13 problems related to steering have been reported for the 1998 Ford Windstar. The most recently reported issues are listed below.
My front cradle at steering area has completely rusted into from ac leak and road salt van was sold in vermont now is located in virginia unsafe almost undrivable to Ford dealer for a rear axle recall for axle braces please investigate this.
The contact owns a 1998 Ford Windstar. The contact stated that he recently had his vehicle state inspected by an independent mechanic. The vehicle passed inspection but the following day the vehicle could not be driven. The vehicle was towed back to the independent mechanic who stated the "steering knuckle" had to be replaced at the owners expense. The vehicle was not repaired. The manufacturer was contacted and mentioned there were no open recalls on the vehicle. The approximate failure mileage was 180,354.
While driving my 1998 Windstar @ 45mph, I lost total steering control of my vehicle and my vehicle veered into the oncoming lane of a two lane highway. I was able to regain control after turning the steering wheel approx 360 degrees to the right and managed to stop safely. After further investigation, it was found that the drivers side lower control arm bracket that is welded to the subframe broke away from the subframe due to a rusted out subframe. I've owned this vehicle for the past 8 years and never received any information from Ford regarding this safety issue as noted in the 1999-2003 Ford Windstar recall which has the same issue as my vehicle. Although Ford is not going to honor a subframe recall for my year vehicle, Ford should at least send a notification letter to inform owners of this dangerous issue. Both my wife and kids drive this vehicle, but had I at least known there was a dangerous issue with this vehicle, I would have parked it.
While driving on the highway at 60mph, I lost control of my vehicle and it started to fishtail and swerve into the next lane as I tried to regain control it spun around and flipped over upside down on top of the guard rail and landed facing traffic. I received minor injuries and my three children were not injured. I was informed that the rear axle snapped in half on my vehicle and that there is a recall on this part. I never received a notice in regards to this.
Popping in front end when turning or hitting bumps. The popping sound was often. Had new tires put on,and when I took it in to have front end alianed. Ford tech. Said front springs were broke. Was an est. Of $1200. 00 oni can"t afford. This was 5/20/2011. Contacted mftr about the recall that that was issued on this part 7/12/2001. Was told there was nothing they could do,because of a time limit. How can they put a time limit on safety & peoples lives?because the springs are broken,they can puncture the tires and cause an accident. Now we are without transportation. And my son is disabled and has numerous dr. Appts. Miles away. But my hands are tied. The mftr. Did advise to have another recall checked out which is the speed control because it can catch fire. When I asked why,you just told me it was unsafe to drive. He advised it could catch fire just setting in the drive not running. I was not notified of either one of these recalls by mail or other wise until I called to complain about the front coil springs. How does these billion dollar companys keep getting by with negligance. There are lots of recalls on this vihicle. Please help!.
While steering, this vehicle tends to almost jump while driving and turning around any type of corner. I have to over compensate so as not to veer toward that direction. It happens all the time and is very dangerous. Consequently, I have to take the vehicle to my mechanic to get his evaluation?.
I bought this van because of the clean condition of it . I have the 3. 0 ltr engine which has been excellent. The transmission so far is ok. Steering is a dangerous mess with almost everything new and 3 alignments. If you take your eyes off the road even for a second you can end up in a ditch. My wife & I both went off the road in a 1 month span. We both have excellent driving records. The front end seems ok to Ford. Something serious is wrong with the steering. Won?t let my wife drive it anymore. Has a little vibration that you cannot get rid of. Sending this to you because I called Ford and they said there was no safety recall or any steering issues with that van. Had a service bulletin in front of me at that time stating there was. But that is not the problem. Ford denied the all of the above. Am afraid to sell to someone because I think someone will get hurt. Don?t know why Ford keeps putting in the same bad parts year after year. I have had all the dome light problems and door locks etc. They will still say no problems. Bought it used at a good price thinking it was a bad tire causing the problems. If accident occurs will seek damages.
When tilting the steering wheel windshield wipers would not work. Dealer notified.
The steering wheel was difficult to turn.
When making turns in either direction or going over bumps there is a loud squeaking noise. Dealer cannot find the problem.
Some grinding and steering problems when trying to steer.
When going though water you lose steering.
Vehicle steering begins to vibrate at approximately 50-60 mph.