Four problems related to transmission noise have been reported for the 1998 Ford Windstar. The most recently reported issues are listed below.
Heard noise from engine and lost transmission power. Car coasted. When I got out there was a lot of transmission oil on the ground. Towed to Ford of upland, (calif) . I was shown that the low/intermediate servo cover was blown to the side. I checked for recalls found one recall for 98 Windstar. According to Ford motor CO rep. My veh was manufactured after 3/1/97 namely on 11/26/97 but Ford rep said it could be the same problem, as of now he noted my complaint and said I should call you, (NHTSA) you may be able to check further into this. Thanks.
While driving on highway vehicle jerked and made a really strange noise. Vehicle then died. Vehicle was towed to dealer, and the dealer stated that a metal piece had broken inside of transmission, and transmission would need to be rebuilt. Please provide any further informmation.
Transmission failure at 68000+/- miles. No previous problems. Traveling on interstate at 70 mph, heard loud noise, got off at next exit. Sounded like engine dropped out and was dragging on ground, van was jumping. Made it to a parking lot at which point it would not engage in drive or reverse. Dealer didn't know what caused transmission failure, questioned dealer if this is common, "not common, but can't say it doesn't happen" reapir would be $3000. 00. Called 3 transmission shops for pricing, when told it was a Windstar all new what the problem was, down to the noise it made! repairs at independant shops ran $1500. 00. Ford is no help, claims there is no problem. Obviously this is a dangerous problem in the Windstar, Ford needs to get into gear and get these vehicles taken care of and compensate those who have already paid out of pocket for repairs.
While traveling vehicle was making a loud noise and would power not gain due to blown transmission. Please provide further information.