vehicle to an independent mecha... Read more

Incident date: Jan 7, 2021

When driving my muffler broke loose and was dragging on the ground. My axel creaks when I stop or sit idle at a light. When several miles from home my ignition cylinder came out. I couldn't start or turn the ignition on nor operate the steering. I'm now afraid to drive my vehicle. Since acqui... Read more

Incident date: Jan 7, 2021

Incident date: Sep 10, 2021

The contact owns a 2003 Ford Windstar. The contact stated that the ABS warning light and brake warning light was illuminated on the instrument panel. The contact then took the vehicle to a dealer where she was informed that the rear axle was severely corroded and at risk of fracturing. The dealer in... Read more

Incident date: Aug 29, 2021

Driver was stalking a pedestrian.

Incident date: Aug 29, 2021

Driver was stalking a pedestrian.

Incident date: Aug 29, 2021

Driver was stalking a pedestrian.

Incident date: Mar 1, 2020

The rear wheel well is corroded and the corrosion is into the structure that the seat belt is mounted to and it ruined the REM(rear electronic module) there is supposed to be a recall on it but all the ford garages say its been done but it hasn't and now I have no way to work or to take my kids anyw... Read more

Incident date: Jul 16, 2021

The contact owns a 2003 Ford Windstar. The contact stated that while driving at 20 mph, there was a loud noise heard then the vehicle collapsed. The contact steered the steering wheel to move the vehicle off the road and heard metal screeching coming from the ground. The vehicle was towed to the dea... Read more

Incident date: Feb 10, 2021

The contact owns a 2003 Ford Windstar. The contact stated that upon taking the vehicle to the dealer for routine maintenance, the contact noticed that the rear axle was severely corroded. The vehicle was taken to the dealer however, the mechanic failed to fix the failure. The vehicle was not repaire... Read more

Incident date: Apr 8, 2021

I WAS DRIVING ON A CITY STREET GOING ABOUT 30 MILES AN HOUR THE VAN FILLED WITH SMOKE WHEN I CAME TO A STOP I LOOKED UNDER THE CAR AND THE BACK AXLE WAS BROKE I HAD IT TOWED TO THE FORD DEALERSHIP AND THEY SAID IT WOULD COST $3200 TO FIX IT THEY SAID IT DIDN'T FALL UNDER THE RECALL THEY HAD FOR THE ... Read more

Incident date: Mar 3, 2021

THE REAR AXLE OR METAL BRACKETS ON MY VEHICLE SNAPPED WHILE I BRAKED FOR ANOTHER VEHICLE APPROACHING. I HAD THE METAL ON MY AXLE WELDED TO FIX THE PROBLEM TEMPORARILY THAT IS BECAUSE IT IS CURRENTLY BROKE AGAIN. I BELIEVE THERE IS A RECALL FOR THIS SPECIFIC PROBLEM.

Incident date: Jan 2, 2021

MY BACK AXLE ITS RUSTED AND ITS CRACKED.THE MECHANIC MENTION THIS IS VERY DANGEROUS IF IT BREAKS WHILE DRIVING.WHILE THE MECHANIC REPLACED MY FUEL PUMP HE NOTICED THIS ISSUE.

Incident date: Dec 30, 2020

TL* THE CONTACT OWNS A 2003 FORD WINDSTAR. THE CONTACT STATED WHILE DRIVING 55 MPH, THE VEHICLE FAILED TO RESPOND WITH THE ACCELERATOR PEDAL DEPRESSED. THE CONTACT STATED THAT THERE WAS NO WARNING LIGHT ILLUMINATED. THE VEHICLE WAS TAKEN TO AN INDEPENDENT DEALER TO BE DIAGNOSED. THE CONTACT WAS INFO... Read more

Incident date: Jan 9, 2021

I OWN A 2003 FORD WINDSTAR LX. IT WAS AT THE MECHANIC FOR SOME REPAIRS AND HE POINTED OUT THE ISSUE WITH MY REAR AXLE BEING CRACKED AND CORRODED. WHICH ITS VERY DANGEROUS TO KEEP DRIVING LIKE THIS. *LN*JB

Incident date: Jan 9, 2021

Incident date: Nov 22, 2020

PURCHASED USED 2003 FORD WINDSTAR..IN 2005 ..WITH 30,000 MILES ..NOW HAS 107,000 MILES...AROUND TOWN DRIVING...GOT RECALLS..BROUGHT VEHICLE IN TO DEALER FOR REAR AXLE FIX.INSPECTED TWICE..AFTER ......BRACKETS INSTALLED TO STABILIZE AXLE WERE INITIALLY INSTALLED TOLD IF AXLE WAS BAD , FORD WOULD REP... Read more

Incident date: Sep 14, 2020

TL* THE CONTACT OWNS A 2003 FORD WINDSTAR. THE CONTACT STATED WHILE DRIVING APPROXIMATELY 30 MPH, AN ABNORMAL SOUND WAS HEARD COMING FROM THE PASSENGER'S SIDE REAR OF THE VEHICLE. THE VEHICLE WAS TOWED TO TAYLOR FORD LOCATED AT 13500 TELEGRAPH RD, TAYLOR, MI 48180, TO BE DIAGNOSED. THE CONTACT WAS I... Read more

Incident date: Apr 28, 2020

I CONTACTED THIS AGENCY PREVIOUSLY REGARDING THE FAILURE OF THE REAR AXLE IN DETAIL. THIS NOTE IS SENT TO FURTHER EXPLAIN THE FAILURE OF FORD, GARLITCH FORD, AND THE NHTSA TO PROPERLY ASSURE ME THAT THE VEHICLE WAS REPAIRED ADEQUATELY. IT WAS NOT. I REMOVED THE USELESS BRACKETS GARLITCH FORD INSTALL... Read more

Incident date: Sep 19, 2019

MY AXEL CRACKED ON LEFT SIDE, NOISE ALERTED ME TO THE DANGER. CAREER MECHANIC, NEVER SEEN A RUSTED OUT OR CRACKED REAR AXLE. I ALSO WORKED OUT OF MY HOME ON CARS RUNNING MY OWN SHOP FOR DECADES. AGAIN I HAVE NEVER CHANGED A CRACKED REAR AXLE. THE FIRST RECALL WAS IN MY OPINION ONLY A POOR ATTEMP... Read more

Incident date: Aug 1, 2020

ALTHOUGH MY VAN HAS BEEN THROUGH ALL RECALL REPAIRS/INSPECTIONS AS I PULLED INTO MY LOCAL GAS STATION TODAY MY REAR AXLE BROKE.*DT VEHICLE WAS TOWED TO CLOSEST DEALERSHIP (DAVE KNAPP FORD LINCOLN) WHERE IT WAS DETERMINED THAT THE VEHICLE HAD PASSED INSPECTION DURING THE RECALL. AS VEHICLE WAS BEI... Read more

Incident date: Jun 17, 2020

TL* THE CONTACT OWNS A 2003 FORD WINDSTAR. THE CONTACT CALLED ON BEHALF OF THE DRIVER. THE CONTACT STATED THAT WHILE THE DRIVER WAS DRIVING APPROXIMATELY 45 MPH, AN ODOR OF BURNING RUBBER WAS PRESENT. AFTER STOPPING THE VEHICLE IT WAS DISCOVERED THAT THE REAR PASSENGER SIDE WHEEL AND TIRE WAS RUBBI... Read more

Fire

Incident date: May 3, 2010

IT HAS AN ELECTRICAL PROBLEM. NEEDS WIRING HARNESS, NEEDS FRONT AND REAL AXLE REPLACEMENT. DANGEROUS. ALARM GOES OFF AT RANDOM. WON'T HOLD CHARGE. STEERING WHEEL BEARINGS ARE SHOT. *TR

Crash

Incident date: May 3, 2010

IT HAS AN ELECTRICAL PROBLEM. NEEDS WIRING HARNESS, NEEDS FRONT AND REAL AXLE REPLACEMENT. DANGEROUS. ALARM GOES OFF AT RANDOM. WON'T HOLD CHARGE. STEERING WHEEL BEARINGS ARE SHOT. *TR

Crash

Incident date: May 3, 2010

IT HAS AN ELECTRICAL PROBLEM. NEEDS WIRING HARNESS, NEEDS FRONT AND REAL AXLE REPLACEMENT. DANGEROUS. ALARM GOES OFF AT RANDOM. WON'T HOLD CHARGE. STEERING WHEEL BEARINGS ARE SHOT. *TR

Crash

Incident date: Apr 28, 2020

I WAS DRIVING DOWN THE ROAD ON A CITY STREET AT 35 MPH AND THE REAR AXLE BROKE ON THE DRIVER SIDE UNDERNEATH THE RECALL BRACKET INSTALLED BY FORD. RECALL 10S13 WAS PERFORMED ON THIS VEHICLE IN 2008 OR 2009. THE BRACKETS WERE INSTALLED AS SPECIFIED BY FORD AND OBVIOUSLY WERE INADEQUATE TO FIX OR PREV... Read more

Incident date: Aug 1, 2012

TL* THE CONTACT OWNS A 2003 FORD WINDSTAR. THE CONTACT STATED THE VEHICLE WAS PREVIOUSLY INCLUDED IN A RECALL REGARDING THE CRADLE SUB FRAME ASSEMBLY, FOR WHICH THE VEHICLE WAS REPAIRED. THE CONTACT STATED THAT SHORTLY AFTER THE RECALL REPAIR, WHILE IDLE AND DURING ACCELERATION THAT THE VEHICLE WOUL... Read more

Incident date: Nov 24, 2019

THE REAR AXLE ON MY FATHER-IN-LAW'S MINIVAN SNAPPED IN HALF, EVEN THOUGH THE BRACKETS FOR THE FIRST RECALL WERE INSTALLED AND THE BRACKETS WERE THEN INSPECTED AND SIGNED OFF ON DURING THE SECOND RECALL. BOTH RECALLS WERE SIGNED OFF AS COMPLETED AND SAFE BUT WHILE DRIVING 45 MPH, WITH FOUR SMALL CHIL... Read more

Showing 50 of 2,056 complaints.

Technical Service Bulletins, 2003 FORD WINDSTAR

73 manufacturer communications from 69 unique bulletins. TSBs describe known problems and recommended fixes from the manufacturer.

Most Affected Components

Component	Bulletins
110000 ELECTRICAL SYSTEM	11
061000 ENGINE AND ENGINE COOLING:ENGINE	7
020000 SUSPENSION	3
133000 VISIBILITY:POWER WINDOW DEVICES AND CONTROLS	3
162000 STRUCTURE:BODY	3
160000 STRUCTURE	3
220000 SEATS	2
114000 ELECTRICAL SYSTEM:WIRING	2

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

023000 SUSPENSION:MULTIPLE AXLE

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

020000 SUSPENSION

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

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,

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.

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.

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

161000 STRUCTURE:FRAME AND MEMBERS

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

133000 VISIBILITY:POWER WINDOW DEVICES AND CONTROLS

FRONT WINDOW MOTORS NOT WORKING. *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

133000 VISIBILITY:POWER WINDOW DEVICES AND CONTROLS

PASSENGER WINDOW MOTOR NOT WORKING. *TT

133000 VISIBILITY:POWER WINDOW DEVICES AND CONTROLS

FRONT PASSENGER WINDOW MOTOR NOT WORKING. *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

114000 ELECTRICAL SYSTEM:WIRING

TRAILER TOW WIRING HARNESS INCOMPATIBILITY CONCERNS. *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

061000 ENGINE AND ENGINE COOLING:ENGINE

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

110000 ELECTRICAL SYSTEM

FUSE F2.10 OPEN / TRAILER LIGHTING INOPERATIVE. *TT

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

FRONT CALIPER SEEPAGE IN EXTREME COLD TEMPERATURES. *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

110000 ELECTRICAL SYSTEM

CHECK ENGINE LIGHT ON AND DIAGNOSTIC TROUBLE CODE P0460 - NEW SERVICE LEVEL CALIBRATION AVAILABLE. *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

980000 UNKNOWN OR OTHER

VEHICLES WITH EXPORT CALIBRATION MAY EXHIBIT A CHECK ENGINE LAMP ON WITH A FALSE DIAGNOSTIC TROUBLE CODE P0460 (FUEL LEVEL SENSOR CIRCUIT MALFUNCTION). NEW SERVICE LEVEL CALIBRATION AVAILABLE. *TT

061000 ENGINE AND ENGINE COOLING:ENGINE

VEHICLES WITH EXPORT CALIBRATION MAY EXHIBIT A CHECK ENGINE LAMP ON WITH A FALSE DIAGNOSTIC TROUBLE CODE P0460 (FUEL LEVEL SENSOR CIRCUIT MALFUNCTION). NEW SERVICE LEVEL CALIBRATION AVAILABLE. *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

110000 ELECTRICAL SYSTEM

VISIBLE DAMAGE TO THE PAD AND PLUNGER FOR THE SLIDING DOORS. INTERMITTENT SPEAKER MALFUNCTION. MALFUNCTION SLIDING DOOR POWER LOCK. MALFUNCTION DETENT SIGNAL ON A POWER SLIDING DOOR. *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

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

162000 STRUCTURE:BODY

INTERIOR AND EXTERIOR TRIM CHANGES. *TT

061000 ENGINE AND ENGINE COOLING:ENGINE

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

162000 STRUCTURE:BODY

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

021100 SUSPENSION:FRONT:STABILIZER BAR

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

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

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

VARIOUS 2003 VEHICLES EQUIPPED WITH PREMIUM CD-6 RADIOS - CD-6 SHUFFLE FEATURE BETWEEN DISCS NOT AVAILABLE. *TT

353000 EQUIPMENT:ELECTRICAL

COMPASS DISPLAYS INCORRECT DIRECTION READING. *TT

061000 ENGINE AND ENGINE COOLING:ENGINE

COOLING SYSTEM-MOTORCRAFT PREMIUM GOLD ENGINE COOLANT-SERIVCE TIPS. *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

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

BATTERY DRAIN SERVICE TIPS. *TT

015200 STEERING:HYDRAULIC POWER ASSIST:HOSE, PIPING, AND CONNECTIONS

POWER STEERING HOSE LEAK NEAR COOLER EXTREME COLD CLIMATE AREAS ONLY -4 DEGREES AND COOLER. *KB

105000 POWER TRAIN:DRIVELINE

ERRATIC FLUID LEVEL READING ON TRANSAXLE DIPSTICK-LEAKS-4F50N, AX4N, AX4S TRANSAXLE. *SC

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