Five problems related to dash wiring have been reported for the 1996 Ford Windstar. The most recently reported issues are listed below.
With doors securely closed the door adjar light comes on. This can last for minutes to hours, the same with the battery check light. Lastly, the chimes will intermittently come on. This is starting to become more and more frequent and continue for longer and longer periods of time. I have had it looked at numerous times and it is still not resolved. I have heard many other complaints of the same nature and occurrences ie, complaint # 10020993. Electrical problems are generally hard to pinpoint but can be very serious in nature. Electrical fires start and spread fast. I have a family with young children and I am very concerned. Ford claims that they have no complaints of this nature. I find that hard to believe.
Wiring harness diagnosed as causing fire under dash. Six replacement harness's have been installed, none fit. Been without my van now for two months waiting for the correct part. Have experienced electrical problems (off and on) since buying the van.
In hotter conditions, the "key in the ignition alarm" rings even while driving, the check engine light burns continuously. I know of three Windstars that are doing this. Temperature or moisture seems to affect the "key alarm" and it continues to sound. One friend who is a mechanic, has to pull the fuse nightly on the check engine light or her battery runs down. I was told to replace the starter because it would not start on the evening so I did. It's still not starting right. Acts as if the battery has been drained. Tried to disconnect the check engine light but same fuse runs the wipers.
Electrical fire started when I started heat in vehicle. Under dash driver's side fully involved.
While driving smoke came from the dash area of vehicle, causing wiring within the wiring harness assembly to melt together, cause unknown. Please give any further details.