Four problems related to steering wheel have been reported for the 2003 Ford Windstar. The most recently reported issues are listed below. Please also check out the statistics and reliability analysis of the 2003 Ford Windstar based on all problems reported for the 2003 Windstar.
Our 2003 Ford minivan passed front subframe inspection and "cleaning" on 3/14/2011 when vehicle was in for rear axle recall repairs. It was taken back to the dealership for front subframe recall on 7/11/2011 and recall repairs were made. In addition, other repairs were sold to us after a thorough inspection by mechanic. Nine days later, while driving on the highway, a clunk noise was heard from the front of the vehicle. On 8/1/11, the dealership mechanic found a broken right sway bar due to excessive rust at the subframe attachment. Service manager was told by Ford that this failure is unrelated to the recall issue and that subframe replacement would not be provided by Ford. We then had the Mini van put up on a lift at an independent garage where repair of subframe was observed and pictures were taken of the subframe which was literally separated into sheets of rust under the repair brackets. Any force to put bolts into the repair brackets could easily have hastened the corroded sway bar failure. We were told the Mini van is safe to drive even without repair, however, we have no confidence in that and live in an area where there are lots of small children, joggers and pedestrians. We greatly fear that any further failure in the front end could result in serious injury or death to someone. Vehicle has 84,000 miles. Ford denies any assistance or responsibility for our issue.
Ford Windstar. Dealer stated the left rear axle cracked and the front sub frame brackets were defective. Dealer kept van on their premises. No date given for possible repair. The van had extensive repairs on 12/08/10 but no mention of recall and possible dangerous condition advised by dealer to owner.
Dealer performed rear axle safety recall. "vehicle passed sub frame inspection". The vehicle's front sub frame where it attaches to the chassis on the left side is rusted through. I have pictures.
The front suspension on the driver's side collapsed while we were driving. The wheel well ended up right on top of the tire and we ground to a halt.