Service Brakes Problems of Ford Windstar - part 1

Ford Windstar owners have reported 266 problems related to service brakes (under the service brakes category). The most recently reported issues are listed below. Also please check out the statistics and reliability analysis of Ford Windstar based on all problems reported for the Windstar.

1 Service Brakes problem of the 2002 Ford Windstar

Failure Date: 03/09/2023

The van took off without my control and the brakes stopped working and the fuel system it caused me to have two accidents within a week of each other.

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2 Service Brakes problem of the 2003 Ford Windstar

Failure Date: 05/22/2022

On may 23rd 2022 I was driving on interstate 45 the speed limit through where I was driving was 75 all of a sudden with no warning no engine light on my transmission stopped working and I could not break I was able to safely get over thank goodness but there is a recall on my transmission which almost killed me that needs to be replaced.

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3 Service Brakes problem of the 2003 Ford Windstar

Failure Date: 01/07/2021

When driving my muffler broke loose and was dragging on the ground. My axel creaks when I stop or sit idle at a light. When several miles from home my ignition cylinder came out. I couldn't start or turn the ignition on nor operate the steering. I'm now afraid to drive my vehicle. Since acquiring it. I've put a lot of money into repairs. In addition to purchasing this vehicle, I've spent well over $2,000 in repairs. Once I learned of the recall and viewed the risks (video) of the dangers I became grossly disturbed by what I am facing at the thought of driving. I have contacted 4 Ford service centers and none of them contacted back regarding fixing my 'recall'. I need help!! I have a disability and now I don't have transportation besides this car. How come no one is returning my calls? I am stranded at my home knowing that my safety is at risk. I would like to get my issue remedied with a $4,999. 00 reimbursement for this vehicle ASAP so I may invest in getting a safer one. Please give me a dealership address here in los angeles so I can have the vehicle towed there and be done with it. I no longer want a vehicle that I can not drive nor can get my 'recalls' remedied. Your attention to this matter is greatly appreciated.

4 Service Brakes problem of the 2001 Ford Windstar

Failure Date: 04/15/2019

Tl the contact owns a 2001 Ford Windstar. The contact stated that while driving at 35 mph while the brake pedal was depressed an extended braking time was needed to bring the vehicle to a complete stop. The contact mentioned that by the time the vehicle was parked, the brake pedal traveled to the floor board. The vehicle was towed to an independent mechanic where the contact was informed that the vehicle would need to be towed to another shop in regards to it being a modified vehicle. The vehicle was then towed to another independent mechanic where the contact was informed that the vehicle was not safe to drive and that the frame was rusted. The manufacturer was made aware of the failure. The failure mileage was 38,000.

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5 Service Brakes problem of the 2001 Ford Windstar

Failure Date: 03/07/2019

This van looks fine on the outside,but the frame and floor are rusted out. I was driving on a city street when the brakes went out and when I took it to be repaired the mechanic at carls body shop , where it was ti be repaired told me it was beyond repair and unsafe to drive. The van is made to transport a wheelchair and the area where the wheelchair is rusted the worst. The mechanic also took pictures of the under body to show me how bad it really was.

6 Service Brakes problem of the 2003 Ford Windstar

Failure Date: 11/30/2018

I have the familiar 9 c codes for the abs control module with the cold solder joints that effects the abs function. There is a 23 page 2carspro. Com forum with individuals sharing this exact same issue defect on their Windstar vehicles. The warning lights illuminate under normal driving conditions.

7 Service Brakes problem of the 2001 Ford Windstar

Failure Date: 06/17/2018

Rear axle break due to corrosion of acknowledged inadequately designed axle. Break happened in the reinforcement bracket installed do to initial axle recall for potential break due to corrosion. . Car was on city street in motion to freeway onramp fortunately the axle broke prior to entering freeway. Axle break resulted in sagging axle and a wheel tilted inward at about 20 degrees and wedged against the inner wheel well. Tire started to smoke. Car is undriveable. The repair is estimated to $1400. Ford will not accept any financial responsibility for this break in the brackets installed to prevent the break. Additional components are also needing repair and replacement due to the break of the axle.

8 Service Brakes problem of the 2003 Ford Windstar

Failure Date: 02/23/2018

Tl the contact owns a 2003 Ford Windstar. While driving 40 mph down a hill, the brake pedal was applied, but was stiff and failed to respond. Also, while attempting to make a right turn, the steering pulled towards the left. The vehicle was towed to the contact's residence. The local dealer was not contacted. The vehicle was not diagnosed or repaired. The manufacturer was notified and opened case number: cas14205849. The failure mileage was approximately 103,000.

9 Service Brakes problem of the 2002 Ford Windstar

Failure Date: 08/09/2017

"abs recall".

10 Service Brakes problem of the 2002 Ford Windstar

Failure Date: 03/22/2017

I get a warning to check the traction control and I get a brake malfunction warning, it resets after I turn the car off and it's sporadic.

11 Service Brakes problem of the 2003 Ford Windstar

Failure Date: 03/22/2017

The contact owns a 2003 Ford Windstar. While driving various speeds and while stationary, the hazard lights flashed and would not turn off. The contact stated that the turn signals could not be used due to the involuntary flashing of the hazard lights. In addition, the abs and brake warning indicators illuminated without warning. The vehicle was not diagnosed or repaired. The manufacturer was made aware of the failures. The failure mileage was 90,000.

12 Service Brakes problem of the 2002 Ford Windstar

Failure Date: 01/31/2017

The contact owns a 2002 Ford Windstar. While driving various speeds, the speed control warning indicator flashed and the abs warning indicator illuminated. The vehicle was not diagnosed or repaired. The contact mentioned that several years ago, the abs module was replaced. The VIN was not included in NHTSA campaign number: 09v399000 (vehicle speed control). The manufacturer was notified of the issue. The failure mileage was 372,000.

13 Service Brakes problem of the 1998 Ford Windstar

Failure Date: 09/21/2016

I came to a stop sign. The brake pedal went to floor without any warning. I was able to steer to the shoulder without hitting the car ahead of me. The car finally rolled to a stop with the help of the emergency brake. The vehicle was in motion and on a dual lane highway.

See all problems of the 1998 Ford Windstar 🔎.

14 Service Brakes problem of the 2003 Ford Windstar

Failure Date: 07/27/2016

I was backing down the driveway when my Ford Windstar 2003 engine started revving and I had to put both feet on the breaks to stop the car from running out of control. After I put both feet on the brakes to release the engine from revving did it stop. It happened again on the same day and it took all my strength to stop the Ford Windstar 2003 model. It could have done a lot of damage either to another car or a person. It is very dangerous and this problem has to be corrected or put on a recall basis before other people who might have the problem, can either get it fixed or taken off the road.

15 Service Brakes problem of the 2002 Ford Windstar

Failure Date: 05/18/2016

Takata recall we recieved a notification of safety recall notice 15s27 of defective rear axle on the vehicle. We having problems with the brakes and that might be the reason we having those issues.

16 Service Brakes problem of the 2001 Ford Windstar

Failure Date: 05/01/2016

I came up to a stop sign, the entire front axle broke off the frame, I lost steering, brakes, had to slam it into park to stop. I ended up across the road. There was a recall in 2011 for the axle mount and Ford decided it only needed a coating on it, 5 seconds later we would of been on the highway and killed. I emailed Ford and they said the recall was still open, the Ford dealer never closed it, so they won't help me. That is bull, the coated it and forgot to close it out, thats their fault, I can take pics if you want them.

17 Service Brakes problem of the 2002 Ford Windstar

Failure Date: 02/03/2016

I have a code c1185 it is making my van unstable . It starts to jerk as it goes from 40 to higher speeds it's affecting . It turns out that alot of people are having this issue c1185 abs module.

18 Service Brakes problem of the 2003 Ford Windstar

Failure Date: 10/01/2015

Tl-the contact owns a 2003 Ford Windstar. The contact stated while driving at approximately 40 mph, the vehicle had stalled. The vehicle was able to restart. The brake and over drive indicators had illuminated intermittently. The contact stated that the failure occurred intermittently. The manufacturer was not notified of the failure. The approximate failure mileage was 144,000. Kc.

19 Service Brakes problem of the 2001 Ford Windstar

Failure Date: 07/07/2015

We wish to be contacted and have multiple issues to report. (1) odi request for information regarding engineering analysis ea10-007 sub frame and (2) issues of compliance with safety recall procedures and what we believe to be fraudulent and illegal actions. Space is inadequate but will try to summarize. Vehicle subframe failed at both passenger and driver side rear mounts and thereby caused separation of the steering components and complete loss of steering, loss of brakes, and loss of transmission control. The owner used the only means available to stop the vehicle by turning off the ignition key and 'riding it out. ' subframe components and the engine/transmission had been in contact with pavement. Large portions of the subframe appear to be missing from the vehicle. The exhaust system was severed. The transmission linkage pulled away and as stated the steering components separated. What is believed to be the air bag cable became wrapped around the steering components. Vehicle was towed to a dealership which refuses to inspect, disclose, photograph, or allow to be photographed the massive damage while declaring the vehicle "repairable" and the "repairs have to be done. " at issue are declarations that under the recall that "responsibility" rests with the owner and a "right to deny coverage. " a demand that repairs be scheduled or the vehicle be towed from the car lot with a demand that a document be signed which amounts to a release and complete misrepresentation of the facts. The dealership has been told that we will lend no truth or validity to their forceful and manipulative demands, nor will we sign any document. It is our intent to destroy the vehicle. We have incurred multiple out of pocket expenses. In essence fraud and illegal acts, under the color of federal law are alleged. We desire to submit a written statement and request for investigation.

20 Service Brakes problem of the 2003 Ford Windstar

Failure Date: 05/27/2015

The contact owns a 2003 Ford Windstar. While approaching a stop, the driver depressed the brake pedal and the vehicle failed to stop. As a result, the driver had to engage the emergency brake in order to stop the vehicle. The brakes, abs, engine, and door ajar warning lights previously illuminated intermittently. The vehicle was taken to an independent mechanic who diagnosed that the abs electrical module needed to be replaced. The vehicle was not repaired. The manufacturer was notified of the failure. The failure mileage was 110,190.

21 Service Brakes problem of the 2000 Ford Windstar

Failure Date: 05/13/2015

A. B. S. Light on. Suspension broken in right front tire. Dashboard gauges not working properly.

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22 Service Brakes problem of the 2003 Ford Windstar

Failure Date: 05/05/2015

"abs" and "brake" indicator lights within dashboard turn on intermittently.

23 Service Brakes problem of the 2000 Ford Windstar

Failure Date: 04/10/2015

The abs and traction system lights come on and stay on. If I turn the vehicle off and restart it sometimes the warning lights will go off but this is inconsistent at best. If I hit a bump the systems will go off. It does seem worse after the vehicle warms up. My biggest concern is failure of my braking system.

24 Service Brakes problem of the 2002 Ford Windstar

Failure Date: 04/10/2015

Abs brake lite illuminates, brakes appear to continue to work.

25 Service Brakes problem of the 2002 Ford Windstar

Failure Date: 04/02/2015

Driving and light comes on and been on. Went to mechanic and said the abs control needs replaced.

26 Service Brakes problem of the 2002 Ford Windstar

Failure Date: 03/03/2015

I try to stop and the abs would not work.

27 Service Brakes problem of the 2002 Ford Windstar

Failure Date: 12/06/2014

Ass lights on. Speedometer don't work and overdrive light keeps blinking . . Speed control fuse keeps blowing.

28 Service Brakes problem of the 2000 Ford Windstar

Failure Date: 10/19/2014

After a little research, I found that this is a very common problem with Windstars. There is a switch (called the brake pressure deactivation switch) hooked to the braking system that detects when the brake has been pushed and stops the cruise control accordingly. Well… this switch is known to develop leaks, which allows brake fluid to run down into the wiring and cause a short. This blows the fuse which controls the speedometer, a/c, odometer, etc.

29 Service Brakes problem of the 2002 Ford Windstar

Failure Date: 10/09/2014

The contact owns a 2002 Ford Windstar. The contact stated that while traveling approximately 35 mph, the suspension was unstable, causing a strong vibration and noise coming from the rear of the vehicle. The contact indicated that burning plastic fumes emitted into the vehicle. In addition, the contact mentioned went over a bump and the vehicle was not riding steady. The contact was able to pull the vehicle over and upon further inspection, it was noticed that the rear frame, rear axle and the coil spring fractured. The vehicle was towed to a repair shop who diagnosed that the rear frame, rear brake drums and coil springs needed to be replaced. The vehicle was not repaired. The manufacturer was notified of the failure. The VIN was not available. The approximate failure mileage was 90,000.

30 Service Brakes problem of the 1999 Ford Windstar

Failure Date: 08/28/2014

Abs and traction control lights come on and will not clear with a scan tool. There are 11 codes showing, all to do with abs/traction control. Normal braking seems fine, not sure what will happen with a skid or loss of traction in ice or snow. I am told there is a recall on the brake system on this van. Do I need to be concerned about these warning lights?.

See all problems of the 1999 Ford Windstar 🔎.

31 Service Brakes problem of the 2002 Ford Windstar

Failure Date: 08/04/2014

Approx. , a year ago my abs module went bad and I had it checked by a mechanic to verify that fact. Just recently my speed control deactivation switch went bad and leaked,. Now I found out there is a connection between both the switch and the abs bad module. Ford does not have a recall on the abs system, but they do on the above switch. Very possibly the high cost of the module has kept them from having a recall!!! I have read complaints about the same problem from another Ford van owner. Also the switch was changed approx. 5 years ago and it went bad again. ( per a Ford recall then) there should be a definite recall on Windstar van abs systems and as a safety issue---Ford should replace the switch and wire harness again! . . Updated 08/12/14.

32 Service Brakes problem of the 2001 Ford Windstar

Failure Date: 07/25/2014

Turned on van with all this occurring at once: "check transmission", speedometer not working (reads 0mph), "abs" light stays on, "brake" light stays on, "o/d off" light flashing, "trac off" light illuminated, "fuel computer data error", "oil life data error", "traction control data error", outside temperature "error", odometer malfunction reads "-----------", cruise control not working, ac not cold, hot air not hot.

33 Service Brakes problem of the 2001 Ford Windstar

Failure Date: 07/23/2014

Anti-lock braking system, error 1185, power relay output circuit failure.

34 Service Brakes problem of the 2000 Ford Windstar

Failure Date: 07/14/2014

Abs/trac control deactivation alarm/warning after short warmup. No apparent brake fluid master cyl switch leakage. Outside ambient temp upper 70's - mid-90's f.

35 Service Brakes problem of the 2000 Ford Windstar

Failure Date: 07/09/2014

Emergency brake does not release, numerous times, just had complete brakes installed, new.



Fuel Economy of Windstar Vehicles
Windstar Service Bulletins
Windstar Safety Recalls
Windstar Defect Investigations