Five problems related to transmission noise have been reported for the 1996 Ford Windstar. The most recently reported issues are listed below.
At about 60000 miles the Windstar would fail to move after stopping at a traffic light. On occasion the vehicle would make noise, similar to what you would expect if a plastic container was caught under the vehicle. Took the vehicle to the dealer and was informed that the transmission needed to be replaced. Vehicle is less than five years of age and less than 60000 miles. Dealer offered no assistance, financial or otherwise.
Was driving approximately 35mph and transmission blew up. Heard a rattling noise prior to the blow up. Pulled off road & vehicle died. Was not able to move forward. Transmission was goine. Smoke had appeared later. Vehicle towed. Mechanic informed owner looked like a grenade had exploded inside. Contacted manufacturer & told vehicle over 36,000 miles & not under warranty. Nothing could be done. Transmission not repairable.
While driving transmission started making a loud sound. Consumer drove car to dealer. Dealer looked at it and said tha t transmission was full of metal. Bearings were rattling around in transmission. That was the noise consumer heard.
Whenever transmission gets hot it would make humming noises after driving 50-60 miles. Been to dealer & informed by mechanic, after test driving vehicle, the cause of humming noise could not be located.
Transmission makes clunking noises when backing vehicle up or when starting to move forward. Will be taking vehicle to dealer.