Differential Unit Problems of Ford Windstar

While backing out from a parking space, the passenger side lower control arm mount separated from the subframe due to extensive corrosion. The front passenger wheel was turned outwardly and the right half shaft was disengaged from the differential. While researching this issue on the internet, I realized the subframe should last longer than the life of the vehicle. Fortunately for some it has been detected while in a repair shop for some other reason such as brakes, alignment or other front end work. Unfortunately for others it has been discovered by malfunctioning to the point of breaking and causing other structural/mechanical damage, as well as personal injury. I would like to believe that Ford stands behind its product and is willing to issue a recall for repair.

See all problems of the 2001 Ford Windstar 🔎.

On Friday, may 15, 2010, my husband was driving home from work for lunch and the rear axle snapped on our 2000 Ford Windstar sle minivan. The mechanic also said the "differentials" were damaged. The total cost was $795. Fortunately, my husband was not on a busy street and he was able to pull to the side of the road until we could have the vehicle towed. Also, he did not hit anything that would have caused the axle to snap. In July 2009, we had to replace the transmission in this same vehicle while traveling to myrtle beach, s. C. , on vacation.

See all problems of the 2000 Ford Windstar 🔎.

Abs light, o/d light in dashboard coming on. When vehicle purchased as used car these items showed up on the drive home after purchase. Veh has been in to Ford dealership garage 4 times. Brakes were working fine at that time. 3 months later brake light come on. Check and find that brake fluid is leaking from multiple locations. One being the brake pressure differential deactivation switch (2b264) located under the master cylinder. Upon removing this plug I found brake fluid in the connection. Looking below I found brake fluid on the wiring harness below the switch and on the metal panel, where it had actually began to rust. Believe this harness is the power steering wiring. Brake pedal in cab now goes to the floor before brakes are applied. There is a hissing sound when this is done. Believe that the master cylinder is leaking fluid into the brake booster as well and has destroyed the gasket in there as well. This happened while my wife was driving. Thankfully all of this happened without causing an accident considering I transport my 3 children and wife in this van.

See all problems of the 1999 Ford Windstar 🔎.

A faulty brake pressure differential deactivation! switch is leaking brake fluid!.

See all problems of the 1998 Ford Windstar 🔎.

: the contact stated while driving at various speeds there was a noise coming from the front end. As the vehicle accelerated the noise increased. Upon inspection the dealership found the differential unit needed replaced. The dealership determined the transmission normally does not need preventive maintenance at such a low mileage. The repairs have not been made.

I feel that these component failures have caused a safety risk for my family and I. I bought a Windstar based mainly on it's safety ratings. This disappoints me.

Van lost power on acceleration and stopped. The front drive wheels locked-up. Dealer determined planetary gear in transmission blew. Manufacturer paid for the out of warranty (by 4 months) repairs. Note Ford has history of planetary gear failing (my 91 taurus).

See all problems of the 1997 Ford Windstar 🔎.