Six problems related to car stall have been reported for the 1996 Ford Windstar. The most recently reported issues are listed below.
I have a 96 Ford Windstar with a 3. 8 liter engine and only 80,000 miles. Ford should be responsible for their actions for installing faulty head gaskets on these 3. 8 liter engines. There are many complaints about these engines head gaskets for earlier models as well as mine.
Consumer stated that while traveling vehicle slowed down/stopped, and then stalled. Consumer could not travel where there were any inclines or hills. Consumer took vehicle to several mechanics, and had vehicle on diagnostic machines, and no one could repair it.
While driving vehicle intermittently stalled.
I have had nothing but problems with this Ford Windstar since I purchased it in 8/98. In July of 99 my vehicle would not start and then it became a stalling problem. For 3 mths the dealership could not find the problem. Then on April 21,00 the coil spring broke, and the spring was jammed into our tire while doing 70 on the west virginia turnpike. Luckily we were not killed or injured. Ford has received a letter concerning these issue's and has not responded.
When decelerating the van will stall. This has happened at all speeds. It is a very intermittent problem. Also very dangerous. While on vacation, and traveling on major highways at 60-65 mph the van would stall when letting off the accelerator. We would have to immediately pull off to the side of the road. There was one near collision with a tractor trailer that was following to close. I have spent over $200 at 2 Ford dealerships and they say they cannot find anything wrong. This is an extrememly dangerous situation. The problem does not occur if the fuel level is kept at 75% or above.
Have fought with Ford about losing power and vehicle stalling since owning the car. Also find that many others(on web 'windstar head defect' search) have had the same problem. I have also had two Ford mechanics unofficialy admit that there is a design flaw in the 1996 Windstars. Ford, after being badgered, said they would cover my engine to 100,000 miles and are reniging now that it has completely blown. I just want a car that is safe for my family. Help me.