Two problems related to steering noise have been reported for the 2001 Ford Windstar. The most recently reported issues are listed below. Please also check out the statistics and reliability analysis of the 2001 Ford Windstar based on all problems reported for the 2001 Windstar.
The contact owns a 2001 Ford Windstar. The contact stated that while driving at 35 mph, the vehicle made an abnormal noise as the steering wheel seized without warning. The vehicle was towed to an independent mechanic, who diagnosed stated that the vehicle was not repairable. The manufacturer was not notified of the failure. The failure mileage was 130,000.
I purchased this 2001 Ford Windstar sel 11/18/04 from pohanka Chevrolet. On my way to kansas on 11/20/04 the cd/cassette player went out. Than I started hearing a noise in the steering. When I returned they eventually replaced the stereo and after numerous times in, they replaced the power steering pump. After that I started hearing a grating sound when coming out of a parking space. Pulling out in reverse, or going forward, after turning the wheel to go straight it would make this sound. They could not figure it out so I took it to a Ford dealer who said this was normal for a Windstar. It doesn't feel normal and I hope they will replace anything it may be damaging. Also, after the power steering was "fixed" I started feeling and hearing this whirling sound from the engine. A few times the car almost cut off at a stop light, but I put it in neutral and it continued running. Again, they said this is normal for a Windstar. I now see why there are no new Windstars. I just wanted it noted that this has been addressed a number of times with pohanka and ted britt Ford, to not avail. Pohanka even offered me a Chevrolet malibu, plus more money out of my pocket, as a replacement. I wanted a van, not a car.