Four problems related to transmission failure have been reported for the 1997 Ford Windstar. The most recently reported issues are listed below.
Consumer stated that while driving at any speed and without warning transmission failed, causing a distraction to the consumer. Dealer notified.
Complete transmission failure cost $2,000 to repair.
2nd transmission failure: 1/26/99 @71,800 miles. Parked/when started, no reverse or forward gears. Repaired: multiple parts: ie ax4n, ax4s, bearing pump shaft/plate etc. Extended warrenty claim denied/ $3,500. 00 out of pocket/ trans, still dysfunctional & power steering defective after last repair. Both failures occurred out of state/repaired out of state. Tomorrow I have to take van to akron OH (where last repaired) hope the transmission &steering will get me there in 1 peice!! please help!! (don't know if trans problems related to recalled parts, this vehicle was not put into service until 10/97 & recall was 6/97. I have exausted my resources& would appreciate any help/advice/direction. Thought I had a Ford warrenty, but I was sold something else, unfortunately. Thank you, sincerely, linda.
Transmission failed, at the time of repair they found that the frame was broken, the van was purchased from them 6 months prior to the failure and they accused me of hitting a bump and making the frame break. I personally do not remember hitting anything in the van I drive it to an from work. If a bump small enough not to recall will break the frame would that mean the frame is defected? I personally feel that I purchased the van with a broken frame and driving it for six months in that condition could of caused my transmission to fail. I would like to get more information about this and see if there is anyway of being reimbursed of this incident. I feel the van should be considered a lemon if it was sold with a broken frame. If I hit a bump hard enough to break the frame shouldn't the airbags eject? are they defective too? I've discussed this with charrap Ford and they did reduce the price of the van repairs but have no explanation of the broken frame or the transmission. I traded in an 89 aerostar which didn't give me half the problems this 97 Windstar is . I would like someone to investigate this and please contact me. Thanks! vicki danley.